Big Joe’s
1818 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL, 60640
Big Joe’s Menu
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Address :
1818 W Foster Ave
Chicago, IL, 60640 - Phone (773) 784-8755
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :1:00 pm - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : No
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Loud
Music : Juke Box
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Fri, Sat, Sun
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Has TV : Yes
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Helen S.
I came here with some friends last Friday for turtle racing. In order to race, you gotta buy drinks in order to get raffle tickets, and then raffle tickets are drawn/called every 15 minutes or so. Since we all wanted to race, we bought a bunch of drinks (4+ rounds of shots, good strategy Big Joe's). Drinks were average, and some were tasty, particularly the redheaded sluts and the lemon drops. I ended up sticking with a woodchuck for the rest of the night. I finally got called at the end, and picked Lucky Dan. Lucky Dan was on a winning streak that night actually, but unfortunately didn't win during my turn :( Sho shad.
(5)Mandy M.
Remember that one time where we had a birthday party there, bought ten pitchers, and then the entire bar got shutdown because there were way too many people over the fire code? Yeah, they let it way too many people as per usual and announced they could only let 50 people stay in the place before the fire marshal came. Then it was an awkward standoff...our group was literally the first ones there since we had a couple of birthdays and wanted to snag a table. Everyone was kicked out only 2 races in, with all of our beers and tickets wasted with no hopes of refunds or apologies.
(1)Allie D.
If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: "You need to experience a turtle race at least once in your life!" For this reason, Big Joe's has been on my Chicago bucket list since moving here and lucky for me, I only live a couple blocks away. Honestly, it wasn't as crazy as I expected, but it definitely gets busy for a neighborhood dive bar. It's an interesting mix of regulars, tourists, and young people who come from all over the city. The way it works is pretty simple. Buy drinks, earn raffle tickets. The more tickets you accumulate, the greater your chances are of getting drawn to participate in the race. I was miraculously drawn two races in a row, despite the drunkards behind me that had WAY more tickets. My first turtle was Jolanda, "the slowest fucking turtle", as they say. It seems kind of mean that they keep repeating that over and over again throughout the night, but the Turtle Wrangler seems to be in some kind of trance when he says it. Anyway, she got 2nd to last place which got me squat. In the second race, I got paired with Lola (also, incredibly slow) but luckily enough, she was slow enough to come in last which meant a free drink token for me! ...it's the little things in life. I guess the Turtle Gods were looking out for us that night, because our group was extremely lucky. In fact, out of our group of six, four of us got picked to race and two of us raced multiple times. My friend even made it to the final round and won a t-shirt! Score. I'd like to think he wears it around his apartment everyday and gives himself thumbs up in the mirror. Did I mention some lady just walked up to him and handed him a drink after that? The drink was awful, but the glory was magnificent. We were Turtle Kings, if only for a night. FYI: The turtle races start around 10PM on Friday nights. It's extremely difficult to find accurate information about this anywhere online, which is strange considering so many people say "Oh, you must go and experience it!" but yet you can't find two sites with reliable, matching info about WHEN to go. Many people say you must go early. I've heard people start filling up the place 1-2 hours prior, however, that was not my experience. Maybe I just got lucky, but the bar never hit capacity and the crowd kept dwindling throughout the night, strengthening our chances of getting to race. With that said, our neighbors had some out-of-towners come stay with them last weekend and when they tried going around 7:30, they were turned away. I guess it's a crapshoot. "May the odds be...." God, I hate myself sometimes. Just do it.
(5)Jon S.
It was cool to experience turtle racing for the first time, but I don't think I'll ever feel the urge to go back. We were one of the lucky groups to get a turtle in a race, but it still wasn't all that fun. Only the first and last place turtles win a prize, and it's not a setup where you can actually bet a on turtle--now that would be fun. I should explain how you get a turtle in the first place. When you buy drinks, you earn raffle tickets. Before each of the six (?) races tickets are drawn for each of the six turtles. If your ticket gets drawn you're assigned the turtle. But anyway, if you check it out, make sure to bring cash because they don't accept credit cards. Pro-tip: Bring an extra 10 bucks for pizza. At some point during the night, a pizza guy came in with a bunch of pepperoni pizzas for sale. They're nothing special, but the bar doesn't serve food otherwise.
(2)Angela P.
Turtle racing. That is what makes Big Joe's famous. Without turtle racing, Big Joe's is just another casual, neighborhood dive bar. Big Joe's has a full bar, decent prices, some tables and TVs...like a lot of other bars. But TURTLE RACING. I came here for a friend's birthday. Turtle racing is on Saturday nights at 10:00 p.m., and it gets packed to capacity early. My friend arrived at 8:30 p.m., and by the time we arrived, we found her crammed into a corner on a bar stool. As for us, we were wedged in the corner by the ATM for the time that we were here. Another friend ended up having to wait outside by herself, because the bar was at CAPACITY. I was told that it gets busy, but not to this extent, so perhaps the extra large crowd that night was also out celebrating St. Patrick's Day AND the streak of warm weather. I would still tell anyone to get here EARLY. Since the turtle races are done at the back of the bar, turtles on a table, with little "spectator" space, there wasn't any chance we would actually witness the turtle races. Big Joe's has sort of figured this out - there's a large TV screen above the bar that broadcasts the turtle race for all to see. Everyone has the chance to race turtles. For every drink you buy, they give you a raffle ticket. If your number is chosen, you're assigned to a turtle. If your turtle wins, you win a Big Joe's t-shirt. If your turtle is in last place, you get a free drink. Turtle racing is absolutely gimmicky, but at least I can say I've seen it happen. Since we had a really poor view of everything, it wasn't too exciting, but if I lived in the neighborhood I might find myself back here again, or I'd be happy to oblige a friend's birthday invite. It's not a "must see" kind of thing though.
(3)Gwen D.
Seeking a low-key night out, two friends and I hit Big Joe's for the turtle races. We grabbed some inexpensive beer and found a spot where we'd get a great view of the races. For some reason (ha!), watching turtles walk around a circle until one of them crosses out doesn't sound all that special. But at Big Joe's, turtle racing is a blast. The excitement is contagious! We left by midnight; after cheering on a few rounds of turtles (and gabbing for hours at dinner beforehand), we figured we'd experienced the best Big Joe's had to offer. I don't think I'll return for awhile, but I'd definitely be open to going again for a low-key Friday night! Bring cash.
(4)Katy S.
