Heading to an event at the United Center is always an experience, whether you are catching a Chicago Bulls game, singing along at a concert, or attending a family show. While the arena itself offers plenty of food and drink, the area surrounding it has evolved into a vibrant hub for nightlife and dining. Knowing where to go before or after the main event can turn a standard outing into a memorable night on the town.
The West Loop and Near West Side neighborhoods offer a dense concentration of establishments that cater to every type of crowd. From historic taverns that have been pouring pints for decades to modern cocktail lounges with innovative menus, the variety is impressive. You do not have to settle for a generic chain restaurant when there are so many local institutions just a short walk or rideshare away.
However, proximity to a major venue often comes with challenges, such as massive crowds and long wait times. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring you get a seat, a cold drink, and a bite to eat without missing the opening act or tip-off. Many of the best spots fill up fast, especially on game days, so knowing the landscape is essential.
This guide focuses on the best bars near United Center to help you navigate the scene like a local. We have considered factors such as walking distance, atmosphere, drink selection, and food quality to provide a comprehensive list. Whether you prefer a dive bar with character or a sleek spot for craft cocktails, there is a perfect pre-game destination for you.
Safety and convenience are also top priorities when exploring the area. The venues listed here are well-established, reputable, and accustomed to hosting large event crowds. They understand the flow of traffic and are equipped to serve you efficiently, ensuring you get to your seat on time.
Below is a curated list of the top drinking establishments in the vicinity. Each one offers something unique, ensuring that your night out is just as exciting as the main event you are attending.
Billy Goat Tavern (near United Center)
| Address | 1535 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 733-9132 |
My son and I had a good experience here. I had a triple cheeseburger with fries. My son had a Chicago style hotdog. The food was good and for the city the prices were decent. It was before a concert and was kind of busy but we didn't wait long. I would definitely go back again. Next time I want to try the Italian beef.
We visited with 3 hungry sons aged 9-14, our twenty something nephew and my husband and I. Food was very reasonably priced. Atmosphere was great and it was easy to get a seat. ( about 2:30 Pm). I would gladly return. Loved the pickle relish.
Came in for lunch, vibes were high, burger is bomb for the price! Much love. We got the “Curse Breaker” and Chicago Dog! Amazing
I can't truly review this place because it was literally empty when I went. I just since it's the closest to union park and I had to wait for friend to join. But overall I feel like this place has good vibe, dinner style vibe but with bar.
Can definitely recommend to anyone union park or nearby for concert you can definitely grab a drink and bite to eat before you head to your event.
I’ve driven by this place thousands of times and finally went in before seeing a concert at the United Center. The burger and fries were soooo good! Great drinks too! Fun atmosphere- especially before a concert! I’ll need to add more pictures the next time I go! An easy walk to the United Center with some street parking available.
The Embassy
| Address | 1435 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 1:30 PM – 1:30 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 2:30 AM Sunday: 6:30 AM – 1:30 AM |
| Phone | (312) 291-8387 |
Irish pub with many soccer-related decors. Walked here from UIC campus for a late lunch and watched the FIFA World Cup semifinal game of France vs Spain. Arrived at 1:55 and it was so packed! Gladly we were able to get a table in the corner with a screen to watch the game.
They have really fresh vegetarian options. The veggies in the wrap were tasty and fresh. The veggie burger was also beyond my expectations. Waffle fries and tater toes were crispy.
Came here while in Chicago for a college basketball game and had an awesome time at Embassy. We’re from Iowa and were in town playing Illinois State, and this spot made the night even better. Great atmosphere, good drinks, and the owner was super welcoming — he even gave us 2 free shots while we were there, which was a really cool gesture. You can tell they take care of people and know how to create a fun vibe. Definitely recommend stopping by if you’re in Chicago and want a good place to watch a game and have a great time.
Great pub atmosphere that especially shines for rugby matches and Premier League games in the mornings. Food is solid Irish fair, draft lineup is great, and the atmosphere is best when packed for a game!
The Embassy is the perfect neighborhood pub and I'm happy to be a neighbor. The food is tasty and the beverage list is vast but it's the welcoming atmosphere that's going to make me a frequent visitor.
Our local supporter group has been coming here for Premier League matches for three seasons now and can't say enough good things about this place. Paul and his staff always take care of us even on the busiest of match days. The food is delicious and the Guinness is the freshest in town. And even when the bitterest of rivals are playing the crowds always keep things friendly. Just a great place all around.
