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Buddy Guy’s Legends
Buddy Guy's Legends, opened in 1989 by the blues guitarist himself, is a South Wabash blues club with Cajun and soul food and his own shows every January.
At a glance
- Type
- Blues club and restaurant
- Area
- South Loop, Chicago, United States
- Price
- $$ · Mid-range
- Official site
- buddyguy.com
Good to know
- Live blues
- Cajun and soul food
- Buddy Guy January residency
- Ages 21 and over
Why we recommend it
Buddy Guy's Legends is the blues club opened in 1989 by Buddy Guy, the Chicago blues guitarist. The original club was on South Wabash Avenue, and in 2010 it moved a short distance to its present home at 700 South Wabash Avenue.
The main reason to come is the music. The club's calendar lists its shows, and each event has its own ticket price, shown on the website. Shows typically start in the evening, around 8pm or 9pm, so check the listing for the night you plan to go. Every January, Buddy Guy himself plays a month of shows at the club; if you want to see him, watch the website for the January information and book early.
The club is also a restaurant, serving Louisiana-style Cajun and soul food. The menu has included gumbo, jambalaya, chicken and ribs and catfish po'boys, which makes it easy to have dinner and a show in one place.
Events are for ages 21 and over, so this is a night out for adults. It suits blues fans, couples and groups of friends, and its central location makes it an easy choice for first-time visitors who want to hear Chicago blues. Allow a full evening, especially if you plan to eat.
Book tickets online for popular shows and weekends. For enquiries, call the club on +1 312-427-1190. Arrive early if you want to sit near the stage, and bring ID, as age checks apply. A few practical points help. Check each show's start time and ticket price on the calendar before you go, as they differ from night to night, and allow time for dinner if you want to eat. Weekend shows are the most popular, so a weeknight can be easier if you are flexible. If you are visiting Chicago in January, plan your trip around the residency dates if possible, as seeing Buddy Guy play his own club is a highlight for many blues fans. Keep your ticket confirmation on your phone, and remember that the venue is strictly for those aged 21 and over.
The club's position on South Wabash Avenue makes it convenient for guests of downtown hotels such as the Palmer House Hilton. On a music-focused trip, combine an evening here with a later night at Kingston Mines or a jazz set at the Green Mill to hear more of the city's music scene.
Buddy Guy’s Legends FAQs
Who owns Buddy Guy's Legends?
It was opened in 1989 by the blues guitarist Buddy Guy.
Where is it?
At 700 South Wabash Avenue, where it moved in 2010.
When does Buddy Guy play there?
He plays a month of shows at the club every January.
Is there food?
Yes. The kitchen serves Louisiana-style Cajun and soul food such as gumbo and jambalaya.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. Events are for ages 21 and over.
Do you need tickets?
Yes. Each show has its own ticket, sold through the website.
What time do shows start?
Usually around 8pm or 9pm; check the calendar.
What is the phone number?
+1 312-427-1190.