When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Sully's House
Why Sully's House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sully's House is a vibrant, locally owned Irish sports bar and pub located in Chicago's North Avenue SoNo/Old Town - Lincoln Park Shopping District. Established in 2008, it offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends to enjoy great food, drinks, and live sports. The bar features exposed brick walls, dark wooden floors, and a warm, wooden bar that runs a significant length of the interior, creating a cozy yet lively vibe. Whether you prefer sitting at the high-backed wooden barstools or relaxing in the cocktail tables opposite the green banquette seating that overlooks Blackhawk, the space accommodates all preferences. Guests can watch games on any of the sixteen flat-screen TVs or chill at the sidewalk café with portable TVs, alongside enjoying a rooftop patio during the summer months. Sully's extensive drink menu boasts 20 beers on tap—featuring local favorites like Half Acre and Magic Hat—and 30 more bottled options, all carefully curated excluding the Budweiser family. The food menu elevates typical bar fare with delicious options such as chicken fingers, wings, burgers, pizzas, and fish & chips, complementing the drinks perfectly and making it a great spot for casual dining and social gatherings. Additionally, Sully's House offers fantastic event spaces and private bar access for celebrations and corporate events, underscoring its role as a go-to destination for both fun nights out and special occasions.
Here's what people think of Sully's House
As of recent, Sully's House holds a 4.4-star rating based on 469 reviews.
User reviews of Sully's House are generally positive, reflected by a solid 4.4 rating from 469 reviewers. Many patrons praise the welcoming and lively atmosphere that makes it a top choice for sports fans and locals alike. The extensive beer selection and quality of food receive significant compliments, with particular appreciation for the wings, pizzas, and burgers that elevate the usual bar menu. Customers also appreciate the multiple viewing options with numerous TVs and the pleasant outdoor areas including the rooftop patio and sidewalk café, which add to the overall experience on warmer days. The friendly staff and efficient service are frequently mentioned as enhancing the enjoyable environment. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional crowding during peak times, which can affect seating availability and noise levels. A few patrons have noted that some weekend events and parties can get loud, potentially making it hard for conversations. There are also mentions of wait times during busy hours, especially for food orders. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of feedback remains favorable, highlighting Sully's House as a cherished neighborhood spot that skillfully balances quality, atmosphere, and community engagement. The blend of solid food, great drinks, and inviting spaces consistently draws repeat visitors and cements its reputation as a premier sports bar and Irish pub in the area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Neil Shah
Came in to watch a game, atmosphere was great. Ordered a burger which, with some toppings, came out to ~$25. The price is not great but I can live with it given the area. However, it was served without any sides. All of those are extra, even basic French fries. On top of that, everything was served in paper plates and I was given a plastic fork and knife. Skip eating here, there’s far better value and service nearby.
Mike M
Sully’s is one of my go-to spots in River North—great vibe, solid drinks, and always a fun, no-frills atmosphere. What really makes it stand out, though, is the staff. My guy Emil works there, and he always brings great energy behind the bar. Super friendly, fast, and knows how to keep the night moving. Whether you’re starting your night or winding it down, Sully’s is a great stop—and if Emil’s working, you’re in good hands.
Grant Stading
This is my comfort place Andy the bartender sets the tone of the place! Great atmosphere, great service, and even better drinks! Can’t recommend this place enough. Anytime friends or family members are in town I always take them to Sully’s. It’s a great place to watch the big game not to mention they always have the best music playing.
Ivy Thomas
Sully's House is the perfect spot for a laid-back hangout. The rooftop patio is a gem—plenty of comfy seating and TVs everywhere, so you won't miss a play. I grabbed the Chicken Caesar wrap and a pint of Goose Island IPA, both solid choices. The staff is friendly, and the vibe is always chill. Whether you're catching a game or just unwinding with friends, Sully's has you covered.
Viraj Mhatre
Great place to have late night drinks and food. When we went, there was a private party going on inside and in the rooftop lounge. But they have a good collection of drinks. Hard liquor, wines, beers and cocktails. We also tried tater tots and fried mac & cheese. Nice and quiet neighborhood. The server was very helpful and constantly checking if we needed anything. Service was fast.
How to reach Sully's House
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Why Sully's House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sully’s House with your friends? Sully’s House in Chicago offers a vibrant yet welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to gather with companions for a memorable outing. With a solid 4.4 rating from nearly 470 reviews, it’s clear that the combination of great drinks, tasty food, and ample space caters well to groups looking to socialize and unwind. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a festive celebration, Sully’s House blends the charm of an Irish pub with a lively sports bar vibe, giving your meetup a dynamic and engaging backdrop. The staff is consistently described as friendly and attentive without being intrusive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and accommodated. Beyond just being a place to eat and drink, Sully’s offers a rich experience with modern decor, plenty of seating options, and multiple entertainment possibilities that cater to the tastes and expectations of groups of all sizes. When you want a spot that balances a relaxed hangout with spirited fun, Sully’s House stands out as the perfect rally point.