"Hey there's turtle racing at a dive bar by my place, want to come?" When I was asked that, I thought...hell yes! Something different; something that sounds super fun! We walk in and the first thing we all noticed almost instantly was that the place is a. small and b. extremely hot in there!! It got more and more crowded as the night went on so by the end of our night, we were all pretty soaked in our own sweat. Bleh. Now on to, what was supposed to be, the highlight of the night- turtles. So this is how it goes, people. As you order drinks, they give you tickets with numbers on them (like those you would get at a raffle). The more you order, the more tickets you get. Ie. I believe a pitcher got us 8 tix. There are five rounds of races with approx 6 or 7 turtles as 'participants'. The only way you can bet on a turtle and actually win something is if they call one of your ticket numbers. Our table, with over 10 people, had approx 80 tickets and not once did we get called the whole night!!! How is that possible?! The odds are definitely against you here, people. It just doesn't make sense and it's pretty unfair. We spent a pretty penny on pitchers and shots and we couldn't even get up close to see the damn heroes in a half shell. From what we saw on the big screen and heard people screaming, avoid Yolanda if your ticket does miraculously get called but my advice to you all: avoid this entire place. I'd rather buy five turtles and watch them go at it with some friends in our own house!
(1)Christoph J.
Went here for the turtle races, but it took FOREVER for the guy to begin. We could only take so much of the awful crowd before we had to abandon any hope of seeing the turtles race. The place is a dive, which was fine...but it got really cramped in there. Also, the turtle wrangler seriously needs to be nicer to the turtles. Several times he would open the box, look in at them, and then shove the box in the corner really hard. Be nicer, turtle abuser. Also, why not let them walk around a bit? Why are these turtles trapped in a cardboard box?! Big Joe's is cash-only, which is lame but wasn't an issue with us. The beer was fine and not too expensive. It was a combination of awful drunk college girls, turtle abuse and claustrophobia that sent us packing. Was actually really excited to go here, but was really disappointed. Bummer.
(2)Allison F.
There's only one reason to come to Joe's: the famous TURTLE RACES. I have yet to experience anything like it. You have to come with a plan though: bring cash, wear layers, arrive early, stock up on drinks, and find a good spot near the race table. If you don't, then you're bound to be disappointed, or--even worse--finding another bar to spend your evening at.
(4)Monica S.
The door guy was rude and the bar was underwhelming. Not impressed. Needless to say, I won't be back. Turtles or no turtles- it's not worth the drive due to the bar being in the middle of NOWHERE. Sorry not sorry!
(1)Clint L.
Ultimate dive bar experience. Turtle races on Friday nights are the best thing in town.
(5)Mike K.
I assume PETA knows about this place and the turtles are taken care of and have good homes and a healthy lifestyle, well outside of their mad dash to freedom every Friday only to have it snatched away from them. I may need a report. I will go rescue those f'n turtles if I have to. especially that one big turtle who gets made fun of every race. She's totally given up on life. You don't have to except this life....the movie Roots was based on such events like these...minus the turtle part. the good of it is i did go there with my ladyfriend, who has this weird thing about turtles. a little scary, but it's cute...I've been with worse issues...anyways, she loved every second of it, even got called to the table. he r turtle lost in a photo-finish, which in turtle world is as rare as the turtle poll vault, but i'll give her the benefit of doubt. Plus i'm sure the five hours of drinking will steer your judgement. But it does fill up, many come to see the turtles, there's a random pizza dude who shows up, and at a dive like this where you drink until watching turtles race is fun, that pizza is necessary and goes fast. It's not even good pizza, but you won't care. as the night was concluding for us and we'd drank ourselves to the point where making out seemed like a chore, the bartender remembered we were drinking a particular type of beer, and the keg was empty....so he gave us the half of pitcher he could get out of the keg for free....just randomly. At that point we may not have been able to walk out the door, but we attempted to conquer this pitcher....attempted, and fail. still great customer service. It's a good time. get there early if you want a seat.
(4)Melissa A.
I was pretty stoked when my friend invited me to see the turtle races at Big Joe's (which only happen on Fridays I believe) but was disappointed at the end of the night. I know it's a dive bar so obviously it's not anything fancy but it was too hot and crowded for my taste. It might just be that I'm getting older and grumpier but I was exhausted and all I wanted to do was sit and enjoy a beverage. The atmosphere at Big Joe's was very lively which was nice and everyone was very into the turtle racing. I think this type of bar just isn't my scene, at least not on a Friday night when it's super packed. I'm sure it could be fun with a good group of people!
(2)Bran G.
This is the most fun with turtles since the teenage mutant ninja type. At Big Joe's beer/drinks = tickets and tickets could = chance to be in turtle racing so drink up. Our number wasn't called through 4 races but maybe that is better than getting "Yolanda! The slowest turtle in the world!" They also broadcast the live turtle races on the TVs in front so no need to go huddle around the turtle track. Winners get a free t-shirt which no one would sell to me for $20 and last place gets a free drink. Everyone's happy! Except 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th but who remembers them anyway. Big Joe's embraces the "dive" theme to the fullest. Pitchers of Lagunitas IPA are only $15 and likely the most expensive drink they sell. There is no real food but somebody came in selling whole hot pizzas. You can buy bags of chips, Cheetos, or nuts behind the counter. Go with a medium sized group because you will get more tickets but it also isn't the biggest so you don't want to be able to fit at a small table. Turtle racing starts at 10 and they space out 6 races but get there a bit early to start stock piling raffle tickets. Cowabunga dude!
(4)Michael A.
Great staff and great concept. But the place has a very racist -frat party vibe to it. I went there with my girlfriend I got my fair share of disapproving stares and one of the patrons there looked at me and said "disgusting" to his pal. It is also very cramped in there and very limited seating. I don't think that the staff is racist or anything, but definitely I did not feel welcome there by the other people there. Great place if you are middle aged caucasian male, you will fit right in and have a great time there. AGain, I would give the place five stars, but as for my experience, I didn't really like it. The drinks were good and cheap.
(1)Kori E.
Did you say Turtle Racing? Yes please!!! The place was SUPER packed and the guys behind the bar were great. I asked if they had wine (I know), and he literally looked at me and said "you're kidding, right?" HA! Love it! We got a bunch of tickets with our drinks and settled upstairs hoping and praying to be called! As luck would have it folks, my ticket was called and I literally could not have been more excited. I ran up to the man in the turtle hat, pulled out my ball and sighhhh #5 Jolanda! SLOWEST turtle in the pack! Jolanda literally sat in the middle and just stared at me...she wasnt budging. I still got a drink token though and had a blast competing with the other turtle racers! We stayed for a bit longer, but once you've seen a few races its time to move on. Its definitely a fun place to frequent...everyone really gets into the racing and its quite hysterical. If you havent been definitely check it out.
