When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
2Twenty2 Tavern
Why 2Twenty2 Tavern is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
2Twenty2 Tavern stands out as a dynamic venue in Chicago's downtown Loop area, providing an inviting atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. With its rustic, dimly lit pub environment accented by fireplaces and whiskey barrels, the tavern offers a cozy yet lively setting. Visitors can enjoy live music every weekend, which adds to the vibrant social scene. For sports fans, multiple TVs broadcast live games, while those seeking casual competition can engage in shuffleboard and giant Jenga, making it a versatile hangout spot. The tavern is renowned for its wide selection of drinks, featuring over 30 beers on tap, an extensive bottled beer list, and signature hand-crafted cocktails. Notably, 2Twenty2 Tavern offers barrel-aged whiskeys and tequilas served straight from the tap, crafted weekly by cousins Chris and Jake Mannos, enhancing its reputation as a must-visit destination. The food menu complements the drinks with bar bites such as bacon-wrapped dates, brussels sprout kabobs, and Mexican Fire homemade chili, catering to groups seeking classic pub fare. Open late, until 2–3 AM depending on the day, it serves as an excellent venue for happy hour, private events, or late-night outings, making it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of 2Twenty2 Tavern
As of recent, 2Twenty2 Tavern holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1022 reviews.
User reviews of 2Twenty2 Tavern consistently highlight the bar as an excellent place to experience a blend of entertainment, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Positive feedback commonly praises the extensive bourbon-based cocktail menu, the barrel-aged whiskey on tap, and the creative twists on classic drinks such as Manhattans and margaritas. Visitors appreciate the lively weekend live music sessions and the availability of engaging bar games like shuffleboard, which foster a fun and social environment. The ambiance is frequently described as rustic and cozy, enhanced by warm accents like fireplaces and whiskey barrels, creating a memorable vibe for gatherings. On the downside, some reviews mention occasional crowding due to its popularity, as well as variability in service speed during peak times. A few guests noted that while the food options are satisfying bar snacks, they do not necessarily stand out as gourmet, which may not meet everyone's expectations. Overall, the tavern garners a solid 4.4-star rating from over 1,000 reviews, reflecting broad customer satisfaction. The positive reviews significantly outweigh the negatives, portraying 2Twenty2 Tavern as a reliable, enjoyable spot for socializing with friends in Chicago's downtown scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sarah Daniels
This is my after work go-to! Between the pleasant bouncer, D to the Amazon bartenders Sophie, Rodney, Kevin, Hannah, and Chris. I am always please with the energy, mercy and service. It’s a good go-to for our tourists as well. I’ve had some great connection from our out of townerssss.
Blasted Brad Mac
Went into the “Triple Deuce” (yea I’m coining that) with my son a couple weeks ago. Service is order at the bar. For food and drink. I’m an idiot and sat there for 15 minutes waiting for a service at our table. Ordered. Food came promptly. My son ordered the bourbon chicken. He said it was amazing. I ordered the double smash burger. This is one of the best burger I’ve ever had. Hand down. Fries also very good. Bartenders know how to make a proper old fashion. Only draw back was all the college bros. Service is great. Bartenders are dope. Food was great. I’ll probably never be back to Chicago but if I am, I’ll go to this place. Long live TRIPLE DEUCE. Best tavern in the loop.
James Kyle
Stunned by the quality of there burger. The quality of meat, the caramelized onions, the butter toated bun... very good. Large pretzel was not warm only semi-negative for myself. The bartender was excellent, good quality and range of bourbon and whiskey options. Excellent old fashion...I asked for Basil Hayden.
Jim harvey
Cool bar, we don’t have many places like this in England so it’s a great experience for us beer lovers! Check out the carhartt merch
Jeremy Voss
Great place to stop off and grab that drink you want and get caught up on that game you've been missing out on. In other words, just a good place to chill tf out! Also, the grub here is delicious. I ordered the bourbon wings and chips and salsa. Neither disappointed. The bartenders were friendly and provided excellent service. My drink never went empty during my visit until I was ready to cash out! 5 ✨'s! I'm looking forward to returning again soon!
How to reach 2Twenty2 Tavern
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Why 2Twenty2 Tavern may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at 2Twenty2 Tavern with your friends?
If you’re looking for the perfect urban gathering spot downtown Chicago where you can enjoy great drinks, good food, and lively entertainment with friends or family, 2Twenty2 Tavern is an excellent choice. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from over a thousand reviews, this tavern strikes a balance between a casual hangout and an energetic social hub. The location itself at 222 S Wabash Ave puts you right in the heart of the Loop, making it easy to reach and a natural anchor point for meetups. The atmosphere at 2Twenty2 Tavern is unique; it's clean and fresh with no lingering odors, providing a welcoming environment for all. Whether you’re there for birthday celebrations, casual drinks after work, or just a night out with friends, you’ll find the vibe upbeat and comfortable, helped by well-curated music and an inviting crowd that isn’t overwhelming. Plus, its spacious layout and late-night hours ensure your group can stay as long as the good times roll.
