Cell Block
Video Bar · Cruising · Chicago, IL
About
Cell Block has been Chicago's notorious leather bar since 1994, offering a safe space for leather daddies, puppies, and bears. The front is casual and welcoming, with a pool table and video bar, while the backroom gets kinkier. Reviews mention inconsistent service and a crowd that can be cliquey based on race, especially in the backroom. The bar itself is fine, but some patrons report feeling overlooked if they're not white cis men. The Wednesday Wii tournament reportedly hasn't been active in recent visits, so check ahead. Hours are generous: open from early afternoon until 2am most nights, 3am on Saturdays.
Located in Chicago's Northalsted (Boystown) neighborhood, surrounded by other gay bars and nightlife.
Features
- ✓Leather and Levi's dress encouraged
- ✓Video bar with pool table up front
- ✓Backroom for kinkier play
- ✓Open from afternoon until late night
- ✓Bear and daddy crowd
Good for
What people say
Rated from 65 reviews. 103 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
The bar was decent. The bartenders were quite friendly and attentive. My only complaint, which isn't the venue's fault but still worth mentioning, is the clientele. Being in a gay neighborhood, many people are guided by racial preferences. The few Black patrons were often ignored by the mostly white cisgender men. If you are African American or transgender/gender non-conforming, I honestly cannot recommend this place, at least the back room—the bar itself is fine.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“Friendly and naughty”
A bartender personally invited me to play pool and then to the strip pool later that evening. I got to know all the naughty boys and men.
A guest · Over a year ago
“No Wii or leather but still cool”
I went on a Wednesday to take part in the Nintendo Wii tournament and experience the so-called leather bar, but sadly there was neither. The bartender was really nice and the ambiance was nice.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
“Bartenders with too much attitude”
I visited Cell Block on an early Saturday night. The place wasn't even that crowded. The bartenders completely ignored me. I had to ask for another beer multiple times. I discovered that the manager is the main reason why the staff is so rude. Skip this place when you're in Chicago. There are much better options.
A local visitor · Over a year ago
“Leather”
Cruising, Flesh, Guys, Hanky Panky...what more could a guy want.
A visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code at Cell Block? +
Leather and Levi's are encouraged, but not required. The vibe is kinky and casual.
Does Cell Block have a backroom? +
Yes, the backroom is known for more explicit cruising and play.
What are the hours? +
Mon-Thu: 1pm-2am, Fri: 1pm-2am, Sat: 12pm-3am, Sun: 12pm-2am.
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