(5)Colleen B.
A friend took us all out to see the Turtle Races a few Fridays ago and when I entered the place I knew, THIS IS MY NEW BAR. I'm a midwestern girl who will choose a comfy, relaxed, (read: dive) over a crowded frat joint any day. It's as if they lifted this place out of the north woods of Wisconsin. How lucky are we? The bartender and owner could not have been nicer. When I asked to see if they had Hacker-Pschorr, they not only had it but insisted I get the proper glass. That's notthing magical if you're used to $12 martinis and valet parking but for a relaxed place like Big Joes's the extra touch feels special.
(5)Nate L.
I haven't had a chance to see the infamous turtle race yet but I heard it gets pretty crazy and loud. I will probably pass on that one. Cheap booze, darts, pool table and juke box. What the hell else do you need for a dive? Friendly regulars and cool owners. Little bit on the older crowd but if you are chilling inside a dive bar, you are not there for a company. You are there to get smashed! Plenty of free parking which is always the plus. Especially when they will raise the price starting Jan. 1st. If I were to stay in Chicago, I can see myself being a regular at this place.
(4)Allison E.
Now THIS is my kinda bar. Reminds of the dives we used to hang out in college. Totally laid back, great drink specials, nothing fancy. And that's not even the best part. They have turtle racing on Fridays!! Best thing ever. I have to admit, I developed a fondness for "Jolanda", slowest fuckin' turtle in the world! I guess I like to root for an underdog. The whole turtle race spectacle was hilarious and awesome, made better by the great announcer. I laughed. I cheered. It made my night.
(5)Annie D.
Turtle racing. On Thursday, I didn't know this existed. On Friday, I went home a winner. At Big Joe's, you buy drinks and those drinks come with tickets if it's racing night. If your ticket number is called, you get to participate in the turtle races (there are multiple races per evening). My speedy turtle (Lucky Dan) won me a 1st place T-shirt. However, the turtle you want is actually Yolanda. She's so slow and the loser wins a free drink, which I'm sure we can agree is way better than a T-shirt. Anyway, I'll let you figure out the rest when you get there, because it's all part of the experience. Other amenities: -Beer and other drinkables -Darts -A bathroom that looks eerily like the bathroom of your friend's parents' house -No food, but around midnight someone comes by selling pizza from a nearby place. It's not great, but sometimes you haven't had dinner and you just HAVE to eat it for your own well-being. Big Joe's is basically everyman's neighborhood dive... and potentially everyturtle's too.
(4)An P.
One friend got picked for the turtle race. Then another friend got picked for a turtle race. Then another friend who never been there before got picked for the turtle race.. Then I got sad. THEN I got picked for the turtle race with the fastest turtle!!!!!!!!!!! Then my turtle lost. Then I got sad. Then someone was playing with my darts and wouldn't give them back and started insulting me. Then I took my darts back with force and foul language. Then I played darts. Then I won money playing darts. Then I was happy. I do not know why I drank an entire pitcher with no cup.
(5)Kate M.
I came to Big Joes to check out the turtle races, but was there pretty early and got a feeling for the 'real Big Joes' too. I think the real Big Joes, sans all the turtle race fans, is a laid back dive bar with a pool table, some dart boards, and a few flat screens to watch a game or two on. The drinks were pretty cheap, the bartenders were nice. All in all not a bad place. Enter turtle race fans and the whole vibe changes. The turtle race crowd is younger, just there to see what it's like to watch turtles race, and obviously plan on continuing their night at a much different caliber venue. It was hot, crowded to the point of drinks spilling on people, and kinda hard to get to the bar. BUT, there were turtles about to race, and how can that not be fun? You get raffle tickets for the drinks you buy and they call numbers for the lucky person who gets to race the turtles. The first turtle out of the circle and the last turtle in the circle win. I won!!!!!!! My turtle, Chucks, was the last turtle in the circle and I won a free drink. How exciting. Then we left. :) If I lived near by Big Joe's would be a good dive bar to hang out at, play pool, throw some darts, and have a relaxing no fuss night. But not on turtle race night. On turtle race night it's a packed and pushy turtle racing spectacle.
(3)Andre W.
$3 Stella specials on a Saturday night is whats up!!!! DJ playing a mixture of different music is whats up!!!! Having great street parking is also whats up!!!! Big ups to the woman manning the bar by herself all night long They also have dartboards and pool tables
(4)Nicole F.
I truly enjoy this bar. I believe strongly in "to each their own" so I won't hate on everyone who did not enjoy their Big Joe's experience, but to my friends and I this bar is really great. We love turtle racing. Sure it can get repetitive after weeks of going, but you have to make your own fun and we always enjoy it and why would you just go to any bar and drink when you could be somewhere to drink AND have the added fun of turtle races? The crowd always makes for great people watching and you meet some interesting characters. If you want a mellow evening, Big Joe's and their turtles are not for you. Beer is priced lower, raffle tickets for the races come with it, it's a great plan. BEWARE: it is cash only, but there is an ATM inside. Eventually I do want to make it to Big Joe's on other nights (Sunday jazz, Wednesday trivia), but for now I can certainly say the set up and atmosphere of Big Joe's always brings a good time.
(5)Jennie S.
Two words: TURTLE. RACING. Buying drinks will get you raffle tickets. If your ticket number is called, you're assigned a turtle. If you win, you could win a free t-shirt and a drink. If you are last place, you get a free drink. Drinks are reasonably priced. Win-win. The drunker you get, the more hilarious it is. Although the idea of turtle racing is incredibly silly, I will not frequent this bar for that event because it will get old fast. Other than the turtles, this is is your typical friendly neighborhood bar.
(4)Christopher S.
An Amazing time!!! This place had me hooked instantly plus drinks/pitchers are cheap. The turtle races on Friday are unlike anything in Chicago. Have no plans on Friday night this is the place to go.
(5)Steve M.
Turtle racing?! Coolest past time ever. Sure, Joe's was probably breaking fire code with all the people in there last Friday night, but I had to check out those flying tortoises (tortoi?). Drinks are cheap, bartenders were great, jukebox was excellent, and from the looks of this place it's a hangout for the darts-obsessed people of the Northside. If you decide to go for turtle racing, make sure to show up a little earlier (races start at 9) so that you can stake out a spot by the pool table, where they set up. If you don't feel like standing, you can still watch from the bar, where they show the races on the TV.