Queenie’s Supper Club
| Address | 1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 455-4550 |
Food was good, service even better. Thank you Jen for being 100% tonight. One of the best servers we’ve had as a family in the past decade. My stepmom has an uncommon food allergy and she was all over it. Thank you team, look forward to seeing you again soon!
Had a great dinner here before a hockey game. The staff were wonderful and super on top of everything. You can tell they prioritize getting people in and out in time to see the games.
Mg group had the complementary cheese bread (very tasty) the Caesar salad (my husband’s was underdressed and just ok, but my other friend said hers was good), lobster bisque (phenomenal), prime rib (my group said it was delicious), seared tuna salad (very good after I requested more dressing),clam bucatini (very tasty), fries (very good), and the passion colada cocktail was excellent (we even got some to go for the game!).
I would definitely recommend before a game. It is a bit pricey though, but the food is delicious.
2nd time taking business contacts to Queenie's ahead of the Bulls game. Great service, great atmosphere, great food! Will come here again. Special shout out to Janice, our waitress. Fantastic job!
A great place to dine before a Bulls game…been here a number of times, and it never disappoints. Here’s the scoop…the restaurant is OLD SCHOOL. No frills menu and no substitutions (although our server allowed us to get a side of steamed broccoli). I recommended the Queenie’s Sliced Steak and the Caesar Salad. The martini’s are of generous size and are a perfect compliment to the meal. The piano in the center of the dining area gives this place a personal touch. The service is spot on and although the seating is a little too close to the people next to you, I find myself chitchatting once I get a martini or two in the system!
Queenie’s is the best! The service is amazing, they are super friendly and hard working. The food is tasty and cocktails are good, they will give you a drink to go. Reservations early as 5 pm, skip the entrance line to get in, make sure you email with your confirmation.
Hawkeye's Bar
| Address | 1458 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (312) 226-3951 |
Went on a Tuesday night, they had trivia..which was nice, we ordered a Paloma flight, wouldn't order again.. too sugary. Slider are good, and the chicken tenders added sauce was really good. Service is good. The space is fine.
Egg roll sampler:
Italian beef one was the best one.
Chicken thinga was a bit dry.
My partner and I went to Hawkeyes for a late night dinner after an event in Chicago. We ordered two dirty Shirley’s, one single and one double, mainly because there was supposed to be a special on mixed drinks with Tito’s being $6. The single dirty Shirley was $8 plus a $1 up charge for something I’m not sure what it was. The double dirty Shirley was $16.00. I should have asked how much it was because I definitely would not have spent $16 on that had I known. I understand the special not applying to the double dirty Shirley but our server told us the $6 mixed Tito’s special would apply to our dirty Shirley’s and it did not. Beyond that, there was a $2 fee to get the fries seasoned, which we were not told about when ordering (also I feel that $2 for spices is kinda crazy). The worst part was that there was a 15% up charge just for ordering food late, again we were not informed about this at all and I would not have chosen to eat there had I known that. My fries were also insanely undercooked and not even salted (I did not get the seasoning on my fries) which I thought was crazy for all of the upcharges we were already experiencing without any communication from the staff. I’m normally not one to complain but this was absolutely ridiculous. I’ve never been charged a fee to eat late and I would’ve liked to have been told about it. The fee ended up being more than $10. Between the specials not being honored and all of the uncommunicated upcharges I absolutely would not come here again. I wanted to enjoy it so bad but was not anticipating spending almost $100 for two drinks and two burgers and fries that were undercooked and unsatisfying. I would go somewhere else next time to be honest.
It’s my first time in Chicago and I flew in late. There was one place open at 11pm near my hotel which was Hawkeyes. The waitress was nice but didn’t listen very well. The fries and tots were good, nothing special. The bacon and egg burger was recommended by my friend. I created my own burger and couldn’t believe how strong the charred taste was. My burger was hard on the outside as well. I picked at it and never sent it back because I didn’t want to be difficult. After receiving our food the waitress never came back to check on us so we waited at least 15 min to track her down just so we can get mayo and thousand island sauce which we had originally asked for when we placed the order. Lastly, I’m an east coast girl and I don’t know people in Chicago always do this, but it’s not preferred to use cold condiments on hot food. The thousand island sauce was freezing cold and I didn’t help hide the burnt taste of my burger.
Good selection of food for a sports bar. Some items could use slight improvement to make this a 5 star, such as making sure fries are served crispy and fish tacos not overloaded with an abundance of chipotle mayo sauce.
