When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Trader Todd's
Why Trader Todd's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Trader Todd's is a vibrant and welcoming spot in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, known for its lively karaoke scene and inviting atmosphere, making it a fantastic place to meet up with friends. With over 10,000 karaoke songs available each night starting at 7:30 PM, it offers both seasoned performers and novices a fun way to engage and entertain. On weekends and select Thursdays, the bar even offers two stages to accommodate the lively karaoke crowds. Beyond karaoke, Trader Todd's boasts a diverse menu featuring American bar favorites like conch 'n' crab fritters, Maui onion rings with a coconut hint, and chicken wings with multiple flavor options including hot, naked, BBQ, and jerk. Happy hour is a highlight here, with half-off tiki drinks and $1 pizza slices (with beverage purchase), creating a budget-friendly and festive environment. The bar hours extend late into the night, often until 2 or 3 AM, perfect for those who want to enjoy a long evening out. Its location near Wrigleyville and involvement in neighborhood events adds to its community vibe, making Trader Todd's a cherished local "mom and pop" oasis for casual hangouts, karaoke parties, and sports viewing events like Monday Night Football. This combination of fun entertainment, tasty food, and a friendly crowd makes it a great spot for groups looking to relax and connect.
Here's what people think of Trader Todd's
As of recent, Trader Todd's holds a 3.9-star rating based on 1090 reviews.
Reviews of Trader Todd's reveal a mixed yet generally positive impression among patrons. Many reviewers praise the bar for its energetic and unique karaoke experience, lauding the extensive song selection and the enthusiastic karaoke hosts that add a flair to the entertainment. Positive feedback often highlights the friendly atmosphere, the lively crowd, and the fun events such as happy hours with half-price tiki drinks and affordable pizza slices, which make it a great place for social gatherings and late-night fun. Additionally, regular patrons appreciate the bar's late hours and the special sports viewing parties, which add an extra layer of appeal for sports fans and local community members. On the downside, some negative reviews mention issues such as occasional crowding, service speed, and noise levels, which can detract from the overall experience for some visitors. A few patrons have also noted that the bar rules and cover charges on certain nights may be confusing or inconvenient. Despite these critiques, the majority of reviews conclude that Trader Todd's remains a beloved neighborhood destination with a solid reputation for fun karaoke nights and a casual party vibe, making it worthwhile for those seeking a lively night out in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jaye Aster Broder
The karaoke is in the front of the bar so it’s pretty loud inside but towards the back outside is quieter and pleasant. There are a lot of beers here. The pizza is decent for the bar. It’s not too far from Wrigley field
Molly Beran
I recently booked a karaoke birthday party for my husband at Trader Todd's in Chicago, and it was awesome. The contracting process was very quick and easy, and all my questions were answered from the jump. The staff was really kind and attentive. Every special request we had was honored, and they did a tremendous job of keeping out uninvited guests (the party as after a Cubs game, so a few stragglers definitely tried to get in). The food was always hot and plentiful, and was delicious to boot. The team behind the bar was super friendly, and even sang along with us to a bunch of songs. They really made the atmosphere fun and up-lifting. I'm so glad we sprang for the DJ for karaoke- he was great and always ready to rock with whatever song we requested. This was a 10/10 experience. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun private venue in Wrigleyville.
John Jameson
The bouncers in the photos were clearly trying to go on a power trip on my friends. We presented our ID’s and the bouncers decided that while the IDs were real, they did not belong to us. We offered to show them other verification such as passports, credit cards, leases, etc to prove that we were in fact the people listed on the ID but they would not hear it and got very aggressive toward us. To add insult to injury, our other college friends entered with no issue (we even saw people from our college that we knew to be underage.) the bouncers willingly let in underage college students, and make arbitrary judgements about who can and can’t enter. The man in the photo is also very aggressive and has put hands on many of my friends despite us speaking calmly. I’d avoid this place
Al Larcher
I’m laying in bed gleefully thinking about how much the DJ made my night. I’m so pleased with my experience, I can’t sleep. Great guy, with a killer taste in music. Polite and friendly. The bartenders made great drinks and everyone was very welcoming and friendly. Highly recommend.
Grace Bergmann
The inside is really kitschy and cute and I love the vibe of karaoke, but the two tables next to us did get into a turf for over his several letters and had to be separated so you gotta be up for that vibe i guess.
How to reach Trader Todd's
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Why Trader Todd's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Trader Todd’s with your friends?
When gathering a group for a lively night out, Trader Todd’s in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood stands out as an ideal destination. This spot effortlessly blends a fun, energetic atmosphere with a social and welcoming vibe that encourages friends to break out of their shells and enjoy the moment together. Rated 3.9 with over 1,000 reviews, it showcases a consistent appeal for groups looking to share good times over excellent food, drinks, and entertainment. The restaurant-bar hybrid specializes in strong tiki-inspired cocktails and an extensive karaoke setup boasting 30,000 songs, making it a playground for anyone who loves to sing and celebrate. The intimate, eclectic décor and the lively crowd create a perfect backdrop for parties or casual meetups where everyone can feel included. Whether you’re planning a birthday, a casual hangout, or just an impromptu rally to escape the everyday routine, Trader Todd’s has the right mix of spirited energy, friendly staff, and popular entertainment that naturally pulls groups together for memorable nights.