(4)Jeff G.
fun time at the turtle races, though kind of gets old since the same one always wins. good crowd
(4)Billy D.
Turtle races are less interesting than watching paint dry. Skip it.
(2)Kimberly K.
Love this place! You have to go on a Friday night for the main event: Turtle Races! :o) Buy drinks and get tickets. If your number is called, you could win a free t-shirt and drink! The crowd really gets into it and has a lot of fun. Drinks are pretty reasonably priced too. It feels like you're at a big college house party. Good times!
(4)Nikki S.
Pretty much what you would expect of a turtle bar...not the fanciest spot, but it does not have to be. The drinks are well priced and the bartenders are nice.
(5)Anthony P.
I haven't been here in 20 years.It used to be the 2& 6 pence pub.
(5)Tim B.
Daddy Likes!!! Big Joe's is a bar. It has stools, and a bar with bottles of liquor behind it. It's great!! I go on Monday nights at like 10:30 for the free giant cheese pizza (they get one delivered from somewhere for whoever's in the bar at the time), and Monday night is the open mic comedy night too. Super fun. This dude Othy Schwering (I think) runs the open mic, which starts off with a featured comedian from the city that does like 15 mins on stage to start the show off right! If you're lucky, there's a giant fat dude that smells like hot garbage walking around speaking what one would think would be maybe some kind of Klingon language...or he just has no teeth and a mouth full of pulled pork.....not sure....he was there last night!!! The staff got him outta there without incident. Poor fella. Can't find his planet. Monday nights they do ALL the weekly specials at the bar...every day's specials are available on Mondays.... You know, this isn't the best bar in the world because Justin Bieber doesn't own it or hang out there, but it's a decent little place. Not too shabby.. BEST COAT CHECK EVER!!!
(5)Samantha L.
I am a fan of Big Joes, mainly because I live a block away. The staff are always super friendly, especially if you go on an empty weeknight. Definitely a neighborhood type place. The only busy night is Friday with the turtle races. It is a great time, especially if you are wasted. Somehow watching turtles make their way to the edge of a circle is only fun when you are drunk, who knew? I like that they have a gimmicky thing on Fridays though. I live so far north that it is hard for me to get my friends to go out in my hood. But when you say "have you ever seen a turtle race" they all come running. Next thing I know I have a pre party at my place and don't have to pay for any cabs. Thanks Big Joe's! Keep racin' dem turtles!
(4)Noah S.
Great dive bar. Staff is extremely friendly and the drinks are cheap. There is a pool table, dartboard, and turtle racing. For three minutes I watched an adult man scream variations of "Come on, Yolanda!" into a microphone at an almost-stationary turtle.
(4)Billy M.
Turtle Races!
(4)Dom G.
What a great place to hang with some friends and have a great time watching turtles race! I mean come on! Turtle Races! Where else can you watch turtles take each other on in a grudge match that can last for a while because they are not that fast... We not only went and drank but we also got into the race and WON! Woo Hoo a free Joe's T-Shirt!! Good Times...
(4)Jackie P.
Guaranteed a night of random fun for you and a group of friends. I think you could go there solo and make friends. Staff was very friendly. I give them kudos because I imagine the fun-loving and relatively obnoxious patrons could become annoying every Friday for the turtle races. Spend money at the bar and you get a ticket for every dollar you spend. Those tickets could then be drawn for you chance to win some very sweet schwag in the event your turtle wins the race. Prizes include: Big Joe's XXL t-shirts and thongs for the ladies. Go get you some Big Joe's. It's worth the effort to get there.
(4)Ben K.
My first thought when I heard about turtle racing was of a crowded pit of people, all shaking and waving myriad dollar bills of different currencies at each other, alternately shouting with joy and cursing depending on their rapidly changing fortunes over the course of the race. I of course was immediately interested in throwing my hand into a ring of arbitrary wagering and got very excited to join in. We were told Big Joe's gets very crowded, so we should arrive early. A combination of restlessness and obsessive punctuality led to showing up at the bar at 7:30. Turtle racing doesn't start until 10:15, and people dont really fill in until at least 9:30. Keep that in mind if you're not OK entertaining yourself for a couple hours on cheap pitchers and a 75 cent per game pool table. Sadly, while the venue itself is a reasonable hangout (pool table, 3+ dart boards, cheap drinks), the turtle racing was little more than a novelty. After the initial moment when the glass cage is released, watching the turtles is quite literally like watching grass grow. They space out the 6 races for the night quite a ways so you stick around (can't blame them I suppose), but there really isn't too much action going on and the turtle racing area is quite crowded. The prizes are a t-shirt for the winner, and a beer for the loser. Nobody was making side bets of any kind (except for me). Sigh. I suppose I'll probably end up back here at some point in the distant future; but let's just say that if you're a regular at OTB, you're not exactly going to get your fix in here.
(3)Eric S.
Am I biased? Absolutely. Joe pays for my darts team's fees. So? That's good business; that's a guaranteed return on a small fee every time the bar hosts, and I get to have fun with my friends. Look, if you want a good neighborhood bar, this is the place. The bar staff are friendly, and they remember who remembers to tip. You will see Joe around a lot, he looks exactly like the sign. A few TV's, an electronic jukebox with a decent selection. Like pool? They got a table for that. And probably would sponsor a team if you asked. Like darts? They have four boards. Real boards! I mean, the bar is named after Joe's typical scores in darts: 2 and 6. And he probably would sponsor a team if you asked. Just remember, don't run up/down the stairs while someone is throwing on the board by the stairs, the old timers will get pissed. Jazz on Sundays: excellent. A bunch of skilled local jazz artists sitting around jamming. Turtle Races on Fridays: definitely entertaining. Remember to get there a little early to get access to the bar, for three reasons: better access to the bar, more drinks = more chances to win, and fewer people (which increases your ticket power, too!).
(5)Vanessa U.
So, I had to check out these turtle races last Friday... but for some reason, I was under the surefire impression that they started at 7PM!? Yeah, they don't, they probably started closer to 10PM, but of course I dragged my fella down there around 530PM (we wanted to be early, and had no idea exactly how early we actually were). The result? We started drinking early, because pitchers of PBR were cheap, and got us 6 tickets each. We played a variety of music on the jukebox that ranged from Johnny Cash to Sammy Hagar to Rihanna (you can guess which two I picked...) Yeah, we were drunk and more or less disorderly, and only made it through the first turtle race before we were too sick/tired/confused/hot (huge crowd!) to continue on in our current states, and we went home. Despite all of these setbacks, we had an AWESOME time, and plan on going again in the future. But we won't be so unfashionably early, next time.
