When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Parlay Lincoln Park
Why Parlay Lincoln Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Parlay Lincoln Park is a vibrant, ultramodern sports parlor and dining spot located in the heart of Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. With a lively, high-energy atmosphere, it serves as an ideal place for friends to gather and enjoy elevated bar food paired with an extensive drink menu featuring expertly crafted cocktails, beers, and spritzes. The establishment's sleek and contemporary design complements its commitment to providing a premier social setting for sports fans and casual guests alike. It offers a perfect blend of comfort and excitement, making it a sought-after destination for after-work hangouts, game nights, and weekend celebrations. Parlay Lincoln Park is equipped to host corporate events, bringing a spirited edge to professional gatherings. Its location near popular community spots like DePaul's McGrath-Phillips Arena and Wrightwood Park makes it convenient for sports enthusiasts. The bar also has attractive happy hour specials and sponsorship programs, enhancing the overall value and experience for visitors. Whether meeting up for a post-game celebration, catching the latest match on multiple screens, or enjoying a night out, Parlay Lincoln Park delivers a dynamic and unforgettable experience for friends looking to connect and have fun.
Here's what people think of Parlay Lincoln Park
As of recent, Parlay Lincoln Park holds a 4.7-star rating based on 427 reviews.
Reviews from patrons consistently highlight Parlay Lincoln Park's energetic atmosphere and quality service as key strengths. Positive feedback often praises the friendly and attentive staff, the innovative drink menu, and the elevated bar food that goes beyond typical sports bar fare. Many reviewers appreciate the modern and clean setting, which creates a welcoming environment to enjoy games and socialize. The happy hour deals, including affordable pizzas and specialty drinks, receive substantial acclaim for adding great value. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional wait times during peak hours and the high demand on popular nights, which can affect seating availability. A few customers have noted that pricing can be on the higher end, reflective of the upscale approach, which may not fit every budget. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many patrons recommending Parlay Lincoln Park for both casual meetups and special occasions. The combination of a lively vibe, excellent food and drinks, and attentive service makes it a standout destination in Chicago's sports bar scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kyla Jones
Went here on a Sunday based on TikTok reviews for brunch. It wasn’t as lively as the videos make it seem however with a good group, it can be good. It was pretty dead when I went in there. However, the food and mimosas were OK as well. I tried the river north location before I will return.
Patrick Macke
Madi was amazing. Best server we’ve had in a long time. Food (pizza) was off the charts good. Recommend the buffalo chicken pizza was incredible. One complaint ……. Music too loud. (Maybe I’m old). We will be back.
Rachel Newman
The service was really great and the staff were friendly and attentive. Happy hour Drinks were okay. The actually cocktails are really good though. Good prices for pizza for happy hour. But it’s gotta be some of the worst pizza I’ve ever had. It’s extremely thin tavern style pizza which okay I love tavern style pizza but it tasted awful had very little flavor didn’t taste fresh and low quality ingredients. We had three pizzas they were all horrible.
Mapping Our Tracks
A must stop for happy hour! Even though it was busy, service was great and food was excellent! Would go back in a heartbeat!
Sabrina Crawford
If Parlay isn’t on your list of places to go to for catching a game, having brunch or just kicking it – what is your problem?! The environment is lively, the food is great, the drinks are hitting, and there are TVs literally everywhere - so if you want to watch college football on Saturday OR catch any of the NFL games on Sunday, this is your spot! The DJ they had was ON POINT too! They have a FULL BRUNCH MENU AND GAME DAY MENU all in one spot and there is so much to choose from on either one; there is literally something for everybody, no matter the type of mood you’re in! What we tried: Basket of loaded fries - they were crispy and never got soggy; that’s sorcery! 😂 Blackened chicken quesadilla - they seasoned that blackened chicken down! This was so good! Classic Buffalo wings – these were perfect. Fried perfect. Buffalo sauce perfect. No complaints! Double smash burger - everyone that tried this at the table was amazed how good it was.Those two double smash patties were ON POINT! Buffalo Chicken pizza - I totally understand why everyone loves this now! This pizza was so good! The crispy chicken that was on top has so much flavor which was great in addition to the buffalo ranch sauce that came with the pizza. I could eat that pizza anytime! One of the large format drinks is something that you should definitely get. They are so much fun to have at the table! I went on a Saturday during the college football games and even with it being busy, our waitress, and the manager were still very attentive! This is definitely one of my top choices as far as enjoying a place in the vibe, while enjoying yourself with friends!
