When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Output Lounge & Sports Bar (Wrigleyville)
Why Output Lounge & Sports Bar (Wrigleyville) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Output Lounge & Sports Bar in Wrigleyville, Chicago, is a vibrant neighborhood spot perfect for meeting up with friends to enjoy great food, drinks, and sports. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and energetic vibe, Output offers an ideal setting for socializing with friends during game days or casual hangouts. The bar boasts a full menu featuring their famed wings, including flavors like hot mango and chipotle ranch, regarded by many as some of the best in Chicago. Alongside wings, they offer appetizers, burgers, wraps, and salads, catering to different tastes with fresh ingredients and creative twists. The venue features ample seating, a lively bar area, and multiple big screen TVs to catch any sports action live. Their drink selection includes creative cocktails, beers, and micheladas, delivering a well-rounded experience. The location is wheelchair accessible and offers amenities such as table service, reservations, and takeout. Whether you want to cheer on your favorite team or simply enjoy comfort food with friends, Output Lounge & Sports Bar provides a cozy, buzzing environment that draws locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of Output Lounge & Sports Bar (Wrigleyville)
As of recent, Output Lounge & Sports Bar (Wrigleyville) holds a 4.3-star rating based on 241 reviews.
Reviews of Output Lounge & Sports Bar reflect a strong appreciation for its food, particularly the wings, and the inviting bar atmosphere. Positive reviewers often praise the flavorful wing varieties like hot mango and chipotle ranch and the high-quality drinks, including signature cocktails and micheladas. Customers highlight the friendly and fun staff, with some noting the bar’s lively neighborhood vibe and great game-watching setup with large screens. The establishment is also appreciated for its cozy, engaging environment perfect for groups and sports fans. On the downside, some reviews mention inconsistent service, particularly slow responses from waitstaff even during less busy times. This issue sometimes detracts from the overall dining experience despite the quality of food and drinks. Additionally, a 20% service fee on large groups and during major sporting events is noted by some, which patrons should be aware of in advance. Overall, the consensus remains positive, recommending Output Lounge for its exceptional wings, good drinks, and solid sports bar atmosphere, with minor caveats regarding service speed that the management appears to be addressing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cesar Benitez
Outstanding service. The bartender Jasmin took great care of us. She was fast and attentive and made amazing drinks. We definitely got our money worth. They aren't that pricey either with great food.
Elegantshot Studios
Well what can i say! Had 10 Original Hot / 10 Spicy BBQ Came because of all the hype and def dint disappoint on the wings. Sauce Level was balance ,crispy not over the top dry. Overall a 9 ,but what disappointed me was the loaded Tater Tots (in my opinion) they just need a little more cook time. But overall would comeback just for the wings.
Brandon Contreras
Came for the wings and it didn’t disappoint! I’ve been to both Grand and Wrigleyville locations and each are unique but the wings are 🔥 at both.. Sean and Emily were the best. Also Mel and Angel the other bartenders I met were awesome
Miguel Coronel
Received burned wings when I ordered for delivery. Completely inedible.
Chris Floro
Great sports bar in Wrigley with phenomenal wings. When they say hot, they mean it. Output Hot is very spicy. Pair with something light like Hot Honey Garlic.
How to reach Output Lounge & Sports Bar (Wrigleyville)
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Website: None
Why Output Lounge & Sports Bar (Wrigleyville) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Output Lounge & Sports Bar in Wrigleyville with your friends? This vibrant spot stands out as an ideal gathering place thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, and engaging activities designed to keep groups entertained and comfortable. Whether you're cheering on your favorite sports team, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to unwind after a long week, Output Lounge offers a dynamic setting where everyone can feel at home. The bar's reputation for crafting some of the best wings in Chicago adds a delicious highlight to any meetup, ensuring that your group will never be bored or hungry. With a solid 4.3 rating from over 240 reviews, it’s clear that many patrons appreciate the balance of good vibes, attentive service, and consistent quality that Output Lounge maintains. Plus, its convenient location in the lively Wrigleyville neighborhood makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors who want to experience a genuine Chicago hangout spot. The mix of an inviting bar scene and ample space for groups means you can enjoy your night out without feeling cramped or rushed. This combination makes Output Lounge & Sports Bar a prime destination to rally with friends.
What activities does Output Lounge & Sports Bar offer that make it perfect for group meetups? First, Output Lounge is a sports bar in every sense, packed with multiple big screens strategically placed to provide excellent views from any seat. This creates an ideal environment for watching live sports events, especially during major games when fans want to gather and share the excitement together. In addition to game-day camaraderie, Output offers a mix of lively music, depending on the night—often including DJs or live bands—adding an entertainment dimension for groups who want to dance or enjoy a nightlife vibe. The bar also features a strong selection of cocktails, beers, and other beverages, catering to diverse tastes during long hangouts. Beyond just hanging out, Output’s menu offers shareable appetizers like their famous wings, combo platters, and filled handhelds, allowing groups to bond over delicious food. This culinary appeal, coupled with the lively but comfortable ambiance, ensures everyone in your group will have something to enjoy. The venue’s policies, such as seating limits during peak hours and group-friendly tab management policies, also support smooth, hassle-free group experiences.
