Considering how close it is to Wrigley nonsense and Lakeview craziness, this is a surprisingly chill yet friendly place. The burger was absolutely delicious, and the bar staff are friendly and fun to chat with. The decor is also beautiful inside. It seems like an especially cozy place for the winter.
(4)
Thano E.
Fun quiet bar with tons of great beers and a pool table. Bonus of the night was a hosting by Bombay gin. Free gin till 11pm and the bar had free appetizers till midnight. The perks of going out on a Tuesday night?? Minus all the free booze and food I would definitely be back!
(5)
Megan K.
After reading the mixed reviews for Blokes & Birds I was a wee bit skeptical when we decided to finally stop in for dinner and some drinks. I made a reservation on Open Table for 7pm on a Saturday, and I was surprised to see how busy it was upon arrival. A live musician was setting up when we were seated, and the hostess placed us right next to him. I was hoping that he would be 1) decent to listen to and 2) not insanely loud as to intrude on the conversation of dinner once he started playing. All that aside, once we were seated and given menus we had to wait about 10 minutes or so for our waitress to greet us, which was a bit long. We quickly put in our first order of drinks, trying some of their signature cocktails. I tried the UK Sazerac which was an interesting combination of Aberlour Scotch, Pimm's, rosemary, and clove reduction. It was a tad bit sweet for my liking, but it was still a delicious and refreshing drink to start off the evening with. My fiance went with the Colonial which was a nice mixture Bourbon, Cynet, Noilly Pratt, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters. This drink was perfectly mixed and had a slight bitter taste at the end which I liked better than the syrupy sweetness of my drink. As we were finishing up our cocktails, our waitress came back so we put in an order for two beers from their nice selection as well as two appetizers. The appetizers we chose were delicious, my favorite being the Posh on Becks which was their take on bacon wrapped dates. We only received three dates for this appetizer, but that's not terrible considering the price tag of $6. We also ordered the Cheesy Peavey which was an apple that was baked and stuffed with cheese and served with puff pastry-esque crackers. I feel that the idea of this dish was better than it tasted, as it was a little flavorless for my liking. For our main entrees, we both chose the fish and chips. Being fiercely loyal to Owen & Engine's fish and chips, I was skeptical again about ordering this dish. Although, when they arrived, I was more than happy with my choice. The fish was lightly battered and served with a side of pea puree and tartar sauce, both of which were delicious with the fish. The fish was quite flavorful on its own, and didn't have the "fishy" flavor that many cheap fish and chip entrees serve up. As for the chips, they were perfectly seasoned with herbs and sea salt, and were a great accompaniment to the fish. As for the service, it was a bit slow, but it was a busy Saturday night. The hostess and the bus boys were friendly and attentive, so no complaints there. As for the live music, it was loud, but not obnoxiously so. Blokes & Birds is a nice refreshment for the Wrigleyville area, the crowd was decent and it made me feel like I wasn't in the midst of Lakeview on a weekend night. I'll definitely be back in the future!
(4)
Luke H.
Incredible karaoke. Best spot for singing your heart out. Touch screen karaoke book, stage and lights, and an incredibly hilarious dj hosting the evenings. He is charming and cute and really sardonic. Drinks are awesome and staff seems to be having a really good time. The management there was dressed better than I looked on my wedding day and I couldn't get enough of the food. All in all a top notch experience and they definitely gained a customer for karaoke. I tipped the dj all night and got to sing whenever I wanted.
(5)
Max S.
Love this place. Trifecta
(5)
Victoria V.
Cool atmosphere and fun drinks
(4)
Matt M.
Blokes, Birds, and Overall mediocrity. Went here on a busy saturday night and the basement was jammed. We had a table set aside and we ordered dinner. Drinks and then dinner all took forever to get delivered. The food was nothing to write home about, it was simply unique bar food and was nothing better than that. They have an extensive beer list for those of you that are interested - so that might make up for the rest of the set up/atmosphere. Its not hipster, its not trendy, but its appears like it is trying to be and that alone bothers me. The lamb burger was not very impressive, which is a shame because I really wanted it to be. The chicken dishes that I had a bit of were dry. However it does provide a reasonable avenue for get together. .
(3)
Rachel T.
I am usually not a fan of whiskey, nor am I a fan of cherries, but their cherry-infused whiskey is amazing! So smooth. The first time I came here my friend and I were finishing up dinner (which was great) and contemplating ordering shots before we made our way over the the wrigley bars. After a few seconds of contemplation our server happened to walk over with 3 shots of their infused whiskey to share with us, on the house! She was great! We had the truffle mushrooms, bacon wrapped dates (ended up getting two orders because they were so good) and some other stuff I can't remember. On another more recent visit my friend and I went back to share the prime rib. Very good and a very reasonable price. After eating we always head downstairs to the bar to visit Teddy for some karaoke. The manager of the place is really sweet too, she gave me her card so I could contact her to set up a birthday party there in the future :) I love that the location is a little farther south than the bulk of Wrigley bars because it's easier to find street parking around here, it's also never crowded so it's easy to go with a few people for dinner or to hang out in the lounge downstairs. Perfect for a girl's night out or to grab a few friends for some dinner and karaoke! We'll be back again soon :D
(5)
Matt R.
Yesterday morning the General Manager emailed me to ask that I call her in order to avoid a lawsuit over my last Yelp review for Blokes & Birds. This was literally the first communication of any kind in regard to my post on Friday (1/4/2013) about the poor service the evening before. I agreed to discuss any concerns in a written format but never heard back. To maintain total transparency, I revised my review after receiving the email so what is up now, although extremely similar, is not the original post. This mostly amounted to condensing a few points that were unnecessarily long. And yeah, I know it's still a lengthy read for this sort of thing. Ironically, I would have removed the post completely had I just been asked nicely. I certainly would have done so if the GM had taken responsibility and apologized for the really bad service. **************************************************Â****************************************** The GM wrote back to smooth things over. I tend to forgive people once they apologize and appreciated the change in tone. Maybe sometime down the road I'll give them another try. We'll see.
(1)
Jiwon M.
Stop it already! EVERYTHING I ate was AMAZEBALLS! Yea that just happened. Cuisine was spot on. I wished more from my servers but my bartenders were great! Wish you were closer to where I live because it's the perfect place to grab a great meal when I am not in the mood to cook!
(5)
Lana H.
This was such an awesome and delicious place that combines my two loves: great food and karaoke! This place is a british gastropub with a large open and casual atmosphere upstairs that is great for dinner with friends and then a fun downstairs lounge with karaoke on the weekends. All the times I've been to the lounge, it's always been a young and fun crowd and a great time! But on to the food, which is always my main focus. The food at Blokes is delicious and really reasonably priced. I recommend getting their specials--I recently had a really awesome prime rib that was perfectly seasoned and cooked to a perfect medium rare! I am a huge carnivore and this dish was amazing and perfectly browned and juicy. I've also really enjoyed their halibut (perfectly cooked), tuna tartare (light and refreshing with little chunks of mango), serrano wrapped mozzarella (grilled mozzarella wrapped with serrano ham drizzled with sweet balsamic--had to fight my friends for that one) and their amazing scotch egg (complete with slightly molten egg yum!) I have had their brunch more recently and loved their awesome biscuits and gravy (with a fried egg on top and homemade sausage and gravy) and eggs benedict (my iteration was crabcake with a delicious hollandaise sauce that would taste amazing on anything). Another nice thing about brunch was the live music which was really talented and added a nice vibe to the meal. I also really appreciated the friendly servers who always noticed if I had an empty drink and made sure they did everything they could to ensure I was having a good and comfortable meal. I definitely recommend this place and will be returning next time I'm in the area!
(5)
Elibe E.
I wish that I could type this entire review in my (pretty accurate sounding) Cockney accent, ha! From what my group of friends told me earlier, Blokes was once some other establishment. Per usual, I was clueless about that. Furthermore, I admitted that I never NOTICED Blokes despite having walked past the place 2929292 times! I came here with a small group of friends to shoot the proverbial sh*t - good times. The drink menu here is pretty impressive. I was able to sample their house infusion (apple-cinnamon flavored bourbon) when checking in via Yelp! The girls were ranting and raving about the bacon-wrapped dates (appropriately named "Posh on Becks"). I had never had such a dish and reluctantly gave one of them a try - whoa, dude! These ARE good, I suggest you put in a couple of orders to share (1 order = 3 dates). Here's a quick run-down: Fries - awesome Sandwiches - awesome Bacon-Wrapped Dates - awesome Drinks - awesome NOTE: One of the bartenders has an impressive mustache - awesome.
(4)
Robyn T.
Blokes & Birds has some pub grub and the bar itself has some intriguing seating options (check out that middle table arrangement - sure it looks cool but do you really want to be sitting butt to butt with that stranger behind you?) Standard pub fare like burgers and fries, and elevated dishes like duck hash on the weekends for brunch. Though I enjoyed my brunch and the food was good I wouldn't come back: 1. because I'm just not hanging out in Wrigleyville all that often looking for a brunch spot (I had a BBE coupon which is why my friend and I came for a visit) 2. while our server was very nice he was the only server. on a busy Sunday. I felt horrible for him. He persevered and couldn't have been nicer, but the B & B should really staff better on the weekends. The bartender ended up coming to help him with some of the tables. Love the acoustic guitar with the brunch fare. Would recommend for young things in their 20s for a solid brunch option after a night out on the north side.
(3)
John P.
Nice space for a drink and a snack. I had the pulled lamb sandwich... Yumm extra small menu but nice selection of beer.
(4)
Sarah S.
2 stars is a little generous. I came here for dinner before a concert at wrigley with three others. We had a reservation and placed out order within 15 minutes of sitting. The food took an hour to come out, and that was only after locating our waiter who had been missing for 45 minutes. He tells us "our ticket was next up." I would have had more patience if it didn't take 20 minutes and 2 reminders for a drink. Speaking of drinks, my 312 choice was unavailable, so the waiter made a recommendation- which ALSO turned out to be out, so he made the executive decision to bring me a Radner. Which is half juice. The food was mediocre- as you can imagine, half of it was cold. The busboys were hustling, but they were the only ones. The icing on the cake probably was when he returned the bill to is, he was short one credit card...which was dropped somewhere....
(2)
Shari B.
The highlight of our meal was the scotch eggs, which were delicious. Unfortunately, everything else went downhill from there. My husband and I used to live in London so we know British food well. The fish & chips were alright, the lamb burger wasn't great (stringy lamb- ehhh, no thanks) and lastly, the sticky pudding was disappointing. I never thought that the dessert could be made so poorly. The service was wonderful though, so that's a plus.
(3)
Char Y.
we came on a saturday night and the place was packed! we sat at the bar and ordered butterscotch bread pudding - so good! really recommend the dessert!
(4)
Tom D.
This is a beautiful interior restaurant/bar with an intriguing name. I don't understand why it's not as popular as the other Wrigleyville bars. They do their best to get live music, too. Food is good and service is accommodating. Not sure what this place could do to up the ante.
(4)
Laura K.
Stumbled in here blindly only to return a few nights later. Paul the bartender can sling a mean drink. It was his warmth and hospitality that brought me back. I really want this place to succeed but the location tends cater to the frat boy/douche bag crowd. So fingers crossed. There's a nice pool table in the basement and the bar is aesthetically pleasing with lots of polished wood. I didn't try the food and my ONLY complaint is the music. It was crazy weird, motown, 80's ballads, hair bands...stick with the British theme and pick music to match, easy peesy lemon squeezy
(4)
Joe M.
Had a great experience here with my family for brunch last weekend. Great atmosphere, really nice decor and lively with other diners all appearing to enjoy themselves. We were seated straight away and were served by Steven, who did a great job. Really enjoyed the cucumber infused water, different and very refreshing. Great menu, everything sounded so good. My wife and daughter both had the crab cakes benedict and they both really enjoyed it. My son had the cheese burger, with amazing fries and I had the chicken & waffles, YUM. The service was very attentive, we continually had our water and soft drinks refilled. Had a great experience, we will definitely be back!!
(5)
Judi R.
I'm sure the food was fine but Steve R our waiter, never brought our food. our group ordered 2 entrees and 2 sides and he claimed he never heard us order more than one entree and side. total bullshit. he made eye contact with me and nodded when I made my order. don't blame me when you fucked up, asshole
(1)
Jennifer E.
Went here on a week night to meet a friend in the middle of January. First thing I noticed when I came in was...it was steaming hot. It felt I was in a sauna. In January, people dress warm (in sweaters, etc.) and this place was so hot that I wanted to strip down lol. Anyways, the food was very good. My friend loved her mac and cheese, I had the short rib sandwich (very tasty), and my hubby got the BLT which he liked as well. Our server was not attentive. It was hot so we were chugging our water and our beers like nothing to stay dehydrated and it was sad that our server visited our table maybe like 3 times during our one hour stay there. I would come back for the food but I would turn around and get back to my car if it's hot as a sauna again.
(3)
Jon D.
This place claims to be British, so we'll use a Brit term to describe it: It's a bit shit. Feels like a rant worthy morning, so lets do that. I feel like the creator of this place was once told about GB, a few words and phrases, and maybe a brief overview of the food, then 10 years later he recounted what he could and tried to base a restaurant upon it. Words and phrases are strewn about the menu with no regard for meaning or context, and it ends up making the customer feel like a jackass when ordering. Cocktails: Seriously, why do restaurants feel the need to name their cocktails this way? You know what I wanted? Something with bourbon. You know what I had to order of their cocktail menu? "Mind the Bollocks". Now, I realize that this is probably in reference to the Sex Pistols (edgy...), although when it comes to it, drinks are like, one word phrases. So I have to order a "bollocks." Barkeep, please give me a "testicles" on the rock. That being said, it wasn't very good. Too sweet. Their entire cocktail menu appeared uninspired, and named like something from a themed restaurant like a Hard Rock Cafe. Food: The menu was nice and short, although I might argue TOO short. The curry, albeit tasty (and also stupidly named,) would be unrecognizable as a curry to any Brit. It felt that they had filled out the menu with standard bar food but put "English" or "the Queen's" or something in front of it. Buckingham Baked Mac N' Cheese? Marleybone Mozz & Toms? Posh on Beck? Come off it. Atmosphere: It was relatively quiet and empty at a good dining hour on a Thursday evening. TV's were everywhere, bathing the otherwise darkness in flicking, closed-captioned Sportscenter (take that as you will). It was decorated in a modern fashion, and was clean. A nice place to have a conversation UNTIL they bring in the guy with the acoustic guitar. I saw him setting up and thought 'that may be nicer in the evening,' until he started playing. Apparently he'd taken his cue from Spinal Tap, as the volume was cranked up to 11. This drove us out of there as fast as the slow waiter could bring us our check. With three tables active in the place, you'd think it would come quicker. Negative. Service: We were sat relatively quickly, although the waiter came and went at intervals which may be described as spotty. As said before, there was us (2), another group of 2, and maybe a 5-top. We saw waitstaff rarely. Avoid this place, it's just not worth your time or money.
(2)
Amy H.
I had a much better time at Blokes and Birds this time around, mainly because they had all the things that I wanted to try (except for the Sea Beans, but that's ok. Beans are icky.) The scotch egg was wonderful. The bubbles and squeak was delicious. And the sausage platter?! Fuggedaboutit! Black pudding is my new favorite sausage. I still want to try some of their craft cocktails, but unfortunately my broken toe and hard core pain killers wouldn't let me. Boo hiss! :(
(5)
Travis W.
True English style pub. Service was great and friendly atmosphere. I can't really comment on the food side of things as I was here with a friend really just to enjoy the spirits and boy, they were good :). They have a great selection of rare beers here on draft. Hardwood floors and mostly wood decor gives this place a warm feeling and a "at home" type atmosphere. Excellent place to grab an after work beer and feels like a neighborhood bar that I would feel comfortable frequenting often. Whether you are a Bloke or a Bird....fly into here and hang for a while and see for yourself why it's so great.
(4)
Keith H.
I went to Blokes & Birds for brunch with a Groupon. I was relatively impressed with the very masculine environment without being overwhelmingly macho. There is wood EVERYWHERE and the poles are wrapped in a snakeskin plether. We were seated close enough to our reservation without a problem. I HIGHLY recommend making a reservation if you plan to head here before 1:30pm. Our food was quite good. My wife has the Smoked Salmon Hash and I had the Blokes Breakfast. The black pudding was amazing, and the truffled hollandaise they stick over their perfectly poached eggs was well balanced. While both were good, they were not overwhelmingly large - just the right amount of food. We had Mimosas which were heavily watered down, but still pleasing. Our waiter was AMAZING and if I were working at another restaurant, I would try every trick to lure him away. The cocktail menu is quite well stocked with favorites and originals. They have a wide selection of wine and beer and can make almost anything you request. That said, prices were a little bit high considering other brunch places, but keeping in par with Wrigleyville gouging. My dislikes are entirely limited to the noise. This place is LOUD. Very loud. There's a drop ceiling to hides the industrial ceiling, but they did not install any kind of noise reduction. I guess this place is also a music lounge at night, so I get why, but you lose all elements of intimacy and have to speak quite loudly to talk over everyone else. Overall I don't think I would go out of my way to head down to this place. I would have liked to see much more food on my plate for the prices considering the high priced food items on each plate were not in abundance. In my opinion, the food is really no better than any other brunch place and far inferior to some of the better local gems I've eaten at around Chicago. I can't recommend Blokes and Birds, but I wouldn't say stay away.
(3)
Anne M.
I enjoy a good cocktail or two or three or four. This place has a whole craft cocktail menu from which to choose your ideal cocker; and I appreciate that. Stopped by with a group of gals last Saturday night, and given the location (Wrigley-crazy-frat-drunkenness) I was concerned it would be too packed to get in and actually be able to enjoy ourselves. However, it was smooooth sailing, and we were seated at a big, semi-private table in the back of the bar area - perfect!!! The place looks great - wood everywhere, dark, natural colors, candles atop the tables - it's got good vibrations. We all opted for the cocktails, though they do have a wine list and a great beer menu as well. Round one: "the burnham & berrow" - cucumber slices, oxley gin, lillet blanc, grey goose pear, miclo rose liqueur, lemon juice. Round two: "the b-cup" - fresh blueberries, pimms no.1 cup, aperol, tito's vodka, absolut berry açai, st. germain, simple syrup & lemon juice I would have LOVED to keep sampling these things all night long, but after a long night of drinking elsewhere and drinks at dinner, these two were just about all I could handle at this point. They're strong. They're good. They're pretty. (They're $10 a piece - not that bad for such great combos) All the beverages were also served with a pint glass of water and ample refills. I like that. Our waitress was a bit standoffish, which was kind of nice because we felt zero pressure to keep ordering drink after drink, but there were also times we DID want her to come back for another order, and she was hard to flag down. Still, I think I'd prefer this nonchalant attitude, letting us take our time and enjoy our drinks and conversation, rather than having someone hound us. I'd def like to return to try their food menu (looked so good) and more of these delightful cocktails!
(5)
Megan S.
I was very impressed by the modern minimalistic style of this bar/restaurant (totally up my alley.) There were unique table configurations (think like a plus sign) which would be great for a large group or perfect for meeting new friends. Also it had a very clean and well lit bathroom. Nothing is worse than being at a bar with a disgusting bathroom. Although I was drinking only, I looked at the menu and it sounded like cool modern British fare. I would definitely return to try their menu. One complaint though. It was hot as shit in there. I don't know if the small fireplace on the wall was kicking out some serious heat or if they had the thermostat set at 85. I get that it is winter, but it was a bit much.
(4)
Eileen Z.
Ay yo, if you haven't had the bloody mary at Blokes & Birds, you haven't lived. 5 stars for that alone. The brioche for the Proscuitto Benedict here is fantastic, and the deep fried, savory goodness of the Scotch Egg is wrapped in a house made banger, and the panko breading makes for a perfect crisp. I could order a platterful. The Blokes Breakfast is lovely, but may not be for the faint of heart. There will be blood [sausage]. And black pudding. Which can make a few squeamish, but it's really nothing to be scared of. It's deliciously packed with flavor.
(5)
Phil N.
I've been coming here sporadically since it opened and I must say that while the staff has changed, blokes is still as great as it always has been. There really is something for everyone here. The beer and cocktail list is always stellar, the food menu always has something delicious and interesting on it and the environment is laid back.
(4)
Aurore L.
