When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Butcher’s Tap
Why The Butcher’s Tap is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Butcher’s Tap offers a unique and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Originally a butcher shop since 1932, this Chicago gem honors its roots by serving locally sourced, high-quality deli meats and cheeses alongside a diverse menu featuring gourmet burgers, fried chicken, and distinctive sandwiches. The gastropub boasts over 100 beers with 80 varieties on draft, ensuring there's a perfect drink for every guest. With two full bars and an outdoor patio featuring garage-style windows for warm weather enjoyment, it provides an ideal setting for social gatherings, casual dining, and sports viewing. Fans of Chicago sports teams will appreciate that The Butcher’s Tap is an official Bears and Blackhawks bar, as well as an Ohio State bar with dedicated game-day specials. The upstairs event space is perfect for private parties of up to 100 people, equipped with flat-screen TVs and exclusive bartenders, making it a versatile venue for both intimate and larger celebrations. Whether you want to catch a game, enjoy craft beers, or savor classic American fare, The Butcher’s Tap offers a welcoming neighborhood vibe that keeps locals and visitors coming back.
Here's what people think of The Butcher’s Tap
As of recent, The Butcher’s Tap holds a 4.3-star rating based on 801 reviews.
User reviews highlight The Butcher’s Tap as a lively and friendly neighborhood spot, ideal for enjoying great food and drinks with friends. Many reviewers praised the extensive beer selection, quality of food—particularly the gourmet burgers and locally sourced deli meats—and the welcoming atmosphere conducive to watching sports events. Positive comments frequently mention the efficient and friendly service, vibrant social environment, and the well-maintained, spacious interior including the popular outdoor patio. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on occasional noise levels that might affect conversation, pricing which some found slightly high for portion sizes, and limited parking options. A few reviewers noted that during busy times the wait can be longer than expected, which could impact the overall experience. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall consensus remains favorable, with the majority appreciating the high-quality food, diverse drink options, and the genuine neighborhood bar vibe. This makes The Butcher’s Tap a recommended destination for anyone looking to socialize over excellent drinks and hearty fare in Chicago's Southport Corridor area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lazo Jhodel
Stopped by The Butcher’s Tap on Southport after a Cubs game, hoping for a solid spot to unwind. Dropped around $45 on a Southern fried chicken sandwich and a couple of local drafts. The sandwich was just okay—crispy but kinda dry—and the beer selection, while extensive, didn't have anything that stood out. The place was packed, and we had to wait a while for a table, which was frustrating since they don't take reservations. Service was slow, and our server seemed overwhelmed, making the experience less enjoyable. Overall, it was an okay experience, but I expected more given the hype.
Mateo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had the pleasure of being invited into Butcher's Tap by the manager, and I have to say — what an experience! From the moment we walked in, the service was top notch. Our server, Dominique, was outstanding — friendly, attentive, and full of great recommendations. We tried the nachos and Korean wings on her suggestion, and they did not disappoint. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with great music playing and an excellent selection of beers on tap. Whether you're looking for a place to hang with friends, catch a game, or just unwind with good food and drinks, this spot checks all the boxes. World-class service, chill vibes, and solid eats — what more could you want? Huge thanks to the team at Butcher's Tap — I’ll definitely be back.
Alicia Gilman
Had my birthday party here with about 40 people and Rovy the manager made it absolutely fantastic! The space was big enough for everyone and communication was seamless. They even played the music we requested. Food came out on time and was delicious. Special shout out to bartender Gracie who was unbelievably kind! Thank you for making my day so special!! We will be back!
JT Byrne
The food here is really kind of the star of the shelf for somebody that's not in Ohio buckeye fan anyway... The southern fried chicken sandwich ( not original) is definitely top five in the city hop for the spicy mayo on the side. The cheese curds are absolutely top two in the city. The chicken tenders looked amazing I would say probably definitely top five in the city... This is some pretty high numbers for a bar with a ton of taps good selections of beer and actually pretty comfortable atmosphere. Will definitely be back. The service was great too, I have to say just not all around top 10 bar in Chicago
Larry Benrus
This is a regular stop for me before hitting up Wrigley Field. The BT never disappoints. We had some great burgers and some great beers. Our server was awesome (as always) and it was a fantastic pre-game experience. Too bad the game didn't turn out that well!
How to reach The Butcher’s Tap
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Why The Butcher’s Tap may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Butcher’s Tap with your friends? This vibrant Chicago hotspot offers an exceptional mix of lively atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks, making it an ideal gathering place for friends looking to connect and enjoy memorable moments. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 800 reviews, it’s clear that patrons appreciate the experience here, especially for group meetups. The Butcher’s Tap has two full bars and ample space, including a private event area upstairs that can accommodate over 100 guests. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday party, or an informal corporate event, this venue blends the casual comfort of a brewpub with a welcoming environment where everyone can relax, chat, and savor great flavors. The combination of its location in lively Lake View, extensive craft beer selection, and a menu featuring crowd-pleasing dishes ensures every guest’s taste buds are satisfied. Friendships grow stronger over shared plates, a toast at the bar, and the buzz of the venue’s infectious energy, making The Butcher’s Tap a perfect rally point for groups of all sizes.
