Burwood Tap: Historic Chicago Bar with Friendly Vibes & Great Specials
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 23 Dec 2025 03:45
TL;DR: Burwood Tap Ping Pong is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Chicago
Burwood Tap is a beloved Chicago institution located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, having been established in 1933 and proudly operating continuously since then. This historic bar offers a welcoming atmosphere that combines nostalgia with a lively social scene, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends. Known affectionately as "Lincoln Park's Finest," it features a unique blend of traditional tavern aesthetics, often described as a cross between a grandmother's garage and Ralph Lauren's Polo. The ambiance evokes a sense of Chicago's rich history, including its roots from the end of Prohibition when the bar first opened as one of the city's earliest licensed taverns.
While the Burwood Tap does not have a full kitchen, guests can enjoy occasional offerings like frozen pizza, hot dogs, and soup, along with a free buffet served from Thursday through Saturday evenings. The bar's real draw is its drink specials and friendly vibe, offering daily deals such as $3 domestics on Mondays and Tuesdays, free trivia nights on Wednesdays, $4 well drinks on Thursdays, $5 well martinis on Sundays, and daily shots specials. Open late until 2 AM on most nights and 3 AM on Saturdays, it caters to those looking for a casual yet spirited night out. Its enduring popularity and classic charm make it a standout spot for relaxed meetups and memorable nights in Chicago.
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What people think of Burwood Tap, based on reviews
As of recent, Burwood Tap holds a 4.3-star rating based on 379 reviews.
Reviews of Burwood Tap generally reflect its status as a friendly and historic local bar with a strong community feel. Positive reviewers praise the bar's atmosphere, noting the "great vibe" and fun setting described as a "fun spot" and a "go-to local tavern." Many appreciate the affordable weekday specials, the generous free buffet offered on select nights, and the late-night hours that make it convenient for evening outings. The nostalgic decor and long-standing family ownership adding to the charm are also highlighted as unique draws.
On the other hand, some negative reviews mention the lack of a full kitchen and limited food options, which might disappoint patrons looking for a full meal. There are rare mentions of unpleasant experiences, with one reviewer stating they would never return, although specific complaints are not detailed in the available reviews. The atmosphere might not suit those seeking a more modern or upscale setting, as the bar maintains a classic, unpretentious tavern feel.
Overall, the review consensus points to Burwood Tap being a reliable and enjoyable spot for casual gatherings, especially suited for those who appreciate a historic venue with strong community ties and affordable drinks. Its mix of history, specials, and friendly environment secures its reputation as a favored neighborhood bar in Chicago's Lincoln Park.
How to reach Burwood Tap
724 W Wrightwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
FAQ about Burwood Tap, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Chicago, Illinois
Burwood Tap is a vibrant and beloved neighborhood bar that offers an ideal setting for groups looking to unwind, catch a game, or simply enjoy a fun night out together. Nestled in Chicago's Lincoln Park, it boasts a welcoming atmosphere that balances a casual local tavern feel with a lively social scene. With a solid 4.3-star rating from nearly 380 reviews, the bar has clearly earned a loyal following that appreciates its unique charm. Whether you're looking to share cheap drinks, enjoy free pool, or gather around sports on big screens, Burwood Tap is a magnetic hub for camaraderie and celebration. Its extended hours until 2 or 3 AM mean your meetup can flexibly stretch well into the night, perfect for weekend parties or weekday unwinding. The spot's affordability, coupled with its spirited vibe and occasional perks like free buffets, makes it a top choice for rallying your friends or family for a memorable night out that won’t break the bank.
Burwood Tap offers a variety of activities that make it an excellent choice for group gatherings. One of its standout features is the free pool, available before 7 PM from Monday to Thursday, which encourages friendly competition and interactive fun among friends. This game-friendly environment is enhanced by the bar’s many sports broadcasts displayed on large screens, making it a go-to place to cheer on favorite teams. Beyond just drinks and games, the bar occasionally offers a free buffet from Thursday through Saturday evenings (8–10 PM), providing casual dining that helps sustain longer visits without needing to leave for food — a huge plus for groups staying together. Additionally, its location at the corner of Wrightwood and Burling provides a cozy, intimate setting in a neighborhood that feels safe and accessible, with free street parking on Wrightwood itself. The social vibe is enriched by regulars who love the bartenders’ quirky personalities and the bar’s steady stream of classic tavern offerings like cheap beer, pizza slices, and hot dogs.
