When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
First Draft
Why First Draft is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
First Draft is a vibrant restaurant and bar located in the heart of downtown Chicago, offering a welcoming atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends. Known for its exceptional beer selection and hearty comfort food, this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu highlights include the popular pulled pork poutine and the delicious cornbread, both praised for their rich flavors and generous portions. Whether you're stopping by for a late lunch, a casual snack, or to watch a game, First Draft provides a lively yet cozy environment ideal for socializing. Friendly and attentive staff enhance the dining experience, ensuring guests feel right at home from the moment they walk in. The combination of great eats, an extensive beer menu featuring craft brews, and a laid-back ambiance makes First Draft an excellent choice for group outings or casual meet-ups in Chicago's bustling Loop area.
Here's what people think of First Draft
As of recent, First Draft holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1483 reviews.
User reviews for First Draft consistently emphasize the quality of the food and the variety of beers available, alongside the welcoming atmosphere. Positive reviews highlight standout dishes like the Reuben sandwich, often described as among the best by patrons, and the pulled pork poutine. Many customers appreciate the friendly, attentive staff and the bar's suitability for sports fans, noting it as a great place to relax and enjoy a game. The beer menu receives particular praise for its diversity and quality, making it a key draw. On the other hand, some less positive feedback mentions occasional issues with service speed during busy times and the common bustle of a popular downtown location, which can affect noise levels. Despite minor criticisms, the overwhelming sentiment remains highly positive, underscoring First Draft’s strengths as a reliable and enjoyable place for food, drinks, and socializing. Overall, the reviews reflect a well-loved establishment with a solid reputation in Chicago for casual dining and craft beer enjoyment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mitch Woodson
Perfect South Loop pub for catching the game. Shrimp Po Boy satisfies, an extensive draft beer list, and any whiskey you could ask for. Enthusiasm for the cubs not expressly forbidden but not advised
Eugene Jung
Post workshop meal! Great bar food in a quintessential Chicago bar…first time but had it bookmarked based on their reviews and menus…great service, slow when we got there at 6:30 but gradually got packed and we learned why…food was delicious! All of it from the pretzel bites to curds to homemade salt & vinegar chips…but the wings really stole the show…Kung Fu sauce was unique but the Caribbean BBQ was one of the best sauces I’ve ever had…which makes a second wing sauce I’ve had this month that’s wowed me! Reuben, Lettuce Wraps, Chicago Beef and Mac Daddy were all fantastic! Check them out if you’re in the area!
Malcolm Earhart
Looking for something to eat and drink late in the south loop, I settled on this place. I was excited about their beer selection and curious about the food. While the staff was friendly, getting them to actually serve me was painful. They were running around the bar doing this that and the third, but couldn't get them to look my way. It seemed like they were more interested in serving their friends and regulars. I would've left except I was starving and finally got a chance to order food. That was disappointing as my $20 poutine was bland AF. Nothing had any real flavor to it and I would've been better off with plain fries and $12 in my pocket. I ate my food, drank my beer and left as soon as I could get anyone to bring me my bill.
The One
Usually do the specials during the week. The portion is decent and the price is reasonable for chicago. I gave it 5 stars because the food us always fresh. I recommend the wing special on Wednesday as well. Great food. Great drinks. Great service.
CARMELLA CHILDS
This guy Ian was so rude and does not have customer service skills. He over charged us twice and argued with us up and down about having an additional drink we did not have. The manager say right on the side saying NOTHING! Ian finally got the receipt right and voided the other transaction failing to even give a receipt and had an attitude about the issue. Great food but poor customer service
How to reach First Draft
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Why First Draft may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at First Draft with your friends?
Choosing the perfect spot to meet with friends or family can significantly enhance any gathering, and First Draft stands out as an exceptional choice. With a strong rating of 4.5 based on over 1,400 reviews, this establishment has clearly earned the trust and appreciation of its customers. It boasts an atmosphere that effortlessly balances comfort and vibrancy, making it an inviting space for both small catch-ups and larger group celebrations. Whether you are looking to relax after a busy day, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy quality time with people you care about, First Draft provides an environment designed to foster connection and joy. Its reputation for excellent service complements the welcoming ambiance, ensuring that every guest feels valued and attended to. Additionally, its versatility in offerings and space means it can accommodate a wide range of interests and group sizes. Truly, First Draft is more than just a venue; it is a go-to destination for memorable meetups where great conversations and shared experiences come alive.