What activities can you do at 2Twenty2 Tavern that make it perfect for group meetups?
2Twenty2 Tavern offers a variety of activities that cater specifically to groups looking to socialize and have fun. They have live music performances every weekend, which creates a dynamic and engaging backdrop that elevates any gathering. This live entertainment isn’t just background noise—it often becomes a highlight of the visit, perfect for groups who enjoy lively ambiance or want to celebrate something special. For those who love games, 2Twenty2 Tavern includes a classic pool table, keeping everyone entertained and competitive in a friendly way. There is also an old-style photo booth on-site, a fantastic feature for groups to capture the memories from the night together. Whether hosting a casual catch-up or celebrating an event, these activities allow guests to interact beyond just talking and drinking, making the stay more memorable.
What makes the food and drink selection at 2Twenty2 Tavern ideal for a group setting?
A vital part of any meetup is sharing good food and drinks, and 2Twenty2 Tavern excels in both. The bar boasts an extensive drink menu that includes over 30 beers on tap, along with craft cocktails and their signature homemade whiskey straight from the barrel. This variety means there’s something to satisfy virtually every palate, from beer lovers to cocktail enthusiasts, ensuring groups can enjoy different tastes side-by-side. On the food front, although the menu is not overly large, the offerings are consistently praised for quality. Tacos, sandwiches, and burgers are among the selections, with favorites like Al Pastor Tacos accompanied by chips, salsa, and guacamole. Their bar food provides hearty, flavorful bites perfect for sharing or eating between drinks without the fuss of a formal meal. For groups, this combination of good food and a broad drink array makes it easy to keep everyone happy no matter their preferences.
How does the atmosphere and service at 2Twenty2 Tavern support a fun and relaxed group experience?
The atmosphere at 2Twenty2 Tavern is lively without being overwhelming, which creates a comfortable environment for groups. The music is well chosen to complement the social vibe without overpowering conversation, allowing friends and family to connect easily. While the tavern can fill up during peak times, like Friday nights, it generally doesn’t feel cramped, making it suitable for gatherings. The staff has generally received positive remarks for their friendliness and attentiveness, helping to keep the experience smooth when managing food and drinks for a group. Even though there are occasional reports about uneven service on busy nights, the overall commitment to customer experience and defending their reputation suggests they care about providing good hospitality. The combination of an upbeat, well-maintained space with reliable staff means guests can relax and focus on enjoying time with their group.
What logistical advantages make 2Twenty2 Tavern a convenient meetup location in Downtown Chicago?
Its location on South Wabash Avenue in the Loop district places 2Twenty2 Tavern in one of Chicago’s most accessible and bustling areas. This central position means that it is easy for friends coming from different parts of the city or even visitors to the area to find and arrive at the tavern. The proximity to landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago enhances its appeal, as groups can easily plan activities around a visit to the museum or other downtown attractions before or after gathering at the tavern. The bar’s late operating hours, open until 2:00 AM on most days and 3:00 AM on Saturdays, provide flexibility for groups that want to stay late without rushing. Its setting in a vibrant part of town ensures there’s plenty of surrounding nightlife and transportation options, including public transit, rideshares, and parking, which supports a seamless meetup experience.
How can 2Twenty2 Tavern accommodate different types of group events or celebrations?
Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday party, or a small celebration, 2Twenty2 Tavern’s setup supports a wide range of group events. The self-service bar model encourages guests to mingle and move around while grabbing drinks, lending itself naturally to social interaction rather than rigid seating arrangements. For special occasions, the lively atmosphere with weekend live music adds an element of festivity. The tavern’s menu selection balances craveable comfort food with strong drink options, which makes food planning straightforward. Although it is not a large event venue, the space is well suited for small to medium-sized groups who want a private but vibrant environment. With attentive service and a laid-back but upbeat vibe, 2Twenty2 Tavern allows groups to create memorable experiences without the complications often associated with booking large party spaces.
Why do patrons keep coming back to 2Twenty2 Tavern for group outings?
With a solid 4.4 rating out of over a thousand reviews, 2Twenty2 Tavern has established a loyal clientele who appreciate its combination of atmosphere, drink options, and food quality. The tavern’s consistent ability to deliver a fun night out—whether it’s for live music, casual drinks, or just the joy of being together—is cited by many. The place strikes a perfect balance between feeling special and being approachable, which makes it a natural choice for groups looking to relax and enjoy themselves without pretension. Its downtown location and convenient hours support spontaneous plans as well as prearranged meetups. People appreciate how 2Twenty2 Tavern offers a genuine vibe that’s distinct from generic bars in the area, turning it into a reliable and welcoming spot where friends and family want to gather time and time again.