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What People Are Saying

from Google & Yelp

"From the front door of The Other Side, you sense it: this isn’t a club, a bar, or a sterile clinic — it’s a sanctuary that’s reinvented what “going out” means for people in recovery. Daylight welcomes the aroma of fresh coffee in a relaxed café ambiance. Nightfall, and the same space quietly shifts into a sober-bar: mocktails stand in for old habits, and laughter, conversation, music, and community replace what once was. This place doesn’t just claim to support recovery — it lives and breathes it. With 10 weekly support groups, rotating events, and a social calendar full of gatherings, you get structure and freedom. Families and friends aren’t left on the sidelines either: there are family-support meetups and community-building spaces, so recovery becomes a network, not a lonely grind. And the vibe? Unpretentious. Comfortable. Subtle. No judgment. No “Are you sober enough?” — just open arms, open conversation, and open doors. Pool tables, music, games, non-alcoholic drinks — if you want to unwind, laugh, connect, or just be present, it works. If you needed a place that says “Yes — you can have community, belonging, fun, and still stay clean,” The Other Side delivers. It’s proof that recovery doesn’t have to be sacrifice of self; instead, it can be rebirth, rediscovery, and real connection. You get more than a sober space: you get hope, fellowship, and a new kind of “night out” that doesn’t demand a price beyond your presence."

★★★★★

"I can’t believe I only discovered this place recently. It has quickly become my family’s favorite hang out. Good coffee, good food and excellent service. We have met 3 of the young ladies that work there and they are all very friendly and personable. Also, I love the artistic flair- it’s always fun to see what the cardboard cup warmer will look like at each visit. Next up, I want to check out one of their open mic nights or comedy nights. I highly recommend you check out this hidden Crystal Lake gem!!!"

★★★★★

"Enjoyed my visit here! The staff was friendly and welcoming. The coffee was delicious and included a sweet visual treat on the cup. The Coffee Shop itself is a beautifully outfitted atmosphere. Okay, and here's the best part: THE SCONES :) I highly recommend stopping by for a great cup of coffee and delicious treat! (They have lunch food, too - I will be back to try, soon)"

★★★★★

"I was searching for new places to hang out and talk with friends and stumbled upon this place! I was under the impression that they only served mocktails as a sober bar but I found out they have a pretty extensive menu! Their coffee is reasonably priced and sooo good! I tried the cinnamon bun latte and it was delicious. The staff was super sweet and welcoming and I can’t wait to come back and try the food on their menu as well! I will definitely be making this place a regular spot to get coffee with friends!"

★★★★★

"Wonderful place so relaxing and everyone is so friendly. Come see Jen she is so sweet and helpful! The drinks are super tasty and fun comedy shows."

★★★★★

"A pretty cool idea and I fully support it. A bar without liquor, that supports recovering alcoholics. Support groups meet here and they have live music on..."

Chris W. ★★★★★

Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

What are The Other Side's hours?
The Other Side is located in Crystal Lake, Illinois. Monday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Thursday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM. Friday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Saturday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Sunday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
Where is The Other Side located?
The Other Side is located at 135 Beardsley St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014, United States, Crystal Lake, IL. You can get directions using the map above.
What is The Other Side's phone number?
You can reach The Other Side at (779) 220-9843.
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