Your run of the mill bar! The food was good but can be improved; the calamari size portion could be a bit bigger to make it more shareable, the sliders were cold, the bang bang shrimps were good but the sauce to shrimp ratio was way off, at some point we were just eating sauce. The guac and chips though were really good; generous amount of both!
Kaiser Tiger
| Address | 1415 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (312) 243-3100 |
We ate lunch at Kaiser Tiger before the NCAA basketball game and thought the lunch was okay. Thought the burger and sausages were fine but not as exciting as other reviewers thought so you may want to check it out for yourself. The server was okay, it wasn’t crazy busy yet when we got there but felt she wasn’t very attentive. It is an easy walk to United Center and we made a reservation ahead of time.
Shocked by the review below me… our service was amazing. I actually am kicking myself for not getting our waitresses name. Every single person we came in context with asked how our food was, and if we needed anything. Our waitress was giving lots of great recommendations and even gave me a sample or 2 to try out. (All were amazing). The food we thought, was also really good. I also got the turkey sandwich on focaccia and it was KILLER. Smoky, fresh, high quality ingredients. My husband got the cheesy brat and thought it was really good too. We will definitely be back - great place for a casual German bite.
Smash burger was awesome. Kaiser cheese dip was melted hot on top but icey cold inside. Very few chips. The wait staff was Awesome. #SETH Witty names and fun drinks. Games outside. They have a shuttle to the United Center which is AMAZING!
Best thing about this place is that they have a shuttle to the united center. I didn’t love the food, the drinks were odd. But the service was decent. We asked for a to go box and it never came, which wasn’t the end of the world.
It was very loud, def a sports bar but they do allow children.
I got a turkey sandwich and French fries, not great, not too bad. My partner got veggie chili and a mushroom sandwich, he liked it. And it smelled good. They also have a large pretzel which was stale.
Great find! Amazing espresso martinis!! Good smash burgers. Great employees great personalities. Perfect place either to wait to pick up family from a united center event and or park in structure next to them grab a bite and take their free shuttle to the event!
The Barn Hockey Bar
| Address | 1659 W Ogden Ave, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 624-8609 |
Went to get drinks and food before the Bulls game. Sat at the bar and was greeted and attended right away. Pizza was delicious, loved that there was a tv everywhere (even in the bathroom) so you can’t miss out on the scores.
Plan on coming back for sure.
Super fun sports bar hangout! This is the place before or after a Blackhawk’s game. Even though it was super packed, service was great and attentive. Food was great - we had the cheese curds, wings, pizza and fries.
Birthday party while Blackhawks on and NFL playoffs, 25 plus people, food and drinks in party area.
Everything was perfect, from host showing guests where the group was, server was quick with drinks and super friendly, golf simulator fun, food AMAZING (wings and pizza can't go wrong here) and everything great!
If you need a fun space for a party, get dinner and drinks before a United Center event or just a great bar to watch some games on the TV and chill.... this is the place!!
Amanda was our server and I was amazed at how well she took care of our party. She remembered everyone’s drinks and food came out quickly and steamy hot.
Forgot to mention…. Double check your bill before paying.
Service fees that they don’t show
We stopped here on a whim before checking into our nearby hotel. Super great place! A lot of cool memorabilia. The food and service was awesome! Super friendly and kind staff. We also loved the wings! We will for sure be back next time we visit!
Cobra Lounge
| Address | 235 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:30 – 2:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 3:00 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (312) 226-6300 |
We came here to see Sub Urban perform. This was our first time coming here and it's honestly a cute bar. We ate dinner before the show and I can say I enjoyed their burger though the 2 in our group who ordered wraps didn't enjoy them. But overall the food was good...the fries amazing! Service was great too! We went in to catch the show once we were done and I think we all had a really great time! If there's anymore amazing shows we will be coming back! Loved how close you were to the stage no matter where you were in the room really. It does get a little warm in that room with all the bodies dancing and such.
Cool, intimate venue. Free parking on the nearby street. Food looks good but we didn't eat here. Will come back for sure!
Made a special trip up here to see a concert. Cool little hang out on the corner with chill vibes with a dark side on the inside. Small venue space so it makes for a awesome experience for bands They have a great burger & beer. I see why people hang here.
Fair amount of non-metered street parking.
Bands were good. It was largely a progressive/industrial night.
Pizza and salad were fairly decent, and the drinks were well mixed.