(4)Kate P.
Came here Sunday night to participate in a new literary reading series hosted by Nancy Beckett and the Lakeside Sunday Storyoke crew! Squashed between the ending of the Bears game and before the Jazz musicians set up, we took over the upper level back stage and we all had a great time! Wonderful stories were shared, beer was poured and boy did we laugh. It was truly a fantastic experience! I can't wait until the next installation, since Nick the barkeep and host just bought 3 brand-new TVs so we'll be able to simulcast the storytellers at the mic, all over the bar. I'll need to comb my hair and print out my prose in 14 Times New Roman Font so I'll look fabulous and be able to read without squinting, since everyone will know what I look like. Maybe even some lip gloss, if I feel like it. So, since the first one went rather well, we're hoping to do this literary reading series here every month, so stay tuned and come on over, if you dare to hear some prose from me, Krazy Kate and my cool kat friends. I also need to come back on a Friday night to check out the awesome turtle races I keep hearing so much about. Big Joe's gets a hip hip hurray from me for being such an awesome establishment!
(4)Veronica M.
Went there Friday to see whats all the hype on turtle races.They were cute the only thing was that the announcer was so loud during the races it was annoying hearing him scream I get he has to be loud to hype up the crowed but if don't mind having him scream thru the speakers I suggest you go some where more non frat like.
(3)Kim J.
In case you were curious, you absolutely can have your own private turtle party. I did this weekend and it. was. RIDICULOUS. Renee was a delight, and you all know how much I love the rest of the crew. I'm probably sounding a bit schmoopy here, as I've been on cloud nine since getting engaged. But there are good people here with good hearts. Dom went out of his way to make my faux engagement party one of the best nights I've ever had. They made us a ridiculous sign. They let my pregnant friends go to the super-secret back porch if they needed to get air. They didn't bat an eye at my ridiculous dancing. Over the course of many years, these guys have become like a second family to me. I suppose Big Joe's is my Cheers. Sometimes I just wanna go where they know me, y'know?
(5)Amy H.
I celebrated my birthday (again!) here a few nights ago. All I can say is WOW!!! The bartendress was wasted and a lot of fun! My friend and I sat at the bar for a while and made up a drinking game for The Bachelor. The bartendress kept coming over and being silly and we loved it! Then the rest of our party showed up and we quickly took over the back room. The bartendress was quick with the pitchers and making us all laugh. Big Joe's is a great neighborhood bar.
(4)Chuck K.
Went here on Friday for friend's birthday party. Not too shabby of a bar. CASH ONLY and NO FOOD. Bartenders are friendly and they have plenty of room. It's a tad North so a bit out of the way for me at least. The reason to go on Fridays.......TURTLE RACES! This was a pretty cool experience. It takes a while to get them going and drags on for most of the night. Something different, that's for sure. Oh one last thing.......MY TURTLE WON HIS RACE!
(3)Ry O.
There's one piece of manamallian communication that I think pretty much sums up the night at Big Joe's: "Zak. Yo Zak. ZAK! YO ZAK! ..... ... hey whatsup?" Yes. DePaul apparently loves this place. And though it's very, very crowded, hot, and i was at times questioning their ability to check IDs, it still manages to be a pretty good time. It was fun, though 90% of the people at Big Joe's were there for the first time, if that gives you any idea of how much fun it is.
(3)A S.
Bartenders are great. Sorry to ruin the fun but the turtle thing is cruel. They're living beings and experience distress just like every other living being. I hate that they do this. Can't they come up with a game that involves something other than a living reptile?
(2)Emily D.
A friend turned 30. We needed Jaeger shots. I think you know what comes next, but how did we wind up at Joe's? Not by taking the 92 bus, rather stumbling out of a fabulous NeoFuturist play called "Beer". LOVED the play. So hard. And loved Joe's. Renee, the bartender, was a delight. I like places that don't try too hard. You respect them, they pour shots to the rim of the glass. You put Afro Man on the jukebox, everyone cheers. They host private parties in the back, but the party goers are practically family by the end of the night. Loved the whole scene. Loved the guy with thick-rimmed 70's specs and a goatee. Loved the fat man in a leather vest. Loved the scenesters with sequins. Bottom line, good, strong drinks with a mosaic of Chicagoans around just chatting and carrying on. It's too legit. Too legit to quit.
(4)StreetPhotos A.
This is a great neighborhood bar. Very friendly people and cheap beer. No food but you can have it delivered to the bar. On most nights it slow with the exception of the Friday Night Turtle Races. Every time you buy a drink you get tickets. If they draw your tickets you get to go up and pick your turtle. A group of turtles are placed in the middle of a large table and scramble for the edges. Winner gets a t-shirt and last place gets free beer! Take a look at the photos. If that doesn't look like a good time I don't know what does. I can't imagine a better way to spend a Friday night!
(4)Elias H.
Had a great time at the turtle races. My number was picked and my turtle won! Beginners luck i guess. I wasn't overly impressed with the layout or decor of this bar, but it did have a laid back and chill atmosphere. No pretentiousness. Didn't stay long enough to truly experience the place, but I gotta say that the turtle races were very exciting.
(4)Janet K.
My husband and I stopped here last Sunday night to check out their Jazz. On Sundays, starting at 8PM a variety of musicians use their space to practice in - and its a rare treat. I really liked the combo that played last Sunday and I also really liked the lack of cover charge and the reasonably priced drinks. The regulars who were playing pool when the band started were fun and good about finishing their game soon after the music started. The bartender seemed down to earth and we noticed that there is also a pretty nice beer garden out back.
(4)Lynn M.
Cheap drinks, fun turtle races, friendly bar tending, and Aqua Net in the women's bathroom. Enough said.
(5)Jim D.
Big Joes is really two different bars: a local dive for alcoholics ONLY all of the week, and a quirky hipster mecca on Friday nights. I'll be brief on the first part, I showed up early for happy hour/pre-turtle racing around 6:30ish one night and it was one of the few times I felt a deafening silence as I walked into the place. Every regular looked at me with that "its not time for people like you to ruin our bar yet" stare , and the bartenders were equally perplexed and almost reluctant to serve me. Strange, mildly scary stuff And then, in come the turtles. This place is a must for anyone who wants to see something quintessentially Chicago, and utterly ridiculous. For the uninitiated, dozens of drunks buy as much beer as possible so that they can be "turtle jockeys" for the six turtles who will race from the center of a table to its end to win a prize. Everyone else treats this like the Kentucky Derby and screams their lungs out while they plod along the table. Insanely silly? Sure it is, but that's what makes it one hell of a party. The beer sucks, but its cheap, and the genuinely excited people wrap you up in the joys of this event until the entire bar gets whipped into a frenzy for each race. Hell, someone brought Red Velvet cupcakes one night and just started handing them out. You either love it or you hate it, put me in the first category.