What is better than brunch? Late brunch/early dinner (who counts? who cares?) at 3 pm on a Sunday afternoon in a deserted Wrigleyville. When you are just out from seeing "The Dark Knight Rises", it gives an eerie feeling to the whole experience. (O brothers where art thou? All walking on the thin ice of the frozen river?) What is better than French fries? Pureed peas. Yup. No kidz. Ok, well at least it's wayyyyyyy better than ketchup. Dunk your lovely potatoes in the mixture (PS - it comes with the fish of the infamous "fish n' chips") and enjoy. It's never been easier being green. Oh, and beer yourself.
(4)
Nadeem P.
ABSOFREAKENLUTELY AMAZING! You HAVE TO try this place. Ambiance is wonderful, a laid back bar with kind of an upscale vibe to it. Set a block away from the mayhem of Wrigleyville, which equates to a more enjoyable experience. The beer list here is amazing, and not to mention very reasonably priced. They also have a full bar, and one of their most amazing drinks is their bloody mary. Bacon infused vodka, need i say more? Then comes the food...So mouth wateringly delicious you'll want to slap your mother. We had the burger, which was one of the best I've had, and the fish and chips, which were equally delicious. Lastly, the service. I nevere found myself once waiting for anything. The service was quick and extremely friendly. In all, my wife and I have found our new favorite bar in Wrigley...
(5)
Carolyn L.
Wrigleyville has a very nice little gem here at Blokes & Birds. I was sooo excited to hear about a chef's tasting evening organized by The Local Tourist. For only $25 per person, you got an evening of booze and food that would impress even the most staunchly British expat. We started off with local brew Two Brother Cain and Ebel, a fantastic ale. In fact, I was very impressed with all of the beers and cocktails served last night. We didn't get entire pints of each beer but it was enough to give us enough libation for each course. The first food to come out? Bacon wrapped dates stuffed with their house sausage. Holy mother of God...color me impressed. The bacon was crispy in the right places and fatty in the other places. Not soggy or too greasy. The dates weren't too sweet to overpower the savory bacon and sausage. We had two each. I could have eaten the entire serving platter. Then came a cocktail. The 'Choke Hold: Jefferson's reserve bourbon, cynar (artichoke liqueur!!!), pama liqueur, and benedictine. It was strong, sweet, and powerful. Very yummy and a nice way to showcase the bourbon. Moving on. Next we had a light green and herbs salad served with a Pims vinaigrette. What an awesome way to use Pims!!! My last memory of Pims was sipping it mixed with lemonade and cucumber/strawberry slices sitting on the Hill at Wimbledon two summers ago. Ahh a delightful summer treat. Fruity and refreshing. On a salad? Even better, perhaps. Our next beer and cocktail selections were the Metropolitan Krankshaft Kkolsch and Mind the Bollocks: Evan Williams Bourbon, Navan liqueur, Peter Heering Cherry Heering, Perfect Puree Sour Cherry Puree, lime juice, demarera syrup, and egg white. This cocktail was pretty dang tasty. The cherry puree was dark and rich and brought out the intensity of the bourbon. But then the food kept on coming! Next was a British classic: fish and chips. But this was seriously unlike any fish and chips I'd ever had in a dreary (yet charming) London pub. B&B kicked it up a notch! The breading on the hallibut was so light and almost sweet! It reminded the people at our table of a fried dough kind of taste, which was definitely a good thing. It was served with malt vinegar aioli and thick-cut tartar sauce. The chips were also good, tossed with a bit of curry powder which brought out some spicy! I believe the final beer that was served was one of the Stone Brewery's ales, perhaps Levitation? I was a bit "forgetful" by the time. In fact, I was so forgetful that I didn't feed the meter and walked out of the restaurant to find a ticket on my car! Eh...it was worth it for all this amazingness. The last cocktail was by far my favorite. It tasted like blueberry pie. Called The B-Cup, it had fresh blueberries, Pimms No. 1 Cup, Aperol, Tito's Vodka, Absolut Blueberry, St. Germain, Simple Syrup, and lemon juice. To. Die. For. And then we got another course: pork tenderloin. Now, I love bacon and many pork products. But I've never been a pork steak kind of person. Until now. The meat was moist, cooked well, tender, and full of flavor. The meat came from Compart Farms and was served with rumbledthumps, mashed potatoes mixed with bits of kale. The potatoes were placed over an orange balsamic reduction sauce and the meat was paired with a mango chutney. Seriously, it was perfect. I'm now a pork believer!!! As if all of this wasn't enough, we were able to enjoy some tasty cheeses as the final course. There was a sheep's milk bleu cheese, very light and creemy; a light cheddar, not sharp at all, almost like manchego; and another kind which I'm forgetting right now. There were slices of membrillo and dates to accompany the cheese. Gahhhhhhhh I am having fantasies of another meal of this caliber! I urge you all to run to B&B to try even one of these dishes! The rest have to be wonderful as well. Excellent beer, wine, and cocktail selection. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Nicholas K.
I want to like this place, but they make it hard. I do not think it fits the definition of gastropub, either. We were there on a weekend, early evening and the place was nearly empty. Still, bar service was rather slow. For a place called Blokes and Birds, I would expect at least one British beer on draft, but nearly all draft options were local brews that are available most everywhere else. Some items on the menu were not available. My fish and chips were delivered without peas. They came with an odd assortment of sauces, but not malt vinegar. The Sheppard's pie was dry and mostly potatoes. It is a great location and very nice space. But, the food and service must improve.
(1)
Patty C.
A friend and I came here for drinks after dinner on a Saturday night. The place was lively and packed. We managed to get seats at the bar though. The bartender was super friendly. We wanted to order two cocktails and a dessert. So, he recommended a butterscotch bread pudding for our dessert, and it was simply delicious. The level of sweetness was right on. The drinks were good too, and let me tell you they don't skimp on the alcohol here. My friend's drink was a little too strong for her, but perfect for me. My next visit here will include dinner because I was eying a very tasty looking Shepard's pie from the table behind me.
(4)
Erin B.
Four of us went here on a Saturday night. First problem was the unfriendly maitre d who didn't say anything to us other than a meek hi. The place was busy but I only saw our waiter servicing the other tables so he had a lot on his plate which is what led to us not having that great of a time. It took a while for the waiter to initially greet us, when he did we placed our drink order and received them around 20 minutes later, no joke. My sister didn't like her drink which was one of their specialties, she asked to have it tweeked but it didn't help. During our meal the waiter asked if we wanted another drink, so I said yes. Again another 20 minutes and no drink, so we finally just asked for the check. I know he had a lot of tables and I'm not sure if that's a norm or because they were short staffed but we overall felt neglected. However, I did really enjoy my meal. I got the chicken Tikka Masala and so did my friend because it looked really appealing. Definitely was a good choice by us both. I really enjoyed having the live music, the musician was very talented and played good songs. Could have turned the volume down a little though cause I could barely hear my friends talk across the table.
(3)
Jack P.
I'm an idiot for not eating here before. Since my first time here (maybe about a year ago), I've returned probably half a dozen times. And I don't even live in the neighborhood. Good beer selection. Friendly, helpful staff. The only thing that needs to be addressed is the menu: it hasn't changed much, if at all. That said, it's all very tasty.
(4)
MG J.
Really good French fries! I had some kind of steak sandwich as well and it was really good! If I'm ever in the area I would definitely return. Really good service as well!
(4)
Abigail L.
Second time here and I'm again inspired to yelp it. This place has the most amazing beer list I've ever experienced!! All the staff were amazingly helpful and fun to joke around with... Sit at the bar. Bartenders are GREAT and will let you sample beers.. I think it is genius that this place is in Wrigley. Wrigley needs an adult place to hang out... 21 year old tourists will hate this place, and that's why I love it! I also want to note, in the my last review, i said I like nothing dark (beer wize) However, after sampling much of the day yesterday. The coffee stout, which is black as can be, was AMAZING... So I now like "a" dark beer. Guess I'm broadening my horizons. Thank you Blokes & Birds! Banana Bread Beer, Coffee Stout, House Infused Bourbon, MMM, MM, MMM..
(5)
Damian C.
Wait... the space with the mustache lettering in Wrigleyville is not a barber shop but rather a classy-esque gastropub?! I could have sworn it was a high-end barber shop because I never actually took the time to look inside. I was even more confused when I got the invitation to my friend's birthday party last week saying that Blokes & Birds was hosting us. I guess I should have done my research or peeked in a little bit more. My friends made a reservation for about 15 of us for a late Tuesday dinner. Since I am in grad-school-early-to-bed mode, I ate beforehand, so I only planned on coming for a couple beers and some chatter. The restaurant has two floors; the area upstairs has a bar and is better suited for dining, while the basement has a separate bar, some small tables around the perimeter, and a pool table. What I like about this place is that the tables are spaced generously and the space is open so you don't feel too crowded in (at least when we were there). They have a pretty diverse beer list (which included my old trusty Great Lake Dortmunder Gold) covering all price points, taste preferences, and alcohol percentages. I can't speak on behalf of the food because we were here WAYYYYY past my during-the-week curfew and I ate beforehand, but the salmon dish looked absolutely delicious. They flavor their water pitchers with cucumber, too. Delicious! What I can speak upon is their hospitality and accommodation. Our waiter was an absolutely joy - he seemed to love birthday parties as much as we all did and went the extra mile to make sure everyone was having a good time (everything from chatting with us to an abundance of group shots). We even had a toast to the birthday girl after everyone finished eating. By the time I had left it seemed that he was a part of our group (I am still not sure if he met them out after I left)! All of the service was timely and everyone was happy with the venue. Clark St. in Wrigleyville is funny. So many places come and so many places go, all with their own unique appeal. You've got your raging Cubs bars, your comedy clubs, your reggae bars (which are a blast, btw), and now a gastropub. Welcome to the strip and stay classy, Blokes & Birds!
(4)
Kristin M.
3.5 for brunch. We used the Gilt City $40 off deal, which was great. I would never have known they offered brunch. Started with the English cucumber salad which was delicious and refreshing. The mint, raspberries and champagne vinaigrette mixed very nicely. (incidentally, after we ordered it, I heard the waiter announcing to other guests that they were out of it, we scored the last one!) I got the duck confit hash. There were big chunks of duck in the dish, which was great. At first, though, the dish was rather bland. Then I took a bite of a hot pepper which completely overpowered everything else. The fried eggs could have used another minute. Overall I liked, but did not love, the hash. Next time I want to try something else. My friend ordered the BLT with bacon aioli. It looked delicious and she really enjoyed the aioli. Fries came separately at $4. We also split a side of bacon, which was plentiful but not especially memorable. Overall, I really love Birds & Blokes, but I think dinner is their specialty. One criticism: we were the first to arrive on a Saturday (ie the first brunch service of the week), and they were already "out of" three menu items. As a few more tables arrived, we heard the waiters keep adding to the list of unavailable dishes. As it turned out, it didn't affect our choices, but it can be really irritating when a significant portion of the menu options are out first thing in the morning. I wish restaurants could stay better stocked.
(3)
Dan D.
Pros: Unique menu (obviously British and some Indian food) Friendly staff Nice decor Cons: Very loud Seating was cramped Long wait for table (on a Friday night) This was a decent place. It was incredibly loud and cramped, however. I had to yell just to be heard. This looked like too nice of a place to be yelling at people to speak. They didn't have a beer list at the table when my girlfriend and I were seated. About half way through our dinner, we saw, at an adjacent table, a beer list. It would have been nice to have that at the start. I ordered a cocktail and it was incredibly strong. I guess I still got my moneys worth considering it was practically straight Maker's Mark. I split an Indian dish and the fish and chips with my girlfriend. We both loved both dishes. It was probably the best fish and chips I've ever had, very lightly battered with more fish than breading. Their chips (fries; regular and sweet potato) were also really good. I might try it again on a night that's not so busy.
(3)
Anna P.
I started coming to Blokes when it opened last fall and have yet to be disappointed. Though I'm not a big whiskey drinker (which is their specialty) I always end up having a couple shots here along with my standard cider. The beer and whiskey selections are phenominal. I usually can't resist getting something to eat here as well, even when I haven't come for dinner. My favorites are the fish and chips, the rockit and romaine salad, and the pulled pork sandwich (which I don't think they have anymore, so sad). The atmosphere is also top-notch. It's the perfect place to have a low-key evening, and be sure to check out the downstairs! Yay Blokes!
(5)
Mark M.
Excellent atmosphere, menu, waitstaff, food and drink. We went in around 7pm on a Friday. It wasn't super crowded with Cubs fans, even though there was a game earlier. Maybe it was the light drizzle outside that sent the cheering hoards home, or maybe the Cubbies didn't throw up a "W" against their Cardinal rivals. Who knows. We got in and had our table almost immediately. The guitarist was just about to start the live music for the night and he played a great set of 90s covers during our meal. Most of our party, there were four of us, had a fish special. I, however, had to have a burger topped with bacon and eggs. All dishes were outstanding. Be advised: entree portions are large. The place has a sense of the UK in it, but it's definitely been refined through the American grinder. Much of the food on the menu started out British, and then got that familiar fusion that you find in so many restaurants in US cities. And as we are a tipping culture on this side of the pond, you'll likely find the service is better than you'd expect out of a London pub. Try their take on the Scotch Egg, delicious!
(5)
Sarah R.
I love this place! They have a wonderful brunch menu--I come back over and over for the duck confit hash and bloody marys. The beer and whiskey selection is awesome and the food consistently delicious. There is a fireplace upstairs which makes for cozy winter dining. I have hosted two birthday parties in the lounge downstairs, and both were wildly successful. Blokes and Birds is a Lakeview favorite!
(5)
David S.
Had a gift cert - and was initially hesitant. BUT I will tell you the place rocks. Great beer selection and a special that incudes a nip o corn whiskey! Split the short ribe sandwhich w a friend and it was OUTSTANDING. Paul was great behind the bar -- so we will be going back soon to try other items on the menu. The menu looks great and if as good as the short ribs, well what can I say!!! Yee HA!! BTW - the fries rock
(5)
Kathleen C.
Aside from the fact that we got kicked out prior to close for either a 1) sick bartender or 2) management decision, this was a pretty cool spot. I was a bit surprised that the spot wasn't more crowded, but perhaps this stretch of Lakeview doesn't appreciate this type of bar (or I was there on an off night?). So, while the atmosphere is pretty cool, I would have liked the atmosphere better had it been a bit more lively. I didn't have any drinks here, so I can't speak for them, but the bartenders were friendly. I would visit again, but I would try for some time that has a bigger crowd so that I can get a feel for the spot.
(3)
Nick M.
Now this is my kind of place!! Adjectives about... STAFF -friendly, delightful, alluring, practical, and persuasive DECOR -Adaptable, colorful, charming, neighborly, and accommodating FOOD -Engaging, gallant, vivacious, restrained, and terrific Something about dark wood, friendly staff, perfect cocktail making, laid back atmosphere, and food that will make you smile, make Nick a very satisfied man. This is one of those you don't know till you know. So go and try the mussels with a Vindaloo sauce. The mussels are HUGE and the Vindaloo sauce is near drinkable. Salads are pretty darn good as well (they put pasta in them =awesome). To top it all off, get the chicken Tikka Masala. Again, the restraint shown in the sauce is crazy, so much flavor. It comes with chips. Just go...
(4)
Diana R.
I've passed this place countless times since before it was opened and finally stepped in this past weekend with a friend. We stopped in to pass a little time before catching a late comedy show. She had cocktails, I had a Trappist beer. (Prices surprisingly fair, especially for Wrigleyville and for an imported specialty beer.) A dude strummed acoustic covers and original songs in a corner. The bartender offered samples of beers on tap and was incredibly friendly. I would go back based just on the ambience and service. Definitely a nice change of pace from the usual Wrigleyville crowd and atmosphere. I'm no beer connoisseur, but I do like to try new brews when I get the chance and this seems like a great place to do that - nice selection of beers, cocktails. Judging from other reviews, I'll need to stop by again and eat something.
(4)
William L.
What a great find in a wasteland of terrible bars. Five of us stopped in on a Saturday night for some pre-wine tasting grub and had no problem getting a table. Their beer list is top notch, they just tapped a great cask ale that I'm really sorry I didn't try. Also, Aprihop on tap = winner winner, chicken dinner. Since the group is mostly yelpers, I'll comment on what I had: the wedge salad and the Hatch green chile & pulled pork stew. Oh lordy the stew. It was the best soup/stew/hot liquid I've ever eaten in my life. Huge chunks of tender pork and delicious, spicy, Hatch green chiles. I want it in my face now. The wedge salad, on the other hand, was a little bland. The dressing was meh and it had grilled onions on it, which I thought was a weird mix (even though I love me some onions). The decor of the place is awesome. It's a mix between old English and modern chic styles. Service was on point all night; the bartender knew his beers and the waiter knew the menu real well. What is keeping them from getting the 5th star from me was that they were out of 3 different side dishes. Get the logistics together, Blokes!
(4)
Dana A.
Cute little gem in WRIGLEY! My boyfriend and I were going to go to one of our favorite tapas places Twist. Though sadly it was closed yesterday not really sure why! So we started are walk down clark lots of bars/bar food, pubs etc! We are trying to find a place a little bit healthier than bar food! We love trying new places in the city. Though typically you don't think of Wrigleyville to have "healthy" food. Service: Service was great! Our server was really nice the I forget her name. She explained the menu to us and gave us suggestions! Cocktails: They have a Banana Bread Beer! Sounded so interested so we ordered it! Soo delicious! The Peach Palmer was awesome! I would for sure recommend it plus it was only $7! The rest of the cocktails look amazzzing!! Food: Perfect Portions/ Tasty! SO some may complain that the portions may be small but I think they are perfect! I hate leaving a place feeling as if I need to be carried out the door! Mozz and Tom salad was yummy! Had a great basil pesto on it that was really good! Chelsea chippy- Okay so not the healthiest option but the portion was great! It wasn't huge we didn't feel as if we were stuffing our faces! The fries were alright! The fish was crispy and tasty! I will for sure be back!!
(4)
Michael F.
Great drink selection: beers, specialty cocktails, and infused whiskeys where on our list. Great appetizer selection as well. Came with a group of six and had a great time. I would absolutely come back for an evening of drinks and good vibes!
(5)
Alvina C.
Beer-o-rama! What a list---other fellow yelpers weren't kidding when they said that it was an extensive list! I was intrigued by this place and wasn't sure what to expect when I read it was a pub/bar. Went here for a baby shower recently (I know strange--I didn't see the connection either--but oh well--maybe there wasn't one!) This place was very nice and parking was easy--mostly cause it was a Sunday afternoon--but still it tends to get busy in that general area. The party was downstairs and it was a huge space that had an awesome laid back lounge feel. A pool table was available and there was a yummy brunch style buffet on the bar. This definitely would be great for groups. Tons of seating and space since there were built in benches all around. The mac and cheese was tasty, cheese grits were also yummilicious, also can't go wrong with huge ham steak slices. There were these little football shaped things that had a whole hard boiled egg inside wrapped with some sort of meat---they were tasty-the way they were shaped reminded me of the taro puffs that you can get during dim sum :P Overall nice place, attentive staff, and tasty food.
(4)
Jimmy C.
It is a great spot either for a date or stop by for a pint. it has great atmosphere with it's cozy yet modern decor. I loved the wooden benches and their simple yet tasteful menu. it is a place for those with simple taste but enjoys delectable food. loves a great beer list and also yearns for the simple whiskey on the rocks.
(4)
Gabi C.
I used to be a fan of Blokes and Birds... The service and management was so friendly and accommodating, not to mention the food was great. However, going there recently completely turned my opinion. There are new servers and the restaurant is obviously under new management. From our greeting to when we left, it was simply a disaster. The server didn't know what they were doing and when two of our meals came out incorrect, nothing was corrected. Basically, this experience made me completely turned off to the restaurant... I miss the old Blokes :(
(1)
Erick N.
We walked by this venue several times, but never went in until today; now I wish we had tried Blokes & Birds earlier as it is a really fun pub. We immediately were impressed with the decor of this place, they did an awesome job renovating. Very tasteful and welcoming decor with an understated elegance. The menu is a nice change from the typical Wrigleyville bar scene with traditional English fare. One recommendation is that they put explanations on some of the menu items that are not common American foods. Great beer list to boot. I tried a tangerine wheat beer I had never had before that was outstanding. Another plus is they keep the music down, so you can actually easily engage in conversation unlike so many of the other nearby bars. Food wise the prices are reasonable and above average quality for pub food. My wife and I split several dishes: The mac & cheese, a burger, chips, and a cheese plate. The mac & cheese was some of the best we have had. The fries were above average as was the burger (nice presentation on the burger too). The only disappointment was the cheese plate; it was priced higher than an entree but came with four very small cubes of super market quality cheese. This item needs a big overhaul, but two thumbs up for the rest of the food and for the beers we consumed. The staff was friendly and the manager gave us a little tour of the pub after we finished our meal; we didn't even notice that they had a nice downstairs space as well. We will definitely be back and this might become one of our favorite neighborhood pubs.
