When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Sports Corner
Why The Sports Corner is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Sports Corner is a popular bar and restaurant located directly across the street from the iconic Wrigley Field in Chicago's lively Lake View neighborhood. Known for its bustling atmosphere on game days, it offers a welcoming place for friends and sports fans to gather before or after Cubs games. The establishment spans three floors, including an open-air beer garden on the third floor, providing patrons with excellent opportunities for people watching and enjoying fresh air with panoramic views. The menu features classic bar fare such as burgers, wings, brats, and Chicago-style hot dogs, all served at reasonable prices. Service is noted for being friendly and attentive, adding to the relaxed and inviting environment. Regulars and visitors alike appreciate the Sports Corner for its convenience, friendly bartenders, and delicious comfort food, making it an ideal meetup spot for casual dining and socializing in a true sports bar setting. Whether it’s a quick bite before a game or a casual outing with friends, this venue combines good food, drinks, and great company amid the excitement of Wrigleyville.
Here's what people think of The Sports Corner
As of recent, The Sports Corner holds a 4-star rating based on 364 reviews.
Reviews of The Sports Corner reflect a generally positive reception with an overall rating of 4.0 from 364 reviewers. Many guests praised the friendly and personable staff, especially highlighting attentive waitresses and great bartenders who enhance the social experience. The food received favorable comments, particularly the crunchy burgers and the Chicago-style hot dogs, which guests consider authentic and tasty with well-prepared buns. Customers appreciate the spaciousness due to the three floors, especially the third-floor open-air beer garden that provides a lively atmosphere and a vantage point for people watching. Service speed is noted as quick even during crowded game days, which contributes positively to the experience. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional overcrowding and a typical bar food menu which might not satisfy those looking for more diverse or gourmet options. Despite minor drawbacks, the positive aspects such as location convenience, good prices, friendly service, and enjoyable food prevail in reviews. Overall, the patrons recommend The Sports Corner as a dependable and enjoyable spot for sports fans and groups looking to meet up in a vibrant and authentic Chicago sports bar ambiance.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris Manning
We dropped in right before a Cubs game for a quick bite and a drink. We tried the Chicago Dog with Tots and Chicken Strips with fries. The staff was friendly, the service was lickety split, and the food was much better than you would get in the park for half the price. I would definitely recommend getting to a game a little early for this "premium upgrade" right before the game. Pro tip: look in the upper floors for a table or nice railing to hang out in to people watch while waiting.
Stephie & JW
This place is great! We have stopped by here several times over the years. Their food and staff are outstanding!!! Recently, we had booked them for a buffet / cocktail hour after a Cubs game. That was awesome! They were very accommodating. I mean what's not to like with this place???... great staff, great food, great drinks, and right across the street from Wrigley Field. Please check out this place. 😊😊
Christopher Morrison
GREAT time!!!!, food was perfect, security was spot on, no waiting, first to.r to Wrigley Field so was great to have a great meal before the game!!!
Jennifer Winthurst
Great location. Right by Wrigley Field. The bartender was super nice. They have just about every kind of beer and alcohol you could want. They also have an outdoor patio. TV's everywhere. It would be a great place to watch sports!
Adriana Wright
Never go here or work here. They make everything look good but I promise you this bar is a waste of time and money. If u leave things behind and come back to look for it they will act like they never saw it and whole time they gave your belongings to one of their workers. There is a manager there named Missy who wrongly terminates employees and when someone tries to find out what happened she starts to pull shit out of her ass like you were just a terrible employee. No paper tail of write ups or anything just straight wrongful termination. If you have to send out a text to all your in employees about the BIG BOSSES BEING IN THE BAR and telling everyone to be on point, I wonder what's going on when the bosses are not there. This bar is so unprofessional, janky asl most of the employees are drug addicts so watch who makes yours drinks. I will never return to this place again.