(4)Chris M.
Cool little place right next to my friend's house, so it makes it convenient to fall into. Friday nights I think are the turtle races, which is something to see. They give you all of these raffle tickets depending on how many drinks you order. The tickets decide who will be racing the turtles, and I guess you can win some sort of prizes. All and all, it's something new to check out if you're in the area. I wouldn't go out of my way to go here, but it sure as heck beats the club scene.
(4)Heather H.
I wasn't going to write a review for this place but the girl below who said she wouldn't walk around the neighborhood is forcing me to write one. Since I live 2 blocks away with my 10 month old baby - I can assure you that it's a perfectly safe neighborhood to walk around... It's 3 blocks from Andersonville which is extremely safe. Try living in the neighborhood before you make judgements. Big Joe's is just ok. It's a major dive bar with cheap beer. It reminds me of Newport Bar & Grill off from Soutthport.
(3)Url R.
The friday night turtle races make the evening worth it. The pitcher specials are pretty good. Although there is no food, there were pizza delivery guys showing up selling them left and right to drunk turtle racing addicts.
(4)MaryAnne M.
Being successful in business is providing a product/service no one else does. I do believe Big Joe's has succeeded where others have failed with Turtle Races. Yes, for the price of a few beers you can watch 6 turtles go neck and neck. (Neck and neck being a relative term in regards to turtles). Takes place every Friday and the first Saturday of every month. This is a neighborhood bar, which means there is a healthy mix of locals, and patrons here for the races.
(4)Kairo C.
do it just once if you must. see the turtles race. if you are an animal lover try to restrain the protest you may feel - supposedly the turtles live like kings and queens every other minute of the day not spent being heckled by drunkards. upon seeing the ninja turtles confined within a crate i immediately wanted to make a poster demanding to "free willy.... er michaelangelo, leonardo, donatello, raphael & co". most dudes were in the college freshman fratty uniform of cheesy slogan shirts, sports hat, and weirdly faded jeans and the dudettes strung along their arms had the bare essentials covered, paired with long socks, uggs, with straightened hair. so i sipped on my beer waiting for this race, pondering the ethics of it all and once the race was over i was instantly ready to leave. it was fraggin hot, the kiddies around me where loud, sweaty, and smelly, and the poor turtles... after i watched the turtles panicky and freaked out or "racing" i was already ready to go... and so we promptly left
(1)Deirdre L.
A long time ago, I promised to move this place up to 5 stars if they got a TV above the bar that showed the races (check) and if they could keep my eyeballs from drying up like a raisin from the smoke (check). The TV broadcast of the race is indeed a fantastic addition, its much easier to get into the races if you don't arrive super early to secure a table by the 'racetrack' and its a little easier to find a path to the surprisingly clean bathroom. The staff is nice and has a great personality. I'm sure summer will still be hot as Hades in here, but without the smoke it will be a million times easier to enjoy. Its a great, lively place for an birthday, out of town guests (who don't mind a fun, lively night in a dive) etc
(5)Andy S.
I lost my (turtle racing) virginity at Big Joe's last night. Yes, that's what they say when you get lucky enough to have your ticket # called to go race a turtle. Less than half of our planned group showed up for our planned turtle racing adventure, but as it turned out that was a good thing. Not only was Big Joe's already packed, but it with fewer friends showing up, the greater our odds were of getting called up to race. The atmosphere here is just downright madness during the races, with everyone stopping what they're doing to observe each race (every 10 minutes or so) and go crazy cheering for their turtle of choice. In between I found everyone I talked to be nearly as enjoyable as the races--not a bad attitude to be found here. The prices were average for a dive--and hey, you get turtle racing lotto tickets with each drink, so who even cares how much you're paying? The bartenders did a heroic job of trying to keep up with drink demand, but even so, service at times was going just about as fast as Jolanda (Big Joe's self described "slowest f**king turtle in the world). But as you can probably guess, the slow service didn't detract enough from the experience of good people, cheap drinks, and turtle racing(!) to harm my first Big Joe's experience. I'll be coming back, and this time Lola won't let me down...2nd place? Seriously?
(4)Kandarpa C.
First things first: There is no turtle racing on the first Saturday of the month! That ended some time ago and I was pretty fucking disappointed by that. I will be there next Friday to check this shit out. This place was pretty awesome -- pitchers filled so full that I had to drink some of it at the bar, decent jukebox, good crowd. They have the cleanest bathroom I have ever seen in ANY bar, but it was surprising considering this place. There was even spray deodorant in case you forgot to wear any. My group of 6 got free shots, which ruled pretty hard, especially considering that we didn't chat with the bartender all that much. The only downside was that my music selection got mocked by the bartender and there is no need to mock Jolie Holland! She may not have been the right mood music at the time, but I quite enjoyed it myself.
(4)Carla F.
It's turtle racing season again! Again, my number was not called. :( But a couple of my friend's were! Being able to watch the races from the TV was ideal for our group since the actual racing area was out of sight for us. Big Joe's is by no means huge, so be prepared for it to be crowded-especially on Fridays (race night). Women: don't attempt to go to el baño during the races---you'll be sorry or you'll just decide the line is too long and still have to pee. It's a one toilet bathroom, so anytime there's a line, it doesn't go very quick. Unless you did what I did and just got in line for the men's room. I was in and out in half the time. And don't worry I met Big Joe himself outside and when I asked him his opinion on women using the men's room he said "when you gotta go, you gotta go"-true story! Bottom line---you should enjoy a Friday night here as long as you aren't too put off by large crowds or women peeing in the men's room
(5)Kristin S.