(4)
Jacob T.
This place puts a new twist on British pub food. I never thought I would be having brussels sprouts with bacon or that it would be so amazing. The menu was chock full of at least 20 dishes that I'd never seen before and everything I had was absolutely delightful.
(5)
J G.
I've been meaning to write this review for a while but it kept slipping lower on my to do list. Recently, a friend got engaged and asked if Blokes and Birds would be a good place to host an engagement dinner... it was at that time I was rocketed back to the horrible memory of NYE '12 at Blokes and Birds. I wish I had the time to explain every last detail of the night but I will spare you the misery. Shortly after midnight a scuffle went down relatively close to where my party of 4 was sitting. We were not part of the scuffle and thought nothing of it until 45 minutes later when we were asked to leave the bar (being wrongfully associated with those in the scuffle). This is where my experience at Blokes and Birds went from blah to downright horrible. Out of the blue, the bouncer points at me and my friends and says, "get out!" with no explanation. We were just minding our own business! I stood up to protest, "we cannot leave yet, we haven't paid our bill!" The bouncer replied, "shut the **** up, you *****!" Immediately after hearing that, our party got up and left. As if that experience wasn't bad enough, a few days later we open our bank statement to find out that Blokes and Birds had taken the liberty to not only charge our bill without a signature, but to add a 20% tip!
(1)
Doug O.
Blokes and Birds has good potential, but is off to a bad start with me, largely because of a night of poor service with our server, Charlie. We arrived and ordered beers. Charlie told me my first choice was out of stock, and then told me my second choice was out of stock, and then disappeared for several minutes and brought my my first choice, despite telling me it was out of stock. He brought my fiancee a glass of wine shortly thereafter, but did not bring my friend her beer until I had almost finished my first beer approximately 20 minutes later, even though she ordered at the same time the rest of us did. Later, I ordered a Bell's Amber. Charlie disappeared for quite awhile and came back and told me the bar didn't stock the beer I had requested. I pointed to the beer menu, which stated "Bell's Amber," and Charlie got flustered, apologized, and said he thought I had asked for an Alexander. I think we all know there isn't a beer called Alexander, and if you don't know that, you shouldn't be working in a beer bar. A bit later, my fiancee ordered another glass of wine. Charlie asked if she wanted a glass of water instead and brought her water. She was not drunk or overserved, and she was insulted that he treated her that way. Overall, he made the experience very unpleasant. This isn't to say that Blokes and Birds doesn't have potential. Their beer list was impressive (if they end up having what they list in stock). Moreover, the owner or manager (a gentleman in a sportcoat and scarf with a shaved head) did a great job of picking up Charlie's slack across the bar and trying to help. I will try Blokes and Birds again and hope to have a better experience, but they have some obstacles to overcome.
(2)
Keith A.
Blokes and Birds has a real conflicted feel to it. They say that they're a modern interpretation of a british pub and there is definitely a modern feel to it, but it feels like they aren't sure whether they want to be a restaurant or a pub. The bar space is decent sized, but it isn't really the focus of the place and all of the tables are pretty spread out so there was a lot of room in the place as well, so it felt a bit cavernous. The food I had was pretty solid. The mussels were good and the mussels that they got had a lot of meat on the inside, which will always put a smile on my face. I also ordered up the short rib sandwich, which was good but very very heavy. I had to take home nearly 3/4 of it and have it the next day. I was mostly drinking off the beer list and I was having fun just looking at the list. Obviously it was english beer focused, but there was a good amount of domestic craft beers as well. I wouldn't mind coming back and diving into the beer list some more, but I don't know how often I would come back as it just doesn't have that feel of a place that you can just chill out and sit down for a while with a few beers
(3)
Eric P.
Good food, good beer. Mediocre service. Won't split checks for large groups. Automatic 20% gratuity for large groups makes me tipping below average very difficult. I'd come back, but not with a large group.
(3)
Mariah V.
Every time I walked by that big mustache out front, I would say to my friend, "Look at that mustache. I want to go here." I finally made it there for dinner. We came a little past 6:30 on a Friday. It was snowing, really windy, and miserably cold outside, so there was literally no one else there when we walked in. We got the mac and cheese to start off, and it was good and cheesy. The beer selection is great, and there are some good ones for only $5. I tried the Founders Dirty Bastard and followed that up with a favorite of mine, Dogfish Head Raison d'Etre. I also love places that have really specific glassware for beer, which isn't uncommon but still appreciated. The Dogfish Head goblet is sweet. I got the braised short rib sandwich, and it was awesome. I was told it didn't come with a side, so I got the brussel sprouts, too. They were good but too big for a side, and I felt like most of the sides were too expensive. Also the sandwich did come with somewhat of a "side." In a tiny ramekin was 1 cauliflower floret, a slice of carrot, and a slice of celery. What? Random, but they were actually kind of good. My friend liked their beef stew, and I was really tempted to order the confit of the day (duck and caramelized onions). I was really happy with my sandwich, though. Our waitress checked on us often enough, even as the place started to fill up more. She also didn't get annoyed with my friend and I who are total lingerers when we eat. I have no idea how long their playlist is, but we stayed long enough to hear a couple songs again. I liked the decor, because it's just like WOOD EVERYWHERE. I'll have to make a trip back to try more beer, a cocktail or two (the Colonial looked good), and the house whiskey. Also here's a tip: Don't try to go through the door that's more south. It was locked, and for some reason 80% of people tried to walk through that one first. Or do, because it got funny for my friend and me after watching it happen three times.
(4)
Arun L.
A nice addition to the growing "affordable gastro pub" genre, Blokes & Birds still has a few things to work on. 1) Drink: Great local beer list, plenty on tap. Excellent and creative cocktails with one MAJOR flaw - they use the wrong kind of ice. Expect your cocktail to be watered down before you get halfway through. I asked for my second cocktail served "up" - MUCH better. 2) Food: We tried a bunch of different stuff on the menu. All good and CHEAP. Its a little on the bland side, but hey - it's British food! - The Shepards pie is excellent (the lamb was braised in stout for half a day!) - The Mac & Cheese is a little watery. - The Fish & Chips are classic. Huge, meaty fish fillets and chips with a good potato taste. - The mussels were large and tender - not small and shriveled like many places. - "Devils on Horseback" ie sausage-filled dates wrapped in bacon were out of this world...watch out AVEC! - The truffled forest mushrooms were so-so. Basically just mushrooms. 3) Service: B&B lost points here. Our server was brand new and pretty inattentive. He hadn't tried most of the things on the menu and was unable to provide much guidance. At least he was honest though! 4) Ambiance: This place is cool - post-industrial with lots of wood. Plenty of standing room for when the bar fills up, but this makes for awkward spacing of tables. We were seated in the back by a large open space and the kitchen - it sucked. But the front of the house has some cool seating. Overall, a great value and a fun spot to meet up with some friends and enjoy some food and drink.
(3)
Borracho G.
In the sea of the sports bars that cater to the after game mayhem, it was nice to come across this place. I was happy to see such an extensive list of bottle and draft beers and whiskey choices they had to offer. That list alone would get me to visit this place again. The menu had the typical British dishes but without the bland and simple tastes. If you like mussels then you have to try their mussels in vindaloo sauce. The sauce alone is worth it. The bloke burger was large and you'll want to order the fries with curry dipping sauce to go with it. The braised short rib sandwich was very tasty and more like a sub then a sandwich. Mixed feelings about the shepherd pie being too potato heavy and the lobster pot pie lacking more veggies. Both were still tasty and worth a try though. All around a very stylish establishment with a very friendly staff. I also like a place that will not hesitate to give you a taste or two from the overwhelming types of beers on tap.
(4)
Danny W.
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Blokes & Birds with SpotHero CEO and Founder Jeremy Aaron Smith. While dining with Jeremy is a treat on its own, it was made even better with some delicious Fish and Chips. Admittedly, we didn't sample a lot off the menu- I had the special of the mahi fish and chips (super good) and Jeremy had the Bloke's Burger, which he described as "My kind of burger- big and wet," which was meant as a compliment for those of you wondering. Also, they have a deal on Wednesday where you get a shot of whiskey and a beer for $5, which worked for me. Overall, our experience was pretty positive. B&B is not like a typical Wrigleyville bar, so I could see how somebody would actually want to spend time there outside of a quick meal. The place seemed a bit swankier than I was expecting for an English pub, but the prices were reasonable, and the food and drinks were good so you're okay in my book B&B. Also, they immediately move in to the 2nd seed on my "All-Time B&B Rankings" behind B&B Enterprises from "The Wire."
(4)
Carol A.
The pork sirloin was delicious !!!! Great date night restaurant or for a GNO. Very inexpensive as well. The fish and chips looked delicious and came with a beer for $10. Can't really beat that.
(5)
Becky P.
YAY! Good beer list, EXCELLENT HOUSE INFUSED ALCOHOL, and yummy Amish chicken (and mac & cheese!). I haven't come here for brunch yet, but their bloody marys are unreal. The vodka they use for it is infused with bacon, need I say more?? We've been here a few times now, and every time has been a blast. Seats at the bar can be found with proper rearranging of chairs from random areas. We even got to play a few games of pool in the homey downstairs area.
(5)
J P.
Food is ok, the wait staff was rude. The menu does actually represent what the food item is. For example, friend ordered the bacon wrapped dates, she got bacon wrapped sausage.. she told the waitor and was told that the management wont change it eveb though they know its not right. Won't split checks, and we had a small group so it shouldn't have been a problem. Overall not a great experience. In Chicago you have a lot better choices... Won't be back
(2)
Linda D.
Have you ever dined somewhere several times and enjoyed the food so much and then came back and they had totally changed everthing on the menu? Well that is what happened here. Nary an item that I can or would want to eat on the menu. The previous menu always featured an awesome composed pork or fish entree that was so scrumptious. Great soups and salads. Now that is all gone. Buh bye. Then to make matters worse they are now closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in addition to Mondays. So many changes here and not for the best I am afraid. Sorry to say this, but I'll be amazed if this place is still open in a year. Good luck with trying to appeal to the Frat boys and Trixies along the Wrigleyville Bar and Grill strip on Clark Street. You see, Blokes and Birds you were so much more appealing when you were the alternative to all that craziness and mayhem. Farwell and buh bye.
(1)
Elle M.
A couple weeks ago I had an amazing meal at Longman & Eagle and am now making all the ampersand gastropub rounds. I had high expectations going in. That damn ampersand gets me every time. The atmosphere of the place is nice, but a little sports bar-ish. If you were actually going for the English pub feel you could've skipped the plasma tvs. Just sayin'. We got seated right away, which was amazing for 7:30 on a Saturday night. I wasn't too thrilled with their appetizer menu, but we went with the cheese plate. Meh. The selection was okay. Cheddar, stilton, a blue cheddar and a little goat cheese. But there were accompaniments on the plate (three tiny slices of date and a squiggle of balsamic syrup) that weren't explained to us. Plus they had these weird chocolate discs sliding around on the plate as well. I still don't know why those were there. We got four tiny pieces of toasted (one blackened) bread. And they brought our food out before we had finished the cheese. I hate that. A lot. That being said, their craft cocktails are deeeelicious. I had a Churchill Downs and a Cobbles & Stone. Both great. And the burger I had with cheddar and onions and vinegar aoli- good lordy it was awesome. Really up there with one of the best burgers I've ever had. It was cooked perfectly to my specifications too, which is always nice. So I'd say if you're craving a burger or some sausages and a great cocktail this is a pretty reliable choice. Too bad it's in douchebagville- AHEM. I mean Wrigleyville. Anyway, I'd go back, but not before I try the other ampersands.
(3)
Sarah S.
I went here Saturday night with some friends for a birthday. I immediately liked the awesome mustache outside! That's an awesome logo, I must say. We were carded going in and moseyed on downstairs where they have tables for hanging out, a bar and pool tables. We were surprised it was dead. The weekend before St. Patrick's Day and no one around when other bars on the street were packed....hmm...weird. Either way, the bartender was super awesome and friendly. They have some really unique drinks which were quite tasty. All in all, we make fun wherever we go but would have liked some more lively music & people around us. Also, there is no parking! We ended up using the valet at Soca. :)
(3)
Susan F.
Blokes & Birds actually has a great brunch. Their menu is split between sweets and savories along with a lot of liquored libations. I had a huge meat and cheese crepe along with a mimosa, coffee, and fruit. It was part of a Gilt City package, or I would have probably not spend the upwards $25-$30 it would have cost me. The coffee was amazing and so was the crepe. It was huge! If you're parents are coming into town or you're on a date for brunch, make them take you here ;)
(4)
Margo A.
I really love this place! We have been to blokes and birds about 4 times and each time the food had been fabulous. The drinks are also carefully crafted and yummy! They use a lot of truffle in their dishes which my husband and I love!
(5)
Kim K.
I went to Blokes & Birds for the first, and probably only, time on Saturday with my fiancee. We had a 7:15pm reservation and they seated us right away. That was a plus. The section we were seated in was not very busy, and was being covered by one waiter. Therefore we were expecting awesome service. I wish I could say that was the case. We were seated for about a minute when the waiter came by our table, never really stopping, and asked for our drink orders. He was literally mid stride and didn't actually stop to address our table. I asked for iced tea, they didn't have it...whatever not his fault, I stuck with water. Again he walked away and a few minutes later when we were ready to put in our appetizer order, he still didn't stop. Every time he took our order it was as though it were an after thought. As if he was too busy to stop and really address us. When we put in the order for our entree it was the same drill, he was mid stride and basically walking away before I could complete my order. I literally had to stop him before he left so I could order a side of Brussels sprouts. My fiance wanted a side of the bacon aioli because he was curious as to what that tasted like, but again, the waiter was long gone before he had the chance. Aside from the terrible service, the food was so so. I had the Amish chicken with a side of Brussels sprouts. The chicken was moist, and the sauce was good. But the Brussels sprouts were undercooked, hard to eat, and just all around flavorless. I wish I could review the bacon aioli, but alas, we never had the chance to ask. I don't see myself going back, just from the level of service alone. Also, it is so incredibly LOUD in there, it is nearly impossible to hear the person sitting across the table from you. Big shame...
(2)
Magen R.
I went to Blokes and Birds over MLK Jr weekend for a birthday party of a friend of a friend. I really enjoyed the atmosphere. It was very chill and comfortable with plenty of seating and not too crowded at all. It is definitely not your average Wrigleyville bar though, something I appreciated. We did not eat so I cannot speak to the food but there was an extensive alcohol list with both beers and mixed drinks. However, if you are looking for Bud/Miller/Coors products they do not serve them (one of my friends was extremely disappointed about this). I would recommend Blokes and Birds to anyone who wants to actually hear what they other people in their party have to say and is interested in having a relaxing, enjoyable evening. If you are looking for a typical Wrigley bar with lots of drunk people, loud music and dancing this is not the place for you. Will I be back again? Definitely.
(4)
Mollie D.
I came to Blokes & Birds this past September for my birthday. I spent my birthday the year before in London and was desperately missing it, so I thought this would be a great way to celebrate. They were extremely accommodating when it came to reservations, even last minute, and were friendly and helpful when only a few of us got there first. The drinks were incredible, for one. I missed out on Pimm's in London, but theirs were incredible. My friends enjoyed the beer selection and I got fish and chips. Their chips were closer to British chips than most places, not quite right, but the vinegar added a great touch that was exciting. Good food, great atmosphere. I just wish there were a few more options for food. Otherwise an incredible place that I'd recommend.
(4)
PingPing N.
The meatball appetizer landed a unanimous vote--most pitiful ball of meat any of us ever had!!! Weird weird texture, kind of like...potted meat and the flavor was just...bad. But Im a fan bc of the experience. First off, the place is upscale-y and sophisticated looking. A great venue for table-talk Sat at the bar for a few hours and had the time of our lives. Place was pretty empty when we arrived around 8p on a Friday night but by 10, there was not a seat in sight. The bartender was attentive, friendly, suggestive, and just a great guy to have behind the bar. We came in quiet and reserved but left jolly and looking for trouble. Jk, we're not trouble-makers. An extensive and elaborate liquor menu listing everything they have, mainly focusing on whiskey. Impressive selection on draft beer as well. I forgot my phone in the back restroom, never to be seen again but a wonderful soul turned it to the Host and I was able to retrieve it. Oh.my .gosh. AMAZING for him to return it and AMAZING for the Host to not keep it himself. This made me believe in Human-Kind just a bit more.
(4)
Colleen D.
Loud, loud, loud. Was with a party of seven and could not have a conversation. Also, two buses pulled up and unloaded a huge crowd of 21 year olds that came in, lined up and went downstairs to what I assume is the karaoke lounge. Upstairs, the musician kept playing sad songs. The food was nothing special. We were entertaining a first time Chicago visitor and, unfortunately, B&B was much less than impressive.
(2)
Virginia T.
The boss and I went to Blokes & Birds after a long hard week. I opted for the pork tenderloin. It was good but could have been a little more moist. Bossman had the chicken tikka masala, and liked it-ate every bite. We sat at the bar, the bartender was really nice and service was good. Their specialty cocktails looked good. One thing that struck me odd was that they had a lot (4-6+) of beers available on draft as well as in bottles. They had a decent beer list, but nothing that was striking my fancy that night.
(4)
Jay S.
AMAZING! I have dined, drank, and karaoked at Blokes and Birds multiple times and I have never been disappointed. The food is delish! From the fish and chips, to the prime rib, to the truffle fries, every single item on the menu is mouth watering. My personal favorite would be the mac and cheese and beet salad. What makes the food even better, being swooned by the live music performances! Drinks. I am the type of girl that can never decide what I want to drink and the staff at Blokes is always tentative and very helpful in describing all their house specialities. Last, but not least, the lounge downstairs is always a fun time. Who doesn't love to belt out to their favorite song with their friends? Blokes is a great place whether you are looking just to eat great food, or have one, or ten drinks with your friends. A must try, if you haven't yet!
(5)
Heather E.
My cousins were recently in town to celebrate a 30th birthday, and although they like to maintain a certain level of class, they are an overall raucous crowd. We were planning a night with a diverse list of bars, and Blokes and Birds was the designated craft cocktail/mellow atmosphere place. We were able to get a low table and booth for our group, and were pretty much planted there until the night's end. I love that even on a Saturday night we were able to find a table relatively easy. The basement is dimly lit with candles, and is very open. The bar is surrounded by long wood tables and some low benches and tables around the perimeter of the room. The atmosphere is quiet enough to talk in a group and be heard, but not so stuffy that you feel like you can't get up and dance or laugh or take a birthday shot. Our server was awesome! Logan (as I recall) catered to our every whim, and we had many. He brought us limes, extra glasses, a cup of soda water, etc. He was incredibly gracious the entire time, and spent time with our group explaining the fun cocktails and basically providing top-notch service that you wouldn't normally expect on a Saturday night on the fringes of Wrigleyville. My sister maintains he was the best waiter she had ever had. We didn't have any food, but as I noted earlier, the cocktails are fun, extensive and strong. They also have a beer list that made the gentlemen and some of the ladies of the group happy. Overall, it was a great atmosphere, crowd, and night.
(5)
L O S.
Food and entertainment were amazing. Though I thought the service was not as efficient and hardly checked up on myself and my date. Pricing for food was also generous.
(4)
James L.
My first time here was good. Really good food, good beer selection and real chill place. The atmosphere is modern, dark, clean. I ordered a lot but don't remember everything. I just remember the mushroom truffle was really good.
(4)
Johnny T.
