Chicago kids are pretty much raised to be sports fans, so we’re grateful there are plenty of city spots that welcome our jersey-wearing minis. Here’s where you can cheer on your favorite team and enjoy a drink or two, no babysitter required.
Timothy O’Toole’s
Aside from being a popular spot for viewing Cubs games, this Chicagoland chain has something that’s a rarity in most pubs: a kids menu. While little ones nibble on mac and cheese and chicken fingers and sip on a variety of “kid’s cocktails,” parents can enjoy one of the 48 beers on tap. The ambiance can get a little loud (especially if there’s a particularly big game on), so it’s not the place to bring your infant if you have any hope of them taking a nap. But, on the plus side, your toddler’s tantrum should blend right in with the raucous crowd.
Various locations in Chicago and the suburbs
The Broken Barrel Bar
When a bar describes itself as a “chef-driven tailgate party,” you know you’re in for a good time. Both the bar and beer garden at Broken Barrel are lined with TVs, so you never miss a minute of the action. Parents can sip local brews and nosh on upscale pub eats like wings and Brussel sprout nachos while kids get their own menu, filled with offerings like pulled pork sliders and grilled cheese. And, as any family-friendly tailgate should, Broken Barrel has games like Jenga and bags to help keep everyone entertained before, after (or for squirmy little ones, during) the game.
Added bonus: while coloring on the walls is normally frowned upon at most establishments, guests of all ages are welcome to leave their mark on the bar’s graffiti wall. Hopefully, this won’t give your kids any ideas when they get home.
2548 N. Southport Ave., Chicago
The Moonlighter
Not only is this hip Logan Square spot kid-friendly, but you’re also welcome to bring your dog and hang on their large outdoor patio. Inside, there are TVs aplenty for catching the game, and you can cozy up on a couch near the fireplace on chillier days. The menu is an eclectic mix of burgers, tacos and kid favorites like nachos and chicken strips, plus nearly everything on the menu can be made vegetarian or vegan. And to make your visit even easier, street parking is plentiful near the bar, so you can avoid blocks of walking with kids in tow.
3204 Armitage Ave., Chicago
Burger Bar Chicago
Reviewers say that while Burger Bar boasts plenty of TVs and tends to be busy when the Bears are playing, the atmosphere is just chill enough for families. As the name implies, the bar features a large selection of burgers, but even the pickiest of kid eaters will dig the mini corndogs, chips and queso and build-your-own mac and cheese. And while beer is always great during a game, it’s hard to say no to one of the bar’s Oreo, strawberry shortcake or banana Nutella shakes. Have the kids order their own, then make your shake boozy for just 5 bucks extra. You may find yourself needing the buzz if your team loses.
1578 N. Clybourn, Chicago & 1150 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago
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