When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Chicks
Why Big Chicks is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Chicks is a distinctive gay bar and neighborhood restaurant that has been a staple of the Uptown Chicago community since its opening in 1986. Owned by Michelle Fire, this venue offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for a diverse crowd, including LGBTQ+ individuals, straight patrons, and members of various kink communities. Its longevity and consistent operation have made it a beloved informal community center where everyone can feel safe and included. The bar is notable not only for its vibrant social scene but also for its impressive collection of original artwork, featuring pieces by renowned artists such as Diane Arbus, Leon Golub, and Tony Fitzpatrick, which adds a unique cultural ambiance. Big Chicks also partners with the adjacent restaurant, Tweet, allowing patrons to enjoy high-quality food delivered directly to the bar. This combination of great drinks, eclectic art, and a strong community vibe makes Big Chicks an excellent place to meet up with friends for a relaxing yet lively experience. With extended hours until 2:00 AM, outdoor seating, and a diverse menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it caters to a wide range of visitors looking to socialize in a supportive environment.
Here's what people think of Big Chicks
As of recent, Big Chicks holds a 4.6-star rating based on 776 reviews.
Reviews of Big Chicks highlight its reputation as a chill and safe bar in Uptown Chicago, praised for its friendly and knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere especially appreciated by the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Positive reviews often mention the inclusive vibe that makes everyone from different backgrounds feel at home, the well-curated art collection that enhances the environment, and the convenient option of ordering food from their nearby restaurant, Tweet. Customers enjoy the extended bar food menu and the vibrant social scene, making Big Chicks a favored spot for both casual gatherings and more lively nights out. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews note occasional issues such as the bar sometimes being crowded or busy, which might impact the seating availability or noise levels. A few reviewers have mentioned that the pricing can be on the higher side compared to typical bars. Overall, the majority of feedback confirms Big Chicks as a beloved local institution with a strong community focus, successfully balancing great drinks, art, and inclusivity. The bar's induction into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 2016 affirms its importance and positive impact on the neighborhood community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Timothy Wilson
Found this place by accident (tourist who got lost). Best happy little accident ever! Walked in and was greeted by several staff members. I was promptly sat and taken care of. The iced coffee here is to die for and the ambiance is amazing. Several seating options, including outdoor. The food is so good and carefully put together. I got a chicken club and could tell it was freshly cooked and not frozen. The bacon was perfect. It wasn't burnt or soggy. The sweet potato fries were crispy on the outside and smooth on the insides. I dipped them in their house ranch, and it was so good. My server was super polite as well as the host. If you're in the area, it's totally worth a stop inside.
Chelsea Vancouver
10/10! Best bar we went to during our trip. The bar tender and all the regulars were so friendly and the drinks were great! Highly recommend the mezcal mule. Amazing art covers all the walls so lots to look at. Individual gender neutral washrooms đź‘Ť
Maricar Panlasigui
My wife & I ordered the garlic parmesan fries & a drink (we forgot the name), but both were delicious. The drink was quite strong but tasty, that’s a win! Cute gay bar with friendly service. We loved the vibes & would definitely come again!
Mark Britt
Love Michelle and her staff. Great neighborhood bar and restaurant. Janada and Daniel are always amazing. Came for July 4 grub. The Cobb salad is a beast. Husband had Big Chick burger. We shared the amazing onion rings.
Shira M
The tuna melt on rye was excellent and the sweet potato fries are great with the chipotle mayo. Steak is lovely. Service is fast and friendly. Of course we went on a Friday not the weekend. I really love the complimentary brunch bread, too. Most of all, it’s great to support a queer owned business with so much history. Great brunch and lunch spot!
How to reach Big Chicks
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Website: None
Why Big Chicks may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Chicks with your friends? Big Chicks offers a welcoming and lively atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to gather with friends or family for a memorable outing. Located in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, this bar stands out as a casual yet vibrant venue, known for its friendly bartenders and overall inclusive vibe. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, Big Chicks provides a space where everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy themselves without pretense. What truly sets it apart is its blend of a welcoming LGBTQ+ friendly environment combined with great drinks, affordable food specials, and an engaging social scene. Its layout encourages mingling, with plenty of cozy nooks and a small dance floor where people can let loose together. Moreover, Big Chicks' connection to Tweet, a neighboring restaurant, adds an extra dimension to your visit by offering some of the best-organic comfort food options nearby. The bar’s free food events and $1 burger nights foster an inviting, communal spirit, making it an authentic local favorite. For those looking to spend quality time with friends in a low-key yet fun setting, Big Chicks is a top choice.