Wot's all that, then? Sorry. Had to say it. I also need to say that I'm a fan. A big one. The only reason this place doesn't get 5 big ones from me is because I don't know for sure that it's as good as it gets. But, I'm interested in seeing if it does. First off, a grown-up, has-nothing-to-do-with-the-Cubs establishment on Clark (in Wrigleyville) that isn't packed to the gills with a crowd that juuust might make me the teensiest bit stabby. Unbelievable! But just because it's not packed with Bud Light's finest doesn't mean that it's not packed. The word's out and has been out for a while. Arrive with a game plan and/or at grandma time or prepare to wait and stalk some tables. It'll all be worth it if you follow my rules to eating and drinking. Or, drinking and eating. Drinking: Liquor before beer, you're in the clear. Start with some craft cocktails. Since even the butchest Brit can make one's 'dar go off (the accent + the non-ironic use of the word 'darling' is very confusing), go for a 'girlie' drink and do it with gusto. I suggest a B-Cup (*rimshot* and, yes). Pimms, blueberry, acai, vodka, St. Germain, etc. it has all the elements of that fruit-filled cocktail you've always wanted to drink in public but never had the nerve to do. Here, you can do it and say you're just tapping into your inner Brit (how dapper, polished and refined). See? See?? I was also a fan of the Breakfast at Tiffanys but I think it's off the menu. What? If you're going to do it, go.all.out. With the craft cocktail out of your system, head over to beer-land and stay there. The servers are pretty well suited to advise you on what pairs with your food, so trust their opinion. I tend to go with Belgians and English beers. I have yet to have a bad one. Eating: now that you're getting sauced (you randy scouse git), get some food in your belly (said with a Scottish accent). Eat these things. I repeat: eat these things and you're guaranteed to have a positive experience: 1.) Green Chile & Pork Chili. It may not be on the regular menu but it's been there each time I've been. It's phenomenal. It's also very spicy. Use the bread on the table as a sopping agent and eat it as a wet plate dish. This way, you won't have a belly full of hot, spicy broth... which can not and will not lead to good things after.; 2.) Scotch Egg. It all comes down to the sweet mustard, as the thought of egg-encrusted pork is still a little baffling. Tastes good, though; 3.) Kedgeree. It's a Scottish dish but get it any way. Smoked salmon, curry, rice = incredible. Thinking about it, the mix of smoked fish and curry makes sense within the context of Scotland but, admittedly, the idea through me for a loop.; 4.) Bubble & Squeak. Fight the temptation to believe that the names are all made up and just go with it. Browned potatoes with cabbage and other crunchy bits inside. You're not done. It's time for dessert. What? Eat. It's cold in England. People eat, wear sweaters and deal with pleasant plumpness. Except for Kate Moss. The selections vary but if either of these goodies are up for grabs, grab 'em both: trifle with berries, custard, sponge cake, cream, and (I think) some sort of booze sauce. Yes. Oh, yes. Aaaand, the Earl Grey Creme Brulee. If I need to say any more about this, we can't be friends. Can' t.be .friends. So there you have it. A sure-fire way to enjoy yourself at Blokes and Birds. Granted, you'll have a food baby to resemble the Octo-Mom but what do you care? Summer's over. It's time to enjoy yourself and eat rich food. Isn't that why we live in Lond... er, Chicago?
(4)
Kara W.
I wish I would have been able to the try the food, as I have heard good things, but alas, they had run out of it at 3 pm on a Sunday by the time we arrived. (????????????????) My boyfriend and I went to go to Blokes and Birds on a Sunday afternoon for a late brunch. We checked ahead of time and saw that B&B serves brunch until 4. When we arrived (after a long bus ride), we went to the host's stand and were met by a completely unapologetic man (seemed more like an owner than a host) who told us that sorry, they were out of food. WHAT?? Literally, that's what he said. How is that even possible? So we asked to eat off of the dinner menu instead since they were OUT of brunch (not sure how that happens with such a large menu) and he replied that they were only serving drinks until dinner started at 5. His attitude and demeanor was terrible. He did not care in the slightest that he was angering his potential customers and he acted kind of uppity and, for lack of a better word, douchey, about it. We were shocked to say the least. No heartfelt apologies, no coupon or voucher to get us back in the restaurant at a later day. Nothing. He just turned us away hungry. It was the worst service I've had all year, bar none. PS This is my first Yelp review. Thanks for the encouragement, B&B!
(1)
Andrea M.
Wonderful service. I work in the catering industry and was completely satisfied here. Great planning and nothing left to chance. I will recommend them to anyone that wants to have a fabulous time with great food and exceptional service.
(4)
Jaclyn A.
Great bar. Cocktails take a while to make but they are well worth the wait. It's a nice respite from the other Wrigley bars.
(4)
Claudia R.
The most surprising part of this experience was the fact that I called and asked how the bloody's were before dropping in. "We have some of the best in the city" said the voice at the end of the line. Conversely this was one of the worst bloody's I have ever had. The bacon-infused vodka didn't blend well with the lackluster bloody mix that tasted like a mix and the prosciutto garnish made my stomach turn. After asking a waitress (we couldn't get the attention of our waiter) to bring us some horseradish and tabasco to improve our drinks my brunch partner and I had to throw in the towel. We ordered a different drink and our waiter hardly apologized and offered to remove one of the untouched drinks from our tab - not both. Because of the terrible service on the part of our waiter and the worst bloody in the city I will be staying away from this joint.
(1)
Fernando G.
Holy Crap! I can't believe this used to be a bar called SPOT 6.. for those of you who never experienced Spot 6, if you look in the Guinness Book of World Records for worst managed dive bar in the world, you would see a picture of Spot 6. They've completely gutted the place and it looks amazing! The wood paneling on the walls is a very classy touch. Again, if you didn't know what this place looked like before, you probably won't be as amazed as I am. Okay, on to the food review. On my first visit I ordered the Fish n Chips which I loved so much that I have yet to try something else here on the 2 visits afterwards. The Banana Bread Beer is simply delicious and moderately priced. This makes a great place to take a date if she's down to earth and low maintenance.
(5)
Blake H.
i went on a whim right after work because i had gotten a coupon for it from someplace. while the food was good, the service was not. the whole process took over two hours which usually isn't an issue for me but when i am just trying out a new place real quick, that isn't what i want. i had the posh on becks, because i will always order the stuffed dates at a place. they were good but a little unremarkable. i also ordered the jullox which is their foie gras dish. it was also good but a little sweeter than i like. i also ordered the bubble and squeak, which i will never be able to say a bad thing about. i had one beer while i was eating and then a cocktail for desert. it was good but i probably won't be going back, which is a shame because it is so close to my house!
(3)
Matt B.
Went here with a group for a birthday dinner and really enjoyed the drinks while we were waiting. Once we were seated, the waiter basically ruined our experience. Was extremely short with us and didn't enhance the experience whatsoever. The food and drinks were awesome. Also, no tv's so if you're trying to catch a game, keep that in mind.
(3)
Sandie B.
Wow--so reasonably priced for such yummy food. On our server's suggestion, I had the Amish chicken, and substituted the roasted potatoes for some potatoes thing called bubbles and squeak. Yum! Plus a tasty side salad and great service--all for a mere $12. The cocktail list looked enticing, too, but we didn't indulge.
(4)
Derek B.
5 stars for the drinks. I haven't tried a lot of the food. The atmosphere is quite nice, and the downstairs karaoke is a lot of fun.
(4)
Kate W.
Blokes. Let me sum it up: The food is awesome. I've been there at least 8 times in the past 6 months and have never had a bad meal (or drink). The live music is fantastic (bonus - no cover). Constantly rotating, delicious drafts. Don't go in and order a Bud Light, that's just silliness. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Karaoke bar in the basement. After plenty of delicious food and drink upstairs, take the party to the lounge, it promises to be a good time for a group of friends! I cannot understand why this place doesn't have a 30 minute wait every night. Luckily for me there is usually a table or a couple of bar spots open
(5)
Lisa V.
I had my wedding reception here 8/10/13 and it was great! My party was around 60 people and no one was disappointed. I had never been to Blokes and Birds before when scoping out reception venues, but I really liked the look of the place, specifically the downstairs lounge area. Kenny was patient and a very helpful "wedding planner" He seemed to anticipate what I needed when we were making plans and everything was carried out wonderfully. The bar and wait staff were professional and efficient while being friendly and fun. Tons of guests raved about the food (I didn't get to eat much) and trays were replenished and cleaned promptly. The DJ was awesome too. Worked wonderfully with our request of oldies/jazzy/lounge style music in the beginning and was great with requests and karaoke! I'd recommend having any kind of party here. My guests, both Chicagoans and out of towners were impressed with the space.
(5)
Anna V.
I first went here a long time ago and still don't get it: how is this in Wrigleyville? I bet this moustache restaurant confuses the hell out of people during the weekend bro-crawl. Great beer list, really nice craft selection of stuff I've actually heard of. The interior space is great: minimal, rustic, sharp. Weirdly intimate... this is a nice place for a date, which is what I came here for. Remarkably uncrowded for a place that doesn't take reservations. The Thursday special is great: $15 gets you chips, a burger, and a craft beer of your choosing (and the burgers are very tasty). Mac n cheese is solid, as are the truffled mushrooms... earthy, delicious, textural. They have definitely added to this menu since the last time I was here and I'm really curious to try it again.
(4)
Patty S.
Came here for a private event that took over their entire downstairs lounge area. I didn't know what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised when I walked it. You definitely don't feel like you're in Lakeview when you walk into the space. It's got rich wood paneling, dim lights, several tables areas for intimate conversations or group of 10. The whole space feels very classy and upscale with being overly stuffy. There is a large beer selection and the craft cocktails were delicious as well.
(4)
BJ E.
This place is fun to visit as an out of towner. The drinks are delicious, the staff is super friendly, and the food is delicious. The bar has two levels. Downstairs is where you will often kind Karaoke or a comedy show. The next time I blow through Chicago, this place is definitely on my list!
(5)
Belle L.
Prices close to $10. Good Enough Guy Portion. Dish and Ingredient sophistication in comfort food. JOSH HOP HASH ($11) -- a balanced dish. Josh's recommendation for scrambled eggs was perfect. I request a bit more Angus beef. I always hesitate when ketchup is introduced...but when you dip potatoes in ketchup - tasty! Edge into the hollandaise sauce. METROPOLIS COFFEE -- I am in heaven for $2 bottomless. Great presentation. SERVICE -- Patrick is informative upbeat with passion. VENUE -- clean, organized. Single stall Ladies Room has mouthwash and lotion to prep you for a make out session with a hottie. *wink*
(5)
Gwen D.
Review for karaoke lounge only. If you're in the area, Blokes & Birds' karaoke lounge makes an irresistible option for a Friday or Saturday night! Although the DJ doesn't provide a song list, leaving patrons to think of songs from the top of mind, we were more than pleased that all our songs were available. He did seem to alternate between karaoke and standard numbers, which made the wait for the mic longer. Fun bartenders, if a little overworked, and a friendly crowd to boot. I'll be back as long as I'm nearby!
(4)
Samantha V.
So, I came because yelp said there was karaoke! But wow this place is a little high brow for me. Not sure about upstairs, but downstairs, where the karaoke is, is very dimly lit yet elegant and I feel like I've walked into the super spacious living room of someone very well-to-do. Comfortable leather couches with sparse yet trendy furnishings and an intimate bar with very nice glassware. Everyone is dressed rather nicely, definitely not your jeans and t-shirt dive har karaoke! Staff seems very nice. Touch screen song selection with music videos on the screen is interesting and probably more entertaining for the audience but a little distracting to the singer.
(4)
Ethan H.
Went here for dinner to try it out since we passed by it so often. First impressions were great, seemed like a cool place inside, seated right away at a cool table. Drinks were out in no time, and the old fashioned I got was really great - that's the only reason this is a 2 star instead of a 1. To be fair, we should've been warned by the kitschy cliche mustaches that adorned everything... Waitress took a long time to come and take our food orders, and mine came out wrong even though she had read it back correctly. Supposed to be a medium-cooked plain cheeseburger, came out well done and coated in some kind of gross mayo. I asked the person who brought it out for some ketchup to hide the taste since I couldn't scrape it off entirely, and he promised to get it right away - that was the last we ever saw of him. I waited for a while, as my girlfriend finished a third of her meal, and finally managed to wave down another server - for being only half full, it seemed like no one was really paying attention. The hostess was on her phone the entire time actually - how unprofessional is that! You come into the restaurant and she's leaning at the stand and visibly scrolling on Facebook or whatever, while I'm ten feet away and waving for service. Wow. I finally flagged someone down and demanded just one little bowl of ketchup already so I could eat, and our waitress brought it back, noticed the plate where I had scraped everything off because she got my order wrong, didn't seem to care, and walked away immediately. Ok... After all that, biting into it and finding out it was thoroughly well done wasn't so bad because I was pretty resigned to having a bad experience here anyway. The waitress never even seemed to care. Didn't even apologize or offer to correct it. Wouldn't have been a big deal if it was just, like, a tomato that I could pick off, but this gross mayo sauce was so soaked into the whole burger and bun that I couldn't even finish it. I left with a disgusting taste in my mouth and I'm never coming back. There are plenty of other options just steps away - don't waste your time with this lackluster place.
(2)
Ryne I.
Pros: The food is great! Lots of options for brunch and lunch. It has a great atmosphere and vibe. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. Cons: Service is rough. I think it's a management issue, as the staff is hustling constantly, but organization is poor. Our group's food came out over the course of 5-10 minutes instead of all at once, drinks weren't refilled consistently, and we have our order taken for a long time. Servers have way too much to do and not enough support. They didn't get our orders correct in the kitchen. The server repeated them correctly, but food came out incorrect. The acoustic brunch thing. This is the big one. It's a really cool idea, in theory. In practice, it's too loud, no one likes it, and it's unnecessary. No one is coming here for this, and it's actually probably turning more people away than it's bringing in. If the set was shortened and the volume lowered significantly, the experience would be greatly improved and more enjoyable.
(2)
Ken O.
Having seen this restaurant many times as I rode past it on the bus and having read reviews about this restaurant, I decided to try it.... finally. I had arrived about 5:00pm on a recent Saturday. I figure this place was going to be very busy or slow (since it was early). I walked in and the restaurant was empty. I was greeted by the hostess, who was very charming. She had seated me in the front by the large windows. The menu is very basic - a little bit of everything. Jon, server, had greeted me and went over the menu and specials. From all of the reviews, I knew that I was going to order the Fish 'n Chips. I didn't order any appetizers so I would have room for dessert at the end of the meal. The dining room has a very modern feeling to it with the wall to wall windows, wooden floors, exposed brick to the exposed ceiling beams and the wooden planks to cover some of the ceiling. The food runner brought the meal to me within a reasonable amount of time. The one piece to fish was place over the plate of fries. The filet was very meaty and flaky. The fries were very well seasoned with maybe with sea salt. Jon was check in periodically without being overbearing. Great server. After eating the one piece of fish and majority of the fries, I was done. No room for dessert. Jon did go over the desserts, but I just couldn't eat another bite. So if you are in the Wrigleyville area, check out this restaurant! I look forward to my next adventure to this restaurant.
(5)
Kate U.
This is a great place to come to, sit at the bar and order dinner or lunch. This place has a classic bar feel to it and the bartenders really make you feel at home. We came in and they gave us a taste of their bourbon which was fabulous. I'm normally not a big bourbon person but it had a lot of flavor. I ended up sticking with beer though and tried the pumpkin ale. It has all of the flavors of pumpkin without losing that classic beer finish. To be honest coming in I wasn't expecting much of the food, but don't be mistaken this place has a great menu that doesn't consist of typical bar food. I had the lamb burger with sweet potato fries and it was out of this world good. The lamb was juicy and cooked perfectly. The sweet potato fries came out hot and they had tons of flavor! In summary, go here for a game and sit at the bar. You won't be disappointed. The drinks are good, the food is good, and the service is fantastic.
(4)
E W.
Great atmosphere, good cocktails and good food. I know this sounds juvenile, but their mac and cheese is actually surprisingly good! Especially when the special is lobster mac! ((I have a shellfish allergy, so I have to live vicariously through manfriend on that one.)) Great fries. Good burgers. We have never gotten dessert here, because we are always way too full, but I want to try one next time! Great place for smaller groups. We had a hard time getting a comfy spot with more than 6. The food service is a little slow on a busy weekend night. Definitely recommend visiting during the week.
(4)
Cristina P.
Every time I come here I have a fantastic time. The bartenders are cool. The food is so delicious. I ordered halibut and didn't expect much. God damn ! It was amazing. I loved the capers combined with the fish and mash potatoes. Just wow. Establishments take note, This is how you earn repeat customers! Its a blend between great servers, delicious food and drinks, and just overall great customer service.
(5)
Kristi E.
First off - there is a check-in special. A nip of their house-infused bourbon...how can you pass this up? Our server brought a shot-glass full of the flavor of the month, which in July happened to be a combination of vanilla, granny smith apples, and spices. Delightful. You're off to a real good start, Blokes and Birds. On Sunday they serve brunch until 3, which is when most people decide is the most sensible time of day to actually roll out of bed for their weekly supply of biscuits and gravy. Luckily, I was on a little vaca in Chicago, so my better half made sure we got there by 2 :) The open-air style of seating is something that the Twin Cities could definitely take a few tips on from Chicago. The restaurant itself is all dark wood and the lighting is sparse, but with all the doors all open, the darkness felt cool, and more like a refuge from the scorching sun outside. I also enjoyed the fresh cucumber water they served in place of regular tap water, and the table settings were simple, and not fussy. Pair that with the soft reggae music from above, and the breezes from outside, I really felt relaxed and at ease inside the space. Errywhere I go for brunch, I look for eggs benny or biscuits and gravy. Meet their first cousin: spicy sausage gravy on top of thick biscuits, with a fried egg and dill sprigs, topped with 2 more large sausage links. My oh my, what a heavenly, meaty sensation. This was a brunch special, so I am not sure if you would find it on the regular menu. The only thing I didn't get, was that it was advertised as reflecting English-pub culture. I really didn't catch on to any of that - like at all. I think if I was coming to experience that aspect, I would have been disappointed. But lucky for me, I was greedy for brunch, and blinded by gravy.
(4)
Angie M.
It wasn't totally offensive, which I consider a good thing considering: 1. I'm 35-years-old 2. This bar is in Wrigleyville So here we are. Blokes & Birds is kind of that medium between dive and really upscale bar. They have lots of high tables, seating and a more than decent menu. They also have a dude with a guitar signing which got really loud, really annoying and really lame after awhile. Prices are on the higher end, too, but nothing crazy. $10 for an old fashioned. A decent selection of craft beers. Some specialty cocktails if that's your thing. Coors Light if you're not feeling fancy. I liked the big open space. I didn't like the single ladies bathroom. WTF. We need more than one toilet, yo. So... medium?
(3)
Kyle D.
Overall: Good bar atmosphere with a 'classier' feel, especially for the area. Good food and beer list. A solid option when it comes to bars and food in Wrigley. The Good: Good food at decent prices. Some unique options, especially for a bar. Definitely higher class but the prices are great. Plus, free shot when you check in! Decent atmosphere. The bad: Louder music, the live singer wasn't that good. The food portions are smaller. I left wanting more. The waitress was so-so. They didn't even have the Hawks game audio on. Atmosphere: 7.5 Service: 7/10 Food: 7.5/10
(4)
Hannah C.
Beware: this spot apparently charges $2 on top of menu price for "neat" spirits. This was nowhere on the menu and I honestly can't fathom why on earth they charge more for the privilege of not having ice cubes. We were really peeved that they decide to up-charge our relatively large bill for no apparent reason. The food menu (at least on NYE) left something to be desired. The cocktails were good and they have an impressive scotch collection - this is a great place to bring the whiskey addict in your life for drinks (with the caveat mentioned above). The burger was woefully under-flavored and "medium well" still bled when I cut into it. They make a variety of amazing aoilis that they don't use in cooking - you can just order them on the side. Service was slow - so much so that the bartender eventually brought us our drinks after noting we were staring at them up on the bar since our waiter hadn't bothered to come pick them up. Overall, not a bad spot for a drink, but there are better bars in the area.
(2)
Jamar T.
Love this place. Way more upscale in design than the places a little farther north on Clark and way less duchy as well. They recently updated the lower level which features many seating sections for groups of people. They also have karaoke on Friday nights! The staff and bartenders are all really cool. They even make their own house infused vodka! The craft cocktails all look really good. I would definitely recommend The Statesider. I can't wait to go back and try the food too! Overall it's a really chill bar that would be great to hang out with a group of friends down in the lower lever or even a date with dimly lit intimate setting of the main floor
(4)
Linh L.
Service has always been outstanding, more than I would expect, and never less than perfect. Went here the other night and my first timer friends loved it here. Definitely check out their desserts (my friend said it was the best cookie he ever had which was a la mode) and house infused bourbon. They have great beer and alcohol selection. Dinner and drinks here with friends could make you stay here for HOURS. We were there from 7:30pm to 2:30am. Never had their pork chop and the Amish chicken but my friends raved about them. I'll have to try it next time. The only reason why I'm taking off one star though... Is because there's no steak on the menu.
(4)
Karolina T.