How to reach The Sports Corner
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Why The Sports Corner may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Sports Corner with your friends? The Sports Corner, boasting a solid 4.0 rating from 364 reviews, is more than just a destination—it is a vibrant gathering spot perfect for reconnecting with friends or family. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, unwinding after a hectic week, or just seeking a lively place to enjoy great food and good company, The Sports Corner delivers an experience that resonates with diverse groups. Its welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel at home, whether you're a longtime patron or a first-time visitor. The spot is strategically designed to accommodate groups of various sizes, with spacious seating and multiple floors including an open-air beer garden, ideal for people watching and socializing outdoors. The staff’s attentive and personable service ensures your group feels valued and well cared for, making meetups seamless and memorable. The menu caters to classic tastes with a modern twist, offering delicious, hearty choices that fuel conversations and celebrations alike. Ultimately, The Sports Corner transforms ordinary gatherings into remarkable, fun-filled memories, motivating groups to rally here time after time.
What kind of activities make The Sports Corner ideal for group meetups? The Sports Corner offers a variety of engaging activities that enhance its appeal as a group venue. Central to the experience is the vibrant bar and restaurant environment, where patrons can enjoy watching sports events live on large-screen TVs—a perfect backdrop for spirited conversations and friendly debates. With multiple floors, including an open-air beer garden, your group can choose from indoor comfort or fresh-air socializing, depending on the mood and weather. The location is especially favored before or after attending nearby sporting events, making it a convenient rallying point for fans. Food-wise, the menu leans into classic bar favorites such as burgers, wings, brats, and Chicago dogs, all served at reasonable prices without sacrificing quality. This lineup caters to communal dining styles, allowing groups to share plates and savor a range of tastes together. Additionally, the venue often buzzes with a lively crowd during peak times, amplifying the social atmosphere and encouraging mingling among groups. Whether your group wants to enjoy casual conversation or immerse in the energetic ambiance of a sports bar, The Sports Corner offers a versatile, engaging space.
What makes the atmosphere and service at The Sports Corner stand out? One of the hallmarks of The Sports Corner is its warm, bustling atmosphere paired with consistently excellent service. Reviewers often highlight the friendly and attentive waitstaff who enhance the overall experience by catering to guests’ needs efficiently and with a personable touch. The restaurant’s three-level layout prevents overcrowding and offers cozy nooks for intimate conversations alongside open spaces for larger gatherings, balancing privacy with community energy. The open-air beer garden on the upper floor adds an extra layer of charm, providing ample natural light and fresh air for outdoor enthusiasts. Its location near busy sports venues means there is a palpable excitement, especially on game days, yet the staff manages crowds with professionalism and speed. The setting is casual enough for a relaxed meetup but lively enough to keep energy levels high. These features combine to create a memorable environment where groups feel comfortable lingering and socializing for hours, making it an ideal choice for celebratory or casual outings alike.
How does The Sports Corner’s menu enhance group dining experiences? The menu at The Sports Corner complements the social nature of group meetups with a selection of crowd-pleasing dishes and reasonably priced drinks. Patrons rave about staple items such as the crunchy burger, Chicago-style hot dogs, flavorful wings, and bratwurst, highlighting the quality and authentic Chicago bar food vibe. The food’s shareability encourages communal dining, allowing friends and family to sample several options, which enhances the social connection through shared culinary experiences. The menu thoughtfully balances indulgent comfort foods with moderate portion sizes, making it easy for groups to customize their orders without waste. Also, drink options including a range of beers—ideal for the beer garden setting—and cocktails help set a festive tone. Timely service amidst busy periods means that the group doesn’t spend much time waiting for orders, and the staff’s familiarity with large parties ensures that special requests and dietary preferences are handled smoothly. Such a menu creates not only a satisfying taste experience but also reinforces the laid-back and convivial vibe essential for successful group gatherings.
Why is The Sports Corner strategically perfect for sports fans and event-goers? The Sports Corner’s proximity to major sports venues, such as the area around Wrigley Field, strategically positions it as a natural hub for fans and event attendees seeking a vibrant pre- or post-game spot. Many visitors choose this place not only for its menu and service but also for the experience of gathering with fellow enthusiasts before cheering on their teams. The multiple screens streaming live games throughout the establishment give every seat the opportunity to stay connected to the action, making it impossible to miss a critical play. The lively crowd, fueled by shared enthusiasm for sports, elevates each meetup into a community event where strangers bond over team allegiances. The expansive layout allows for large groups to watch together without feeling crowded, and the beer garden offers a festive atmosphere perfect for celebrating victories or decompressing after a tough loss. This synergy between location, ambiance, and enthusiasm ensures that The Sports Corner remains top of mind for groups seeking a spirited place to rally around sports and camaraderie.
