It's been a while since I've been to Chicago.. When I make this next trip I want to find a couple bars with live bands and good food.. Anyone know of any cool places to hang out down town?

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I hate to give you this kind of answer, but it depends so much on what kind of music you like.  Very tough to find live bands and good food in the same venue downtown.  You could try Buddy Guy's Legends if you like blues and southern/cajun food.  But it's kind of a tourist trap...and the food isn't exactly anything to write home about.  You'll have more (and better) options if you are willing to go get good food at one spot and take in a live band at another!  Oh...and if you are willing to take a cab/Uber out of the downtown area, so much the better!  Not sure when you will be in town, but check out the website for Dusek's / Thalia Hall in the Pilsen neighborhood.  It's very close to downtown.  Dusek's has great food and drink and is attached to the Thalia Hall venue, which brings in loads of cool music.

Feel free to pm me if you want additional suggestions

I'll second Thalia Hall as a great venue. I'd also recommend Lincoln Hall or Schuba's for great live music. A few of the advantages of living in this city.  

Check chicagoreader.com for who's playing. Exhaustive listing.

I have suggested before but City Winery on Randolph is always a good choice plus all the bars and restraints on Randolph are hard to beat and you can still walk to Greek town

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It's been a couple of years, but I remember Andy's on Hubbard with some great jazz and a pretty damn good menu. There was a cover. Next door, was Shaw's Crab House. When I was there, an outfucking standing menu and blues! You got choices in Chi baybee.

Glad i held my tongue.  Couldn't have said it better myself
 

Check out Beat Kitchen on Belmont, they typically have some pretty good bands there. Enjoy your trip!

Reggie Rock Club on state st. I go there all the time its amazing!!!!!!

I 2nd this. they have all types of music going on and the food is decent. Tuesday's they have 25cent wings