When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
The Vig
Why The Vig is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Vig, located in Chicago's Old Town, is a vibrant and spacious sports parlor that offers a unique blend of vintage sports décor, multiple TVs, and an extensive menu that goes beyond typical bar food. This makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends whether you are catching a game, enjoying drinks, or sharing a meal. The ambiance combines a cozy yet energetic vibe with plenty of seating options, including comfy booths, high-back chairs at the long bar, and a variety of tables, creating an inviting atmosphere for socializing. The food menu stands out with inventive choices like Thai tuna steak with chili lime sauce and turkey burgers with harissa aioli, which add a creative twist to traditional bar fare. Popular items such as the umami wings and the award-winning Vig burger, which won the 2019 Chicago Burger Battle, make it a hit among regulars. The venue is spacious, allowing for easy accommodation of large groups or casual get-togethers, and the staff are known to be knowledgeable and friendly. The vibe at The Vig is supported by accessible wine, cocktail, and beer selections with great pricing, making it a perfect all-day spot for both food and drinks. Overall, The Vig offers a versatile and enjoyable environment ideal for catching up with friends, watching sports, and enjoying diverse, flavorful food choices.
Here's what people think of The Vig
As of recent, The Vig holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1664 reviews.
Reviews for The Vig reflect generally positive experiences from patrons who appreciate its large, inviting space and dynamic atmosphere. Many users highlight the combination of great food, ample TVs for watching sports, and a welcoming environment that suits both casual and special occasions. Positive reviews frequently mention the delightful food, especially the Vig burger and umami wings, alongside a creative menu with more adventurous options. The comfortable seating and vintage sports décor add charm, and guests often praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and well-priced drink options. The venue's versatility for daytime lunches as well as nighttime fun is also a recurring theme in positive feedback. On the other hand, some reviews note that while the effort to innovate with the menu is commendable, certain dishes like the Thai tuna steak and turkey burger can be underwhelming in flavor, with some calls for more seasoning or punch. A few users also point out that the food is generally just 'okay' rather than exceptional, suggesting room for culinary improvement. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is that The Vig remains a dependable, enjoyable spot primarily for those wanting to socialize, watch sports, and enjoy a broad selection of drinks. Its role as a favored neighborhood destination and a reliable backup for good food and atmosphere makes it popular with locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Charles Eisenhauer
Lovely staff and great service. Our server helped us have a fun evening. Steam was great, loved the pretzel and house mustard, bread pudding was to die for
Erika
Went to the Vig for Saturday brunch and I liked that it was not crowded at all. I sat at the bar with friends. I like that they have gluten-free options. I ordered the Breakfast enchiladas and they were delicious. I plan on going again and ordering that same dish.
Sean A
The food was delicious. We started with some drinks. My wife ordered the Strawberry Fields and I ordered the Huss Vig Ale. Both were great and refreshing. The chips with guac and salsa were a perfect way to start. I’ve never had salsa like this and it was so good. They slow roast their tomatoes and combined with the other flavors it was very good without being so hot you can’t taste it. We ordered the Burgers for our mains. The Genuine Cheeseburger was delicious and the meat combination with the Vig sauce made it hit the spot. We would highly recommend. If we lived in town this would be a on our regular list to go to.
Angela C
The Vig Arcadia = espresso martini heaven. Seriously, the best deals in town. Plus, their happy hour is a total steal at $5 rosé and Tito’s specials all summer long? Yes, please. The indoor vibe is dark and cozy, the perfect little escape from the blazing heat outside. Oh, and those truffle fries? BRUH. Just run, don’t walk. Your taste buds will thank you.
Nagarjuna
We attended a birthday party with a group of eight and ordered almost all the main courses—everything was fantastic! My personal favorites were the Edamame with soy garlic sauce and the Grilled Icelandic salmon. The desserts were also excellent, with just the right amount of sweetness. The restrooms were well-maintained. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is due to the parking lot, which felt a bit cramped. Outdoor seating is also excellent.
How to reach The Vig
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Website: None
Why The Vig may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Vig with your friends?
The Vig stands out as a premier choice for gathering with friends due to its inviting atmosphere that blends sophistication with comfort, creating an ideal social hub. Its unique appeal lies in offering a vibrant neighborhood hangout where guests can relax in spacious indoor and outdoor settings that encourage conversation and connection. The outdoor patios, often enhanced with heaters for cooler evenings, provide an appealing ambiance under open skies, perfect for casual or celebratory meetups. The ambiance is best described as upscale yet approachable, setting the tone for memorable experiences without a stuffy vibe. With a well-stocked bar and an extensive wine cellar, The Vig caters to diverse tastes, making it simple to find beverages that complement both the mood and the occasion. The combination of quality service, tastefully crafted menus, and versatile seating arrangements means it comfortably handles intimate groups or larger gatherings. For any group looking to enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, The Vig proves to be a compelling destination to rally and reconnect.
What activities does The Vig offer for group meetups?
The Vig offers a rich variety of activities and experiences that suit groups meeting for different occasions, whether it's casual hangouts, celebrations, or casual dining gatherings. Firstly, dining at The Vig is an experience in itself. The menu features a broad selection, including soups, sandwiches, fresh salads, and signature entrees that cater to varied preferences, fueling groups throughout the day from brunch to dinner. Many guests enjoy sharing meals in comfortable booths or around spacious tables designed to accommodate lively conversations and shared dishes. Beyond just eating, the bar area is a focal point where friends can engage over craft cocktails, an extensive wine selection, or thoughtfully curated beers, turning the meetup into a relaxed social event. Additionally, the vibrant indoor/outdoor seating creates a dynamic environment where groups can choose the vibe that suits them, whether to soak up the sun or enjoy a sheltered cozy evening with warming patio heaters. Weekend brunch adds another layer of group-friendly activity, providing a festive and leisurely start to the weekend with dishes and drinks perfectly suited for sharing.