Came here prior to heading to a concert at the Vic. The place is really nice inside but I was less than impressed with the service. Our waiter seemed nice and the appetizer came out quickly; however, we waited over 30 minutes for our entrees to come out, even though they weren't anything that should have taken that long and the place was only half full. During our wait for our food, our waiter was no where to be seen. When the food finally came out, they messed up some of the order and it wasn't warm. My bf got the fish and chips which he thought was okay. I ordered the gnocchi primavera which was completely flavorless and bland. My friend on the other hand thought her pork rib sandwich was decent. Least to say, I will not be back.
(2)
Ben B.
For drinks? Yes. 100%. They have good cocktails. Often takes a bit of time to get them, but they're tasty. For food? Forget it. We went with a group of 12 to Blokes & Birds before the Billy Joel concert at Wrigley. We had a reservation. When we showed up, there were just two menus on the table. After sharing menus, we ordered our drinks and appetizers. Some people had to reiterate their drink orders, since our server seemed to have forgotten them. When the apps showed up, they didn't bring silverware or plates, so we initially made due with the few place-settings that were on the table to begin with. Our entrees took nearly an hour to arrive. And when they did, we still had a severe shortage of napkins and silverware. I had to walk over to the place where all that was stacked and ask an employee to hook us up. Many entrees came out prepared incorrectly. My fries were overcooked and flavorless. I've been to Blokes & Birds several times and I generally enjoy it. But on a night when you know you're going to get slammed and when a 12-top submits a credit card number to hold a reservation, maybe consider things like having enough silverware, plates and menus for each customer to have one. That seems like what they teach you on day one of Restaurant School. If you plan on eating here before an event at Wrigley, budget at least two and a half hours so you can compensate for their slow-ass service.
(3)
Catherine N.
I was really excited to try this place and I brought a few friends to hang out with but what a disappointment! It was a Friday night and to be safe, I made reservations, but apparently.. none were needed.. this place was not even close to packed. That should have been a giveaway. BUT, we were like... must just be too early. Here's the run down: Food - okay. I've experienced better with better service. The Scotch Egg was good, but they could have given you what kind of sausage it was. One of my friends couldn't even try it because we weren't sure if it was beef or pork. The Chicken Tikka was BLAND. DO NOT GET THIS. When I order indian food... I expect a nice blend of spices and flavor. This did not suffice. The Chelsea Fish and Chips was not really an entree. They gave such a tiny portion (one piece of fish) it should have been considered an appetizer. The best thing was the Pork-Rib Sandwich, but meat covered in bbq sauce? How can you go wrong? Also, the menu said that the Pork-Rib came with an "asian" bbq sauce.. it didn't taste like asian.. it tasted like your normal run of the mill bbq sauce. Drinks - I liked the British Cup... that was it. Oh, they also give you zucchini water.. it's a hit or miss with some people. Service - AWFUL. I know our waiter tried to be super nice but he came off really weird. I felt like he was sneaking up on me and I never saw him coming. The guy who served our food was TERRIBLE. So here's the thing... when you serve someone their food.. you try NOT to let it slide off the plate into their lap and have them catch the food as it's falling. If that happens.. you also try to APOLOGIZE. Nope.. No apologies.. just a look like, "yea you're SUPPOSE to catch your food". Ridiculous. I never wanted to leave more in my life. Why this place has so many stars? I have no idea.. but I wouldn't recommend it.
(2)
Margaret H.
I came here tonight for dinner and really liked the decor and ambience. Doesn't have a 'gastropub' feel, in my opinion. For the food, we had the bacon infused mussels and the truffle risotto. We enjoyed both. The mussels were very flavorful and served with bread for dipping in the sauce. The truffle risotto was creamy, but not overwhelmingly so either. I would recommend pairing it with another dish, as it's not quite an entree on its own. In fact, I'm still hungry... The server was kind, but it took quite some time for our entree to come out, after we finished our starter. Our meal took almost 2 hours for two dishes and a nearly empty restaurant. My only recommendation would be to update your online menu. I came here with a fellow foodie and we saw several dishes missing and replaced with simpler dishes, that we were considering. Overall, great food and decor. I would recommend it to a friend!
(4)
Hollina U.
Check in here to get a free "nip of house infusion!" I ordered a Summer Breeze here, which really did taste like summer. It's one of those well-concocted cocktails that puts a smile on your face with the first sip. I really like the decor of this place, so classy in an area so close to Wrigleyville. You won't find the bros that run all over Wrigley here in Blokes and Birds. There's also a downstairs, that someone told me has karaoke, but I didn't have a chance to check it out. Next time!
(4)
Arlene G.
went here a few weeks ago with the homies & enjoyed ourselves. the food was not really outstanding to me nor did they have the type of liquor i like but i really like the karaoke area downstairs, hence the 3 stars. they didnt even have the food item that 1 of my friends ordered so she was disappointed bout that. i tried their drinks from their menu but not impressed. i just wanted flavored ciroc or effen and they didnt have either!! wtf!??!?! i really like when restaurants have the open windows so that u can still feel like ur outside even though ur inside but sometimes the people walkin around can be rude & intrusive towards the people eatin. overall id go back for the entertainment downstairs but not for their food or drink selection.
(3)
Rudy C.
I absolutely loved this place. Probably my new favorite brunch spot in Chicago. $13 bottomless mimosas and so much amazing food--you must try the blokes breakfast. Anything you order is flawless! Nicole was my server and she was outstanding--my definition of outstanding is going above and beyond. She kept the drinks filled and made sure I was comfortable. I'll be back for sure!
(5)
Enrique R.
Went here to start our groups TBox experience last year and the service was great and beer kept flowing! easy place to get to and find bc of its unique name.
(4)
Alexandria T.
I went on a double date to Blokes & Birds this past Saturday night. I wanted to go to Owen and Engine, but they have recently blown up and couldn't take reservations, so we settled on this other gastropub. We were able to make a reservation for 8:15pm. We arrived a little early and the place was almost full, but they don't have that many tables. We were seated right away and left to wait for the other couple. What I mean by left is left to sit for 15 minutes before our server even came over to take our drink order. And then left to sit for another 15 minutes before he came to finally take our food order. He was very attentive with the other tables around us, but he kind of seemed to be ignoring our table. I got tired of waiting, and my boyfriend had to do an airport pickup after dinner, so I finally just told him we were ready to take our order as he hurried past our table. We wanted to order everything together, but he just took our appetizer order and then told us he'd be back. His rationale was that we ordered a baked cheese that would take a long time. I wish we had ordered it within ten minutes of sitting down, but it was too late for that. We braced ourselves to see if he actually would return, but he did within a few minutes to take our food order. We started off with the baked brie, which actually comes baked in an apple. It wasn't anything substantial or flavorful, and I would probably skip it. When our appetizer was brought, I asked about the Yelp offer, which was for a nip of the house infusion. The house infusion is an infused bourbon which they change monthly. The one had an almost minty flavor. And he brought a nap, small taste, over for everyone at our table. At that point, our service had improved greatly, but I was still a little annoyed about having to sit for so long without ordering. I had the fish and chips as my entree. It came with four sauces for dipping which was nice. One of them was the pea puree and another a malt vinegar aioli that was really tasty. The fish was very flavorful and the chips tasted really fresh and delicious. Everyone else said their food was really good, which redeemed the experience.
(3)
Jill D.
Great place for a private party. They have a big space downstairs from the restaurant with a large bar, monitors, and best of all - a karaoke set-up on stage! Great staff and great beer list, and amazingly delicious food menu! Even though it's a hike from West Loop, I will be back! MUST TRY: Their signature cherry-infused Bourbon! It's outstanding.
(5)
Alex J.
A classy establishment with mustaches and a basement popping with events worth your while. Whether it's live music, comedy shows, or karaoke - don't mind me passionately belting out tunes from my childhood after ingesting Blokes' hearty grub - you're in for a treat. Shoot for their pulled pork or beef sandwiches, or their mushroom ragu. My only complaint is that service has been somewhat slow on a couple of occasions, but I wasn't in the biggest rush, either, so it didn't ruin my experience. The staff is actually really personable and helpful, also boosting the review.
(4)
James R.
Really like this place! We were looking for an evening of drinks and comfort food and this place fit the bill! The wife ordered the British cup cocktail and I the Blackcurrant cider. Both delicious! For starters, the Bacon dates (sorry, forgot the fancy name they gave them!), were great. The sliders and burger that followed were equally delicious and very filling. I was surprised the place was pretty quiet, considering it's a spacious and stylish venue for a Friday evening- the snow/ice on the ground could be a factor. The only thing I might do to make it better is to incorporate more enticing dishes onto the menu, instead of just the burgers, sandwiches, pub staples etc. Perhaps also a few more dessert options. However, don't let that take away from the great experience we had. Next time, we may even check out their karaoke lounge!
(4)
Casey A.
Went for drinks last evening (not having been back since prior review 2 yrs ago) around 7:30/8pm and was really pleasantly surprised by their revamped drink list (including wine). The bartenders are some of the best - attentive but laid back; friendly but not oversharing their life story. We couldn't stay for dinner due to other plans made, but as a few of the items went by I would have loved to cancel them and stay!
(5)
Joshua C.
Stopped in here because from the outside it got my attention, but when I went inside I was impressed. I stopped in for a drink and wind up having another, plus a shot. The bartender was real cool and well informed about the beer selections. Looked over the menu and my mouth was watering at what they had on it. I will be back and they also have Karaoke so that can be a fun night out on the weekend.
(4)
Jen K.
It's a short review because I haven't had the opportunity to eat here but I have been a few times for drinks. I love the atmosphere. It's clean and upscale and most of the bartenders are rocking some sick staches. They are very nice and skilled. I have tried a few of their specialty cocktails and they always do the trick. I really need to head back at some point for the food, but I can definitely say it's a great cocktails place.
(4)
Danica W.
LOVE this place so much that I'm writing my first Yelp review! From the waitstaff to the bartenders, appetizers and drinks to entrees, the entire experience at Blokes is a treat. We started out with bacon-wrapped dates and mushroom ragu. I would have been fine just ordering that again for my meal, but we ended up going with Fish and Chips, Amish Chicken and a gnocchi dish. The fish was huge and the only part of our meal that we didn't polish off 100%. Chicken was hands down the BEST I've ever had- juicy and full of flavor. Gnocchi was a great vegetarian option- creamy and cheesy but not too overwhelming. Paired with a few of their specialty cocktails (personal favorite was one with gin, lemon, pear and cucumber), this was the perfect start to our night. Blokes is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Wrigleyville.
(5)
Saro O.
For a little kareoke someone suggested this spot, which I had never heard of even though it's on the every changing strip of Clark between Belmont and Newport. It's dark and woody ~ Not sure about being british or a gastropub but it was a nice interior. We went first to check it out and had a great dining experience. My husband had the fish & chips and I had the blackened catfish on a bed of enchiladas. It tasted very good and I found it unique. It is loud upstairs and it is hit & miss as far as getting someone's attention, but everyone we encountered was friendly. We then set a reservation for kareoke the next Friday and everyone had an amazing time! The lounge is intimate and the KJ was funny and friendly. The bar staff downstairs doesn't have everything that upstairs does (and it can be an intimidating selection) but they had no problem sending a server up for drinks or food from upstairs. I couldn't have asked for a better time with friends and if anyone asks I will certainly recommend them for a fun time with friends, good food, and an interesting array of drinks to try.
(4)
LaKia W.
Awesome!!!! I had a wonderful time. The sliders were delicious. The spicy chicken wings were wonderful. The karaoke space was wonderful. My only complaint was karaoke selection was not was as vast as I was told. The DJ was filling in for the regular DJ. So, my party kept asking for artists and was told that he couldn't find the song. We asked whether he could download the requested song. But, he said that he was filling in and didn't know how. They didn't have Proud Mary by Ike and Tina Turner???Also, he seemed to have lost control over the stage at times which could be attributed to lack of experience. Overall, we had a great time!!!
(4)
Derrick N.
Wonderful atmosphere, the live music was amazing! Although there were some aspects of the restaurant that didn't fulfill my expectations. Mind you we were the FIRST to arrive and the only ones in the restaurant for 10 minutes. The service took longer than expected, there were 3 of our waters that had particles in them, it took about 30 minutes to get one pint of beer, and the food took about 45 minutes to receive. This needs improvement!
(2)
Elizabeth S.
Well-rounded: interesting bar selection with quality food, great service, and an awesome, throwback-friendly playlist. Had a great time last night, trying this place for the first time. We appreciated the unique beer selection. (I can't believe Well's Banana Bread actually tastes like liquid banana bread!) And our food was on par for an adventurous foodie - yet completely accessible for a "meat & potatoes" eater, too. The ambiance works really well for the area. The playlist was fun with a lot of old school tracks - it's practically impossible to have a bad time when Ace of Base comes on. And the decor was well-kept for a place that seems to get very busy and lively with Wrigleyville/Lakeview "party traffic." Good drinks: check. Good food: check. Atmosphere: check... So lastly, the service: AMAZING. Raul was incredibly thoughtful, personable and knowledgeable. He's the main reason I'll be back and recommending this spot to friends in the area. (Thanks again, Raul!)
(5)
Kate K.
Haven't been here, but ordered takeout from Blokes & Birds... Delivery was quick, guy was friendly. Food was DELISHIS! Best burger I've had in Chicago, ever. Hands down. That is all.
(5)
Curtis H.
A group of about 8 of us visited for this year's Easter brunch and were surprised to find the place not that busy. That being said we were all pleasantly surprised with the delicious food. Not a person was disappointed with their selection, and my vegetarian omelet was nicely prepared and delicious. The accompanying breakfast potatoes and fruit cup made for a perfectly satisfying meal. Prices and service were also great. My only complaint is that they don't offer a bottomless mimosa. If that were an option this place would be a mainstay on our brunch rotation.
(4)
Van N.
The ambiance was amazing but the service was terrible. Just went there with a few friends to grab some drinks and it took them a whole hour to get us what we ordered.
(2)
Zachary A.
I was here on a Saturday night and really enjoyed the vibe / atmosphere. The food selection seemed pretty good, but I zoned right in on the lamb burger. I was mostly pleased with it, but I thought they could've seasoned the lamb a little better, as it was a littly gamey tasting (typical of lamb anyway). The fries were so good. They tasted fresh and very few places make "homemade" fries like that. The beer selection was also tasty and I'm a big fan of any place that carries Brooklyn Brewery selections. The service was also really good and the server did a great job of being nice and keeping up when the restaurant was clearly quite busy. I'll definitely be back some time!
(4)
Kris R.
this place is probably the gem in wrigleyville. seems like it doesn't belong, but i believe it brings charm to the area, which exists of old crappy college bars. a classy joint. to celebrate my good friend's first night of being a citizen of the city of chicago, we walked over to blokes & birds. super cool, wood everywhere (thats what she said), and a kick-ass mustache to welcome you. i was expecting it to be more of a bar scene than a restaurant scene, so i was pleasantly surprised when we walked in around 930p and were seated at a table in front. i was ready to get my drank on and asked which craft cocktail he recommended - the b-cup. i asked if they had a d-cup, since that's what i possess. he laughed uncomfortably and replied with, "well, it'd come in a pint glass." clever. my friend asked for recommendations on a lighter beer - i think he came up with one of the saison belgian beers. it was pretty damn good. the b-cup was average. ha. i ended up ordering the queen's jublilee, which was more up my alley. we ate light and ordered the lemon mussels and the bacon wrapped dates. both were delicious. we ordered more bread to sop up all that mussel juice. fantastico. also, when i checked in, we were entitled the house infusion - i think whiskey or bourbon of some sort - one peach and one pineapple. awesome - but that threw me overboard bc i woke up with a crazy hangover. the server was the shit. took care of us well. i'd definitely come back since i'll be up in the wrigs more often this summer!
(4)
Sandy N.
Blokes and Birds has some very strong points going for it. It fills a very small niche of good food AND good beer selection AND good ambiance. Most English or Irish pub food is pretty boring, and doesn't go very far beyond bangers and mash. I was really happy with the creativity of the food here. We went here yesterday during the whole crazy NU-UIUC mayhem and stepped into very chill, non-crazy Blokes and Birds. It's not a huge space, but they did a good job with the layout of the tables. You can sit down and eat at a +-shaped table, which can accommodate up to four 2-4 person groups, which is really much better than a whole bunch of tiny tables meant for 2 people each that really take up space when the bar is full. It's got a really nice mellow pub-like feel, but also classy (not dive-y). The food was great, and the beer selection was huge. We had the: baked mac and cheese - good flavor, a little runny (i like my cheese sauce nice and thick, but bf liked that it wasn't thick) bubble and squeak, which is made of whipped potatoes and some vegetables and fried into a croquette-like thing (not exactly, but sort of) curried cauliflower with caramel apples - very creative, and nice pairing of the curry with caramel lobster-stuffed deviled eggs with tobikko caviar - good, but tiny! basically a huge amount of money for 2 fancy eggs creme brulee - not bad, but nothing special i had the b-cup cocktail which was tasty, and bf had 2 pints of the Abbey Ale, which I also liked. Our server was really great too. It really seemed like she cared that we had a good time, and she came by at regular intervals to check up on us. Overall, I really like Blokes and Birds. Considering how close it is to my apartment, I might just give up Rockit for awhile until they vamp up their menu (where food choices have severely declined.. truffle fries just don't make the cut for dinner) and patronize Blokes and Birds instead. The food is really creative while still giving those comfort food options that you really want at a pub. Prices weren't too unreasonable either, and I will definitely be back to try other menu items.
(4)
Anna P.
We're gonna do cheers and jeers for this one, in the grand ole English tradition... Cheers: - I lived in London for a year and have traveled all around the UK, and can say with confidence that this is a more genuine British pub than many of the tourist traps in London ;-) - Clean, well-appointed, stylish space that wasn't crowded at all and seemed much further from Wrigleyville than it is (that's definitely a good thing) - Service was really friendly and nice - Definitely a very good beer, wine and cocktail list. Well-priced too! - The menu is interesting and has some of the traditional British pub fare as well as some more innovative dishes, so there is something for everyone. - Food was solid: we had the scotch egg, burger, salmon and french fries and everything was very tasty. Jeers: - I don't know if it's a "jeer", per se, but more just that this place didn't blow me away. Everything was good and we had a really nice experience, but I didn't leave aching to go back immediately. Balance Sheet: The total is probably actually 3.5 stars, inching towards 4...I'd definitely give it another try.
(3)
Kelly W.
I came here with a large group and was pleasantly surprised by how attentive the service was, especially for a Saturday night. Our waitress was really great and patient as we waited for our group to trickle in and then as we payed with about 5 CCs and the rest cash. They have a pretty good cocktail list. I tried the Churchill Downs.. aka a fancier margarita as well as a traditional Pimm's Cup (yumz). And of course, we got a sampling of the house whiskey. Wowza. Foodwise, I would give this place 3.5 stars. Some great appetizesr and side options (I would have tried more but they were sort of on the expensive side). I was pleased with the Amish Chicken but, for a sandwich, it was difficult to eat. But definitely get the chips and add the curry sauce... you won't be disappointed. Oh and the desserts for our friend's bday (earl grey creme brulee and a decadent chocolate cake) were delicious and a wonderful surprise to end the meal! This truly is a breath of fresh air in Wrigleyville.
(4)
Young S.
Exceptional food & service ! Several tasty appetizers (yummy blood sausage & veggies curry) & the waitress was so great. Their beer selection is spot on, but the cocktails (Churchill downs) were what we were in the mood for. My girlfriends & I enjoyed the atmosphere & certainly the owner Dale was awesome .
(5)
Kimberly R.
Extensive beer list, wonderful service, knowledgeable staff, delicious fries with featured aioli (one was basil, the other, bacon)! Very comfortable, warm atmosphere with some bar seats and some booth-type seating both upstairs and downstairs. We sat downstairs where it seemed like most patrons were happily enjoying items from the exotic beer and cocktail list. The upstairs area was mostly restaurant. It was helpful to separate the Happy Hour crowd from the dinner crowd! I highly recommend this place.
(5)
Jenn H.