I really wanted to like this place, but my first visit was a total letdown. The atmosphere seemed great, but the service and the food safety were another story.
I went in to pick up a to-go order and saw my bag sitting right there on the bar. I didn’t want to just snatch it and walk out, so I stood there waiting to show a bartender my receipt. Even though they weren't slammed, three different staff members made eye contact with me and then completely ignored me. After standing there for over five minutes, I eventually just grabbed the bag myself and left.
The real trouble started a few hours after eating. The chicken sandwich tasted fine at the time, but four hours later, I was dealing with a serious case of diarrhea. I initially tried to give them the benefit of the doubt, thinking maybe it was just a random reaction to something else, so I had a couple more bites later that evening even after refrigerating the sandwich. Big mistake. I woke up at 4am with crazy diarrhea and pain in my stomach.
It's honestly disappointing because the portions were generous, but none of that matters if the food isn't safe to eat. Whether it was undercooked chicken or expired sauce, something is seriously wrong in that kitchen. I won't be back, and I’d suggest the management take a hard look at their health standards before someone gets even sicker.
Bunker
| Address | 1515 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 823-5818 |
I live in the area and have been coming to Froth for years and have frequented Bunker since its opening. I've generally loved the vibe of both places and at times have felt Bunker's was a cute hidden gem!
However, this summer has been a bit disappointing so far - especially in terms of their outdoor patio and bar area. They used to have cushioned benches, which have been replaced with wooden picnic tables. They still have high top red tables with umbrellas, but the last few times I have been, the umbrellas are not always upright and the tables are not always clean (even when they haven't been busy). Also, the high tops are all wobbly now and could use some attention.
Today, the main reason I'm writing this review, I ordered a frozen drink and it was served in the smallest plastic cup and wasn't even filled to the rim. They're charging $14 for this drink. What?? Haha I honestly should have declined it when I saw it, but I was honestly too shocked and surprised they were serving this with a straight face.
I've added some photos of the drink and one of them is going to include a book I'm reading for context as to the size. The food is still good and I will still go back, just disappointed in how they're starting off summer and hope to bring awareness of the slushy issue to others.
Caesar wrap was not good. Chicken was oversalted, yet under seasoned. Lettuce was hot/soggy with a dressing that maybe was just mayonnaise? It took 37 minutes to receive on a dead night. No one said anything about it because they don't have servers, just runners. And the side is plain ruffles ... For $14 😂
Beautiful patio, though. Very clean, well kept.
Came across this place on my way to the united center. The place has a nice vibe and the beer was great!
Great place for drinks close to medical district, west loop and near west side! Good vibes all around. Outdoor patio is perfect for the summer. The music well thought out. Drinks well executed. Espresso martini and the Manhattan are definitely go-to’s. I will be back soon!
Hidden gem of chicago west loop. Not too busy, with above average food for approachable prices.
The cocktails also are way more sophisticated than you might expect considering this is a downstairs bar.
It’s also got access to a really great outside area and has some cool shuffleboard and other games inside if you want a little gaming action. There are TVs but it’s not too sportsy which appeals to me, and it’s got a super cool real jukebox.
Theory
| Address | 9 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Phone | (312) 644-0004 |
I stumbled upon this bar in Chicago, and was impressed by the vibe, great service and good food - I had read great reviews about the food but the burger I had was average.
But I will definitely go back on a busier day to feel the vibe more!
Used Open Table to find a spot to watch the Michigan Football game (Go Blue). They had an open table and told us which TVs that the game on so we were all good. Place was full and lively. No worries about getting food or drinks timely. Food came out 10 minutes after ordering. Music during commercials was a nice touch. Then game sounds when the commercials ended. I can't wait to go back!
Awesome sports bar! Our waitresses, Sarah and Claire, were excellent, and Saxton was very accommodating with ensuring we had the football game we wanted to watch on the tv’s near us. O, and their wings are awesome!
Absolutely phenomenal experience!
We stopped by Theory for the Team USA vs. Australia game on a holiday. Since camp was canceled, we had our 6.5-year-old daughter with us and were a little nervous about navigating a busy sports bar. Theory went above and beyond to make us feel welcome:
Next-Level Ownership: We called ahead, and, the owner, Joel, personally held a spot for us on one of their busiest days of the year so our daughter wouldn't get crowded out. He even stopped by our table to check on us and thank us for coming in, just like he did on the phone.
