Think of it this way: The pressure’s off since our beloved Bears didn’t make the Super Bowl.
They can relax and take some well-deserved vacations, and we don’t have to watch the entire game on edge. The Super Bowl spirit still lives on in the city, though; several spots plan to host all-star soirees on Sunday.
From tailgating buffets that’ll feed an entire defensive line to super-sized screens to watch the big game, here’s where to get in on the action:
The Abbey. Known as a hangout for soccer fans, the popular Irish bar takes on American football on its 10 monitors and 15-foot screen. For $20, patrons get an unlimited pub grub buffet and domestic draft beer, wine and soda. All bottled and imported beer will be $1. Also, get there early for the door prizes. Party starts at 4 p.m. 3420 W. Grace St., 773-478-4408.
2002 Super Bowl Party. Join the fun at one of these Lincoln Park sports bars owned by Bar1 Events. At each location, guests watch the game on several big screens and enjoy a buffet of wings, pizza, hot dogs and burgers. All-you-can-drink domestic draft beer, wine and soda are also included in the ticket price. $30. Doors open at 4 p.m. McGee’s, 950 W. Webster Ave.; The Wrightwood Tap, 1059 W. Wrightwood Ave.; Durkin’s, 810 W. Diversey Pkwy.; Duffy’s, 420 1/2 W. Diversey. Call 773-868-8073 for information.
Crab St. Saloon This brand new Maryland-style joint prides itself on fresh seafood, but for the Super Bowl it will be offering a $13 all-you-can-eat tailgate spread with a baked potato bar, chili bar, taco bar, brats and hot dogs. New Orleans style hurricanes will be for sale as well as $2 MGD’s and Miller Lite drafts. The party happens 4 to 10 p.m. Sunday. Crab St. Saloon is located at 1061 W. Madison St.; 312-433-0013.
Cubby Bear. You won’t miss any action at this Wrigleyville mainstay, as it offers more than 100 TVs, including four big screens. Take advantage of the all-you-can-eat buffet for $9 (4-9 p.m.) as well as beer and drink specials. 1059 W. Addison St., 773-327-1662.
Harry Caray’s. Get into the competitive spirit at both locations, 33 W. Kinzie St. and 10233 W. Higgins Rd., Rosemont. The city celebration offers food and drink specials and a big-screen TV in each dining area; the suburban location features a Louisiana-themed buffet in the bar (4-9 p.m.) for $10.95, beer specials and $4 mixed drinks. 312-828-0966 or 847-699-1200.
McCormick & Schmick’s. Order from a special bar menu that includes wings, hot dogs, pizza and burgers for $4.95. Also, sip Mimosas all day for $1.95. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 41 E. Chestnut St., 312-397-9500.
Mike Ditka’s. Ditka’s scores a touchdown with the “Super Buffet” party, which includes burgers, barbecue ribs, sandwiches, Tailgate pork chops, sweet and spicy chicken wings, jumbo Cajun shrimp, grilled chicken quesadillas, grilled sausage sandwiches, brats, and black pepper Cajun sausages. Labatts beer will be included in the $30 ticket price. Guests can choose from the regular dinner menu as well. Door prizes include lunch and dinner packages, Ditka merchandise, autographed Bears memorabilia and a grand tour of Halas Hall. 4-10 p.m. 100 E. Chestnut St., 312-587-8989.
O’Donovan’s Pub. The Seventh Annual Super Bowl Party package includes a hearty buffet, Bud and Bud Light, tipboards and squares. $25. Doors open at 4 p.m. 2100 W. Irving Park Rd., 773-880-9812.
Zooperbowl XIII. Get wild, loose and crazy during the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual bash. Watch the game on several big-screen monitors as you chow down from an array of dinner and dessert items. Also, premium open bar and a raffle contest featuring vacation packages, sports tickets and sporting equipment. $50 in advance; $60 at door. Doors open at 4 p.m. Cafe Brauer, 2021 N. Stockton Drive, 312-742-2163.
———-
For restaurant Super Bowl parties, see the “Phil’s 5” list in Dining.
Have an idea or comment about Chicago nightlife? Contact Audarshia Townsend at igrooveon@aol.com