Let's face it: A restaurant should never be centered around English food, especially when it's just trying to cash in on the whole "we're not a sports bar but we're in Wrigleyville" theme. The Highs: 1. Friendly service, just a little new and un-informed 2. Extensive beer list -- but why do the beers after the letter "S" have to be on the back of the drink menu? Poor beers. Revised formatting could serve this beer list well. 3. Cross table: I hate sitting across from my boyfriend at a table so sitting cornered off from him was much more cozy 4. Break from the norm: the atmosphere is pretty cool and is a nice respite from Cubs memorabilia 5. Ladies room is on the main floor, men's room is downstairs. Kind of a nice touch especially when you're in heels! (Note from my boyfriend reading this: I was NOT in heels on this particular night) The Lows: 1. The food: Over-priced, under-whelming, under-portioned. The cheese plate is $15 and I'm pretty sure it was picked up from Jewel earlier that day. Lobster risotto: Well-prepared, just not that good. Everything else was basically English themed, and as we've learned from Jim Gaffigan: English food is gross. 2. Wine List: Horrible. Insulting! With a beer and cocktail list as extensive as theirs, how can they justify this? 3. Music: All English musicians. I get it, the theme, blah blah, but....the mix was a little off. 4. Only 1 viewable television....playing Monty Python. I love MP just as much as the next person, but on a silent loop in a bar? No. The friendly staff is just not enough to get this place above 2 stars: A re-vamped menu and tone-down English-ness will serve this place well. Wanna-be scenesters, or 20-something's who don't know any better: Enjoy!
(2)
Chris S.
First and foremost, the service here is great. From the hostess who remembered us after we had been there only two other times, to the bartenders who are eager to talk discuss their extensive beer lists, to the rest of the staff who would rather walk you to the restroom than just point in a general direction, service is important to the staff at Blokes and Birds and appreciated by the patrons. Beer (did I mention the extensive list?) is king here, and it comes in bottles, on tap, and if you're lucky, barrel-aged. Beyond the beer, there is a big bar full of glorious scotch and bourbon. The food is hearty, English fare, with a killer shepherd's pie, great chips, and plenty of other starch heavy items to keep one warm through a long Chicago winter. The space is wide open, with tables in the front, and a bar in the rear of a dimly lit, wood and tile covered room. Not upscale, but definitely a step above totally casual. A great addition to the neighborhood, and worth returning to again and again.
(4)
Sarah H.
I had a great experience here! It was a perfect spot for having a chill evening with friends. the beer selection was great and fairly priced. the bar tender was super amazing. My sober friend declared him "the best bartender he ever had" - as the bar tender regularly kept his water fill and the free refills coming.
(5)
Maria M.
We should've know when we walked in to the bar at 12pm on Sunday with only two tables sat and the waitress/hostess greets us with a stone face and says 'um, do you have a reservation?'. It was dead. Reservation? My bro's drink arrived late and my Mom's never did. I ordered the $4 fresh-squeezed OJ and it tasted like regular OJ. I asked her if it was fresh-squeeze and she said 'yeah, it was. but it wasn't squeezed here'. What does that mean? That doesn't sound fresh. If it is juice from behind the bar, that's cool, just don't claim it was fresh squeezed. Weird. My husband's blt was great and the rest of the food was pretty good, but the bizarre shitty service was unreal. When she charged for my Mom's drink that didn't arrive, we asked it to be removed. Waitress returned with our bill and a 20% service charge for 5 people and the shittiest service. I've been a waitress for years at all kinds of places (wrigleyville, fancy Italian, Mexican family owned, TGIFriday's) and this service was bottom of the barrel. There are too many places in Wrigleyville where service is good and food is better.
(1)
Trisha S.
I joined yelp just to review this place. And though there have been several I've thought worth reviewing, and though I've used yelp 100+ times over the years, B&B deserves my time. A note to the owners: 1. Thanks for opening a day to night establishment in the neighborhood. Wrigleyville needed a fun place for the sophisticated palette (I'm talking taste in food, drink, and ambiance). 2. The slightly higher prices (or competitive pricing compared to some of your worthy neighborhood competitors like Deleece and Mia Francesca) are well worth it (except for on the lackluster martinis in my experience). The pork tenderloin: the best in Chicago. Perfectly done. Perfect to taste. With a mango chutney on a bed of deliciously put together mashed potatoes. I pray to God you're consistent on this one. I don't know how I'll ever order anything else now. The truffle forest mushrooms app is a nice change from truffle everything else on the food scene. But your truffle mac 'n cheese is the best I've had yet - ever. While the Scotch eggs are novel, I'll probably try other, tastier apps instead. 3. The complimentary cinnamon, etc., infused bourbon is OK, but what makes it great is that a) it's yours and b) you are gracious enough to give a drinking, eating, paying customer (and probably some who aren't) a sample. It's such a signature move and a neighborly thing to do. Kind of like what Cesars does down the street with their house tequila shots except for yours is actually the "good stuff". 4. It's that pride and integrity that is evident...from the food and specialty drink (see #2 and #3) to the soundtrack to our dinner (Depeche Mode, The Cure etc.) to the CC movies playing (e.g., Monty Python & The Holy Grail) to the personal "hello, is everything OK". I figured after the first week of greeting customers by pouring our water and sitting down with us for a drink after our meals, you'd be done with working on the ground floor. I am happy to see that you're still involved at the "all in" level. 5. I've brought several out of town and locals to B&B and they have all been pleased. From foodies to clubbers (which this is not) to low-key bar goers in their 20s and 30s we've enjoyed your scene on each occasion. So in the most simple of words: Thanks for being a great Chicago restaurant and bar. Not many (including The Gage) have done both as well as you have.
(4)
Phil X.
Came here with the intention of grabbing food and a couple brews with friends. Unfortunately, the kitchen was already closed. I wished the kitchen hours were posted on the website. I even called to ask them but nobody answered the phone. Blokes & Birds redeemed themselves with excellent service. They have a good beer selection. Bonus points for carrying my faves from Founder's and Bell's! Our waiter was very knowledgeable on beer. He knew what drinks to suggest based on what we stated we liked. My friends and I definitely had a good time just hanging out here chatting and drinking. There is plenty of space here and it is good for large groups. I will definitely be back here. ***There's a downstairs w/ pool tables***
(4)
Tom R.
Amazingly cool interior and the bar really sets this place apart. Very reasonably prices craft beers ($5 for many) and awesome selection of specialty drinks ($10). Service was a bit spotty throughout the entire meal. Food was great, too. Started with a Scotch egg and the lemon caper and brown butter mussels. The mussels were outstanding and thankfully they provide you with a few slices of sourdough toast to soak up the buttery goodness at the bottom of the bowl. I had the pork tenderloin which was very tasty even though it was a tiny bit dry. My girlfriend ordered the Amish chicken which absolutely blew me away. Will definitely be ordering that nest time I go back.
(4)
Clif P.
My fiance and I went here with our parents. Downstairs is very dim-lit, fairly quiet dining. It was great for our group. The food was unique, but also very tasty. It is very moderately & competitively priced. I recommend Blokes and Birds.
(4)
Mihir P.
I was really looking forward to checking this barroom out. As a person who has aged 5 years in 5 months, this was ideal for me in the Wrigley area. I liked the mellow atmosphere with the minimal, woody yet dignified interior. Sadly the service was overly mellow as well. There were maybe 10 people in the venue - 5 being my posse. I waited for a drink showing my $$. The bartender kept walking by me back and forth but never stopped. I have no idea what he was doing. I think he may have been new and was being trained. At that point I expect the trainer to acknowledge my presence or instruct the trainee to do so. What was I thinking??? The trainer, that is if he was in fact the trainer, finally came up to me after about 10 minutes. Not friendly but there..Made the drinks with a minimal exchange of words. At least the drinks were unique and strong.
(2)
Jonathan C.
Only excellent brews on draft, top shelf liquor, friendly staff, not your typical "Wrigley bar" at all and I'm grateful for that. It is also not a typical Wrigley crowd by any means. The food is quite excellent as well, come in on Tuesdays and have all you can eat fish and chips for $12. They also have brunch on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Ask for Chris, the best bartender in this city, he will make you a drink you are guaranteed to like just by saying "surprise me". There are two floors, the bottom one has a pool table. If you want a chill time with your friends, this is the place to be.
(5)
Mike M.
Blokes & Birds seems a bit out of place in Wrigleyville and that couldn't make me happier. In Chicago's equivalent to the Jersey Shore on a weekend night, the owners of this gastropub were brave enough to shun the fizzy yellow beer pedalled to the masses elsewhere on Clark and instead have pulled together a diverse draft and bottle list that pays homage to English, Belgian, and American craft brewers. Also, B&B is one of the few establishments to feature hand-pulled cask beer earning extra points in my book. The menu is an elevated take on traditional, hearty English pub fare in an ever crowding genre of gastropubs sprouting up with ampersands across the city. The sheppard's pie I ordered includes 14hr stout braised lamb which when encased in mashed potato was comforting on a cold winter night. A friend who had lived in the UK was elated to see bubble and squeak on the menu. Tip of the hat to the manager who realized the kitchen was taking a bit too long and brought our table a consolation dram of infused bourbon for the table The quintessential neighborhood gastropub
(4)
Hayley R.
LOVED the atmosphere, music, drink list, menu, pricing and friendly service--so why only 3 stars? Our group of 7 had issues with the service (long wait time and incorrect orders) We put in our name at 7 on a Saturday night and finally ordered dinner after 10pm. The issues we had would probably not happen on a less busy night, so I suggest checking it out on a weekday--SALUD!
(3)
Shannon R.
We (party of 2) went here on a Friday around 8pm for dinner and drinks. It wasn't a special occasion, but the atmosphere was absolutely perfect. I love how the tables are set up. A few in the center downstairs are connected to give a communal yet intimate feel. They have an incredible beer selection and various specials daily. I had the beet salad that was to die for. It honestly may have been one of the best salads I've ever had. I also tried the skullsplitter beer and loved it. The waitress was pretty knowledgeable. I wasn't in love with the area it was in, but walking inside felt like you were in a different part of town. There was also live music that wasn't too loud, but set a good mood. Loved it!
(4)
Julie Z.
Great for drinks and good beer. I also had dinner here. I was actually pretty impressed with the food but it is quite loud to eat there b/c people are mostly there to drink and chat. Bartenders are nice and give you samples of the beer which helps making a choice easier particularly if they don't carry your favorite. Good for larger groups.
(3)
Cassie L.
The beer list is amazing, I had a banana nut beer, a sour ale, and two others that I wish I could remembera little better...Morimoto something and another brewed by Stone that had to do with self-righteousness.. Don't judge, this was a spontaneous, post-bears game stop.... The bartender was knowledgeable about all of the beers and let us sample some of the drafts we were contemplating. The infused bourbon was killer. Casual atmosphere, lowkey, and trendy but not so fancy and affected that we felt we were disrupting other clientel with our high abv beer induced drunkenness.
(4)
Scott C.
So our friends suggested Blokes and Birds saying that it was "gourmet English food" - which sounded like an oxymoron but needless to say we were pleasantly surprised. The place is very trendy and well done - it beats the typical sports bars that line Clark street near Wrigley Field. The staff was friendly and helpful - although they were introducing a new menu and it seemed like the first items we ordered that night were not available. Bummer - but it did work out for us. First of all - the beer list here seriously rocks! It's a fantastic selection - including Tripel Karmeliet on tap! They offer samples of their tap beer so you don't have to sink a couple of bucks on a beer that you may not like. I can't wait to go back and try more selections. Now to the food. It's pretty good - I was pleasantly surprised with a big tip of my cap to their curry sauce which is fantastic - especially with fries. For our meal we ordered several appetizers - shrimp/prawns in the curry sauce, bacon wrapped dates, mussels, and bacon wrapped scallops. All of which were tasty - with good usage of spices and curry sauce. Our friends ate the venison and a pub burger - both were happy with their meals with a thumbs up for the venison. Definitely check this place out for the beer list and appetizers - both are excellent!
(4)
Terris A.
My BF and I went there for the Gilt City promotion- brunch for two, included two coffees and two cocktails- GREAT deal. The waitress was super friendly and made sure we understood what was covered by our coupon and what would be a small extra price. My BF got his prime rib and from a vegetarian's point of view (mine) this thing looked way undercooked but from his, he thought it was slightly undercooked. :) My good was okay, not great. However the Bloody Mary was REALLY good and I wish now that I got another one.... Definitely a fan.
(4)
Amanda R.
This is a great place that doesn't seem like it belongs in Wrigleyville. The ambience is great, candle lit with a little bit of music playing over the speakers but not too loud where you can't hear your converstaion. I like the fact that downstairs has little booths like a night club/bottle service area but its not that pretencious, It also has a bar downstairs and a pool table. Upstairs is more for dining and they have cool standing islands place where if it gets crowded you can still hang your coat on the island and have a place to set your drink. The food is amazing, I have had the fish and chips twice and the mussels. Everything is good, my friends tried a variety of different fare the first time I went and everyone was pleased. All in all the great selection of beers and malts is great for all tastes and it also has a great variety of food. I will continue to come back to this place!
(4)
KM I.
2 stars just for being British guys. Went here on a Gilt City promotion $20 for $40 worth of brunch. Seemed like a good idea...well it was not. I still ended up spending another $20+.....the kicker is bacon cost $12 for 6 pieces of regular ol' bacon. You would think this was some holy bacon, yep $12.00. French toast each was $10 and was quite delicious, full of berries and what not.....but between those 2 dishes, bacon, and ONE bloody mary, which was not so tasty, I spent close to $70 for brunch. I am literally turned off to this place and I am the biggest fan of everything related to Britain.
(2)
Luci D.
Talk about nickel-and-diming a customer. I had the foie burger, and when the waitress suggested special dipping sauces for the (too salty) truffle fries, I happily agreed to two of them. Little did I know that it would cost me extra to receive glorified mayo. Now, my friend had the wedge salad, asked for extra bacon, and got that for free. She got meat for free, which I saw another reviewer say that their brunch bacon was pricey. I GOT CHARGED FOR AIOLI. It's a nice change of pace from other Wrigley locations, and their sparkling serving is quite generous. I would go back, but I think now I know how to navigate their menu better. Also, make sure to tell your server you want separate checks when you order, because their computer system apparently isn't sophisticated enough to split them at the end of your meal. Meh.
(2)
Mark D.
I came here for dinner early on a Friday night and thought it was a good experience. The open seating and atmosphere was actually more laid back than I had expected being only blocks from Wrigley and was a nice surprise. There was a guy playing various covers on a solo electric guitar which was awesome. Drinks - Beer and cocktail list was pretty solid with an above average selection. I had a couple questions about some beers and the waitress was able to make some suggestions. I didn't try any cocktails since I wasnt in the mood but the list looked decent. The cucumber flavored water was a bit of a stretch as I don't think it went well with hearty English food... Food - I had the fish and chips and I also tried the pulled chicken. I'm surprised by the good reviews of the fish and chips as I thought the fish was actually pretty bad - the batter was good but the fish itself was very tough and definitely not fresh. The fries and pulled chicken, however, were above average and I would definitely get the chicken if I go back again. Service - The service was great. Our waitress was always around to see if we needed refills but was not pushy. Overall a good dinner/drinks locale but the fish and chips definitely lost them a star, especially given that I had decent expectations for a place that bills themselves as an English pub. For dinner & a drink for 2, the total tab was much less than I expected.
(3)
Mike S.
I love this place because as my friend said when we went there, "Wow, look at all these HDTVs and no sports on!" Blokes and Birds is different than your typical Wrigleyville Sports Bar that way AND I LOVE IT. South of the Roscoe Curve on the Brown Line, it is disinctly geographically and culturally separate from the sloppy 22-year old messes you see at John Barleycorn, Sluggers and the like. It's a dressier, more mature, more professional crowd, as everyone appears to be 24 and up. No bros here. Hallelujah! The atmosphere is subdued with low lighting, fireplaces, wood paneling, and intimate nooks and couches. Not gonna lie, the scenery wasn't too bad either. However, like all good things, you gotta pay for it. I had a Chocolate Stout and a Stiegl, and ended up with a $12 tab. Ouch. Also, the basement bar was pretty understaffed when I was there. Despite a full room, they appeared to only have one bartender on duty. Insufficient. I know it's not "Wrigleyville" and the point isn't to get hammered, but when I want another drink, I shouldn't have to stand around like a dumbass for 10 minutes. I really love this place's vibe, but the price tag may keep my visits sparing for the time being.
(4)
Amanda G.
I have been wanting to stop by for the past several months and finally experienced the fun, last weekend! The space is quaint and loved the candles on the tables; added a bit of ambiance. Since I can't eat red meat and pork, I was concerned that I might have a challenge on my hands. I was partially right, but not too bad. We started with a half order of mussels with vindaloo sauce. The mussels were almost as large as my head (in the top 3 of Chi-town mussel experiences)! And the sauce?!? Amazing! It was less creamier than the typical vindaloo sauce and had a welcomed kick of garlic. I was tossing around the idea of spooning out and slurping on some of the sauce when the mussels were gone. Next we settled on a salad (no bacon), chicken tikka masala, and french fries. Loved the fact the salad had some pasta added to it. Different textures partying in my mouth! And, there was barely any dressing (forgot to ask for it on the side), which allowed the ingredients to sing more! As for the chicken dish. Slightly sweet with a hint of heat and the Amish chicken was cooked very well. Again, there was less cream included than what is usually expected (My hips were happy!). French fries?? Fresh-cut, a bit sweet and salty, and crisp. Yes, please! There was a decent offering of red wine and I decided on a sweet red to compliment the slightly spicy sauces. Best way to tie the evening together? Great music! A whole lot of "old" school and "new" school Indie music.
(4)
Hollus G.
I have been here three times and love it. The food has been consistantly good, especially the fish and chips. They do a wonderful twist on English pub fair. It is also nice to have a non-sports bar in the area surrounded by sports bars. I don't even like bourbon, but i did try the infused bourbon which was amazing. The downstairs bar was more of a sports bar and open which is nice and out of the way for those that are eating upstairs. The only reason I am giving it 4 vs 5 stars is that on the weekends it is crazy and the seating organization was lacking. We waited over 1:30 for a table when we were told we would be seated in 30 minutes. I don't mind waiting, however, table turn-around with a busy crowd was not ideal.
(4)
Erin W.
wonderful atmosphere. incredible selections. i traveled to chicago, and a friend i met took me here after a cubs game. the mood was nice, and the service was great. next time i'm in chicago, i will definitely be back.
(5)
Mindy S.
B&B it is only a slight step above your typical Wrigleyville bars. The crowd seemed to be a touch older than what you'd find at nearby bars, but the general overall feel was no different. The music was very loud, and again, seemed to be similar to what's playing up the street. The beer selection is extensive, and the bartender was very nice and attentive. B&B is not like the latest upscale brewpubs that have been opening as of late, so skip it if you're in the mood for a non-Wrigleyville experience.
(2)
Robert R.
Though I live in the loop, I spend a LOT of time in the Wrigleyville area, especially in the summer, and yeah, I love the loud, beer-soaked wings joints and the places with loud party music and an overflow of scantily-clad dunk girls and the pseudo-muscleheaded douchebags who love them, clogging up Clark street, just call me sentimental. Blokes and Birds though, is a different place with a different vibe and I say? Vive le difference! The beer selection is bloody massive, but not oppressively so, the whiskey menu is stout but standard (by the way, Southern Comfort isn't really whiskey, it belongs on the cordial list, fellas) and you don't really see a rye whiskey list, even at three it trumps anything close. The food is inventive without being stuffy and make no mistake, despite this being an English Public House, the food takes its' influences from around the world. I had the seasonal stew of tomatillos, jalapenos and chicken and it was fantastic! Although those special soups and stews can be pricey, mine was $10, had I payed attention, I would have avoided it. The fish and chips (I had cod) were good but stopped short of great. The chips were better than the fish but my SO had the rocket salad and it was fantastic. The server, Jon I believe, was helpful, attentive and brought around a shot of spiced Evan Williams, which was dreadfully easy to drink, and had we stayed for drinks, I'd have needed a cab. The ambiance is friendly and nice. The decor clean, simple and elegant. The communal tables are interesting, the downside being if you happen to have long legs (and I do), certain tables defeat your ability to stretch, which sucks. The only other quirk about the place is the entry, one door works, the other doesn't. People were walking into the wrong door all night. Put a permanent sign on the non-working door please? It makes people feel bad before they even get in and psychology matters, trust me. Overall, if you're in the neighborhood, go here. It's good, it's fresh and it's like nothing else in Wrigleyville.
(4)
Michael H.
Blokes and Birds will not succeed. Yes, I said it. Not only is it in the wrong part of the city, but this block of Clark Street is somewhat desolate compared to just north of the el tracks. That being said, it is a nice addition to the area and tastefully decorated. I'm not sure about the recent spate of "gastropubs" to open, but the beer list is top notch! I did not eat (English food?) but the menu had a vast array of hearty choices.
(3)
Ashley L.
Really good customer service. We had a pretty large group and someone always came over to make sure we were doing alright. A great beer selection for fair prices. Bartenders were all very attentive and friendly. I really loved the environment here, too bad I don't live in Chicago :(
(4)
Joshua P.
