Green Mill

Green Mill is a historic jazz club located in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, known for its singular focus on preserving a classic live music experience. The venue was established in 1907 as part of the original Green Mill Gardens, quickly becoming a destination for jazz enthusiasts and social gatherings. Throughout its early years, Green Mill hosted legendary performers including Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, and Duke Ellington, building a reputation as a cornerstone of Chicago’s music scene. The club’s colorful history includes ties to the Prohibition era, with stories of Al Capone frequenting the venue and using its secret passages.

As of November 2025, Green Mill operates a single location, maintaining a strategy centered on authenticity and preservation rather than expansion. The club remains cash-only and continues to be managed by Dave Jemilo, who has owned the venue for over thirty years. This stable ownership and commitment to tradition have helped Green Mill retain its unique atmosphere, drawing both locals and visitors for nightly jazz performances and the city’s longest-running poetry slam.

Over the past five years, Green Mill has stayed true to its roots, choosing not to pursue additional locations or franchise opportunities. Its enduring popularity and cultural significance make it a prominent fixture in the Uptown entertainment corridor. The club’s format—a classic lounge with live music and a bar—serves as a proven model for experiential venues that value heritage and atmosphere. Green Mill’s consistent operation and strong reputation contribute to the vibrancy of the surrounding area, supporting nearby businesses and reinforcing its status as a destination for urban nightlife in Chicago.