What activities make Trader Todd’s great for group meetups?
Trader Todd's is exceptional for groups primarily due to its vibrant karaoke scene. This isn’t your average karaoke bar: with an enormous catalog of songs and a stage-ready setup, it becomes a magnet for groups who love to sing their hearts out in a casual, supportive environment. Karaoke nights are a shared experience that breaks down social barriers and spark spontaneous laughter and bonding. Beyond karaoke, the venue serves up a solid menu featuring crowd-pleasing options like nachos and pizzas, which pair perfectly with the tiki drink specials. Group gatherings thrive on these shared plates and signature cocktails that keep the energy high and the conversations flowing. The venue's staff reportedly enhance the experience with attentive and friendly service, helping accommodate groups easily and ensuring everyone feels welcome. This combination of entertainment, food, and drinks is what makes Trader Todd’s an excellent choice for any social occasion, fueling lively interaction and group enjoyment.
Why is Trader Todd’s perfect for birthday parties and celebrations?
Many groups choose Trader Todd’s specifically to host significant events like birthday parties, a testament to its accommodating vibe for celebrations. Booking a private karaoke birthday bash here is reportedly smooth and enjoyable, with the venue facilitating the contracting process efficiently and making the host’s job easier. The stage and sound systems are set up for a great performance experience, turning the birthday honoree and guests into stars of the night. With ample room to gather and a lively ambiance, every party feels special but relaxed, encouraging guests to dance, cheer, and sing together. Moreover, the friendly bartenders keep the drinks flowing, and the menu options satisfy various tastes, making it practical for groups who prefer not to fuss over complicated food choices but still want quality. The mixture of karaoke, cocktails, and casual dining ensures the birthday celebrations stay entertaining from start to finish.
How does Trader Todd’s atmosphere enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Trader Todd’s is described as energetic and welcoming, ideal for groups seeking a fun, memorable night out without pretense. The crowd is often a mix of locals and visitors, creating an inclusive, friendly vibe that makes first-timers and regulars feel equally at home. The tiki bar theme adds a unique charm and visual appeal, enhancing the overall experience with creative drink presentations that spark conversation and enjoyment. The soundtrack of people singing together, occasional shrieks of laughter, and upbeat music contribute to the lively setting that naturally lifts spirits. Plus, the staff’s reputation for kindness and attentiveness makes a tangible difference in group dynamics, helping partygoers feel valued and well cared for. This combination of a socially charged environment with personalized service makes Trader Todd’s a destination where groups can relax, connect, and build lasting memories.
What kind of food and drinks can groups enjoy at Trader Todd's?
Trader Todd’s menu features casual, crowd-pleasing dishes perfectly suited for groups. Popular items include nachos and pizzas, which are easy to share and satisfy a variety of tastes, making decision-making simpler for large parties. The food is hearty and pairs well with the bar’s specialty tiki drinks, which are known for being strong, flavorful, and creatively crafted by skilled bartenders. Drinks at Trader Todd’s are a highlight: the cocktail list is extensive and built for those who appreciate a well-made, tropical-inspired beverage. The bartenders, described in reviews as amazing and attentive, are adept at keeping everyone’s glass full, facilitating a seamless party mood. This balance of satisfying food and enticing drinks ensures that groups can focus on fun and conversation without worrying about the quality or variety of what they’re served.
How do reviews reflect the group experience at Trader Todd’s?
Reviews from visitors often emphasize the vibrant, party-centric atmosphere and the friendly service, especially when visiting with friends or hosting events. Many highlights mention the bartenders who maintain composure and skill even on busy nights, which greatly contributes to the group’s enjoyment. Karaoke is a central theme, with patrons cherishing the extensive song list and the overall festive mood that encourages participation regardless of singing talent. However, some reviews do express occasional concerns such as unprofessional DJ behavior or limited outdoor seating, indicating that while the experience is generally positive, individual visits can vary. Despite these occasional critiques, the overwhelming sentiment supports Trader Todd’s as a strong choice for social meetups, particularly for groups eager to combine dining, drinks, and karaoke entertainment.
What practical tips should groups know before meeting at Trader Todd’s?
To maximize the experience at Trader Todd’s, it’s advisable to plan ahead given its popularity, especially for karaoke nights and weekend parties. Reserving space early for birthday parties or larger groups can help avoid any seating limitations or wait times. Arriving a bit early is also beneficial to secure good seating since outside seating is limited but atmospheric. Groups might want to prepare for a lively, potentially crowded environment where the focus is on fun and spontaneity rather than quiet conversation. Ordering communal dishes like nachos and sharing tiki cocktails keeps the group connected and fuels the party spirit. Lastly, tipping generously for bartenders and DJs who work hard to maintain the electric mood supports the service quality and encourages a positive atmosphere for everyone involved.
In summary, Trader Todd’s offers groups a vibrant, entertaining, and accommodating venue for everything from casual hangouts to lively celebrations. With strong tiki drinks, delicious shareable food, a massive karaoke selection, and a welcoming atmosphere, it stands out as a go-to spot in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood that consistently draws people together to sing, laugh, and create lasting memories.