I love this place! Time and time again, you never disappoint. I have been here about a half dozen times usually for dinner, but yesterday I tried the brunch. First, if you go for dinner, get the Foie Burger with the truffle fries. One of my favorite things on the menu. So yesterday my girlfriend suggested we try the brunch. Absolutely outstanding! The smoked salmon plate was delicious, and the omelet was superb. The bloody mary was overly peppery, but I wasn't about to complain when everything else is so good. Keep up the good work, I look forward to coming back.
(5)
Michael C.
I don't give out many 5 stars, but this place really is worth it....here's why: Draft beer list: As good as Hopleaf. I believe they have about 20, maybe a few less. Huge bottle selection. Always unique beers on draft that I've never had before. I'm a beer snob, and this place always satisfies. Oh, great cocktail list....everyone will be satisfied. Food: Great food, very unique. Everything I've had has always been great. Love the Tikka masala. It's a twist of the traditional Indian version, theirs is a more dry version with the basmati rice already mixed in. This is not like an Indian rest. that is more buttery. There is not an orange sauce, but it's very moist, flavorful, and has a slight kick. I must say, one of the best I've had. All the food is freshly made and very good. Dessert: If they have it in season, best blueberry pie I've ever fantastic. Should be on the menu all the time, but to our chagrin, it wasn't on the last time we were there. Atmosphere: more sophisticated. large open space. enough tables for those that want to sit. Large bar area. Enough people to feel like your not the only one there, but we've never had to wait for a table. In fact, it feels like the secret is not yet out about this place. Get there before everyone talks talking this place up. Also, never had bad service, staff is on top of everything. Enjoy, one of our favorite places.
(5)
Julie B.
Went here last night with the girls for the Bulls game and was thoroughly impressed. It's nice to have a place like this in the Wrigley area that is not your typical sports bar. Their drink menu is awesome along with the food. We sat downstairs which is very cool (a little on the dark side) and posted up at the bar. I wish I got our bartenders name because he was great and gave perfect recommendations for us ladies. We tried the foie burger, fish and chips, BLT and their short rib sandwich. All were FANTASTIC. We wished the short rib and BLT came with fries as well. Everyone was picking the fries off of my plate! There weren't a lot of peeps in the joint and we all figured out why...the name. Blokes and Birds sounds pretentious and at the same time nerdy. I'm just saying B & B...think about it
(4)
Alicia G.
This place is great for so many occasions. A date? Check. Out with a co-worker for a TGIF drink? Definitely. Brunch? Totally recommended. The interior gives a nice atmosphere that suits all of these occasions. Dark, but not too dark to be awkward for non-romantic outings. Their weekly specials are great as well. Things I recommend: The Bloody Mary comes with Jamón. Jamón. Try one of their beers. Even if you aren't a beer lover, there's something in their vast selection to suit your tastes. One last thing: The way the menu is priced is nice. Really, you can spend anywhere from $11-$30 on a meal (+/- drinks)
(5)
Karen C.
WHY did I wait so long to come to Blokes & Birds? I've been walking past it forever, thinking how amazing it looked inside, and who can go wrong with a giant awesome mustache logo? I'm currently kicking myself for waiting so long. We arrived at parent-dinner time, so we had no trouble getting a table... the place was filled up 45 minutes after we arrived, so I'm glad we got there when we did. The beer list here is stellar (though my friend pointed out, it's IPA heavy, but that's a good thing for a girl like me, so yes. Stellar. And very well-priced, save for the $5 can of PBR... but I personally think if you order a PBR, you deserve to pay $5). I started with a Modus Hoperandi & had the Amish Chicken for my entree, and seriously... this is the best meal I've eaten in a week. Granted, when home alone, I make things like mac & cheese and popcorn for dinner, so maybe that's not saying a lot. However, the chicken was super juicy, potatoes were killer, and as a girl that strongly dislikes capers, I even liked the caper aioli that came with it. My normally non-meat eating friend got down on the Pork Tenderloin, and my other friend had the Shepherd's Pie. Everyone strongly agreed that we should have been coming here for months now. I only had one beer, so I felt that I deserved to order the Sticky Toffee Pudding for the table, and yes, it was great too. Could have been a little "stickier", but it was definitely a great way to end a delicious meal. Our waiter was wonderful, also... friendly, funny, and seemingly was waiting tables for the entire place. It was a relaxing dinner and we were in no hurry to get out of there, so it wasn't a huge deal that it was a more slow-paced meal. Blokes & Birds just has a great vibe... I love all the dark wood, the sorta-darkness of the place, the fact that there are no TV's hanging above the bar, and the soundtrack was great as well. I'll definitely be back soon.
(5)
Jelena Z.
Still not a huge proponent of their food, but I do love the sleek yet somehow impossibly warm and cozy interior. And in a welcome coup, B & B easily snagged the best beer list title in Wrigleyville. Someone had to, right? If I want one more before heading home, this is where I go!
(4)
Erica R.
I go here for karaoke, which is down in the basement. They have only top 40 songs available, so don't go there if you are a hardcore karaoke fan and want a serious karaoke experience. That said, the karaoke experience mimics that of a "superstar." You have lights in your eyes and generally everyone screams in delight for you. If you have any singing skills people give you high fives and tell you how amazing you are when you finish up. It's a fun go-to and generally not many people are there on the weeknights so if you ACTUALLY want to sing, you will certainly get your turn.
The cocktails were delicious and the food was great! Live music was a lovely dining touch, not over-powering - just the right volume and vibe. Will definitely be returning.
(4)
Mica G.
Hello Fish. Hello Chips. My name is "unbridled craving for a crispy, beer-battered savory delight that goes amazingly well with several cold refreshing wheat-y malty beverage." Pleased to make your acquaintance. Yeah ... well it went a little something like that. I happened to be in this neighborhood that I'm not usually in and the big old moustache in the front caught my attention. I wandered in grabbed a seat next to the window. Nice place inside. Warm interior ... lots of wood. You may have gathered, I had the fish & chips, which really hit the spot for me. Batter was excellent. A nice crisp texture and then hot&steamy flaky fish on the inside. Nice job on the fries (good portion, good cut with a little sweet & salty seasoning) too. I paired it with a couple two ... three lil' sumpin' sumpin's (Lagunitas ... now a "chicago" brew...sort of ). An eagle rare served 'neat' for dessert. It was my own little heaven. *Sigh* Anyway ... solid beer list. Solid whiskeys & Scotch selection. Good food. At least what I tried. Service was also excellent. The host was welcoming & my server was attentive without being overbearing. Room was intimate and had a nice vibe to it. Nice people watching from the window seat too. Blokes & Birds ... I think of you ... often. I count the days when our paths cross again. Yours always, and all ways. oMG.
(5)
Christine D.
Chill atmosphere, great for catching up with friends..and meeting new ones. It's really a nice experience with little candles on the table, and all. The drinks and beer selections are really great as well. I had a 'Jammy Bastard'..it was really good and strong! ..and also perfect for getting really drunk with friends. We went downstairs after our dinner and drinks and they had 40's on special. 40's. ON SPECIAL. Who does that? It's genius.
(5)
Ryan H.
Blokes & Birds = Great service & gay friendly I celebrated my birthday here last night, August 9th, and was pleasantly surprised by how great a time my party of 9 had. Our server, Patrick, was very attentive and was great at accommodating lactose-intolerant (me), gluten free, and vegetarian dietary restrictions. I tend to be known as a difficult orderer and Patrick was very much willing to make sure my foot was cooked without any lactose ingredients. I called ahead and let them know that some of my friends were dressed in "Market Days" gear and they were perfectly okay with it. I will definitely be back and check out there downstairs lounge. PS - Give Patrick a raise cause servers like that are hard to come by. :)
(4)
Michael J.
Had a wonderful experience at Blokes n Birds. After we sat down our server Raul (excellent server) asked if we had been here before and we said no. He told us about the great drinks they have. The Summer Breeze and Satan's Whiskers were great drinks my wife and I had. He then explained some specials. The Prime rib was excellent. Fish n chips excellent. To top it off my mother in law ordered the butterscotch creme brulee and she wouldn't share. We finally did get a bite and it was to die for. We will be coming back!
(5)
Justine C.
Great spot! Went for a dinner meeting and some drinks and everything was amazing. Dinner menu is impressive (with great prices), as is the beer and whiskey selection. Definitely appreciated the bartenders being knowledgeable, welcoming, and attentive . Also, the downstairs lounge has a very casual, cool, hip, intimate atmosphere. Amazing space. Thursday nights they hold a 40s special accompanied by fresh djs playing new and old hip hop. I will definitely be coming back.
(5)
Jenni F.
Came in for a comedy show a friend was performing in so we were sitting downstairs. The atmosphere is fabulous. I loved it. It's very comfortable and open. The beer selection is great too. The bartenders were maybe not the most friendly of people but they seemed to know their stuff. The prices weren't too bad but service was a little slow at the downstairs bar. I would head back for another event.
(4)
Dominic T.
What a find! Gastropub without the attitude and pretension you can find at others. Swordfish special, bacon wrapped dates, pork sandwich were all amazing! Great service, fun staff and extremely wide selection all for very reasonable prices. Enjoy!
(5)
Monica R.
Brunch is definitely the best time to head here, Bottomless mimosas $13? STEAL! and no need to waive your waiter down, if you're party is big enough they bring the bottle to you. Crab cake Benedict a personal fave but don't skip the chicken and waffles also a crowd pleaser. All around I'll be back (I've been back about 3 times now)
(5)
Lisa S.
Go for the food but dont stay for the Karaoke! I was very excited to find a place that had decent meals, prices and an option for Karaoke in the bottom lounge portion of the bar. Upstairs: We arrived there kind of late for our reservation; the staff was very accommodating and friendly. The service was really good, the staff was attentive. The food was reasonably priced and delicious. Around 10:00 we headed downstairs for Karaoke Downstairs: The downstairs was a cute lounge with TV's set up so you can sing along with the person on stage. I was excited to have a fun night of goofy singing and drinks. There were many people who were lined up to sing so it seemed that it would be a fun night... then things went downhill from there. Very quickly, it became apparent that the DJ had his favorites or "regulars" many of the same people sang over and over and many people who signed up did not get put on the song list. When the DJ was addressed and asked why some people did not get their turns, he just said they were on the list but had to wait. You could tell that there were many professional singers there, which could be fun but some of them actually got on stage and took the microphone from people who did not sing as well as they did. Overall, I would recommend this place for food and drinks but not for Karaoke. Too bad something that is supposed to be silly and enjoyable has been turned into something a bit less fun and shame on the DJ for being part of it.
(3)
Brandon M.
Went here last week after work and sat at the bar, initially I went in because I bought a restaurant.com coupon and I really wanted to try the Liverpool Lamb. Unfortunately, they were still in the process of making the lamb (later on that night the guy who makes it explained the process to me, very friendly staff). The bartender, Heron was a great guy and he could tell I was pretty bummed out about the item not being available, so he had some other great recommendations. Took his advice and tried the Swansea Braised Short Rib sandwich with truffle fries, HOLY SMIT! That thing was excellent. I also inquired about their specialty drinks, to which I was directed to Satan's Whiskers.... probably one of the best tasting drinks I've ever had. Told Heron I will definitely be back. Overall, Great Food, Fantastic drinks and excellent service (at least at the bar)
(5)
Sam N.
A place for grown ups in Wrigleyville. Go figure I was here for 2 events this summer that utilized the downstairs space. Upstairs is nice too. I would definitely come back here to chill downstairs. It has a nice loungy vibe usually not found in this neighborood. The service is immidiate and good.
(5)
Stephanie G.
Holy Moly this place has the best chopped salad ever!!! Was it the cilantro-lime dressing?? Was it the hearts of palm?? It was all of it!! This salad was packed with flavor!! One of a kind!! Good service, good decor. Perfect spot for after work drinks and dinner.
(5)
Kimberly A.
Man, our group was really let down by the food quality and the service here. I am completely shocked that this place has such good yelp reviews. As far as service goes, our waiter was nice once he finally got to our table... But that's about all he had going for him. He forgot to put in one of my friends orders, so he had to wait until we were all finished to eat (although he should have just cancelled it the food was so bad). I ordered the fish and chips... The fish itself was okay, but the batter was incredibly soggy (the soggiest I've ever seen, in fact). The tartar sauce was very plain and under seasoned. My boyfriend and I split two sides, the roasted Brussels sprouts and the mac and cheese and man was that a mistake. The roasted sprouts had absolutely no caramelization of and kind, they tasted like they'd been just barely steamed and they were sprinkled with room temperature bacon. They hadn't been seasoned at all. The mac and cheese was awful, they literally would have been better off melting velveeta on pasta. It somehow managed to have NO flavor, and I thought it was impossible to mess up a melted cheese dish. It's called "salt" gang, familiarize yourselves. My boyfriend got the risotto, and that's where the real atrocities arose. I'm fairly certain they used plain white rice, I've never tasted an arborio risotto with a mushy mealy and watery texture. The overwhelming flavor was truffle oil- like the chemically gross flavor- not fresh truffle shavings. I think that may have covered up another inevitable seasoning fail, but who could tell with the perfume factory slapping my in my senses. Ugh, bad food. Oh and my friend (who is a mixologist of sorts) said his cocktail was not great either. But I can't attest to that, I had a beer which was great. I certainly won't be back to eat.
(1)
Jennifer J.
Good ol' pub fare.
(4)
Johannah B.
The menu was a lot smaller than I expected. The place opens at 6 and crowds up later in the evening. Service was excellent but I wasn't WOW'd by the food. I would probably come back.
(3)
Peter g.
A very Unique offering. It is worth the visit if you are a drinker, as they have MANY choices all Craft or small micro brews, and they are also concocting deadly elixirs on the bar for weeks at a time to help you get stewed quickly. The layout was a little strange, it appeared a slight waste of usable floor space for a Sunday visit, however I have not seen the Friday or Saturday night crowds so maybe they are sacraficing table space for standing floor space. Either way there is not a lot of sitting room for what is quite a roomy space for a City Pub. Some VERY Irish choice on the menu, (in Chicago? WOW) but while the food choices for sunday brunch were not in great quantity, the food was excellent, the service outstanding, but it was a little slow in getting to us for a not so crowded day. While we waited we talked about the craft brews and the bartop glass mixers(for lack of a bettter word) brewing other highly different strong drinks, all of which the friendly barkeep kept offering us sample choices for tasting. Very nice of him to do so again and again. I think by the time our breakfast came we each had multiple shots glasses of about 6 different items, this was a great day to get breakfast and get tipsy by 12! Stop by for the friendly staff, stay for the variety of brews, just make sure to eat first!
(4)
Meg K.
Love this place. Nice and cozy on warm days. Cool and fun on summer nights. Their bacon wrapped dates amaZZZING. Their mac and cheese, very nice! Unfortunately I always forget this place exists and don't go nearly as much as I should. Don't try to be trendy and order an 'interesting drink,' you will more than likely not like it. Order what you like instead!
(5)
Jonathan H.
Just came back to B&B on a Saturday night to karaoke and had a terrible experience. I asked the downstairs bartender for a manhattan and he shook up some whiskey and grenadine and tossed it over ice. Not only that but he had to make it 3 times before my "pink drink" was to his liking. This ain't the frat house. Oh how far they have fallen.
(2)
Sean B.
We had a reservation for 8. This also included a Groupon that would cover like 6 of us. 55 minutes after our reservation, we were seated. Very poor planning on the restaurant's part. Then, we waited for a menu. We waited for water. We ordered the first round of mimosas that were part of the groupon. They took nearly 25 minutes to bring out. They were like a garden threw up in our glass. I had to use my teeth to strain leaves out of the mimosa I was drinking. Really? The subsequent rounds took forever to bring out. They were 95% juice. No champagne sign whatsoever. Our friend ordered a beer flight that took nearly 40 minutes to come out. Groupon doesn't mean "screw frequent brunch goers." Finally we were able to order our food. I had picked out a salad. You'd think they'd have salad available at lunch, right? Wrong. Dinner only. Not stated anywhere on the menu. Nothing irritates me like being forced into 1/3 of the menu. Literally they were out of large categories of things. I finally decided to have a salmon hash. The eggs were stiff, the dish had about 500% of my daily salt in it. Not good AT ALL. The salmon quality was good. That was the only redeeming value to the dish. If you want awful service and slow service go hear. We won't be back. What the others said about the space was true. It is cozy and nice. We all went and had our first real drink of the day elsewhere after 3 rounds of juice. Where's my insulin?
(2)
Shauna D.
Very cute place! Great atmosphere, good beer selection, interesting cocktails. Service was a little inconsistent (bus boy on top of it, server not very attentive). The wagyu slider was delicious, the angus one was 'ok,' and the fries were very salty, but, if they weren't they would have been top notch. I got a side of the bacon aioli which was incredible! My friend got the mac and cheese which was a larger portion than expected, and very tasty. I'll definitely be back.
(4)
Fred S.
The space is really well used, beautiful restaurant, great lighting, and vibe. I was very impressed by their offering of cocktails and beer. My friend and I shared the Chicken Tikka, the Scotch Egg, and the Fish and Chips; all British pub mainstays with a fresh spin on them. The staff was friendly, food came out of the kitchen hot and promptly. We had a really nice conversation with one of the owners, Pan. It was clear that he has great passion for their food and the experience.
(4)
Carol K.
The food? Quite good. The service? Spot on. And throw in some live music on Thursdays- Sunday? I'm a fan. But if you want to enjoy that food in a less hectic environment and you have your heart set on going on a Saturday night- go around 7. . . . for by the time 9pm rolls around, this place is hopping, the noise level is way up and it moves from restaurant to bar. Knowing this- we made reservations for 7 on a recent Saturday and got a table right up front for our group. Our server, Natalia, was terrific- her knowledge of the menu was second to none and there was nothing that we asked her that she didn't have the answer for. The name of this place alone will tell you that this is "English food" with a bit of a twist. And know that the portion sizes are quite large so order accordingly. Up first- we tried the foie gras, the cheesy peavy, and the green chili along with a couple of salads. For this cheese lovin' girl the Cheesy peavy was a winner (think brie cheese and toast) I thought the place was a bar- but the entrees said restaurant. My pork tenderloin rivaled some of the best I have had, and the whitefish special of the day was also a clear winner. And the two at our table that got one of their burgers were also pleased. And for dessert? Try the sticky pudding. Made me think I was over the pond in the UK! There are really two bars in this place. The main floor bar has live music (usually a guitar playing soloist) but downstairs there is a karaoke bar that really gets going as the night goes on. Parking was surprisingly easy on this stretch of Clark (not during the baseball season) although I am not sure I would even try if the Cubs were in town. All in all I was actually surprised at how much I liked this place. A good restaurant/bar this close to Wrigleyville? Now that's surprising!
(4)
Randall Y.
Drinks were decent, but nothing too special. They do have a good selection of beers
(4)
Girard S.
Skip the burgers, go straight for the steak sandwich. It's got the most delicious aioli, and they managed to cook a single piece of steak medium-rare, which is very impressive. The sticky pudding is another grade-A fantastic dish. And it's perfect for two. Service was decent, prices a smidge on the high side. Downstairs is a real different mood, you could meet some cool cats down there. Don't go on a Monday night for dinner - they don't serve it. Tuesdays are good: live music that's real lively, if a bit loud.
(4)
Erik Y.
Stopped in Saturday for beers and appetizers. It was my first time it and was pretty impressed. All the appetizers ranged from good to awesome! There were three of us and we ended up sharing five apps. All great. Beer was good albeit a small-ish tap. The manager stopped by to check on us. Not an "Applebee's manager stopping by every table because he has to" checking on us. He casually walked by, we caught eyes, and he just inquired how things were. Nice touch. I'll def. be back. The rest of the menu looked/smelled great. Nice place for a casual dinner or drinks!
(4)
Carolyn B.
I came here for brunch with a few girlfriends on a Sunday afternoon. The decor is sleek and masculine, and there was a guitar player who serenaded us throughout the meal, which was really nice. The bad: Our server was new (she told us it was her first day), so things definitely took longer than they should've. She was very sweet and gave us a few drinks for free to make up for it, but food definitely took awhile to come out (30+ minutes). The grits were pretty bland on their own. Also, splitting the check took forever (it was split evenly, not person-by-person), even after our server got a manager involved. She forgot things like coffee and refills, but, to be expected with a new server I guess. The good: I ordered the duck confit hash and it was fabulous. There was plenty of duck (though the duck was sliiiiightly dry), the truffled hollandaise was phenomenally tasty, and the sunny-side up eggs were perfectly runny. Everyone else at the table gave rave reviews for the french toast and the prosciutto benedict (though I do think the truffle hollandaise overwhelmed the benedict a bit). Our waitress recommended the St. Germain cocktail and it was perfectly refreshing with a fun presentation to boot. All in all, the food was delicious, but I would hope for smoother service on my next visit!