Why is Output Lounge ideal for a social celebration or party? Output Lounge & Sports Bar embraces events and special occasions with open arms, making it a top choice for birthdays, reunions, and any festive gathering. When coming as a group of five or more, a 20% service fee is applied to ensure excellent service, especially during busy game days or special events, signaling that your party is in good hands with attentive staff. The management encourages notifying them of celebrations, and they can accommodate with extras like birthday candles to enhance your experience. The layout of the space is designed for comfort and socializing, with plenty of seating options that foster easy conversation and group interaction. Whether you're arriving early for dinner or later for drinks and dancing, Output Lounge adapts to your group's vibe. Their commitment to table security during peak times means your gathering won't be interrupted, provided you keep ordering food or drinks, making it an ideal spot to relax and have fun without worrying about losing your place or feeling rushed.
What makes the food at Output Lounge & Sports Bar special for group dining? The food is a cornerstone of Output’s appeal, especially for groups that want to share and savor quality bar fare. Their claim of having some of the best wings in Chicago is not an exaggeration; these wings come tossed in a variety of flavorful sauces that satisfy different spice preferences. Beyond wings, there’s a robust menu filled with delicious options like chicken tacos with a signature house sauce, smash burgers with grilled onions, and multiple handheld wraps that can be customized with crispy or grilled chicken. Groups can also enjoy combo platters featuring fried pickles, onion rings, quesadillas, and more, great for sharing around a table. The food serves not only as sustenance but as a communal highlight—big plates designed to be passed around encourage social mingling. Their attention to freshness and quality means you never have to sacrifice taste for convenience during a night out. Desserts like a hot chocolate chip cookie skillet add a sweet finish, perfect for celebrating with a group.
How accessible and convenient is Output Lounge & Sports Bar for group gatherings? Located on North Clark Street in the heart of Wrigleyville, Output Lounge is at the center of one of Chicago’s most bustling entertainment neighborhoods, making it easy for friends and family to convene. The bar is open late, especially on weekends, giving groups flexibility in planning their meetups. Its wheelchair accessibility and table service add layers of convenience for diverse groups. Although there is a 90-minute seating limit during peak hours to manage crowds, this policy helps maintain a lively yet comfortable environment where your group can enjoy themselves without feeling overcrowded. Payment policies, such as the encouragement of separate tabs for groups, make billing simple and clear, avoiding the typical confusion or delays often seen in large group outings. The management’s proactive handling of service fees during major sporting events also speaks to their experience in serving large enthusiastic crowds efficiently, ensuring your group’s needs are met smoothly.
Why do visitors rate Output Lounge & Sports Bar highly as a meetup spot? With an overall rating around 4.3 out of 5 from over 240 reviews, Output Lounge & Sports Bar demonstrates a consistent track record of satisfying patrons. Many reviews emphasize the atmosphere—friendly and inviting—which makes it an easy pick for group meetups whether you’re longtime friends or new acquaintances. Customers frequently mention the attentive service staff who handle large groups with professionalism and care, a crucial element when planning any social outing. The space itself is praised for its upbeat energy combined with comfortable seating and multiple entertainment options, which collectively encourage extended visits. Many also highlight the excellent food and drink quality, especially the wings, as a major reason to keep coming back. Importantly, repeat visitors feel that the balance of quality, fun, and value make Output Lounge a reliable destination no matter the reason for gathering, enhancing its appeal for both casual meetups and special nights out.
In what ways does Output Lounge & Sports Bar stay engaged with its community and patrons? Since opening in 2011, Output Lounge has built a strong following, not only by hosting great social experiences but also by participating actively in the local atmosphere of West Town and Wrigleyville. Owner Eddie Gutierrez and executive chef Fidel Garcia have crafted a space that reflects Chicago’s dynamic bar and pub scene while adding unique touches like their signature wings and carefully curated menus. They maintain a vibrant online presence and encourage patrons to keep up with updates on events, specials, and seasonal menus, reinforcing the connection to their customer base. For groups, this means potentially accessing exclusive events or promotions during big game days or holidays. By adapting policies to meet group needs and offering a welcoming environment, Output Lounge continuously renews its role as a go-to social hub in Chicago’s nightlife. Their dual locations, including one in West Town, also indicate an ongoing commitment to serving diverse neighborhoods with consistent quality.
What should groups keep in mind when planning their visit to Output Lounge & Sports Bar? To ensure the best experience, groups should be aware of some key policies that Output Lounge has in place, especially during peak hours and major sporting events. A 90-minute seating limit encourages fair use and turnover, so party planners may want to book in advance or arrive early. Groups of five or more will encounter an automatic 20% service fee, which is common for larger parties and helps guarantee excellent service under busy conditions. Payment is expected upon delivery of service, and while separate tabs are allowed, staff advises on how these are managed to avoid confusion. Importantly, maintaining table security requires consistent purchasing of food and drink during peak times, so it's wise to plan your order rhythm accordingly. By understanding these details, groups can maximize their enjoyment and minimize any potential disruptions during their outing. Overall, Output Lounge & Sports Bar provides an environment where clear expectations meet a welcoming vibe, making it one of Chicago’s premier spots for socializing in Wrigleyville.