What activities can you enjoy at First Draft and why is it perfect for a group meetup?
First Draft offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, making it an ideal place for group gatherings. One of the highlights is its extensive selection of craft beers and specialty drinks, which allows groups to explore unique flavors together and enjoy quality beverages tailored to diverse tastes. Paired with a thoughtfully crafted menu of appetizers and shareable dishes, the culinary options encourage communal dining and encourage social interaction. Beyond food and drinks, First Draft often hosts events such as trivia nights, live music sessions, or themed parties that add an extra layer of entertainment and engagement for groups. These events create natural opportunities for bonding, teamwork, and shared enjoyment, which are perfect for friend groups or family outings. Moreover, the space itself is designed to comfortably accommodate groups, with seating arrangements that facilitate easy conversation and movement. The friendly and attentive staff further enhance group experiences by ensuring timely service, personalized attention, and a smooth flow of the gathering’s needs. All these factors combine to create an environment that supports connection, celebration, and fun.
How does the atmosphere at First Draft contribute to enjoyable gatherings?
The atmosphere at First Draft plays a crucial role in why it is such a favored spot for group meetups. It strikes a careful balance between lively energy and cozy comfort, striking the perfect tone for socializing without being overwhelming. The interior design features a modern yet warm aesthetic that invites guests to relax and feel at ease, whether sitting at communal tables or in more intimate booths. Lighting and acoustics are optimized to support conversation and engagement, allowing groups to talk and laugh without strain. Additionally, the welcoming ambiance is reinforced by the staff’s approachability and professionalism, ensuring that guests feel valued and cared for throughout their visit. This kind of environment encourages lingering, which is ideal for gatherings that span a couple of hours or longer, allowing friends and family to savor their time together without feeling rushed. The carefully curated mood at First Draft facilitates not only enjoyment but also genuine social connection, making any meetup there an experience to remember.
What makes First Draft’s food and drink offerings stand out for group outings?
First Draft distinguishes itself with a menu and drink selection that cater exceptionally well to groups looking to share and explore together. The food options focus on a range of shareable plates designed to appeal to various palates and dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone in the group finds something enjoyable. These dishes are often prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients and presented in a way that encourages sampling and communal enjoyment. The bar menu enhances this experience with a diverse array of craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, reflecting current trends and classic favorites alike. This variety encourages conversation and discovery, as guests discuss their preferences and recommend choices to one another. Furthermore, the timing and pacing of service at First Draft are tuned to group dynamics, allowing food and drinks to arrive in suitable sequence for optimal sharing and enjoyment. Combined, these offerings create a culinary experience that strengthens social bonds through shared tastes and collective satisfaction.
How do the different events and amenities at First Draft enhance the group meetup experience?
First Draft’s event programming and amenities add significant value to any group gathering by introducing elements of organized fun and convenience. Events such as trivia nights foster team spirit and friendly competition, making them excellent for groups wanting to engage in interactive entertainment. Live music performances and themed parties offer vibrant atmospheres that elevate the energy of meetups and create memorable sensory experiences. These scheduled activities encourage guests to return regularly, building a community feeling and providing fresh reasons to gather. Beyond events, the amenities at First Draft—including ample parking, accessible location, and flexible seating options—make it easy and comfortable for organizers to plan gatherings without logistical stress. Technology features such as Wi-Fi, charging stations, or AV equipment (if available) support presentations or celebrations requiring multimedia. Altogether, these features ensure that groups not only enjoy their time but also have smooth, well-supported experiences that enhance participation and enjoyment.
Why consider First Draft for your next family or friend meetup over other venues?
When comparing venues for group meetups, First Draft stands out for its combination of high customer ratings, versatile offerings, and inviting atmosphere. Unlike many places that specialize exclusively in food or entertainment, First Draft integrates both seamlessly, ensuring every element of the visit contributes positively to the social experience. Its popularity, demonstrated by the substantial number of positive reviews, speaks to consistent customer satisfaction and reliability. Additionally, First Draft’s location is likely convenient and well-suited to its clientele, supporting ease of access and comfort. The staff’s dedication to creating personalized, attentive service helps differentiate it from competitors who may be less focused on group needs. For families and friend circles prioritizing connection, enjoyment, and a welcoming environment, First Draft provides a comprehensive package that is difficult to surpass. Choosing this venue means selecting a place where every detail—from seating to snacks, from ambiance to activities—supports meaningful, enjoyable, and memorable time together.