What makes The Sports Corner a versatile venue for various group occasions? Aside from being a haven for sports fans, The Sports Corner excels as a versatile venue suitable for diverse group occasions—from casual friend meetups and family dinners to celebratory gatherings. Its spacious interior with multiple floors allows different group sizes to find an appropriate setting without feeling cramped or isolated. The moderately priced menu and drink options make it accessible for budget-conscious groups, while the quality of food ensures a satisfying experience that elevates any occasion. The friendly staff and efficient service accommodate anything from quick get-togethers to longer evenings filled with laughter and storytelling. Additionally, the option of the beer garden gives groups the extra benefit of enjoying an alfresco setting, particularly delightful during warmer months. This flexibility in both ambiance and service style helps ensure that The Sports Corner can meet the needs of a variety of group dynamics and special moments, making it a reliable choice for regular meetups or one-time celebrations.
How do reviews reflect the overall experience at The Sports Corner? Customer reviews consistently highlight The Sports Corner’s strong points—good food, attentive service, and a lively atmosphere—which contribute to the overall solid 4.0 rating. Many patrons mention the friendly and personable waitstaff as a key factor in their enjoyable visits, fostering a sense of welcome and community. Reviewers appreciate the variety offered by the menu and the quality of classic bar fare, reinforcing the spot’s reputation as a dependable choice for satisfying meals that pair perfectly with a fun outing. The multi-level layout is praised for balancing crowd management with social interaction, especially the open-air beer garden that adds a unique dimension to the dining experience. A few reviews note the occasional crowding or busy night, but this is generally framed positively as part of the energetic and spirited environment. Together, these insights from guests underscore The Sports Corner’s strength in delivering an engaging, group-friendly environment that encourages repeat visits and enthusiastic recommendations.
What should groups know about the location and accessibility of The Sports Corner? The Sports Corner is strategically located in a bustling area that often sees high foot traffic, especially from sports fans and local residents alike. Its position near major sports venues offers unmatched convenience for those planning to coordinate meetups around games or events. The surrounding neighborhood provides ample parking and public transportation options, easing logistics for groups arriving from various points. Accessibility inside the venue is enhanced by thoughtful design, with multiple floors connected via stairs and elevators where available to support guest mobility. The venue’s size and layout help prevent overcrowding even on event nights, ensuring groups have enough space to relax and enjoy their time. Being centrally positioned also means attendees can easily extend their meetup to include nearby attractions or explore the vibrant locale after their visit, making The Sports Corner not only a destination but also a convenient hub for more extensive group activities.
How does The Sports Corner support a memorable and social meetup experience? Beyond food and drink, The Sports Corner fosters an atmosphere conducive to building memories and strengthening social bonds. Its lively ambiance encourages conversation and camaraderie, while the dynamic settings—from cozy tables to the beer garden—allow groups to choose the vibe that best suits their gathering. Staff engagement plays a key role as well, with many reviews noting how attentive service enhances the overall mood and flow of the visit. The venue’s integration of live sports viewing creates a communal energy, knitting visitors together through shared excitement and enthusiasm. These elements combined make The Sports Corner not just a place to eat and drink, but a social venue that supports laughter, storytelling, and the creation of shared experiences crucial for lasting friendships and family connections.
In summary, The Sports Corner stands out as an excellent venue to host meetups with friends and family. Its combination of a spirited atmosphere, diverse and tasty menu, strategic location near sports venues, and customer-focused service create a welcoming, fun environment where groups can connect and celebrate. Whether you seek an energetic backdrop for watching live sports, a casual spot to enjoy classic comfort food, or a spacious setting to gather and socialize, The Sports Corner rises to the occasion. Rallying here not only promises a good time but also the chance to forge new memories with your favorite people.