What activities can you enjoy at The Butcher’s Tap? The Butcher’s Tap is much more than just a restaurant; it’s a social hub with a full calendar of possibilities tailored to groups and gatherings. Guests can dive into an impressive variety of over 80 beers on tap, including local craft brews and classic favorites, perfect for those who appreciate a quality beverage selection during their meetups. The food menu complements the drinks with gourmet burgers, fried chicken, and unique sandwiches prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, satisfying those who want hearty meals or casual snacks. The venue features two full bars to keep the drinks flowing smoothly, while multiple TVs cater to sports fans wanting to catch live games, fostering a lively and engaging environment. Beyond eating and drinking, The Butcher’s Tap also supports private events and parties, offering an upstairs event space equipped with a modern AV system that can host presentations, videos, or music with microphone access, which adds to its appeal for celebrations and team outings.
Why is The Butcher’s Tap perfect for group meetups? Its layout and amenities are strategically designed for groups looking to socialize comfortably without sacrificing quality or convenience. The venue offers plenty of seating with options for large parties and private areas, ensuring friends and family can enjoy their time together without feeling cramped or rushed. The friendly and attentive staff enhance the experience by catering to the needs of groups, from food and drink orders to special requests for dietary restrictions. The customizable menu allows hosts to tailor food offerings to diverse tastes and preferences, enhancing the group’s satisfaction. Additionally, The Butcher’s Tap is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, allowing gatherings to include everyone regardless of age or mobility. Ample parking, including street parking, and digital payment options make it easy for all attendees to arrive and settle down without hassle. This combination of flexibility, comfort, and thoughtful service makes The Butcher’s Tap a standout choice for any social occasion.
How does The Butcher’s Tap cater to special events and celebrations? If you’re planning a specific event like a birthday, rehearsal dinner, or corporate party, The Butcher’s Tap offers comprehensive booking services that focus on making your event memorable. The upstairs private event space can accommodate 100+ guests and comes equipped with a modern audio-visual system, ideal for presentations, slideshows, or speeches. Hosts can request a microphone and music arrangements, creating the perfect ambiance for celebrations or business functions. The staff works closely with you to customize menus catering to any dietary requirements, ensuring every guest can find something delicious to enjoy. Sports fans in your group will appreciate the dedicated sports packages, enabling residents to catch major games throughout the venue while still socializing in a party environment. With operating hours extending well into the night, your event can last as long as you want, from a relaxed brunch gathering to a lively late-night celebration.
What makes the food and beverage experience at The Butcher’s Tap unique for groups? One of the defining features of The Butcher’s Tap is its commitment to quality and flavor that appeals universally but allows personal preferences to shine. Each dish on the menu—from the towering gourmet burgers to crispy fried chicken—is crafted using top-quality ingredients to deliver mouthwatering experiences. This focus on flavor ensures that every dish is satisfying enough for a main meal yet adaptable as a shared plate for groups who enjoy tasting a variety of items. The impressive beer inventory, boasting over 80 options on tap, is a primary attraction for groups interested in exploring diverse flavors or sharing favorites. The full bar serves a wide range of cocktails, spirits, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks, ensuring there is something for everyone. Plus, the casual yet polished ambiance encourages guests to linger over drinks and conversation, enhancing the social experience that makes group meetups worthwhile.
How accessible and convenient is The Butcher’s Tap for group visitors? Located conveniently in Chicago’s Lake View neighborhood, The Butcher’s Tap offers easy access by car or public transit, complemented by available street parking for guests. The venue accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and digital payments, simplifying transactions for groups paying together or individually. With free WiFi available throughout the space, guests can stay connected, share moments on social media, or work if needed during daytime meetups. The restaurant also provides seating accommodations for children and makes efforts to be wheelchair accessible, opening possibilities for inclusive family-oriented gatherings. Open from 11 AM to late night on most days and offering flexible dining hours on weekends, The Butcher’s Tap fits many schedules, whether an early lunch group or a late-night crowd. Its policies promoting a non-smoking, friendly environment ensure comfort for all attendees.
Why choose The Butcher’s Tap over other venues for your next group gathering? The Butcher’s Tap combines the best elements of a classic brewpub with modern amenities and a customer-focused approach that makes group gatherings simple, fun, and satisfying. The spacious layout avoids the cramped feeling seen in many bars, while its full bar, abundant beer selections, and diverse menu cover the desires of most groups, from casual drinkers to serious foodies. The availability of a private upstairs event space adds versatility, catering to occasions that require more exclusivity and customization. Attentive service ensures every detail is considered, giving hosts peace of mind and guests a memorable experience. Whether celebrating a milestone, hosting a reunion, or just enjoying a night out, The Butcher’s Tap creates a welcoming atmosphere where connections strengthen over shared food, drinks, and smiles, making it the ultimate venue for rallying with your friends.