Looking for a spot to hit before heading to this Saturday’s men’s basketball matchup between the UIC Flames and University of Wisconsin-Green Bay at the UIC Pavilion? Try one of our favorite campus-area bars.
Illinois Bar & Grill
The bottom of the menu at this familiar neighborhood tavern warns: “This is NOT a fast-food restaurant. All food is cooked fresh when you order.” The results of this kitchen-fresh fanaticism are evident on every greasy chin in the place. Sports fans and college students swoop in (usually on Thursday and Friday nights) for burgers and beers; choose from eight drafts and 20 bottles, or opt for our favorite special, the “bucket of beer”–six domestic bottles for $12. It’s a good-looking place on the inside, with plenty of wood, exposed brick, a tin ceiling and plenty of big tables. 1421 W. Taylor St. 312-666-6666.
Hawkeye’s Bar and Grill
This self-described “American bar and grill” gets packed during and after any game involving a Chicago team. All of the games are shown on a big video screen and other TVs throughout the restaurant. There’s even a free shuttle bus from the United Center to Hawkeye’s after all Hawks games and selected events and concerts. On Thursday and Friday nights, a DJ spins retro and alternative–dancing starts around 10 p.m. The kitchen stays open until 11 p.m., sometimes later, serving up pizzas, burgers, chili, sandwiches and salads. Stop in on any night of the week to take advantage of daily food and drink specials. Tonight, it’s Mid-week Crisis Night with “martini therapy” ($4.50 martinis) to ease your woes. 1458 W. Taylor St. 312-226-3951.
Beviamo Wine Bar
This cute and trendy hideout in Little Italy is an ideal after-dinner hangout. It’s romantic and cozy inside, with silk and velvet fabrics hanging from the high ceilings and windows, exposed brick walls and dim lighting. By the glass or bottle, the wine selection is good–and affordable. Choose from 96 bottles from Italy, Australia, France, Germany, California and South Africa; 40 are available by the glass. Or mix and match by ordering a flight, which can be paired with a selection of imported cheeses. 1358 W. Taylor St. 312-455-8255.
Bar Louie
Snacks such as baked goat cheese and hummus and tabbouleh with pita complement the selection of cocktails at the mini-chain’s Little Italy location. Locally themed martinis (try the Midnight Flame) and a selection of more than 20 draft and bottled beers keep the good times rolling. If you’re looking for more than just a snack, dive into an expanded menu of pizzas and oversized sandwiches (large enough to feed two), including the signature Luigi steak sandwich and the Vesuvio chicken sandwich. The funky mosaic-covered interior features a variety of cozy nooks, including a booth that seats up to 15. 1321 W. Taylor St. 312-633-9393.
