Chicago Screens and Bar Games for a Friends' Week

I'd open our four-person week at Glascott's Saloon, where a meal gives the catchup some structure. The family-run Irish pub pairs Guinness with Greek food and draws game-night crowds, so there is more to discuss than a screen. Make this the meal-first warmup before the busier stops. Confirm current hours and food service before choosing the group's meeting time.

I'd turn kickoff into retro video games at Best Intentions, not a promise of live football. This Logan Square bar mixes upscale-dive character with cocktails, Wondermint malted shakes and a jukebox described as dysfunctional. Let the games start the conversation for four friends rather than relying on a soundtrack. Check current hours before picking your gathering time.

I'd give the middle of the week a soundtrack at GMan Tavern rather than promise a quiet room. Its handmade wooden bar, vinyl records, pool and pinball give four friends something to do between conversations; a separate back space hosts live music. Let the shared activity carry the evening. Check the music schedule before choosing a night if conversation is your priority.

I'd put a proper meal at the center of this week, and Gus' Sip & Dip supplies the tavern setting. Burgers and dipped sandwiches sit alongside cocktails in a dim, wood-accented room, making this a food break rather than a promised viewing stop. Give the group a dinner-first reset before another screen-led outing. Confirm kitchen service and seating options for four before leaving.

I'd make Frank & Mary's the clearest screen-led stop, then let the food question follow. Nine TVs and a kitchen known for its meatloaf tradition give this Avondale tavern substance beyond the picture. Still, screens do not guarantee your match or its audio. Have one friend confirm the intended broadcast and current kitchen offering before the four of you commit.

I'd take four friends to Cody's Public House when watching and playing deserve equal say. Darts, pool and a jukebox share the neighborhood-bar setting, which also hosts watch parties; bringing your own meal works because there is no traditional kitchen. Keep the food pickup in the group chat before anyone arrives. Confirm the current watch-party plan rather than assuming your event is showing.

I'd close at Clark Street Ale House with conversation, not another venue sprint. Backed bar stools, craft taps and a food-delivery policy give four friends a way to stay put without a kitchen on site. Let the last meal come to you rather than adding another stop. Check current hours and plan each person's route home before ordering.