I came. I raced. I won a t-shirt. Hooray for Lucky Dan! 5 stars if we'd only discovered the cheap Bud Light pitchers earlier. ($25 Stella pitchers put a hurtin' on the wallet) Another reason for only 4 stars: because even though we were assured the turtles are cool with their celebrity status, I wouldn't want a bar full of drunks yelling at me every Friday night. Love Big Joe's for a great, unpretentious place to get away from the obnoxious bar scene farther south. We got there a little early, started buying beer to accumulate tickets and chances to race. We got a great table right by the action and watched them set up the turtle racing table. Here's how the racing works: Buy drinks, get tickets. Every 30 minutes or so, a new race starts. Guy in a crazy turtle hat calls out numbers on a microphone. If you match, you run to the table like your name just got called by Bob Barker, screaming and waving your ticket. Pick a ping pong ball and you've picked one of 6 lovely turtles to jockey (aka cheer for like a madman). The turtles are put in the center ring, first one to the edge of the outer circle wins! Ready, set, yell your ass off! If your turtle wins, you get a t-shirt and a chance to race in the grand prixe final race. If your turtle comes in last, you get a token for a free drink. Three out of the four of us who went got to jockey, and had a fabulous, though fuzzy at the end, time. Go here on Fridays for the turtle races, but go early (8:30-9:00) for a good seat and to get a jump on the tickets. Be prepared for some serious crowds by 10 or 11, but hopefully by then you'll be too sauced to care.
(4)Stacey M.
Turtles Rock. So, I was pumped when my friend Kim was having \her birthday party at Big Joe's, known for their Friday Night Turtle Races! (Though her party was on Saturday, special arrangement. Just FYI in case anyone ever thinks about having a party there). You get raffle tickets, and if your ticket is picked, you're one of the "Turtle Jockeys"! There is a commentator, and a live TV feed so others in the bar can see it. Sounds hysterical, but it's even more hysterical to see it! The first turtle that makes it out of the big circle wins (a tshirt!), and the dead last turtle gets you a drink! :) HILLARIOUS - and fun to do something different for once! Special shout out to my friend Kim, who made masks to wear similar to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, hillarious! Good drink specials ($3 for a pint of Stella? on a Saturday! woot.), but minus one star for the less than friendly bartender. Everything else rocked, and she sorta warmed up, eventually (or after I had a few! ha!)
(4)Beth A.
"oooh yeah yeah ooh its yolanda" decent neighborhood corner bar...bussed it with a friend and cabbed it home (doesnt look like the kinda place id wanna be walkin round by myself) small 2 leveled place with nice bartenders...bar games...jukebox (thou rumor has it u shouldnt bother on a friday cause someone came in realllllllllll early and stocked it for the nite) races were interesting but u can only see em if u run upstairs real quick before everyone else gets there...they should do a play by play on who gets there the fastest "...and now making his way off the barstool #1 stumbles as #3 sqeezes through the 2 fat people blocking the doorway but alas #2 who was smart and sat upstairs to begin with is first at the table..." all in all a good time but let it be known the place is full of wall to wall wood paneling which post smoking ban has held in some not so great odors...o well what can u do ***props to the male who decorated the girls bathroom with a heart shaped bowl of potpourri, aquanet, & a ginormous bottle of cocoa butter lotion...i laughed when i stepped in...but its almost comforting like being at grandmas CASH ONLY...no ATM!!!
(3)Georgeanna S.
I won't go in to detail about the turtle racing because so many other people have. It is something everyone should check out at least once and a good place to take visitors (even though it's a bit off the main path). A few people have said the crowd is frat boy-tastic. Not at all. How seriously can anyone take themselves when watching turtle racing? The bar does get packed on Friday so a bit of pushing and shoving can be necessary if you need to pee, but that's just the nature of the place. Turtle races are going on, remember? In general I found everyone to be friendly. The bartender even gave me a free pitcher because he noticed I'd been waiting for a while. Good times, a good place- do it.
(4)Andy M.
It seems to me that if it wasn't for these reptiles racing that this place would not get as many good reviews as it is. This is just an average bar that has an interesting weekly gimmick The beer is cheap and the place is old. There is nothing about this place that really is something special ordeserving to be mentioned as one of the best bars in Chicago
(2)Emily P.
"Yes, this bar has turtle racing. That is the only reason I would ever know this bar existed... and perhaps the only reason I would trek all the way up north from the loop. But I definately recommend you check it out. Friday nights, be there. The bar is definately a dive, but it caters to the turtle racing theme. Pitchers are 7 or 8 bucks, and you get a raffle ticket for turtle racing with every drink you buy. I've been to this bar 3 times, and I have always received free drinks from the bartenders ... they're super friendly. Don't bother wearing your sunday's best to this bar, unless you are trying to impress the turtles. It is not a huge bar, so I recommend getting there prior to the start of the races (9:00pm). So start your pre-gamin early. It is a cash only bar. There's a 7-11 down the street with an ATM if need be. Miller products are not sold. The bar used to be really smoky, but that shouldn't be a problem now (and better for the little turtles). My suggestion: go here with a group of friends for a random night and be inspired. No body should walk through life a "turtle racing virgin". (You understand once you go there) ..."
(4)Erin B.
Two words. Turtle Races. Yeah. It's that fricken awesome! I had a great time here tonight with a friend, and loved the bar itself. Had a southside feel that you can't just earn on the northside. $3 for Miller/Bud products, you can't go wrong. Try it out at least once, on a Friday night (get there early, it gets packed!) and I promise you won't be disappointed!
(4)Nancy C.
You have to check it out at least once if you're in Chicago. How often do you get to watch turtles battle it out? It's a casual, fun crowd in general, and the turtle races are fun to watch at least for a while. The host could mix it up a little instead of saying the same lame jokes over and over again, but the turtles make up for it.
(3)Anne V.
Wow, i like it. i didn't go on turtle night but my friend said that it was really busy on turtle night. that's gross. turtles carry salmonella. i hope people don't touch the turtles. or step on them. that's even grosser. i went on a saturday and there was hardly anyone there. that's good because i didn't want to go to a crowded place. then i could talk to my friends and actually hear them. we played darts, too and they had a pool table. they had a jukebox but it never played our songs. the lady that worked there was a nice person too. i think the bathrooms were ok.
(4)Brandon H.
$3 Stella pints and real darts. The only way it WOULDN'T be worth going to is if they actually punched you in the face when you walked in. Otherwise, I can deal with the sh*tty jukebox & crusty customers. Did I mention the $3 Stella pints?
(4)Katherine R.
Big Joe's is more a neighborhood bar than a dive, with sports on TV and beer on tap. The bi-level layout has a digital jukebox and pool tables. Reminds me of the kind of bar you'd live around the corner from if you lived in a duplex in Milwaukee. So neighborhoody, in fact, that when I tried to upgrade our pitchers from PBR to Stella the bartendress reminded me, "It's six bucks more?" "You're right," I said, "Let's stick with the PBR."
