When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Butch McGuire's
Why Butch McGuire's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Butch McGuire's is a cherished Irish saloon and neighborhood bar located in Chicago's Gold Coast, near Division Street. Established in 1961, it has maintained a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to meet up with friends for casual dining, drinks, and celebrations. The bar's festive decorations—especially its iconic holiday displays and toy trains—create a unique, inviting ambiance year-round. Butch McGuire's is known for its late-night hours, staying open until 4 a.m. on most nights and even 5 a.m. on Saturdays, making it a go-to destination for night owls and barhoppers. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring classic pub fare such as a popular half-pound hamburger, chorizo quesadillas, Irish egg rolls, chili, and coleslaw. The bar offers a full range of beverages, including beer, cocktails, and spirits, complemented by friendly and attentive staff. With brunch served on weekends and private room availability, Butch McGuire's offers versatility for social gatherings and celebrations. As a family-owned establishment now managed by Bobby McGuire, it holds a special place in Chicago's bar scene, attracting locals and visitors alike for its community feel, lively atmosphere, and dedication to quality and tradition.
Here's what people think of Butch McGuire's
As of recent, Butch McGuire's holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1040 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Butch McGuire's for its authentic Irish bar atmosphere, late hours, and welcoming environment. Many visitors enjoy the longstanding family ownership and the friendly, attentive service from the staff. Positive reviews highlight the bar's festive décor, especially during Christmas and St. Patrick's Day celebrations, which add a unique charm to the experience. The extensive menu and generous portions, particularly the great hamburgers and pub staples like chili and quesadillas, are often commended. Customers also appreciate the flexibility of late-night dining and the vibrant yet unpretentious neighborhood bar vibe. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues with crowding during peak hours and wait times for food or drinks. A few patrons note that menu prices can be on the higher side compared to other local bars, and sometimes the noise level can be cumbersome for those seeking a quieter environment. Overall, the positive feedback steadily outweighs the negatives, with many describing Butch McGuire's as a dependable, fun place that captures the spirit of Chicago's Irish pub culture, making it a beloved fixture in the city’s nightlife and community scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lizet Mendoza Maestracci
This restaurant is very quaint, with a very original Irish decor, but also with a strong American spirit. The food is very good, the beers are cold, and the service is excellent. The clam chowder is excellent!
Sarah Surber
So glad we found this little gem today! Love the history and that a lot of the staff has worked here for years and contributed to the decor. The Reuben egg rolls were so delicious and unique and would come back for these alone!! All the food and service was great! Also kid friendly
sarah buhman
The BEST atmosphere and food. We went for Sunday brunch. The French toast was delicious, but the sausage is one of the best I’ve ever had. The people are so friendly. One of the servers talked to us for a while about all his favorite spots in town for us to visit. People told us the bar is a family bar and it feels like it. During Christmas, this is such a good place to be. The decor is awesome and made it sooo fun to be there. I’d recommend to everyone!
Tom Stacey
A festive and welcoming space for a drink. The 1970s deep cuts soundtrack fits the neighborhood vibe. You can't go wrong with a Guiness and some chicken wings, at this writing just 50 cents each on Wednesdays.
Diego Espinoza
We loved the energy of this bar, great selection of beers and tequila! It was packed, a good place to have a good time
How to reach Butch McGuire's
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Why Butch McGuire's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Butch McGuire’s with your friends? Because it is the quintessential gathering place that combines vibrant atmosphere, late-night appeal, and a welcoming Irish pub spirit, making it ideal for groups looking to connect over good food, drinks, and unforgettable moments. Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast, Butch McGuire’s is an establishment steeped in tradition, family-owned and operated since 1961, which imparts a unique warmth and authenticity. Whether you’re craving a relaxed brunch with friends or a lively night out, Butch McGuire’s extensive hours—open until 4 a.m. on most nights and even later on weekends—ensure that your group has the flexibility to meet at any hour. The festive décor and friendly staff provide a backdrop that naturally encourages camaraderie and laughter. Its reputation, held high by a 4.5-star rating and over a thousand reviews, speaks to a consistently positive experience for groups of all sizes. Rallying here means stepping into a place where everyone feels welcome, where every moment turns into a celebration of friendship and shared enjoyment.
What activities does Butch McGuire’s offer for groups? The venue’s main attraction is its lively Irish pub ambiance, perfect for socializing and letting loose with your friends or family. Their full menu includes hearty American and Irish dishes such as pizzas, salads, and classic pub fare, ideal for sharing and accommodating a variety of tastes. Weekend brunch, served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., provides the perfect casual setting for morning meetups with mimosas or savory breakfast options. Beyond food, Butch McGuire’s is known for its vibrant atmosphere with festive decorations, especially during holidays like Christmas and St. Patrick’s Day, making your gatherings feel special and spirited. The pub also offers a full bar stocked with a variety of beers and cocktails, supporting toasts and extended conversations well into the night. With the kitchen open until 9 or 10 p.m. on most days, groups can enjoy a full dining experience before transitioning to drinks and late-night entertainment, ensuring everyone stays engaged and entertained.
