When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Barstool River North
Why Barstool River North is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Barstool River North stands out as a premier gathering spot in Chicago's lively River North neighborhood, prized for its vibrant sports-themed atmosphere and diverse entertainment offerings. Spanning an expansive 8,500 square feet, this two-story venue boasts a spacious main floor that serves as a live music venue with an exclusive VIP area, high top tables, and VIP banquette seating. The main level is equipped with a full bar, a DJ booth, a dance floor, and 22 high-definition TVs, making it an ideal spot for watching live sports while enjoying dynamic music performances throughout the week. Additionally, the basement level, known as The Bear Cave, offers a more intimate, upscale experience tailored for private parties, watch parties, and exclusive events, complete with its own DJ booth, bar, fireplace, and specialized lighting. Both levels share a full-service kitchen and dedicated restrooms. The venue is notable for its modern AV systems and a lively entertainment schedule that appeals to both sports fans and music enthusiasts. Located in a bustling area with ample amenities, Barstool River North provides a unique blend of energy and intimacy, making it an excellent place to meet with friends, celebrate special occasions, or enjoy a night out with a comprehensive sports and music backdrop.
Here's what people think of Barstool River North
As of recent, Barstool River North holds a 3.6-star rating based on 395 reviews.
Users of Barstool River North have expressed mixed opinions, reflected in its moderate 3.6-star rating from approximately 395 reviews. Positive comments frequently highlight the venue's spacious layout, energetic atmosphere, and the diverse live music lineup that runs from Thursday to Sunday. Reviewers appreciate the variety of seating options, from high-top tables to comfortable VIP areas, as well as the abundance of large screens perfect for catching sports events. The Bear Cave's intimate setting and amenities like the fireplace and private bar have been favored for those seeking a more exclusive experience. The staff is often described as friendly and attentive, enhancing the visit. On the other hand, negative feedback commonly mentions issues such as crowding, inconsistent service quality, and noise levels that can be overwhelming, particularly during busy events. Some patrons have noted that the bar can become quite crowded, impacting comfort and accessibility. Additionally, a few reviewers commented on the pricing of beverages and parking challenges. In conclusion, while Barstool River North offers a dynamic and enjoyable experience particularly well-suited for sports fans and live music lovers, potential visitors should anticipate peak times can be busy and plan accordingly to fully enjoy the venue's offerings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katie Hayner
I came into Barstool River North with some friends and had a blast! We ordered buckets of high noons and beer and they were very reasonably priced for downtown Chicago! Myself and a few friends ordered burgers, PHENOMENAL!!!!! A couple other people in my group ordered the buffalo chicken wrap and chicken tenders, very great too! The atmosphere was very lively, they have live music every night which makes it easy to get up and dance!! If you’re looking for a great bar in River North, this is your spot!
Skye Garrett
Came on Valentines Day and it was super fun! There was a live band, bar games like Connect 4, Jenga and plenty of shots to go around! Our server was perfect! It was a great night!
Jamie
Terrible experience. I came in intending to have a Philly Cheese Steak sammie for $14 and the server asked if I wanted a drink. I asked for a menu and she responded by saying the bar was "fully stocked" - it did not occur to me at the time, but that was a great way to hide how much their drinks cost. Put on the spot, I ordered a Long Island ice tea and the Philly cheese with a side of mac and cheese. So, then she asked for my credit card to open a tab - which I did not want, but I thought she would bring it back right away. She kept the card. I didn't want multiple drinks so I started looking at other reviews saying that their credit card was given to the wrong person, or that people suddenly started seeing strange charges on their card after visiting this dank, grungy dive bar. When I could finally get the server's attention, I asked to close out the tab, which she did, being quite surly about it, and being pushy about signing off on the cheque because she was closing out for the night. The philly cheese was also... not great. sure, greasy, that's normal, but what was not normal was that it was a saltfest. Like, dropping a half handful of salt on the meat while it's on the grill salty. And it came with the wrong side as well - they brought fries instead of mac and cheese. It was late so the food was maybe excusable but it was just SO salty. It was definitely the best part of the experience, which is saying something. So the food was wrong, the drink was $20 which... great job of hiding the price by not giving a menu. The place was dark and dingy and you also get the fun of being paranoid of whether or not your credit card will get charged for a shopping spree, maybe, based on other reviews. There are loads of other places, even across the street, that are better than this place.
Carlos
Did not order any food, so I cannot comment on that. Ordered beer, decent price and friendly service. Parking is a bit difficult but not impossible. Overall worth a stop, if you’re near by.
Daniel C
Their "nachos" were a disgrace. Half the chips had no toppings on them and the rest were skimpy. They also took more than half an hour to arrive. Drinks are fairly priced, and the service was fine.
How to reach Barstool River North
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Why Barstool River North may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Barstool River North with your friends? If you're looking for a spirited and lively spot in Chicago’s River North neighborhood to gather with your friends or family, Barstool River North offers a uniquely engaging atmosphere that fits the bill. This isn’t just any sports bar; it’s a vibrant hub where the excitement of game day mixes seamlessly with social energy, live entertainment, and cozy spaces that encourage connection. The venue is especially designed to accommodate groups, offering something for everyone—whether you want to catch a major sports event on one of many screens, enjoy a night out with live music, or simply unwind with great drinks in a dynamic environment. The combination of an energetic ambiance, diverse activities, and spaces that cater to groups makes Barstool River North an ideal rallying point for friends looking to share memorable moments together. Although it carries a rating around the middle on review sites, its atmosphere and offerings give it strong appeal for gatherings that are less formal and more about fun companionship.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Barstool River North? The venue specializes in creating an immersive experience for groups. One of the main attractions is its extensive setup for sports fans. Known as one of Chicago’s premier sports bars, it features an impressive number of big screens, including the Bear Cave area, which alone boasts 12 TVs. This makes it perfect for watching multiple games simultaneously or catching every angle of your favorite sport. The audio-visual capabilities cater well to group events where immersive viewing is paramount. Beyond sports, Barstool River North livens up the nightlife with live bands every night of the week, transforming parts of the bar into a dance floor with a DJ booth and dedicated staff. This blend of live music and dancing is ideal for groups that want to enjoy more than just drinks and games—it provides a dynamic backdrop for socializing and celebration. Whether it’s a casual hangout or a lively party, there’s a mix of entertainment options to keep everyone engaged.
