Ward Eight

Ward Eight is a gem on Howard. Chef Chris pairs delicious dishes with the cocktails that the bar team magically concoctes. Simply, it's a laid-back vibe to chill and enjoy conversation with those you are with or the staff. No Tvs. No egos. Just good drinks, good tunes, delicious food and friendly faces. Don't hesitate to come and enjoy the experience.

TL | DR: I highly recommend coming here just for the smells, once you're over the smells you can taste the soul and passions that goes into the wonderfully thought out and creative food menu and drinks. Chef Josh is such a talented and kind person. He prepared all of our food and brought it to us. We came here to have a great date night. We were met with wonderfully dim lighting that was complemented by the sunlight from the windows. The music was fitting the holiday theme (St. Patrick's day) the smell of pork permeated the entire restaurant and smelled delicious. We ordered the smoked marlin and the venison tartare. The dishes were excellently complimented by the accoutrements that they came with. delicious balance of flavors. Environment was quiet and calm with wonderful customer service. I highly recommend this place.

The owner Jeremy is a true artisan. He's a guy from the industry who is experimenting and loving his life. This place is creative, wholesome, organic, and real. Amazing atmosphere for a date, getting together with friends, or just to hang.

Since the pandemic, the new owner Jeremy and primary mixologist Adam are carrying on the traditions of Ward 8 that have made it one of the better neighborhood eclectic craft cocktail establishments . Jeremy and Adam are friendly and professional and offer exceptional craft cocktail offerings. We were there on a Friday night and it was the busiest we have ever seen it which was great. The only observation I made as a customer was that if all possible, Jeremy could add one more mixologist to help the team during busiest times keep the drinks coming to the customer base more quickly. I noticed they are two of the hardest-working, most caring, and attention to detail persons in the business! …and you will especially notice by how exceptional the cocktails and food offerings are! Still highly recommend is an essential craft cocktail bar in all of Chicagoland.

Absolutely loved it here. Super chill and ambient environment, with amazing drinks and a great selection as well. The bathrooms even have speakers too so you can listen to music. The drinks and bar make for some great photos to share with friends. I recommend the North Shore Ale btw.

The Cocktails here are works of art as complex and beautiful as the original works on the walls. When tasting anything off of the menu, you can fully grasp the effort and the skill that comes from the chef. The ambiance is subtle and comfortable, perfect for quiet conversation, This would be an excellent place for a date. I will be returning soon

Guys behind the bar who really know and love their cocktails. Deviled eggs for four bucks that were a work of art. Pulled pork wafting from the kitchen that smelled absolutely crazy good. I'll definitely be back for another cocktail and a full meal. 5/5.

I think this is the best bar in Evanston. Wonderful bartenders who have great conversation in them. The Black Manhattan and the Vesper are my cocktail suggestions. Food is pretty good too.