Fantastic Staff: Our server, Allie, was a superstar. She was totally on it despite the crazy crowd.
Great Food & Atmosphere: The food was excellent and the energy was perfect.
It’s been years since we’ve been to Theory – we will absolutely be regulars whenever we’re back in town!
Probably the best sports bar I have ever been to! They are open and ready for any and all sports, including early F1 starts!
I had heard about an F1 bar in Chicago and as I was staying nearby I decided to check it out for qualifying. I ended up being the only one there for the start of it, and that gave me the chance to talk to the owner and the staff. They were all super friendly and they all gave me the vibe that it’s a great place to work and love the high energy environment that game day brings. They were gearing up for the Iowa game that day and you could feel the anticipation as the bar began to fill up as qualifying ended.
Came back in for the race on Sunday and it was incredible to be in a place where everyone was locked into an F1 race! The atmosphere here is the best of any sports bar I’ve been to, hands down!
I haven’t even mentioned the food & drink yet. The brunch options are short & sweet. All the classics including eggs, bacon, and baked goods. The Chilaquiles I got on Saturday tasted so fresh. They might actually make their own salsa verde because it was one of the best I’ve ever had.
For the race they had French toast which was phenomenal; homemade batter and caked with cinnamon, every bite was a crunchy & sweet delight!
Onto the drinks. The prices are pretty in line with other bars in the area. Drafts are $7 and house cocktails are $10. They definitely give you your moneys worth with the cocktails and don’t skimp on the liquor.
Overall, absolutely fantastic experience. From the energy of the patrons to the staff, the food, and drinks. Put theory at the top of your list of places to visit in River North and if you’re into F1 and able to get to Chicago for race days, absolutely do not miss out on this! I will be coming back here any time I’m in Chicago and there’s a race on!
Sal's On Tap
| Address | 1645 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 846-6338 |
Spicy Shrimp was So Good, Portion size is definitely shareable. Drinks are good, Service is great! Was able to watch the Blackhawks Game with sound which not too many bars do! Would definitely recommend and return.
Great brand new restaurant, the place is very large but still very inviting with great decor and lots of TVs for the game.
The menu has a very wide selection of pizza, tacos, sandwiches and amazing entrees.
I highly recommend this place especially before attending any Blackhawk’s or Bulls game, football or even for a quick lunch spot.
Delicious!
My fiancé and I have found our new spot! Coming in after the transformation was a pleasant experience. Our server was Miguel and he made our time here great! The food was fresh, and fast with great drinks as well. 10/10 Sals on tap!
Great food. Great outdoor area.
LOVEDDDD their service and food!!!
Black Barrel Tavern
| Address | 1061 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (773) 280-5500 |
I loved the sunshine sitting on the sidewalk out front. The service greeted us and sat us down immediately. Very very friendly overall. Water was kept full. Waitress was very friendly and prompt. Prices were very fair for Chicago! Absolutely recommend this place if you're in the area. The seafood appetizer was amazing being grilled on cast iron!
Wonderful place for just a drink with friends or getting a delicious meal. The service and food were excellent with quick, friendly service. It is a bit on the louder size so while it is a smaller area, it cannot be called intimate. I do highly recommend it. I had the burger and my wife had the fish and chips. Both excellent and recommended. Our drinks were perfectly prepared as well.
I tried to address this directly with Black Barrel Tavern via email, but after not hearing back, I’m sharing this here so others know what to expect.
My partner and I have been regulars for a while. We come in ~once a week, often with friends, because it’s usually reliable with a good location, solid menu variety, decent cocktails, and a good brunch. That’s why this experience stood out, and not in a good way.
We came in for dinner around six earlier this week and ordered a few items from the seasonal menu. The hummus was great. Unfortunately, that’s where things stopped.
I ordered the seasonal Caesar salad with added chicken, and what arrived was unacceptable, especially at $26 before taxes and fees. It looked nothing like the menu image, but more importantly, it failed even the most basic standard of what a Caesar salad should be. The romaine was uncut and flacid, drenched in bland dressing, and there was no Parmesan and no croutons. It looked sloppy and thrown together, and frankly, it wasn’t appetizing.
I genuinely thought it was the wrong dish. When I flagged our server, she acknowledged it didn’t match the menu and that it was missing key components. Despite that, the only fix offered was to bring out croutons. There was no attempt to remake it, replace it, or take it off the bill.
I paid nearly $30 for what was easily the worst, most poorly executed salad I’ve been served. It came across as lazy and careless.