The atmosphere at Burwood Tap is a delightful blend of casual, playful, and community-focused, which creates an inviting space for friends or family to gather. With walls adorned with sports memorabilia, the bar exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of a classic American tavern but with a fresh, neighborhood-bar spirit. This environment encourages easy conversation and laughter, ideal for relaxed or celebratory meetups. The bartenders add character to the experience, known to engage guests with a friendly demeanor and occasional humorous antics like donning cowboy hats or handing out playful shots, which adds to the overall entertainment and enjoyment without being overwhelming. The venue’s relatively intimate size means groups can enjoy personal interaction without the noise overwhelm often found in larger clubs or bars. This friendly and laid-back setting makes Burwood Tap suitable not only for casual Friday after-work drinks but also for larger weekend gatherings where everyone can easily mingle.
While Burwood Tap is primarily a bar, its food and drink options have been cleverly tailored to suit social gatherings without complicating the casual experience. The drink menu is highlighted by affordable, classic beers averaging around $4, which helps groups pace their evening economically. On the food front, though the bar does not have a full kitchen, it provides simple, comforting fare such as occasional frozen pizzas, hot dogs, and soup — enough to complement the drinks and keep hunger at bay without distracting from the social vibe. A major highlight for groups is the free buffet served Thursday through Saturday, which encourages longer stays and the ability to eat while socializing, making it feel like a well-rounded gathering spot rather than just a drinking venue. This combination of inexpensive drinks and accessible food maintains an easygoing and budget-friendly atmosphere, perfect for groups who want a hassle-free, enjoyable night out that balances good flavors with good fun.
Positioned strategically at 724 W Wrightwood Ave in Lincoln Park, Burwood Tap benefits from a prime neighborhood location that is both convenient and inviting for group outings. Its proximity to public transit options, such as the Brown and Purple line “Diversey” stops, plus various buses, means your group has multiple easy options to arrive safely and without stress. While parking in Lincoln Park can generally be challenging, Wrightwood Avenue offers always free parking, which is a rare and valuable advantage for meeting spots in urban areas. The corner spot at Burling and Wrightwood feels quieter and more residential, providing a peaceful yet lively environment that avoids the overly hectic energy of downtown bars but keeps plenty of character and local buzz. The availability of bike racks out front also supports eco-friendly group travel. This accessibility means that gatherings at Burwood Tap can attract friends or family members coming from different parts of the city with minimal hassle, adding to the overall appeal of this local gem for meetups.
Burwood Tap’s versatile space caters well to a variety of group sizes and meetup types, whether it’s an after-work crew, a family gathering, or a birthday celebration. The bar’s operating hours, stretching late into the night especially on weekends until 3 AM, provide flexibility for groups to meet according to their schedules and energy levels. The mix of activities—from free pool to watching sports on big screens—ensures that different interests are satisfied, making Burwood Tap not just a place to drink, but a place to make memories. Its relaxed dress code and unpretentious atmosphere encourage everyone to feel at ease, whether you dress casually or want to celebrate something special. Furthermore, the friendly bartenders and a clientele that skews local add to the feeling of belonging and shared experience. The occasional quirky traditions like signature shots also bring specialty moments to the meetups. For family groups or older friends, the early start times and food options mean it can work as an inviting gathering spot as well.
Community and customer feedback confirm Burwood Tap’s status as a top-notch local hangout with many praising its fun vibe, affordability, and attentive service. Reviewers frequently highlight the bar’s excellent value proposition, noting cheap weekday specials and the unbeatable combination of pool games plus sports viewing. The friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere receive consistent positive remarks, with many calling it their “go-to local tavern.” While the bar does not serve a full kitchen menu, patrons appreciate the casual food offerings and free buffet opportunities as perfect complements to the drinks and socializing. The late hours allow meetups to stretch comfortably into the night. Negative reviews, which are relatively few, sometimes mention parking challenges or the limited kitchen but, overall, the consensus appreciates the authentic, unpretentious nature of the spot and its appeal for groups looking for laid-back, enjoyable gatherings.
If you’re searching for a local bar that combines a lively but comfortable atmosphere with affordable drinks and engaging activities, Burwood Tap stands out as a prime candidate. Its extended open hours, affordable prices, free pool, sports buzz, and occasional food features create a setting perfectly attuned to group dynamics. The neighborhood location in Lincoln Park offers accessibility without the chaos of downtown nightlife, and its welcoming vibe facilitates relaxed, memorable gatherings. Whether your group enjoys competitive pool matches, casual pizza slices, or simply rooting for the game together, Burwood Tap delivers an inclusive experience that feels uniquely Chicago. It’s the kind of spot where camaraderie naturally thrives, making it a top choice for your next gathering of friends or family to create good times that linger long after the night ends.