The acclaimed FX show "The Bear" has introduced many watchers worldwide to Chicago's vibrant and expansive culinary scene (though locals were already very aware). The potent writing, incredible acting, and, let's face it, the blue-collar sexiness that Jeremy Allen White sweats from every pour have made the show a knockout.
We've put together a list of locations you'll probably recognize. Whether it's a significant scene backdrop (Margie's Candies) , a montage moment (Metro), or a pivotal plot landmark (Mr.Beef), you'll find it here!"
Local Spots You May Recognize
666 N Orleans St - River North
Where it all starts - a Chicago institution since 1979, Mr. Beef serves iconic Italian beef sandwiches in River North. Made famous by "The Bear" TV series, this no-frills eatery offers juicy, thinly-sliced beef on crusty rolls, topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera. Don't miss their hot dogs and fries. Expect long lines during lunch rush, but it's worth the wait.
3556 W Belmont Ave - Avondale
Alice's Lounge is Avondale's beloved late-night karaoke dive bar. Open since 1986, it offers stiff drinks, cheap beer, and nightly karaoke starting at 11 PM. The cozy, wood-paneled interior creates a welcoming atmosphere for both regulars and newcomers. With a vast song selection and energetic crowd, Alice's promises a fun, unpretentious night out in Chicago. Channel your inner Chef Tina and belt a few tunes while you're here.
946 N Orleans Street - River North
This Croation cafe located in River North features a raved about breakfast sandwich as well as native Croatian sausage that keeps people coming back for more! Sydney meets Adam Shapiro at Doma’s patio during season 3!
1340 W Fulton St - Fulton Market
Ever is Chef Curtis Duffy's Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant in Fulton Market. Offering an innovative 8-10 course tasting menu, Ever showcases contemporary American cuisine with global influences. The sleek, minimalist dining room provides an intimate setting for Duffy's meticulously crafted dishes. Expect artistic presentations, luxurious ingredients, and impeccable service. Reservations are essential for this gastronomic $325/person journey. Word on their street, is that the forks here are extra shiny.
1001 N Winchester Ave - East Village
Kasama is a Filipino-American bakery and restaurant in East Village, offering an innovative blend of traditional Filipino flavors with modern techniques. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it boasts a 4.5-star rating on Yelp. Known for its excellent service and creative menu, Kasama serves everything from pastries to full meals, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a unique culinary experience. It's the perfect spot for if your friends ever bail on you too.
565 W Jackson Blvd - West Loop
Features in scenes in both season 3 and season 4, Lou Mitchell’s iconic exterior paired with homestyle diner food is a Chicago must! They’re open until 2 AM, so stop by for your next late night craving in the West Loop!
1960 N Western Ave - Logan Square
Margie's Candies, a Chicago institution since 1921, offers a nostalgic ice cream parlor experience in Logan Square. It's famous for its sundaes, homemade candies, and old-fashioned atmosphere. Margie's is considered a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of classic Chicago - perfect for any food tour!
1735 S. State St - Near South Side
Referred to more frequently as “Lin Park”, Sydney makes time to shoot some hoops at the courts placed under the L tracks near Chinatown. The show highlights her being forced with a real life decision in a child like setting under the immediately identifiable “L” train station above.
3733 N Southport Ave - Lakeview
Any frequent Chicago moviegoer knows the iconic interior of the Music Box Theater, including Sydney in season 4! Though her dreamlike sequence in the theater is more haunting than serene, the red velvet curtains and 1920s era feel of the music box is what makes it a must visit!
825 W Fulton Market - Fulton Market
Publican Quality Meats is a butcher shop, café, and market in Fulton Market. Stop by for charcuterie, pastries, and sandwiches. You might remember this spot from when Syd gets a butcher lesson from the spot's Rob Levitt.
2207 N Clybourn Ave - Sheffield Neighbors
Pequod's Pizza in Sheffield Neighbors is renowned for its deep-dish pizza with a caramelized crust. A popular spot among Chicago pizza enthusiasts. Richie classically makes a dash to Pequod's to get some deep dish to bring back to Ever.
3730 N Clark Street - Wrigleyville
Metro is a legendary music venue in Wrigleyville. While not a restaurant, it's an important part of Chicago's entertainment scene. Known for hosting both up-and-coming and established acts, Metro has been a cornerstone of Chicago's live music scene for decades. Its location near Wrigley Field makes it a popular spot for concertgoers.
3000 W Fullerton Ave - Logan Square
5457 N Clark Ave - Andersonville
Pizza Lobo is a pizza restaurant in Logan Square and Andersonville. Its laid-back vibe and open seating areas invite the community to both locations. Catch Syd munching on a pepperoni slice from Pizza Lobo during her restaurant tour montage!
3216 W North Ave - Humboldt Park
Roeser's Bakery on North Avenue is one of Chicago's oldest family-owned bakeries. As a long-standing neighborhood institution, Roeser's offers a taste of old Chicago alongside more modern bakery offerings. Coming here also makes us wish we were a pastry chef.
6363 N Milwaukee Ave - Norwood Park East
Superdawg Drive-In, a Chicago landmark since the 1940s, serves classic Chicago-style hot dogs in Norwood Park East. Known for its unique drive-in experience, complete with carhops. Everyone loves the signature Superdawg, crispy fries, and nostalgic ambiance. Despite higher prices, many consider it a quintessential Chicago experience.
The Bear continues to celebrate our city with cameos from all sorts of local places and easter eggs. Did we miss any? Let us know by emailing us at [email protected]!