(4)Nicole V.
Big Joe's is really an interesting place. Why the three stars you ask??? Let me explain... (fyi, I have only been on Friday nights for turtle races) The bar itself is pretty average with an ordinary drink selection. The space is small and the area where the turtle racing happens is really tiny and excruciatingly crowded during the races. The seating is limited throughout the bar...so don't be surprised if you have to stand. With every drink you are given tickets that might be called for turtle races (which happen every hour I think). If you are chosen to race, then you go up to the "track" and the announcer assigns your turtle. Now, I'm not one to get all animal activist and shiz....but I did feel bad for these little guys. First, they have a piece of paper with a number scotch taped to their shell...then they are stuck in a box...which they get pulled out of every hour...and placed in the center of a circle surrounded by drunk idiotic post college kids screaming at them. I like a good time just as much as the next guy...but my days for this sort of thing have passed. The idea is cool, but I would be much more into it if it was done in an appropriate space and in a more humane manner. Just sayin.
(3)Blaise S.
Here, turtle-turtle-turtle! C'mmmmooonnn TURTLE!! Went to Big Joe's with a group of friends on a Friday night for the turtle races and it was outstandingly awesome! First off, this is a cool laid-back bar where the drinks are great prices (lower prices on beer and they have daily specials) and the bartender was just plain awesome. Great guy and he made it a fun night. Then later in the night the turtles appear! I can't believe how fun it was to race turtles! And my turtle won! The turtles have to race in a circle rink, with the winner getting a t-shirt and the loser getting a beer. So once the first turtle crosses the line, EVERYONE starts cheering to lose and it's hilarious! Some turtles just take off sprinting (turtle-sprinting) and some just sit there and stare at you. Plenty of parking on the street, and they are CASH only. Awesome time - I can't wait to come back. Go Turtle Go!
(5)Elizabeth H.
well, I could really just mention the turtle races and that should be enough for the 5 stars right there. But even aside from the action-packed friday nights that host turtle racing, this is a fun divey-bar. I always prefer local bars that I can stumble back from if need be as opposed to ultra-trendy-over-priced-cab-fare-needed hangouts in the more attractive neighborhoods... and Joe's most certainly fits into the first category. I love it here. For the most part, its just really laid back and people are pretty friendly. It's also a good mix of people. A pretty large older crowd (all blue-collar, cops and fireman and such), and there's a pretty steady young/local crowd here on weekends. Friday nights can get crazy and packed but are ALWAYS a good time... no dress code here, just come as you are and have a great time. Even if you hate dives and normally wouldn't venture in... you have to try out the turtle races on friday nights. Come in whenever, they go all night, about every 1/2 hour or so... and usually everyone gets a chance to race (you get tickets when you buy drinks, and then they draw to assign turtles). Plus... the winner gets to wear the turtle hat until the next race... who can pass on that?!?!?!
(5)Patrick R.
It's a dive with character. Smoke is no longer an issue. Whoever said they are afraid to walk down the block belongs in a gated community. 2 blocks from my house and I was advised to check out the turtle races. Intresting, I thought they would last an hour or two but they run about every 20 minutes from 9ish, to what must be damn near closing. We didn't stay past midnight. Yeah, the jukebox sucks, but cheap drink and cheap entertainment work for me. Great neighborhood dive. (which by definition don't take plastic)
(4)Jim C.
This place is awesome. Never been to the turtle races. Our band has played here 3 times & every gig has been a blast. They treat us well, pay us some cash & give us free beer. What's not to love! It is a great dive bar. A little smokey, but what the hell?
(4)Becky S.
Those poor turtles. They're clearly terrified--some make a run for it, others poop upon each other in fear. You wouldn't think that a place in Chicago, which attracts visitors from all over the world, would be bursting at the seams of screaming people wanting to see turtles scrambling over each other once every half hour, but that's what it is. Still it's a bar I might return to, even if not for the animal exploitation.
(4)E p.
I was a virgin turtle racing observer and much as it was kind of cool to watch the turtles "run", it was a bit sad. Two of the 6 ran themselves off the table and luckily wasn't hurt. Overall the bar was intimate and small but a cool bar to just to hang out. The music they played was music you hear on the radio (radio hits) so don't have high expectations when you go. I would go back again so I can rescue the turtles and let them roam free. Free the turtles! (Just kidding)
(4)Drucilla D.
No Red Bull, but the turtle races are VERY fun. The MC of the races was kind enough to give me a tour of where the turtles are kept downstairs, being a turtle fan and interested pet turtle owner. I appreciated that. They obviously care for the turtles and are confident in how they are cared for. Seriously, the only reason that I can't give them 5 stars is because (as far as I can remember), they didn't serve Red Bull and they don't take credit cards. You actually have to walk to the 7-Eleven down the (scary) block to utilize the ATM. Despite this, it's a great time on a weekend evening and despite the randomness of its location, taxis were pretty plentiful.
(4)Bryan B.
I went with a bunch of friends for the turtle races and had a great time. I also drank lots which is good because the more you drink the more tickets you get. The more tickets you get the more chances you get to race a turtle. I think the races are every Friday night after 9:30. Man, those turtles can really move!
(5)Stephen H.
When I first moved to the area (Right behind Joe's) I would hear the bar going crazy, but I had never been in there and had no idea what was going on. Eventually I got word of the turtle races and had to check it out. The first time I did go, my friends and I were in three races and were immediately hooked. If you haven't participated in a turtle race you haven't lived. OK, it's not that serious but you have to check it out, Fridays, 9 pm. get there early to collect tickets.
(5)Kristen F.
Made my first trip to Big Joe's for turtle racing this weekend and it was a blast. They get you hooked by giving you tickets for each drink you buy and depending on how the bartender is feeling at the time, you'll get 2-4, (maybe more, maybe less) tickets for each drink you buy. There are 6 turtles in each race, 6 races and the winners of each race get to enter a winners race and that winner gets put into a drawing for a trip for 2 to Vegas. The winner of each race gets a Big Joe's t-shirt and the person to come in last gets a free drink. There is plenty of parking in the area which is good because it's not close but not too far from public transportation. I only stayed for 3 races, the last of which I got picked to be a guest jockey only to have my turtle wait until it was over to start moving to come in 5th instead of 6th. It got really packed and they must not have air conditioning because it was so hot that it became uncomfortable. I would definitely go back again.
(4)Cassie B.
i agree with Kim - this is a really nice bar, the turtle races are fun (though the guys wouldn't let me pet them) and we just got all drunk and crazy here.
(4)