Why is Barstool River North a perfect place for group meetups? Its design and layout accommodate the needs of groups seeking both comfort and excitement. The venue offers a mix of seating arrangements including high-tops, booths, and couches, providing flexible spaces for different group sizes and preferences. This versatility ensures that whether you’re with a few close friends or a larger crew, you can find a place to suit your gathering’s vibe. Importantly, the dedicated event staff focus on helping groups find their rhythm and ensuring smooth service, which is a key asset when hosting meetups where timing and attention matter. The bar’s lively yet welcoming vibe encourages interaction among guests without overwhelming those who prefer a quieter corner. All of this contributes to making Barstool River North not just a place to eat and drink, but a social experience tailor-made for shared fun and connection.
How is the food and drink experience at Barstool River North? While the bar focuses heavily on sports and entertainment, its kitchen offers a solid selection of bar staples that complement the spirited atmosphere. You can expect classic appetizers such as wings and loaded fries that pair perfectly with the extensive drink menu. Their drink offerings include a range of beers, cocktails, and spirits designed to appeal to varied tastes, helping keep your group refreshed through long evenings of cheering and socializing. Though some reviewers have criticized aspects of service or policies, the venue remains a popular choice for those who want a no-frills, energetic bar environment with familiar, crowd-pleasing food and drinks. Its casual vibe means that you can focus more on the experience and less on formality, a key trait for many meetup groups looking for a relaxed venue.
What should you know about the overall atmosphere and customer experience at Barstool River North? The bar’s atmosphere is an electric blend of sports fandom and nightlife energy, which makes it uniquely suited for group gatherings that thrive on interaction and excitement. The presence of large TV screens and live music creates a dual appeal—fans can watch games while those less interested in sports can enjoy music and dancing. This mix allows friend groups with diverse interests to find common ground under one roof. However, some reviews point out concerns such as policies around credit card handling or service inconsistencies, which suggest it might not be the choice for everyone or for those seeking strictly high-end service. Nevertheless, for groups prioritizing spirited fun, a casual environment, and multiple entertainment options, Barstool River North meets many needs. Its River North location also offers easy accessibility, drawing crowds from throughout the city who want a lively, convenient place to meet.
What makes Barstool River North stand out among Chicago’s sports bars? Beyond the usual large-screen broadcasts and beer selections typical of sports bars, Barstool River North’s combination of amenities and vibe places it in a distinctive category. The Bear Cave feature, with its dozen TVs and event-ready setup including a DJ booth and dance floor, signals a commitment to creating a multi-dimensional social experience. This is not just a spot to watch sports but a destination where the evening can evolve from game viewing to live music and dancing. The bar’s ability to host varied events 7 days a week also means that your meetup can align with a live band night or a special DJ event, giving your group an added element of excitement. This flexibility and variety help make it a memorable venue for both casual hangouts and celebratory gatherings in a bustling part of Chicago. It's an environment where the energy flows freely and the focus is on having a good time together.
How accessible and convenient is Barstool River North for group gatherings? Located on West Hubbard Street in the River North neighborhood, the bar is situated in a highly accessible area of Chicago. River North is known for its lively nightlife and proximity to downtown, making it easy for locals and visitors alike to find and reach. The neighborhood offers ample public transportation options and parking facilities nearby, which is important when planning meetups that involve multiple people coming from different locations. The convenient urban setting also means that groups can easily combine their time at Barstool River North with other activities, such as dining at nearby restaurants or visiting other entertainment spots. This location advantage makes it a sensible choice for groups looking to keep their night fluid and spontaneous while maintaining a central meeting point. It further underlines why Barstool River North is a practical and energetic spot for friends and family to gather.
What tips should you consider when planning a meetup at Barstool River North? Given the bar’s lively nature and popularity, planning ahead can enhance your experience significantly. Since Barstool River North offers multiple spaces including the Bear Cave, contacting the bar to inquire about reservations or group accommodations can be beneficial, especially if you have a large party or want a specific area. Arriving early can also help secure preferred seating since the bar's dynamic atmosphere attracts crowds, particularly on game days and weekends. Considering that the venue offers live music and DJs nightly, coordinating your meetup around these entertainment schedules can add a vibrant layer to your gathering. Also, be mindful of recent customer feedback regarding credit card policies or service expectations to ensure a smooth visit. By preparing in advance, your group can focus on enjoying the array of activities and the energetic atmosphere — key reasons why friends and family choose Barstool River North for their meetups.
In summary, while Barstool River North carries modest ratings, its value lies in the spirited, group-friendly environment where sports, live entertainment, and social energy meet. It’s a place designed to rally friends and family around shared interests, lively music, and dynamic activities. Its multiple viewing screens, varied seating options, nightly bands, and central River North location create a versatile venue perfect for groups seeking a casual yet exciting outing. With a bit of planning, it can serve as a memorable backdrop for celebrations, game days, or casual gatherings, making it a noteworthy choice in Chicago’s crowded sports bar scene.