Why is The Vig perfect for group meetups and what separates it from other venues?
The Vig's distinctiveness comes from its careful balance of ambiance, service, and flexibility, which makes it exceptionally well-suited for group meetups. Its indoor and outdoor spaces are thoughtfully designed to provide privacy without losing the energetic pulse of a neighborhood gathering place, ensuring groups feel both connected and comfortable. The presence of acrylic barriers in booths, especially appreciated during times when social distancing is a concern, adds a layer of thoughtful safety for diners without compromising intimacy. The attentive service team enhances the experience by providing knowledgeable, timely service that is friendly but unobtrusive, allowing guests to focus on their company rather than the particulars of ordering and logistics. Pricing at The Vig is tailored to be mid-range, enabling groups to enjoy quality food and drinks without the financial strain that often accompanies large gatherings, which encourages repeated visits and celebrations. Another factor setting The Vig apart is the strong sense of community it fosters—not only among patrons but also staff—as noted in employee reviews that highlight a positive, welcoming work culture that translates into genuine hospitality at every table. These elements collectively make The Vig not just a restaurant but a social destination where groups can build memories.
How does the ambiance at The Vig support a great group experience?
The ambiance at The Vig plays a pivotal role in supporting enjoyable, memorable group experiences. Once guests step in, they are met with an atmosphere described as upscale yet inviting, blending modern decor with warm, natural elements. The spacious layout reduces noise competition, allowing conversations to flow without strain even when the place is lively. The outdoor patios, shaded and often warmed with heaters, create a pleasant al fresco dining option that brings a refreshing openness to group meetups, especially in Scottsdale’s temperate climate. Moreover, the lighting and music selection are calibrated to foster relaxation and casual socializing—not overpowering but enough to maintain a lively backdrop. This environment is amplified by the restaurant’s placement within its vibrant neighborhood where locals frequently gather, adding an authentic community vibe that many other venues lack. Whether it’s a quiet lunch or a spirited evening gathering, The Vig’s atmosphere adapts to enhance each moment, creating the perfect setting for groups to share time and experiences.
What menu options at The Vig appeal to groups with varied tastes and preferences?
The Vig’s menu is designed to please a wide range of palates, making it ideal for groups with diverse preferences. The selection features classic American fare with a creative edge, including rich soups like tomato bisque, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and flavorful entrees—all crafted with care to balance comfort and innovation. Guests looking for something spicy, such as the popular hot chicken sandwich, can indulge without overwhelming the palate, while those seeking lighter or healthier options can enjoy grilled chicken salads and vegetable-forward dishes. Portioned thoughtfully, the plates encourage sharing but are large enough to satisfy individual appetites, supporting the communal style of dining groups often enjoy. The bar’s well-stocked offerings of craft cocktails, wines, and beers further complement the menu, enabling each guest to find a perfect drink pairing. The weekend brunch stands out as well, offering a variety of dishes that marry classic breakfast staples with fresh, inventive flavors, perfect for laid-back weekend get-togethers. This wide-ranging menu ensures that no matter the taste or dietary preference, every member of a group can find something to enjoy.
What do reviews say about the service and staff at The Vig?
Reviews consistently highlight The Vig’s service and staff as major contributors to a positive group experience. Servers are often described as attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly without being intrusive, striking a perfect balance that respects the pace and privacy of group conversations. The management and team culture also receive praise for fostering a warm work environment, which translates into genuine and enthusiastic hospitality for guests. Staff members prioritize making each visit enjoyable and comfortable, often going the extra mile to accommodate special requests or larger parties. This level of care creates a welcoming atmosphere where groups feel valued from the moment they arrive. While individual experiences with food quality vary, staff professionalism is generally noted as a steady strength that elevates the overall visit. The combination of professionalism and heartfelt service helps The Vig maintain a solid reputation as a go-to venue for gatherings large and small.
How accessible and convenient is The Vig for hosting meetups?
Accessibility and convenience play crucial roles in The Vig’s appeal as a group destination. Located in multiple neighborhoods throughout the valley, each Vig offers a local vibe while providing consistency in quality and experience. Many locations feature their own parking lots, eliminating the hassle of searching for parking during busy times, which is a significant advantage for larger groups arriving together. The restaurant’s layout—with booth seating that offers privacy and acrylic barriers for safety—addresses practical concerns related to comfort and health, making it suitable for groups with varied needs and sensitivities. The possibility to reserve tables or choose seating that fits the occasion helps groups plan events more smoothly. Furthermore, the operating hours encompass lunch, dinner, happy hour, and weekend brunch, providing flexible timing options to fit into diverse schedules and event types. This combination of location, parking, safety measures, and scheduling versatility ensures The Vig can accommodate social plans efficiently and pleasantly.
What makes The Vig a community-focused neighborhood hangout?
Since its founding in 2006, The Vig has cultivated an identity as the ultimate neighborhood hangout, with each location embodying the unique character and vibe of its community. This commitment to local engagement is evident in the atmospheric design that supports social interaction and a casual, fun environment. The restaurant is not just a place to eat but a gathering space where locals come to share time with friends and family, celebrating everyday moments and special occasions alike. Its blend of indoor and outdoor areas, live music or special events at some locations, and a laid-back yet polished aesthetic contribute to a dynamic social experience reflective of the neighborhoods it serves. The staff’s connection to the community and the positive work culture they foster further roots The Vig as a beloved local institution. This focus on community makes The Vig an attractive venue for groups looking to feel connected not only to each other but also to the vibrant fabric of Scottsdale and surrounding areas.