What makes Sully’s House perfect for group meetups? The venue boasts a variety of spaces designed to fit different group sizes and occasions. From the main bar and sidewalk café suited for smaller, casual meetups of about 15 people to large parties of over 100 people, the flexibility is impressive. The Upper Deck, a private second-floor bar, is perfect for mid-sized gatherings or events like birthday parties and corporate mixers, with the capacity to hold 30 to over 100 guests comfortably. For a more intimate vibe, the back lounge and patio area offer cozy spots perfect for groups up to around 60 people. Importantly, Sully’s House features multiple bars across two floors, so even large groups can spread out comfortably while still feeling connected. This spatial versatility means your group won’t feel cramped or out of place, and there are options for every type of meetup — from casual catch-ups to significant celebrations such as engagements or graduations. The environment fosters easy conversation and fun, making it an excellent choice for bonding time with friends or family.
What kind of activities and amenities can guests enjoy at Sully’s House? Entertainment options abound, enriching the social experience beyond just dining and drinking. The back room boasts a 100-inch HD projection screen, ideal for watching sports or entertainment events together on a grand scale, enhancing the feeling of camaraderie. This space also hosts interactive tournaments featuring games like Wii and Rock Band, providing a lively and engaging way for groups to compete and enjoy themselves. Another private room upstairs includes cocktail tables, banquette seating, and another massive 100-inch projector screen that can turn any game night or movie viewing into a memorable event. Additionally, Sully’s supports various sports fan clubs, such as the Windy City Gator Club and Miami University Redhawks, adding a community vibe that resonates especially well with sports enthusiasts. With 20 taps and over 30 canned and bottled beers, the drink selection is impressively varied, ensuring there’s something for every palate. From casual game play to immersive sports watching parties, Sully’s House offers dynamic experiences tailored to group enjoyment.
What types of food and drink can you expect, and how do they complement group gatherings? Sully’s House is known for its delicious food menu featuring quintessential pub fare such as burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas, which are perfect for sharing within a group. Their appetizers, including pot stickers and pretzel bites, have been praised for their taste and affordability, making them great starters or snacks for informal gatherings. The menu balances classic comfort food with options that pair excellently with their broad and varied beer selection, creating a satisfying culinary experience for your group. The drinks menu shines particularly with its variety of draft craft lagers, bottled beers, and expertly poured classic pints, including Guinness, which is a staple in any Irish-themed pub. Happy hour deals on appetizers and drinks provide excellent value and encourage lingering, making the venue especially attractive for after-work meetups or casual weekend get-togethers. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a hearty meal or simply sip on expertly crafted beverages while chatting, Sully’s House covers all bases to keep your meetup both tasty and enjoyable.
How does the atmosphere and service at Sully’s House enhance social experiences? The environment at Sully’s is a blend of modern yet comfortable decor that appeals to guests who want a cleaner, more polished take on the traditional Irish pub. It’s not gritty or overcrowded but sophisticated enough to feel inviting and warm. The staff’s reputation for being friendly and helpful without being overbearing helps create a stress-free and pleasant visit, letting friends focus on each other rather than on service issues. The venue manages to be lively without being loud or chaotic, which means conversations flow freely even when the place is busy. Live music may be occasional, but the core social experience stems from the great seating arrangements, welcoming staff, and large-screen sports viewing that draws everyone into the shared moment. These factors combine to produce a setting that feels simultaneously festive and intimate, ideal for everything from casual hangs to milestone celebrations.
Why choose Sully’s House for special occasions and private events? Sully’s House excels in hosting private events thanks to its dedicated spaces and customizable options. The Upper Deck and private bars are tailor-made for events like birthday parties, engagement celebrations, holiday gatherings, and corporate events, comfortably accommodating groups ranging from 30 to more than 100 people. For even larger parties, the full bar experience across two floors plus a roof deck and patio offers exclusivity and versatility unmatched by many other venues. Their willingness to host college sports team sponsorships and large-scale events also highlights their capability to cater to diverse group needs with professionalism and enthusiasm. The ease of reservation and the quality of the facilities mean your special occasion can be stress-free while still impressing your guests. For anyone planning a group event, Sully’s House offers the perfect combination of atmosphere, amenities, and attentive service to ensure a successful celebration.
In summary, Sully’s House is a standout destination in Chicago for those seeking a lively and welcoming spot to meet friends or family. Its multiple versatile spaces accommodate a wide range of group sizes and functions, while its extensive drink menu and tasty pub fare complement social gatherings perfectly. The venue’s vibrant activity options, including large projection screens and interactive game tournaments, provide dynamic entertainment that fosters connection and fun. Friendly service, a clean and modern environment, and ample room to spread out ensure comfort and enjoyment for all guests. Whether you want to rally for a casual beer, celebrate a special event, or watch a major sports game with friends, Sully’s House offers a compelling mix of amenities, ambiance, and hospitality that makes every meetup memorable.