What can we say about Wrigleyville that hasn't already been said?
It's the obvious neighborhood destination for Cubs fans during baseball season. The fact that it borders Boystown makes the entire area one big party all summer long. Chicagoans who prefer sci-fi to sports will inevitably draw a Mos Eisley comparison at some point in their lives.
Truth be told though, Wrigleyville wouldn't be one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city if there weren't some cool things there that everyone can enjoy. We've laid out some options for the next time you're looking to pre- or post-game without encountering Fireball shots and Pitbull remixes.
EAT SOMETHING GOOD
Photo Via Facebook.com/cozychicago
There are plenty of dining options surrounding Wrigley Field. Whether or not they're worth your time is a different story. Skip the subpar flatbreads and indulge in kosher BBQ, vegan treats, super cute empanadas, traditional African dishes and famous sandwiches instead.
3411 N. Broadway St.
This ridiculously tasty barbecue joint is owned by a Jewish family and offers plenty of non-pork options.
3456 N. Sheffield Ave.
A unique blend of Thai cuisine makes for some superb dishes on this menu—including the famed $1.99 lunch special!
3472 N. Clark St.
Lucky's was featured on Man vs. Food, so you know it’s good.
3404 N. Clark St.
A new addition to Wrigley, offering authentic Carribean dishes and great drinks as well.
3612 N. Southport Ave.
You’ll find empanadas and tacos at Cafe Tola, both with meat and veggie options.
3647 N. Clark St.
Located next to the Park at Wrigley, this spot pays homage to legendary Chicago Cubs broadcaster Jack Brickhouse.
3408 N. Clark St.
Pick Me Up offers classic diner dishes with a twist, and a large selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
3800 N. Clark St.
Stop by Uncommon Ground for a coffee, some grub or an intimate show.
DRINK. DUH.
Photo Via Sheffield's
Wrigleyville's economy revolves around well-stocked bars and you know what they say about doing as the Romans do. Screaming Cubs fans and suburban tourists dominate the main Clark Street strip, but there are a few standout bars where the crowds skew older and/or cooler. Here's where we like to drink:
3740 N. Clark St.
This cozy bar received a major facelift in recent years. Its dive bar vibes have lessened, but it's still a solid spot for a beer.
1300 W. Addison St.
Beer, wine, board games can be found at this quaint spot.
3632 N. Clark St.
A new bi-level cocktail bar and restaurant offering a classy getaway from the rest of Wrigley.
3207 N. Clark St.
Frequented by Jeffrey Dahmer and various Chicago punks, this old-school tavern has a lot of history.
3439 N. Sheffield Ave.
It’s pronounced “knee-say”, not “knee-sigh”. Come in saying it correctly or don’t come at all.
3258 N. Sheffield Ave.
Sheffield’s’ outdoor beer garden is the perfect place to hang before or after a game.
3340 N. Halsted St.
Home to the comedy show based on classified ads, I Saw You, you’ll find good laughs and more at Town Hall Pub.
DO SOME SHOPPING
Photo Via Facebook.com/belmontarmy
Fill up your closet by doing some shopping. From gorilla suits to vintage footwear to high-end outfits, you never know what you'll find in these alt-fashion and novelty shops.
855 W. Belmont Ave.
Belmont Army offers a mix of thrift with some high-end fashion as well.
812 W. Belmont Ave.
Looking for some over-the-top fashion and accessories? Hollywood Mirror has it all.
812 W. Belmont Ave.
Come here for new and recycled clothing at dirt cheap prices.
HAVE SOME LAUGHS
There are fun (and funny) times ahead at an improv or sketch comedy show.
929 W. Belmont Ave.
A unique take on improv, comedy meets sport at CSz theater. Referee included.
851 W. Belmont Ave.
The Annoyance Theatre is guaranteed to get you laughing with performances like a Shark Tank parody or a diabolical puppet show.
956 W. Newport Ave.
Remember the horror that was middle school? Well Under The Gun helps you relive that horror with one of their many unique shows.
Hang In The Park
Photo Via Facebook.com/theparkatwrigley
3637 N. Clark St.
A breath of fresh air (literally), The Park at Wrigley offers a hangout spot before the game as well as movies, farmer's markets, yoga and more.
DANCE BABY, DANCE
Go dancing at old faithfuls Smart Bar and Berlin.
3730 N. Clark St.
Hailed as one of the U.S.’s most important nightclubs, it only takes one night at Smartbar to realize why.
954 W. Belmont Ave.
At Berlin, you’re free to come as you are, as long as you’re ready to dance.
NERD OUT
Photo Via Flickr.com/tacvbo
3244 N. Clark St.
You’ll find an outrageous amount of comics at Chicago Comics, both old school and new school.
WATCH A MOVIE
Photo Via Facebook.com/musicboxtheatre
3733 N. Southport Ave.
Catch a mix of classic, modern, international and art flicks at Music Box Theatre.
CATCH A SHOW
Photo Via Flickr.com/vxla
Get concert tickets. It's an obvious choice (because it's a good one), but Wrigleyville is home to some of Chicago's best-known venues.
1059 W. Addison St.
Come for Cubby Bear's great drink deals and stay for an awesome concert.
3730 N. Clark St.
Metro is a staple in Chicago’s music history, with many greats having graced its stage like Nirvana, Prince, Kanye West and more.
3145 N. Sheffield Ave.
The Vic offers a lot of variety with a rotating list of musical acts, comedians and movie screenings to keep attendees coming back for more.
(Cover image: Flickr.com/Wally Gobetz)