The service made it worse. Our server was largely absent, spending most of her time at the bar. Our table and others nearby felt like an afterthought. Drinks were refilled incorrectly, and when issues came up, there was no real effort to address them.
This was a clear miss on both food and service. If you’re going to charge premium prices, the execution needs to match.
Black Barrel is a staple for me, the hours are perfect for random lunch or brunch. There usually isn’t a wait, and the menu is extensive. Parking is another story.
I was too hungry to take pictures of everything we ordered but I must say, the brussel sprouts and the margarita (pictured) were pretty tasty.
Club sandwich is huge!!!
Caitlyn (I might’ve misspelled) was an awesome server.
Long story short…..
1. Food runner brought me the wrong food. When I asked was it the “Buffalo shrimp”. He nodded yes. However, i was looking at eggs rolls. 3mins brought out my buffalo shrimp, recognizing he brought me the wrong food.
2. Got down to my last shrimp and felt long piece of hair in my mouth. I pulled the long piece of hair out of my mouth to show the bartender. Manager comes over, says to me “when did notice it when you’re down to last piece of shrimp”, insinuating that I was attempting to get my food for free. I stated i noticed it when it was already in my mouth, i also showed your bartender. He stated to me everyone has on hair nets. I stated as you can see i don’t have long blonde hair. He confirms with bartender that she saw the hair. Eventually takes the food off my bill.
Regardless of this, I still ordered a shot. The only thing that redeemed them was the bartender telling me that my shot was on her. I still tipped the bartender $10 on a $17 bill. Didn’t appreciate the tone of the manager…..
Levy Restaurants At United Center
| Address | 1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (312) 455-7411 |
The “food” in the Club level suites for a recent concert….was nasty, unseasoned, dry, inedible, etc. Plain & simple. Every item was nasty! Another vendor is needed or the food actually needs to be good. I’m sorry, but we were really upset by it.
Chicago Stadium Club is fantastic. Great buffet. Irma is an attentive server.
The carvery is top shelf.
Always love the games! But most the the staff is RUDE. Chi town attitude .
I went to United Center and a worker Sneezed in my food i got his name William Llorca he needs to be fired
Really enjoyed there food had great customer service will recommend to everyone I no 💯
Tips for Choosing the Best Bar Near United Center
Finding the right spot requires a bit of strategy, especially if you are dealing with a tight schedule or a large group. The area has a distinct rhythm on event nights, and understanding how to navigate it will save you time and stress. Here are some practical tips to ensure your pre-game or post-game experience is seamless and enjoyable.
Plan for the Rush
Bars near the stadium experience a massive influx of guests roughly two hours before an event starts. If you want a table or a spot at the bar, arrive early. Waiting until 30 minutes before doors open will likely leave you standing in a long line or settling for a drink at the concession stand inside.
Check for Shuttle Services
Many popular bars in the area offer free shuttle services to and from the United Center. This is a game-changer, especially during cold Chicago winters or rainy weather. It allows you to park your car at the bar, enjoy a drink, and get a free ride to the front gates without worrying about stadium parking fees.
Consider the Walking Distance
While many bars claim to be "near" the United Center, some are a solid 20 to 30-minute walk away. If you are wearing heels or dress shoes, this can be uncomfortable. Always check the exact address on a map before committing, and factor in weather conditions.
Reserve for Large Groups
If you are attending with a bachelor party, a corporate outing, or a large group of friends, do not just show up unannounced. Call ahead or check the bar’s website for reservation policies. Many establishments have private rooms or designated areas for large parties, but they book up weeks in advance for major games and concerts.
Know the Vibe
The type of event you are attending often dictates the crowd. A Bulls playoff game will bring a high-energy, loud crowd, while a classical concert might bring a more subdued, older audience. Choose a bar that matches your energy. If you want to scream and cheer, go to a sports tavern. If you want a quiet conversation, opt for a lounge.
The area surrounding the United Center is no longer just a place to park your car; it is a destination in itself. Taking the time to explore the local bar scene adds depth to your event experience and supports the local businesses that give Chicago its character. Whether you are a tourist visiting for the first time or a season ticket holder, there is always a new drink to try or a new corner of a historic tavern to discover.
Next time you are headed to the Madhouse on Madison, skip the rush to get inside and instead enjoy the anticipation at one of these top-tier establishments. With the right plan in place, you can turn a simple night out into a tradition you look forward to every season.
