5 Best Sports Bars in River North

Home to a lively art community, swoon-worthy historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife, River North undoubtedly has a lot to offer. And among this neighborhood's highlights are some of the best sports bars in Chicago. Whether you are looking for a cozy place to get together with friends, cheer on your favorite team, connect with sports fans, or indulge in some delicious food and cold drinks, the 5 River North sports bars below will not disappoint!

Five Iron Golf

This unique sports bar scores a hole-in-one in our books. It has a distinct industrial vibe that is akin to a cozy man cave. It boasts sleek concrete floors, neon signage, rustic wood accents and comfortable couches that play into its unrivaled ambiance. However, let's get real, a sports bar needs more than just good looks—and Five Iron Golf delivers. Beyond cold beer on tap and a great menu, you can also find a wide range of sports cast across their many flatscreen TVs. For those who prefer a more immersive sporting experience, they offer pool, ping pong, a putting green, and full-swing golf simulators to brush up on your golfing skills. Just be sure to book ahead for the simulator to avoid disappointment—it is definitely something you don't want to miss. If you shoot a hole-in-one, you will win $500 or a free team entry into Five Iron's golf league (valued at $1,250)!

Jake Melnick's Corner Tap

The Today Show rated them one of the best chicken wing spots in the US, and it is easy to see—and taste—why! Jake Melnick's has perfected their 10 chicken wing flavor offerings, from classic buffalo to the must-try PB & J. However, if wings aren't your thing, this casual sports bar certainly isn't a one-trick pony. Their extensive menu also has many other mouth-watering appetizers and entrees, along with a drink menu that includes a wide selection of whiskey and beer. You can grab a seat on their heated patio with outdoor TVs or pull up a chair inside to enjoy the all-around cozy atmosphere.

Theory

Whether you're looking to devour some wings while watching college football or want to enjoy a cold brew while you cheer on your favorite NHL team, Theory delivers. This spacious, upscale sports bar with a loft-like aesthetic has over 35 TVs positioned throughout, so you will never miss a minute of game day action. On their regular menu, you can find classic appetizers, while their brunch menu offers trendier items like avocado toast and California poached eggs. Speaking of brunch, be sure to book a brunch reservation to experience a delicious meal and bottomless weekends—where you can choose from 3 bottomless beverages from 10 AM-12 PM. Patio dining is also available for those who prefer a bit of fresh air and sunshine with their food.

Trophy Room

The Trophy Room has all the makings of a great sports bar with a lively atmosphere that encompasses friendly service, local beer, and an abundance of TVs. But this hotspot for sports lovers takes it one step further with areas like the Dugout, Pitch, Main, and Skybox that offer a more comfortable and intimate experience with designated sections fitted with couches and armchairs. Not a sports fan? This is still a River North bar that you don't want to skip! Apart from sports viewing, they offer a great menu, live music, and trivia nights. If you are looking to host a private event, they can accommodate parties ranging from 10 to 240!

Municipal Bar & Dining Co.

With 4,000 sq. feet, Municipal Bar & Dining Co. offers multiple seating options with 6 private booths, 19 tables, two-semi private event areas, and an expansive patio. No matter where you choose to sit in this sports bar, though, you will never miss a moment of the game. Strewn throughout the brick, wood, and metal decor inspired by the streets of Chicago are 30 HD TV screens, including 4 that measure 80 inches. Prefer to sit on the patio? There you will find 4 HD TVs and outdoor speakers. If drinks are what you crave from a sports bar, you'll want to check out Municipal Bar's menu that offers over 100 different beers and sprites. This includes some custom creations exclusive to this venue, such as the Swipe Right (a ruby red vodka cocktail with a grapefruit twist) or the cocktail aptly named River North (a strawberry lemon creation with ketel citroen, st-germaine, lilet rosé, and prosecco).