When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
McGee's Tavern & Grille
Why McGee's Tavern & Grille is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McGee's Tavern & Grille is a beloved neighborhood sports bar located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park area, established in 1987. This venue makes a fantastic meeting spot for friends who want a lively yet comfortable atmosphere to enjoy great food, drinks, and sports. Its cozy interior features high tables, booths, and numerous televisions that broadcast a variety of sporting events, making it an ideal spot to catch the game with friends. The menu includes classic American bar fare like burgers, chicken wings, nachos, onion rings, and sweet potato fries — all prepared to satisfy cravings during a night out or a casual lunch. The kitchen operates daily until 10 PM, while the bar remains open late, ensuring visitors can enjoy food and drinks well into the night. During football season, McGee’s extends its hours to open earlier on weekends to accommodate fans eager to watch NFL and NCAA games. Friendly and attentive service enhances the welcoming neighborhood vibe, and the tavern’s reasonable prices add to its appeal. Whether you are meeting up before a game, enjoying a casual meal, or just looking for a friendly bar to relax in, McGee’s Tavern & Grille offers a comfortable and authentic Chicago experience away from typical tourist spots.
Here's what people think of McGee's Tavern & Grille
As of recent, McGee's Tavern & Grille holds a 4-star rating based on 600 reviews.
User reviews of McGee's Tavern & Grille reveal a generally positive sentiment with a consistent appreciation for its atmosphere, food, and service. Many patrons praised the tavern as a great place to watch sports, highlighting its numerous TV screens and energetic environment during game nights. The staff often receive compliments for being friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. Reviewers enjoyed the bar food, noting dishes like chicken wings, nachos, onion rings, and sweet potato fries as crowd-pleasers. Several positive reviews also mention the affordability and value of food and drinks, with occasional mentions of friendly bartenders who contribute to the welcoming ambiance. However, some critiques focus on McGee's as being fairly typical or unremarkable in terms of its food and décor, with a few visitors finding it comparable to many other campus or neighborhood bars without standing out significantly. A few reviews note quieter times during weekdays when the place can be quite empty, potentially impacting the lively vibe some expect. Overall, the reviews suggest that McGee’s Tavern & Grille is a solid pick for casual sports fans and neighborhood locals looking for good service, a social atmosphere, and standard pub fare in Lincoln Park.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lashana Trimuel
This is the go-to bar for Steelers games. Anybody that comes to Chicago as a Steelers fan should visit this bar. The food is plentiful, presented well, and tastes amazing. The staff are friendly and helpful. I appreciate that they are always available no matter who it is. Their half-time raffle is soon much fun to partake in even if you don't win. I love that there is so much space and plenty of t.v.s. I suggest getting there early as there is street parking only. Also, reserve a table to ensure you have a space to sit at.
Kate F
Absolutely disgusting pub. Floors were so sticky and gross. No amount of cleaning could ever hide to horrific smell of beer pee
Tommy Mac
Probably the best smash burger in the city. At $6 you can't go wrong! There are a variety of beers on tap and the staff is super friendly. Atmosphere is reminiscent of an Irish Pub. It's certainly no dive though. Place is very clean.
Ali H
A local dive bar. Came here for the food. Had veggie tacos 1/5 very tasteless fish and chips 2/5 had a strong fish taste, the pizza was 5/5 def try it and also the grilled cheese was bomb 5/5
Emily Thomas
Watched the F1 Grand Prix here. They had a whole room dedicated to the event and servers just for this event. It was awesome!