What activities can you enjoy at Big Chicks? At Big Chicks, the activities available cater perfectly to a group looking to enjoy themselves in a relaxed but lively environment. Firstly, there is the spacious yet cozy dance floor where visitors can dance to a carefully curated mix of music that ranges from upbeat to chill vibes, perfect for warming up any group gathering. For those who prefer a quieter activity but still want to participate, the bar features a small pool table, providing a casual game setting that encourages friendly competition among friends. The benches and seating areas along the walls give room for conversations and socializing without feeling cramped, even when the place is busy, because of the thoughtful layout. One of the biggest draws is the beer garden, an open-air spot that is especially enjoyable in spring and summer, allowing groups to relax outdoors while enjoying the fresh air. Additionally, Big Chicks hosts themed events and special nights like Monday $1 burger nights, which draw crowds and create an exciting, community-oriented atmosphere. Whether you’re drinking, dancing, or simply hanging out enjoying the artwork that lines the walls, Big Chicks offers a variety of ways to connect, unwind, and have fun.
Why is Big Chicks perfect for a group meetup? Big Chicks excels as a venue for group meetups due to its uniquely inclusive and energetic ambiance coupled with practical features that accommodate groups of varying sizes and interests. The bar’s layout maximizes social space by providing numerous small spots to gather, ensuring that group members can split into smaller conversations without losing the communal feeling. Friendly and attentive bartenders contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere, often recognizing and greeting regular guests and newcomers alike, which adds a personal touch that large or impersonal bars typically lack. The complimentary food offerings and inexpensive menu specials lower the barriers to extended socializing, as no one has to worry about expenses piling up for a night out. The adjoining Tweet restaurant broadens the options for groups who want to mix drinking with some quality dining within easy reach. The presence of a coat check and well-managed crowd control means large groups don’t have to hassle over personal belongings or crowd congestion. Moreover, its status as one of the few LGBTQ+ friendly spots in Uptown creates a safe and accepting environment, which is critical for many looking to find a genuinely comfortable space to enjoy themselves with friends or family. Altogether, these features make Big Chicks a versatile, inviting, and enjoyable venue for get-togethers.
What kind of food and drink specials does Big Chicks offer that appeal to groups? Big Chicks is known for offering a selection of affordable and crowd-pleasing specials that attract groups looking for a budget-friendly night out. Chief among these is the highly popular Monday $1 burger night—a deal that offers delicious, well-executed sliders that perfectly complement the bar’s strong and flavorful drink menu. The drinks at Big Chicks are a strong highlight; they are known for being both tasty and generous in pour size, pleasing those who want quality cocktails or draft beers without feeling shortchanged. The bar food here benefits from its association with Tweet, the organic comfort food restaurant connected next door, bringing a higher standard of taste and freshness than one might expect from a bar kitchen alone. This allows groups to enjoy satisfying meals in addition to drinks when meeting up. Free food nights further enhance the appeal, making Big Chicks not only a fun place to drink but also a practical choice for socializing over good food. This combination of affordability, quality, and variety makes the venue especially attractive for groups balancing fun with budget considerations.
How does the atmosphere at Big Chicks enhance group experiences? The atmosphere at Big Chicks is one of its strongest assets when it comes to hosting group meetups. It strikes a balance between being lively and laid-back, providing a social energy that invites interaction without overwhelming guests. The decor features eclectic artwork that sparks conversation and adds character to the space, while the intimate lighting creates a mood that feels cozy yet spirited. The inclusion of a small dance floor encourages guests to engage physically with the music, elevating celebrations and making the environment more dynamic. For those seeking a quieter time, the bar’s well-thought-out seating options allow for comfort and privacy without isolation. Staff friendliness adds a warm human element to every visit, making group members feel recognized and welcome. The diversity of patrons and the bar’s reputation as an LGBTQ+ safe space contribute to a genuine sense of community and acceptance, where different groups can mingle freely and express themselves comfortably. This atmosphere makes Big Chicks not just a bar, but a social hub where laughter, music, and shared moments create lasting memories.
What makes Big Chicks stand out compared to other bars in Chicago? Big Chicks’ standout quality in Chicago’s vibrant bar scene lies in its commitment to inclusivity, community spirit, and value-driven experiences. Unlike larger, more commercialized clubs, Big Chicks maintains a cozy, neighborhood feel that appeals to a diverse crowd, from longtime locals to visitors seeking authentic local flavor. Its LGBTQ+ friendly status is one of the few in the Uptown area that combines excellent drinks, food, and a welcoming vibe without pretension. The connection to Tweet restaurant provides a culinary edge, offering organic, comforting dishes that many bars lack. The generous drinks and affordable specials like $1 burger nights make it accessible and appealing for groups on a budget. Its multi-faceted layout, including a dance floor, pool table, beer garden, and cozy seating, caters to various social preferences all under one roof. Finally, the consistently positive reviews praising the friendly bartenders and staff make it a reliable choice for anyone wanting to rally their friends for a fun, hassle-free night out in Chicago. These aspects collectively ensure Big Chicks remains a beloved and unique spot for group gatherings.