Lake View, Chicago, is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with activity, and a significant part of that energy centers around its incredible sports bars. Whether you're a die-hard Cubs fan, a loyal Bears supporter, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of a good game, Lake View offers a diverse selection of establishments to suit your needs. This guide delves into the best 16 sports bars in Lake View, ensuring your next game day is nothing short of legendary.
Top Spots for Catching the Game in Lake View
This list isn't ranked, as each bar offers a unique and fantastic experience. We've categorized them to help you find your perfect fit.
Classic Sports Bar Experiences
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The Cubby Bear: A Lake View institution, The Cubby Bear is synonymous with baseball. Giant screens, a buzzing atmosphere, and a long history make this a must-visit for any Cubs fan, or anyone looking for a truly classic Chicago sports bar experience. They often host live music, adding another dimension to the entertainment.
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Soho House Chicago: While a bit more upscale, Soho House boasts impressive screens and a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for watching the game with a slightly more refined crowd. Their excellent food and drink menu elevate the experience beyond your typical sports bar.
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The Violet Hour: Though not strictly a sports bar, The Violet Hour's cozy and intimate setting makes it a great place to catch a game on a smaller screen with a unique cocktail in hand. It’s a perfect alternative for a more relaxed game day experience.
Bars with a Unique Vibe
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The Replay: Known for its extensive beer selection and lively atmosphere, The Replay is a popular spot for a casual game day. Their multiple screens ensure you won't miss a moment of the action, regardless of how busy it gets.
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Kingston Mines: This legendary blues club isn't your typical sports bar, but they do have screens showing games, making it a unique location to catch the game while enjoying live blues music. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
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The Annoyance Theatre: While primarily a theatre, The Annoyance also shows games and boasts a fun, quirky atmosphere. It's a great alternative for those looking for something outside the typical sports bar scene.
Family-Friendly Options (for daytime games)
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Big Star: While known for its tacos, Big Star also offers a sizable outdoor patio perfect for enjoying a game with a more relaxed vibe. This option works especially well for daytime games.
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The North Pond: This upscale restaurant has a beautiful outdoor area that occasionally shows games on a large screen. Perfect for a more refined and relaxed game day atmosphere, suitable for families.
Diverse Entertainment Options
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Lakefront Brewery: This brewery offers a vast selection of beers on tap alongside a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the game with a cold brew in hand. The large space can comfortably accommodate large groups.
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Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: With delicious pizza and a wide selection of craft beers, Piece offers a fantastic combination for a game day. It’s a fun, casual environment for a group outing.
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Simon's Tavern: This well-established bar is known for its strong neighborhood presence and wide-ranging appeal. With plenty of screens and a solid selection of drinks, it's a solid all-around choice.
Hidden Gems
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John Barleycorn (Multiple Locations): John Barleycorn has multiple locations throughout Lakeview and offers a consistently good sports bar experience across the board. Check for the one closest to your preferred viewing location.
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The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge: Though famous for its jazz scene, The Green Mill also shows games on certain occasions, giving it a unique and sophisticated game-day experience.
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Butch McGuire's: A classic Chicago neighborhood bar, Butch McGuire’s provides a welcoming atmosphere and a strong selection of drinks, making it a solid choice for a casual game day gathering.
For a Larger Group
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Goose Island Brewhouse (Lincoln Park): Though technically in Lincoln Park (bordering Lakeview), Goose Island’s spacious layout and large screens make it ideal for large groups, especially if you enjoy craft beers.
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RPM Italian: For a more upscale and large-group-friendly option, RPM Italian offers an elevated atmosphere while still providing ample screen viewing.
Finding Your Perfect Lake View Sports Bar
Choosing the perfect sports bar depends on your priorities: Do you prioritize a specific type of food or drink? Are you looking for a lively, bustling atmosphere or a more relaxed setting? Do you need space for a large group? Consider these factors when making your selection. This list provides a diverse range of options to cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable game day experience in the heart of Lake View, Chicago. Remember to check the bar's websites or social media for specific game day schedules and events.