How to reach McGee's Tavern & Grille
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Website: None
Why McGee's Tavern & Grille may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McGee's Tavern & Grille with your friends? Because this Lincoln Park staple offers the perfect blend of casual comfort, great food, and lively atmosphere that makes any group outing memorable. Established in 1987, McGee's has earned its reputation as a friendly, local sports tavern that welcomes everyone looking to unwind and connect. Whether you're a sports fan wanting to catch a game, a foodie craving gourmet burgers and wings, or simply a group of friends seeking a chill environment to hang out, this place has you covered. The tavern boasts an inviting ambiance with ample large-screen TVs, making it ideal for cheering on your favorite teams while enjoying quality drinks and satisfying meals. Its hours and service are tailored to accommodate group gatherings at practically any time, staying open late during the week and weekend with kitchen service until 10 pm daily. In short, McGee's Tavern & Grille combines good vibes, attentive service, and a reliable menu, making it a prime spot to rally with friends or family for any occasion.
What activities and features make McGee's Tavern & Grille perfect for a group meetup? The tavern is designed to suit group dynamics with spacious seating options for both small and large parties. During football season especially, they adjust hours to open earlier—around 9 or 10 am on game days—to let fans gather well before kickoff. The multiple big screens scattered throughout ensure everyone at the table can catch the action no matter where they sit. It's not just about watching sports though; live music and special event nights regularly add to the lively environment, making it a place where entertainment goes beyond the game. The bartenders, praised for their friendliness and accommodating nature, are skilled at crafting both classic and creative cocktails, helping to keep the energy upbeat. With drink specials and daily menu features, the atmosphere is casual and wallet-friendly, encouraging guests to linger and socialize comfortably. Their kitchen serves up a range of crowd-pleasing fare like gourmet burgers, fried chicken, wings, and unique sandwiches, ensuring there's something for every palate and appetite.
How does the food and drink menu contribute to McGee's appeal as a meetup spot? Food is a highlight at McGee’s Tavern & Grille, offering hearty, flavorful options made from quality ingredients. Their menu includes classic pub favorites with a gourmet twist—think juicy burgers with creative toppings, perfectly fried chicken, and wings that are consistently well-reviewed. The kitchen stays open daily until 10 pm, accommodating groups who want to settle in for a full meal or late-night bites. For those who prefer to start early, especially on weekends and during football season, food service aligns with extended hours that welcome brunch and daytime gatherings. Drink-wise, the tavern features a diverse selection of beers, cocktails, and well-executed drink specials that keep the mood lively without breaking the bank. The bartenders’ reputation for friendly service means your group will feel right at home, whether ordering rounds or exploring unique drink concoctions. This combination of quality food and drinks fosters an environment that naturally promotes conversation and shared enjoyment, key to any successful group outing.
What makes the service and ambiance at McGee’s Tavern & Grille ideal for groups? A standout feature of McGee's is the consistently friendly and attentive staff who contribute significantly to a welcoming vibe. Many reviewers highlight how servers go above and beyond to make visitors, especially out-of-towners or first-timers, feel at ease and part of the local community. This personal touch is vital when gathering with friends and family because it sets a relaxed, hassle-free tone from arrival to departure. The tavern’s interior balances cozy and energetic, with traditional Irish bar touches mixed with contemporary sports bar elements. This blend means groups can enjoy casual conversation in a comfortable setting while still soaking in the excitement of live sports or events on the TVs. The layout supports both intimate dinners and larger celebrations, with enough space to move and mingle. Plus, opening hours designed for late-night fun ensure that your meetup can stretch well into the evening without feeling rushed.
Why is McGee's Tavern & Grille a great choice for various group occasions? Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday celebration, or a sports viewing party, McGee’s versatility shines. Its combination of extended hours, diverse menu options, and multiple large TVs makes it particularly popular for football or hockey game days, while its live entertainment and welcoming ambiance cater to social mixers or family dinners. The bar's location in Lincoln Park offers easy access for locals and visitors alike, making coordinating meetups hassle-free. Additionally, McGee's commitment to evolving and improving its offerings means you can expect fresh experiences whenever you visit. For groups looking for a spot that balances lively energy with comfort and great service, this tavern stands as a dependable choice. Its solid 4.0-star rating from over 600 reviews shows a track record of satisfying customers who value good food, enjoyable drinks, and the pleasure of a friendly crowd—all crucial ingredients for a successful group outing.