Liz Kavanagh, who moved from Dublin to Chicago 35 years ago, will close her Albany Park bar, Lizard’s Liquid Lounge, on April 12 after 18 years in business. Kavanagh opened the bar at 3058 W. Irving Park Road in 2008 after working as a bartender at several local establishments and in logistics.
Since its opening, Lizard’s Liquid Lounge has become known for its welcoming atmosphere and support of local artists and musicians. The bar features artwork by neighborhood artists and has hosted live music events, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, and even weddings—including Kavanagh’s own in 2021.
Kavanagh announced the closure on Facebook, writing: “It’s a very hard decision, but it is for the best. The best thing that I have got from Lizard’s is the most amazing friendships and happy memories. Thank you to you all for joining me on this crazy ride. For the past 18 years, Lizard’s has been my life. Raising the Lizard’s family is the best thing I have ever done.”
The final weekend will include an anniversary and closing celebration from April 10-12 with live performances by Chicago bands.
Lizard’s faced challenges after temporarily closing during the pandemic. Business did not fully recover in recent years, and Kavanagh cited her own mobility issues as another factor leading to her decision: “I decided to go out gracefully,” she said.
Tuesday will mark the last Mardi Gras party at Lizard’s Liquid Lounge. Kavanagh described it as “the best in the city” with New Orleans-inspired music performed by a band. The event is open to the public with no cover charge.
Reflecting on her time running Lizard’s, Kavanagh said: “It’s very inclusive, and it always has been.” She chose the location because of its history as Lost and Found—one of Chicago’s oldest lesbian bars—and noted that she brought together a diverse clientele: “I walked in and it just spoke to me…every single person was welcome.”
The bar also became known for supporting local talent such as bands The Crombies, The Waco Brothers, The Honey Whites, and artist Kathryn Eli who painted a mural outside.
“Lizard’s is like a family unit, because everybody knows everybody and helps anybody,” Kavanagh said. “It’s going to be missed, and I’m going to miss it more than anybody. All my customers and friends that I’ve made from the bar will still be my friends forever.”
Kavanagh said she looks forward to traveling more after closing: “I’m just going to enjoy friendships, enjoy life, travel,” she said. “I’ve no problem filling up my time.”
She invited neighbors to visit before closing day: if anyone hasn’t visited yet she says they are still welcome before doors close for good.