How to reach Parlay Lincoln Park
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Why Parlay Lincoln Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Parlay Lincoln Park with your friends? Parlay Lincoln Park offers an unmatched gathering spot that perfectly balances high-energy excitement with a welcoming vibe, making it ideal for groups of friends or family to come together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching a big game, or simply enjoying each other’s company, this lively sports bar creates an atmosphere that is both vibrant and comfortable. The location in the heart of Lincoln Park places it in one of Chicago’s most dynamic neighborhoods, accessible and buzzing with local energy. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 400 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently appreciate the environment and service. The venue combines elevated bar fare with numerous entertainment choices, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. For friends looking to rally around shared interests—sports, great food, or just having fun—Parlay Lincoln Park provides that perfect mix to make any meetup memorable and enjoyable.
What type of activities does Parlay Lincoln Park offer to make group meetups exciting? Parlay Lincoln Park is designed for social interactions around a variety of engaging activities, making it more than just a typical bar. Central to its appeal is the strong sports bar theme, where multiple large-screen TVs are strategically placed so everyone can catch the game no matter where they sit. This makes it a prime location for groups wanting to rally around their favorite teams, share the excitement, and cheer collectively. Beyond watching sports, Parlay offers elevated bar fare with diverse menu options, encouraging group dining and sharing. Their happy hour specials enhance the experience, providing opportunities for affordable drinks and snacks that fuel fun conversations. The lively yet comfortable atmosphere creates a space where casual hangouts turn into memorable social exchanges, accommodating both small and large groups comfortably. The extended weekend hours, including late-night availability on Fridays and Saturdays, cater perfectly to groups looking to make a night out of it.
How does the ambiance of Parlay Lincoln Park contribute to a perfect group meetup? The ambiance at Parlay Lincoln Park is a key reason why it stands out as a go-to spot for friends and family gatherings. The interior combines a modern sports bar aesthetic with warm, inviting décor, creating a space that feels upscale yet unpretentious. The lighting and music are carefully balanced to maintain a high-energy vibe without overwhelming conversation, ideal for group connections. Its prime Lincoln Park location adds to the charm, surrounded by other vibrant nightlife and dining options, enhancing the overall social outing. The bar’s layout allows for flexible group seating arrangements—whether you want a cozy booth for an intimate chat or a larger table for a bigger crowd, Parlay Lincoln Park accommodates with ease. This adaptability, paired with a bustling yet curated environment, assures groups that their meetup will be comfortable, engaging, and fun from start to finish.
What food and drink options does Parlay Lincoln Park provide to cater to diverse group preferences? Parlay Lincoln Park’s menu reflects a commitment to elevated bar fare that goes beyond the usual pub grub, pleasing a broad range of tastes and dietary preferences. From delicious shareable appetizers to hearty main dishes, the selection is designed to satisfy groups who want to indulge in quality meals while socializing. The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring a variety of craft beers, classic cocktails, and curated spirits that appeal to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike. Happy hour specials make it cost-effective to enjoy their offerings, encouraging groups to sample different drinks and dishes without worry. This culinary versatility means that every member of a group—from those seeking a light bite to guests wanting a full meal—will find something that hits the spot. This inclusive and thoughtful approach to food and beverages makes Parlay Lincoln Park an ideal venue to enjoy extended gatherings.
How does Parlay Lincoln Park accommodate different group sizes and occasions? Parlay Lincoln Park truly shines in its flexibility to accommodate a variety of group sizes and types of events, ranging from casual meetups to special celebrations. The space includes areas suited for intimate groups of a few friends as well as larger sections ideal for birthday parties, work outings, or sports viewing parties. This adaptability ensures that no matter the occasion, groups feel comfortable and catered to. The staff is experienced in managing group dynamics and creating a welcoming environment that fosters easy interaction and enjoyment. Additionally, the extended operating hours during weekends and late nights offer even more convenience for groups looking to celebrate or meet at off-peak times. Whether it’s a spontaneous hangout or a planned event, Parlay Lincoln Park’s setup and service approach make it an excellent choice for diverse group needs.
