Berghoff Restaurant: Chicago’s First Liquor License and the Women Who Changed the Bar
- 123gochicago
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
Did you know Berghoff Restaurant holds Chicago’s first liquor license? When Prohibition ended in 1933, bars across the city scrambled to secure permits, but Berghoff received Liquor License No. 1, proudly displayed on the wall today.
Founded in 1898 by Herman Joseph Berghoff and his brothers, the restaurant quickly became a hub for German cuisine, classic steins of beer, and downtown Chicago social life. For decades, however, the bar followed a men-only tradition: women were not permitted to be served at the bar or stand at the counter.
This changed in 1969, when members of the National Organization for Women, including Gloria Steinem, challenged the rule. They approached the bar and ordered drinks, making history as the first women to be served. Initially, bartenders addressed them as “Sir,” reflecting the lingering social norms of the time. This pivotal moment opened the bar to all patrons, marking a key social milestone in the restaurant’s legacy.
Today, Berghoff continues to serve traditional German dishes—sauerbraten, schnitzel, bratwurst—alongside freshly poured beer in steins. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Chicago history, classic cuisine, and the story of how the city’s social customs evolved over the decades.
Fun Fact: Berghoff’s Liquor License No. 1 and the story of women’s inclusion show that history isn’t just in books—it can be poured into a glass, enjoyed with a meal, and experienced firsthand.
The Berghoff Restaurant
17 W. Adams Street
Chicago, IL 60603
Discover More Hidden Gems
For more hidden gems check out my book Chicago Beyond the Bean, available now. It’s filled with stories that take you beyond the typical tourist spots to explore the city’s most fascinating corners.
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