The 10 Best Sports Bars in Chicago, IL

Best for: friendly Irish pub vibes

This family-owned Irish pub is a local favorite for its friendly atmosphere and extensive TV screens showing every sporting event you can imagine. Known for its wings and burgers, it's a spot you'll want to return to regularly.

“We had an excellent night here. What a great pub family owned and super friendly staff. It felt like a place we need to visit on a weekly basis. Tons…”— Google review

Best for: classic downtown experience

A classic downtown gem with a warm bar feel, Miller's Pub offers a cozy setting perfect for enjoying drinks, lamb chops, and sports with friends. It's a must-visit for any sports fan in the area.

“Stopped in for a few drinks while doing a neighborhood bar crawl on a Wednesday night. It was not very busy but it has a great classic bar feel to it…”— Google review

Best for: variety of beers and cocktails

Emerald Loop stands out with its impressive beer and cocktail selection, paired with a delicious menu featuring burgers and fried pickles. Its prime downtown location makes it an easy choice for a great night out.

“The Emerald Loop is one of the best Irish bars and restaurants in Chicago. They offer an incredible variety of beers and cocktails along with deliciou…”— Google review

Best for: unique sports bar activities

Offering a unique sports bar experience with batting cages and dueling pianos, Sluggers is perfect for pre or post-Cubs game fun. Enjoy great beers, good food, and an energetic crowd.

“Had a blast at Sluggers! It’s the ultimate Chicago sports bar experience. Great beers, good food, and the batting cages upstairs are so much fun. Perf…”— Google review

Best for: Wrigley Field vibes

Situated near Wrigley Field, this tavern provides a lively atmosphere to enjoy Cubs games. The menu is diverse, and while service can be slow, the nachos and beer selection make it worth the visit.

“This was so fun and awesome to watch the Cubs game! Nachos were so good!”— Google review

Best for: lively sports atmosphere

Known for its lively vibe and great service, Theory is a bustling spot to catch major sporting events. Despite mixed reviews on food, its efficient service and energetic ambiance make it a reliable choice.

“I stumbled upon this bar in Chicago, and was impressed by the vibe, great service and good food - I had read great reviews about the food but the burg…”— Google review

Best for: laid-back brew pub

Located in Printer's Row, First Draft offers a laid-back atmosphere with a wide selection of brews and pub grub. It's an ideal place to unwind before a show or catch up with friends over wings and fried pickles.

“Great brew pub in the printer’s row part of downtown. They have a wide variety of brews on tap with a nice selection of appetizers and pub grub. The s…”— Google review

Best for: classic sports bar wings

With its dark, loud, and old-school sports bar feel, Mother Hubbard's is a go-to for watching sports with some of the best wings and ranch dressing around. Service is leisurely, so plan to stay a while.

“This the most ratchet bathroom stall door ever but I love this bar a lot best food best bartenders best drank in river north besides boss bar”— Google review

Best for: convention center sports bar

Conveniently located near the McCormick Place Convention Center, Fatpour offers an extensive beer and liquor selection. With delicious salads and specialty drinks, it’s a hit for conference-goers and sports fans alike.

“I was at a conference at the McCormick Place Convention Center West, basically across the street. I had to stop in. They had an excellent beer and li…”— Google review

Best for: busy game nights

A vibrant spot for game days, Fatpour Wicker Park boasts an impressive food and beer selection. Whether it's a casual outing or a bustling game night, you're guaranteed a great view of the TVs and excellent service.

“We came by for a casual V-Day dinner and had a great time. They have an impressive food and beer selection. I had a BYO white sauce pizza that I’d com…”— Google review