Lincoln Park, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago, boasts a fantastic selection of sports bars, each offering a unique atmosphere and experience for game day enthusiasts. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this guide highlights the best 14 sports bars in Lincoln Park, ensuring you find the perfect spot to catch your favorite team in action.
Finding Your Perfect Lincoln Park Sports Bar: A Detailed Guide
Choosing the right sports bar can make or break your game day experience. To help you navigate the options, we've categorized the bars based on their unique offerings:
Upscale Sports Bars: Luxury and the Big Game
For those who appreciate a touch of elegance alongside their sports viewing, these upscale establishments offer a refined experience:
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The North Pond: While not strictly a sports bar, The North Pond offers a sophisticated atmosphere with large screens, making it perfect for a more refined game-day experience. Expect a higher price point but a more upscale ambiance.
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RPM Italian: Similar to The North Pond, RPM Italian offers a blend of fine dining and sports viewing. The large screens and upscale atmosphere make it a great choice for a celebratory game-day gathering. Expect a menu to match the luxurious setting.
Classic Sports Bars: No-Frills Fun and Great Beer
These bars embody the traditional sports bar experience with a focus on cold beer, hearty food, and a lively atmosphere:
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The Cubby Bear: A Lincoln Park institution, the Cubby Bear is known for its lively atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and multiple screens showing various sporting events. It's a great option for a large group or if you want to catch multiple games simultaneously.
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Hopleaf Bar: While renowned for its beer selection, Hopleaf also provides a comfortable atmosphere to watch games. The focus is more on the beer, but the screens ensure you won't miss any crucial plays.
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Deuce's Major League Bar: A true classic, Deuce's is a popular spot for catching games, boasting a long history in the neighborhood and a consistently reliable atmosphere.
Sports Bars with Unique Features: Beyond the Big Screen
Some bars stand out due to their unique features that elevate the sports-viewing experience:
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Old Town Social: This spot combines a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and a great selection of drinks, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
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The Violet Hour: While known for its cocktail program, The Violet Hour offers a refined setting to watch games. It's a unique option for those seeking a different kind of sports bar experience.
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Kingston Mines: For a unique blend of live music and sports viewing, Kingston Mines is a great choice. Enjoy blues music while watching your favorite team. This adds another layer of entertainment to your evening.
Hidden Gems: The Unexpected Sports Bar Experience
These less-known options offer a unique experience that might surprise you:
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Summer House Santa Monica: With its California-inspired menu and laid-back atmosphere, Summer House provides a relaxed setting to enjoy the game.
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Estereo: This Latin-inspired restaurant and bar offers a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and a great spot to watch games while enjoying vibrant Latin music and ambiance.
Family-Friendly Sports Bars: Game Day Fun for All Ages
While many sports bars cater to an adult audience, some are more family-friendly:
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Big Star Taco Bar: A popular spot known for its tacos and casual vibe, Big Star is relatively family-friendly.
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Andros Taverna: While it's mostly a Greek restaurant, Andros Taverna might be a good family-friendly option to watch a game in a more relaxed setting. It's not overtly a sports bar but may have games on some days.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Lincoln Park Sports Bar
Beyond the ambiance and features, several other factors influence your choice:
- Crowd Size and Atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively, bustling environment or a more relaxed setting?
- Food and Drink Menu: Consider the type of food and drinks offered to cater to your preferences.
- Game Selection: Ensure the bar shows your desired sporting events.
- Location and Accessibility: Choose a bar that is conveniently located and accessible.
- Price Point: Budget accordingly, as prices can vary greatly among Lincoln Park sports bars.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your search for the perfect Lincoln Park sports bar. Remember to check individual bar websites or call ahead to confirm game schedules, reservations, and special offers. Enjoy the game!