Why is Butch McGuire’s the perfect place for a group meetup? Flexibility and comfort are key highlights. Open daily with extended hours—Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 a.m. and even longer on weekends—this place accommodates early lunches, late dinners, or post-event gatherings. The spacious seating and welcoming staff enhance the experience, smoothly handling groups without sacrificing service quality. Its location on 20 W Division St in Chicago makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike, offering a central meeting point for friends coming from different directions. The combination of a vibrant, yet neighborhood-friendly atmosphere strikes the ideal balance between lively party hub and cozy pub, meaning groups can feel at home but energized. Whether you want to catch a game on TV, enjoy the music, or simply chat over delicious food and drinks, the environment caters to diverse preferences, making it a versatile meet-up venue.
What special features make Butch McGuire’s stand out for hosting meetups? One of the most notable features is its late-night service, with doors open until 4 a.m. every night except Saturdays, when they close at 5 a.m. This makes it one of the city’s top choices for night owls and groups that want to extend their social time without rushing. The festive, Irish-themed décor adds a unique charm that elevates the entire experience, turning gatherings into memorable celebrations, especially during seasonal festivities. Additionally, the pub is fully accessible, offers reservations, and provides table service, ensuring convenience and comfort for all guests. The kitchen’s diverse menu caters to dietary preferences, providing gluten-free options and several crowd-pleasers, allowing everyone in your group to find something they enjoy. These thoughtful touches make Butch McGuire’s a reliable and enjoyable venue that groups can return to repeatedly with confidence.
How does the food and drink at Butch McGuire’s enhance a group experience? The robust, varied menu offers a wide range of dishes from classic Irish staples to American favorites, making it easy to satisfy any palate in your party. Pizzas, fresh salads, and pub specialties like fish and chips or burgers can be ordered to share, which naturally encourages interaction and conversation. The weekend brunch adds an additional dimension with hearty breakfast dishes and brunch cocktails, perfect for casual day gatherings or celebrations. The full bar is stocked with a selection of craft beers, well-made cocktails, and Irish favorites like Guinness, adding to the social and festive vibe. Timing matters too—the kitchen’s operating hours allow for ample dining time, while keeping the bar service running late so groups can linger over drinks well into the early morning. This combination of quality food and beverages ensures your gathering is both delicious and dynamic.
What kind of atmosphere can you expect when meeting friends at Butch McGuire’s? The pub maintains a welcoming yet lively environment where every guest feels like part of an extended family. Its rich history as a family-run bar since 1961 is palpable in the warm service and the friendly smiles from staff who treat patrons like friends. The festive decorations—especially during holidays such as St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas—create a spirited ambiance that lifts the energy of any meetup. Music, televised sports, and regular special events contribute to a dynamic setting that can be both relaxing and exhilarating, depending on your group’s mood. The mix of regular neighborhood patrons and visitors means the bar buzzes with authentic local flavor while still offering a communal and inclusive vibe, perfect for bonding and making new memories.
How accessible and convenient is Butch McGuire’s for group gatherings? Situated centrally on W Division Street, it is easily reachable by public transportation, taxis, and rideshares, simplifying travel logistics for everyone in your group. The place is wheelchair accessible, offering inclusive comfort no matter the mobility needs of your party. Their policy of accepting reservations helps groups secure seating during peak times, reducing wait times and hassle, which is crucial for larger gatherings. Additionally, Butch McGuire’s offers takeout, delivery, and pickup options, expanding the ways groups can enjoy their food and drinks beyond the physical space if preferred. For those who want to stay connected digitally, the pub even offers branded merchandise online, allowing guests to carry a bit of the Butch McGuire’s spirit wherever they go. This level of attention to convenience makes organizing and enjoying meetups smooth and stress-free.
Why is Butch McGuire’s a reliable choice for long-lasting group celebrations? The pub’s long-standing family ownership underscores a commitment to quality, community, and customer satisfaction that new or trendy venues often lack. Having served Chicago since 1961, it has perfected the art of creating a welcoming environment that stands the test of time. The late hours are perfect for after-parties or events that run late, while the full-service bar and kitchen accommodate hunger and thirst at every stage of your meetup. Guests repeatedly praise the consistent food quality, friendly staff, and festive yet comfortable atmosphere, which means your group can expect reliability and warmth at every visit. This blend of tradition, service, and ambiance ensures Butch McGuire’s is not just a place to meet—it’s a place to build lasting memories with loved ones.
What events or special occasions can Butch McGuire’s accommodate? Beyond casual meetups, the venue is well suited for a variety of celebrations including birthdays, anniversaries, and holiday parties, thanks to its spacious layout and festive vibe. The pub’s décor changes seasonally and for holidays, enhancing the experience and adding a special touch to your events. Its flexible seating arrangements and the option to make reservations allow you to organize events ranging from intimate gatherings to lively group celebrations. The lively bar environment with music and televised sports also provides entertainment for guests during the event. Whether planning a laid-back brunch or an all-night celebration, Butch McGuire’s is equipped to make your special occasion feel memorable and seamless.
How do guests rate their experience at Butch McGuire’s? Customers consistently provide high ratings, reflected by a strong 4.5-star average from over a thousand reviews, indicating widespread customer satisfaction. Reviewers praise the friendly and attentive service, the vibrant and authentic Irish pub atmosphere, and the quality and variety of the food and drinks. Many highlight the flexibility of the late hours and the welcoming environment that suits both casual outings and celebratory events. The positive feedback about the staff demeanor and festive decorations further supports the appeal of the venue as an ideal social hub. Such consistent acclaim from a large number of guests confirms that Butch McGuire’s maintains a standard of excellence that you can trust when planning your next group meetup.