How does the location of Parlay Lincoln Park enhance the group meetup experience? Situated at 950 W Wrightwood Ave in Chicago’s vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, Parlay enjoys a prime location that enhances any group outing by being centrally accessible and surrounded by other entertainment options. This means groups can easily incorporate their visit into a broader evening or afternoon of activities, including dining elsewhere, shopping, or simply strolling through one of Chicago’s most lively districts. The neighborhood itself offers a lively backdrop that matches the energetic yet relaxed tone of Parlay Lincoln Park. Accessibility by car or public transit adds to its appeal, allowing groups from across the city or visitors to convene without hassle. This strategic location synergizes perfectly with the welcoming atmosphere inside, making your meetup both convenient and memorable within one of the city’s cultural hot spots.
What customer reviews reveal about the experience at Parlay Lincoln Park? Consistently high ratings, such as the 4.7 out of 5 score from over 400 reviews, demonstrate that Parlay Lincoln Park delivers an excellent combination of ambiance, service, and entertainment that resonates with guests. Patrons frequently mention the friendly and attentive staff, highlighting how their professionalism enhances the overall experience. Many reviewers appreciate the quality and variety of the food and drinks, noting that the elevated menu offers a welcome twist on typical sports bar fare. The atmosphere is praised for being lively without being overwhelming, making it suitable for a wide range of group sizes and purposes. These positive testimonials confirm Parlay Lincoln Park as a trusted and beloved venue for both casual nights out and special occasions with friends and family.
Why is Parlay Lincoln Park a better choice compared to other sports bars? Parlay Lincoln Park distinguishes itself from other sports bars through its modern, polished approach to the sports bar experience, combining high-energy fun with upscale touches in ambiance and menu offerings. Unlike many bars that feel generic or overly noisy, Parlay Lincoln Park balances excitement with comfort, allowing guests to truly engage with one another. Its location in Lincoln Park places it within a thriving community known for quality dining and nightlife, giving it a neighborhood-centric feel rather than just another tourist spot. The attention to detail in food, drinks, and customer service elevates Parlay above many competitors who focus solely on sports viewing. For groups wanting both a fun and refined venue to rally, Parlay Lincoln Park offers a compelling choice that promises enjoyment on multiple levels.
How does the staff and service at Parlay Lincoln Park contribute to its appeal for group meetups? The attentive and friendly staff at Parlay Lincoln Park play a central role in creating an inviting environment that encourages guests to relax and have fun with their friends. Reviews frequently mention courteous servers who are knowledgeable about the menu and quick to accommodate special requests, ensuring that groups feel well taken care of. Their ability to manage busy times gracefully means that large groups rarely experience long waits or discomfort. This high-quality service fosters a welcoming atmosphere that makes meetups more enjoyable and stress-free. The staff’s professionalism and genuine hospitality reinforce Parlay Lincoln Park’s reputation as a preferred spot to gather, contributing significantly to the overall positive guest experience.
What events or specials does Parlay Lincoln Park offer to enhance the group gathering experience? Parlay Lincoln Park regularly features happy hour specials that are perfect for groups wanting to enjoy great deals on drinks and appetizers, making it easier to extend the meetup without breaking the bank. The schedule includes late-night hours particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, encouraging groups to linger and unwind during weekends. The venue is also known for activating the sports bar theme during major sporting events, creating an electric atmosphere where supporters can unite and celebrate together. These events and promotions encourage lively group dynamics and shared experiences, amplifying the feeling of camaraderie. By offering these extras, Parlay Lincoln Park ensures that group gatherings are not just ordinary meetups but dynamic, memorable social occasions.
How can groups make the most of their visit to Parlay Lincoln Park? To maximize the fun and comfort during a group visit, it’s recommended to arrive a bit early, especially on game days or weekends, to secure the best seating and avoid crowds. Taking advantage of their happy hour specials can add value and variety to the experience, allowing groups to sample different drinks and dishes affordably. Groups should also consider coordinating game viewings and cheering moments around the multiple TV screens for a lively, unified outing. Engaging with the friendly staff to customize orders or accommodate preferences ensures everyone enjoys their visit. Finally, since Parlay Lincoln Park stays open late on weekends, planning an extended night outing can turn a simple meetup into a fun night filled with food, drinks, and shared memories. This proactive approach will help any group create a perfect rally at this dynamic Lincoln Park hotspot.