(3)
Andre W.
I have heard lots of great things about this place over the past year so after seeing a show on Belmont, we decided to take a walk over to check it out. Nice decor with dark wood as it was pretty dim lit which sets an intimate mood. This is the part of the review where things get a little hairy. It took awhile for someone to come to our table of 2 after we were seated. Once the server showed up he brought us drinks. I had a gin/tonic and my friend had a beer from the tap. Her beer was room temperature (basically not drinkable) and once we told the server he decided to tell us that some of the taps have been acting up throughout the day. I felt he should have informed us of this when he heard her order a beer from the tap. We wanted to order and there were about 4 items on the menu that they did not have anymore for the night. Once we started ordering and he saw the first thing was gone, he should have been proactive with letting us know what they were all sold out of. In short it took us awhile to order due to us rambling through the menu hoping they had something that looked interesting. I tried the brussel sprouts and they were pretty good. He made up for his non diligence by referring her to a decent canned craft beer. He was a nice guy and all, but he needs some tips on being in the service industry. I would probably check it out again at some point, but its not on the priority list
(3)
Tom S.
Had an awesome brunch here today! Great food and service. The experience started with a cheery hostess seating by Dana. To start, I had a bacon infused vodka Bloody Mary to start-perfection! The meal began with the BLTe that is to die for (yes, "e" as is egg!)!!! We moved on to the new biscuits and gravy are genius with three types of sausage: crumbled in the gravy, a patty on one biscuit and a large link on another biscuit. Yummy! Then, the new Chiliquiles are awesome (not on the menu yet)! The green chili sauce and crispy-damp chips are classic. The background music was live from Ted Henderson and was terrific!! Wish I had room for the prime rib and a few other menu items! I'll be back very soon!!!!
(5)
Janique D.
This place is such an undiscovered secret which is great for us but maybe not so much for them! The food is constantly perfect. And I mean perfect. I realize that's a tough standard to sustain, but I can dream. Last night, we had the blackened swordfish (which I would never normally order but someone beside us ordered it and it looked fantastic) it was served ON TOP of mini enchiladas in a spicy verde sauce. It sounds like a lot but the enchiladas were so light and flavorful, it was such a great, unique combination. We always go there for the burger, which is honestly one of the best i've had in Chicago (and i've been lucky enough to try the tasty morsels at Kumas, Burger Bar, DMK and the Butcher and the burger). We didn't even touch our burger last night until we finished the swordfish. The beer selection is awesome, the food is outstanding and the staff is very friendly (especially the bus boys, who in my opinion are more attentive than some of the serving staff. We tipped the bus boy as much as the server).
(5)
Maddie L.
The atmosphere is great and the people were nice (I had a major girl-crush on our waitress), but our food took forever. When it did arrive, though, it was very yummy. I recommend the prosciutto wrapped mozzarella bites to start!
(3)
Bret B.
The owners need to be sure they are staffed to handle a Sunday Brunch crowd. Two of us went in at noon and the wait for a table was about 30 minutes so we decided to sit at the bar. We sat there for over 15 minutes and the bartenders did not acknowledge us or attempt to wait on us. We have eaten there in the past with no issues however the service seems to be suffering.
(2)
Lindy K.
I went here the other night for the first time in a couple of years. We ended up staying several hours to stay out of the rain and because everything was better than expected. We got there early(ish) so we got quite a bit of attention from the bar-tender, which was awesome. Drinks: The bartender let my friend try quiet a few of the beers before deciding on one (her go to is PBR so the samples were helpful!). My whiskey sampler was tasty and he gave us both samples of the infused whiskey they make monthly there. I had a craft cocktail too, which was excellent. Food: BEST macaroni and cheese I have ever had. ever. period. The truffle mushrooms were great too.
(5)
Laura C.
Sophisticated, dimly lit decor, floral arrangements, tea lights, infusions behind the bar, and a warm greeting from the host/server set the stage for a swanky English dinner, or so I thought. None of the cocktails jumped out at me, so I went for the Neopolitan Stout, which was outrageously sweet, so I went to my standard order of the hoppiest IPA on the menu, which was 86'd for the night, or maybe forever...Our server recommended the Six Point 3Beans Stout, which was drinkable, but not exactly memorable. Foodwise, we did the 25 minute wait for the Shepherd's Pie, a braised lamb, curry spiced stew covered in a blanket of mashed potatoes. A bit bland but filling, paired with the Braised Short Rib Sarnie, I left full, but my tastebuds were a bit sad. I love the decor and the service, I just wouldn't come back here for the food.
(3)
Meghan D.
Great beer list - a diverse spread with interesting beers. The atmosphere is a very mellow but vibrant escape from Clark Street. Live acoustic music on weekend nights. The food has a kind of London-meets-Chicago trendy deliciousness to it.
(5)
Christopher S.
The food here is pretty awesome and they have a fun drink list. I've come here on dates with two different girls and I must say that the customer service is stellar. I never felt forgotten about or overly attended to. They get the vibe that you're on a date and give you your space, but rush over when your drink runs dry. The food is great. I recommend the half chicken. Whatever sauce they use is pretty much crack. This is a great place with a nice atmosphere. It's usually pretty empty between the hours of 6pm and 8pm but that's not a bad thing at all. It's great for first dates when you really want to impress, talk and focus on the person you're with. Quality food, service and atmosphere. DO IT!
(4)
Sarah V.
Blokes & Birds' service is a lot like the Detroit Lions. I can expect abysmal service from cute guys most of the time, but occasionally they surprise the crap out of me and get my party's order right, refill water glasses, AND keep up with our drink requests. They might even split the check six ways. It's rare, but it does happen. B&B's food menu doesn't so much speak to me. I'm not a purveyor of British food for the most part. The mac and cheese is a great option, but the burgers are frequently under-cooked and and I've yet to have an entree that needed repeating. The drink menu, however, is always seasonal and their beer menu is great. Anyone who carries Gumball Head gets a star next to their name. The Satan's Whiskers cocktail is my go-to "get me drunk on a cold, snowy night" and it in fact does. Seasonal cocktails are the best invention of all time. Seasonal cocktails that are not chocolate, apple and pure sugar are even better. I've said it before, I'll say it again. Sugar is for children and dessert, not alcohol. B&B provides a warm, intimate watering hole for small, coquettish groups of smarties with supple seating and flickering candlelight. After dinner cocktails, perfect. Dinner with the family, not so much. Like a Lion's fan, I can't stop going, and hoping for something better in the way of food. Instead I should just enjoy B&B for what it is, a good cocktail location, just like the Lions are good for looking at boys in tight pants. That they haven't been able to fumble. Yet.
(3)
Ben R.
I was pleasantly surprised by Blokes and Birds. The beer list was quite good, and the food didn't disappoint. Noise level was manageable as well. I think this all was probably unique for the sports bar-centric area. Downstairs they had karaoke (T-F-S I think?) that stared at 9pm. We were there early and stayed for only one song, the lounge was quite comfortable though!
(4)
Coleen F.
Service was great, food was awesome!
(5)
J W.
Excellent place. The ambience is amazing the basement for Karaoke or private party. I am planning a trip back here really soon.
(5)
Denise D.
Was happy to wander in on a chilly Friday night after finding other places in the neighborhood too packed--at B&B we easily found a couple places at the bar. We didn't order any food, but just had a couple of drinks and found the bartender to be very pleasant. He gave us nice, attentive service without being pushy. I was surprised that he didn't know how to make a Gordon's Cup, but he did offer to try making one if I'd tell him what was in it. I decided to stick with beer. He offered to give me tasters of some drafts (which wouldn't have been as necessary if the menu had some descriptions, just sayin') and I had a couple of nice brown ales. I especially appreciated that he accommodated my request to let me smell the bitters without looking at me like I was a nut. So many people don't understand how lovely it is to smell bitters.
(3)
Becky A.
Amazing experience. Kudos to the owner, Jade, and the team. Management here certainly knows how to run a business. Came on a Sat night, listened to some great live music while we ordered at least half of the apps and some mixed drinks. Everything rocked! ESP love the Serrano wrapped moz and the bacon wrapped dates...sensing a wrapped theme. Anyways, Jade came and hung with our table for a good portion of the night and even had us try a few desserts for free. Wow! The warm choc chip cookie one takes time to bake as fresh cookies do, but dang...worth it. I was even inspired to have my birthday here I was so impressed with the welcoming vibe. Chicago needs more truly cozy yet hip places like this that don't have their noses in the air about it.
(5)
Jay D.
It's your typical American type restaurant bar. Came here with a group of friends Friday night. The waiter was very attentive and came around a bunch of times to check up on is and refill drinks. The atmosphere was great, they had live music that wasn't loud or obnoxious. I got the blokes burger which tasted great, I could barely fit it in my mouth. Wish we'd stayed for dessert
(5)
Jamie H.
I came here early on a Sunday night. There was one other guy at the bar and another couple, so it felt pretty weird being in a place that was so quiet! I ordered a salad, which was quite good ad a beer. My friend got a meat dish (can't remember which one) and said it was also good. I loved the wood at the place and it had a great vibe to it, next time I'd be sure to come back when it was a little later and not so dead! Great service, though!
(4)
Delaney G.
After leaving a review about a bad experience, the owner contacted me, let me know they were already replacing the guy who have off bad vibes, and offered free drinks to my entire party whenever I came on next. So now on top of quality food and great live music I can also add great people leading the place. One of the truly quality place in wrigleyville
(5)
Lauren P.
You fancy huh? ;-) I always love places with hardwood floors, loungy couches, a fireplace, super awesome music, and a good crowd. Blokes & Birds has all of that and more! They have awesome karaoke in the basement with a bunch of flat screens so that everyone can watch the song you're singing. The drinks are crazy strong with unique names. I for once in a lifetime prefer the beer here than the mixed drinks. Phil J. recommended I try Gulden Draak, and it was amazeballs! Plus - you get a fancy glass. Haven't tried the food here yet but I will be coming back for my second dose of fun, karaoke, and awesome beer!
(5)
Jason M.
What a fun place! Great food, drinks, and interesting and thoughtful wines list. The staff is friendly and attentive. Make your way down stairs for some karaoke. Will be back. Great infusions too!
(5)
Kirby M.
My friends and I were able to get a 7pm reservation on a Saturday evening... for good reason. The food was fine - a little greasy, burgers were a little overcooked, a friend who ordered gnocchi hardly even touched it. It was the service that really ruined the entire experience - and from the moment I walked in, no less. I walked in and the hostess had her back to me and was chatting up another patron. I stood and waited patiently until the gentleman she was talking to motioned to her that I was there. She turned around, glared at me, asked my name, and then huffed because "how could I not see that my friends were sitting in the back corner?!" Our waitress came by and asked us for our drink orders which we got promptly. Then she didn't come back for our food orders. And once we did finally place our food orders, it took an hour (A FULL HOUR), to get our food. Now, we had show tickets at 9pm just around the corner. One would think that you needn't a full 2 hours to eat a burger, but apparently you do. It took multiple attempts (asking the busboy and other waiters) to get our check. When she finally brought it, she essentially threw it at us and ran away (we were all sitting there, credit cards in hand at the ready). So my friend took the bill up to the bar to get it paid. When she noticed, she got upset asking us why we didn't mention we had a time limit. I suppose we didn't realize that it needed to be stated that dinner should be complete in less than 2 hours. The ambiance is great - it's a near replica of Hutch down the block. Too bad the service and food quality isn't on par. Seems like a no-brainer that Hutch had no reservations available and this place was wide open. I won't be going back. TLDR; I want to like this place as the cheaper, prettier cousin of Hutch. But I can't. Not until the service and food quality improves.
(2)
Jessica Q.
I went back to Blokes on Saturday. Had the Blacked Swordfish and it was perfect! I also had a couple of draft beers Morning Wood by Local Option. Taste like coffee super yummy. Once again I had a great time there it's becoming my go to chill bar :)
(5)
Meg R.
Love this place! Wanted to try it for awhile after it opened, and finally grabbed dinner and drinks with a friend. Wonderful food, even better service. Will definitely be coming back again!
(5)
Stephanie M.
This rating is long overdue. I am speaking in regards to an experience from August. It pains me to rate the restaurant with one star, but our server was so non-chalent and slow, that it ruined my whole experience at this place. I will not be going back. It actually ruined my day as well. We came in with a large group of ten, and while every place in Wrigleyville/Boy's Town was too busy on Saturday morning to take an impromptu big party, Blokes & Birds was empty. I had a fonder memory of eating here before, and decided to pay no attention to the tumble weeds blowing through the place. We decided to start the meal with a shot. We ordered 10 shots of Jameson, and our server invited himself to have one as well. I take that as a positive start to the experience. He's fun, this is going to be a fun time. After that he was nowhere to be found. Well, he was, he was busy socializing with the bartenders, and cooks, and not worrying about actually getting any of our orders. We sat waiting for him to take our drink orders. Once he got those from us, my friends who took part in the bottomless mimosas deal, received maybe two more refills and really just found themselves sitting in front of empty glasses. So the deal wasn't a good one when you're only getting like, two drinks out of it. We wanted water, we wanted to order our food, we wanted refills. This guy was just terrible. And again, the restaurant was empty on this particular Saturday morning. I eventually couldn't take it anymore, and I had to get up and say something to him. I wasn't nice about it. But he was so goddamn casual, he made it easy to take a stern tone with him. He had forgotten to put our food orders in, and then when he did, he failed to actually order some, so the meals were staggered. It was crap. It was such a crap experience, he lost his playful attitude, and instead apologized to the table for the poor service we experienced from him. My boyfriend, and I, and the whole table are in the food service industry. And after we closed out the bill, I snuck a look at the tip my overly giving boyfriend left, and it was like 25%. There's nothing I can do about that, but let me just say, if I had been the one closing out the bill, it would have been less than 15%. There was no excuse for his bad performance. None. I ended up mentioning to my boyfriend that he over-tipped, which lead to an argument, which messed with our day. This incompetent server had an effect on the rest of my Saturday. I won't ever go back again, for fear of having him again, or seeing him, and feeling the urge to tell him how I felt about this past experience.
(1)
Karen N.
A great addition to the Clark/Wrigley strip. Love their beer list, the short rib sandwich, fish and chips and sliders. Warm cozy decor, with a contemporary fill. Also they have a full basement that you can use for a private party, nice lounge feel, fireplace, karaoke, full bar downstairs.
(4)
Kevin F.
I brought a friend here from out of town based on the reviews and it was NOT what we expected. Service: poor, drinks: ok, prices: nothing special. After spending about $50 on 3 drinks we went downstairs for karaoke, put in our request at maybe 11pm, waited 3 HOURS (until 2pm closing) and we were never called. In fact, the karaoke DJ decided to perform a number of songs himself no matter how many paying customers were on the list. Poor service, shitty Dj/karaoke, and not amazing drink specials... I highly recommend looking elsewhere.
(1)
Alyssa F.
Three stars because I've been here before and liked it, but the last time I went, the downstairs smelled like cat pee, the pool table was gone, and there was apparently karaoke going except no one was actually singing...? This was like, 11 PM on a Saturday, too. I'm not sure if the pool table was just moved for the karaoke, but bring that back and stop smelling like a litter box, and up to four stars you'll go.
(3)
Jason A.
Sadly, for a place so close to where I live, this places needs to go. Nothing was enjoyable about my experience. Draft list was really weak. The beer I ordered, which I've had dozens of times tasted old or from an unclean tap line. The menu was boring, nothing really grabs your attention as a must try. Bacon wrapped dates app was decent, but too expensive when only giving you 3. Both entrees were atrocious, unseasoned with no flavor. Couldn't even chock them down. This is pass.
(1)
Sophia Q.
Without a doubt my favorite place in Wrigleyville. Quality food, nice atmosphere, tasty drinks. Living around the corner makes me love this place even more but I'd def travel across the city to go here regardless. Highlights below: - baked mac & cheese: perfect cheese-noodle-gooeyness. - foie burger: big. piece. of. foie. uhmm... need I say any more? - B & B's blt: the egg on top makes it. I always thought people who got BLT's at restaurants were crazy since it's so easy to put together yourself... but this one is very much worth it. - BRAISED SHORT RIB SANDWICH: one of the best sandwiches I've had... EVER! the meat is so tender and flavorful... +1 for the server that recommended this. - house-infused whiskey: strong & delicious - the tempest: my personal favorite cocktail - cucumber-infused water: simple and touch of fancy. refreshing. Only con about this is place is the confusion as to when the kitchen closes since it seems to vary based on how busy it is/who the hostess/server is.... They also seem to be out of at least 1 or 2 items on the menu every time I go which is odd... Either way, thank you B&B for adding some quality to the cuisine in this hood'!
(4)
Joel G.
meh not a bad place, rock solid beer selection of about 50 or so on tap or in bottles. Didn't try the food. Place is not bad but it's setup weird with a lot of open space that goes unused. It seems just off. Enjoyed my beers and will likely return as it's near several BYOB places we go to.
(3)
Ronald Noah K.
I've always been a fan of this restaurant for dinner & brunch. But I came in the past Sunday with a group of 8 for a reservation at 12:30pm for brunch. We had to wait 45 minutes for our table with a reservation. Nothing was done to remedy that situation. No free drink or app. Service was miserable. The server clearly had no sense of humor or personality. Mimosas took FOREVER to come out. I mean 15-20 minutes. Unacceptable for drinks. One in the part ordered a beer flight. It doesn't take 20 minutes to pour beer! And to top it all off, they must have had a sale on salt at the grocery store. I think we all had our sodium intake for the month. Never again. They lost a good customer and 7 other potential customers. Shame.
(1)
Steve B.
It is crap that we are waiting over 1.5 hours to get the food. I would have to say pass on this place.
(1)
Richie D.
I stepped in unsure if I'd be a Bird or a Bloke. It became even more difficult when I had to find which washroom to use... I mean I am a feminine gay male, so I suppose I could use either. Not to mention that my coworkers refer to me as "the bird" of the office. We won't go into the reasons but this public house confused the birds out of this bloke!! When freezing in the Midwest winter, all I want is comfort food. Oh and according to Urban Daddy, B&B has got it! I am pleased to confirm that you can sometimes believe what you read. Four words: BRAISED LAMB SHEPHERDS PIE!! Large shredded chunks of braised lamb hidden deeply in a sweet mix of carrots and beans (no corn, thank goodness). The protective top layer of buttery mashed potatoes melt in your mouth and have the perfectly crispy edges. Pair that off with a heart-warming shot of alcohol, and I call it quits. The fireplace, warm wood interior, heavy door that keeps in the heat, and fun mustache logo all add to the ambiance as the perfect place to lounge and perch. A few drinks later, and you'll really have a difficult time figuring out the birds from the blokes!
(5)
Mary R.
Blokes & Birds offers high end meals, in a casual environment, for a very reasonable price! I experienced friendly & attentive service, a cool atmosphere, nice beer selection, and unique, tasty cocktails. However, the greatest thing about this restaurant is the food! Both my husband and I were blown away by the taste and presentation of our entrees. I would highly recommend the Fish & Chips, and my husband was literally going on about the Amish Chicken for days. I've never checked out the downstairs karoake bar, but I expect we will be back.
(5)
Taranika E.
Perfect man cave - it is hip, dark and houses an absurd selection of bourbon. I think it's hilarious that the menus are HUGE! Someone running the business is getting a good laugh at people rummaging between the sheets. And, thankfully the pulled pork sandwich was a godsend. The whiskey drinks delightful. Ladies, this is a perfect place to ask your burly midwestern man on a date -- get him nice and tipsy on the house whiskey then beat him at a game of pool (free downstairs). The drinks are a bit pricey; however they are mostly house specialities and well worth the flavors.
(4)
SL-S L.
I love this place, their cocktails are creative and when I went there when it first opened, it had an amazing and lengthy beer list. I went there often and took many friends just because of the beer list they had. The ambiance is really cool as well. But, I went there last night and their beer list had literally been cut in half. What happened Blokes & Birds? I hope this is a temporary thing because there were a lot of good beers that were no longer listed. I'd still go for the ambiance and atmosphere, but I'm a little disappointed with the change in beer offerings.
(3)
Michael M.
Great beer list and pretty good kitchen. Feels more gastropub and less English pub. The special dessert that night, Toffee pudding, was outstanding. And if they have the bean and ham soup on special, get that too. Other reviewers are correct, this is casual but not a college dude dive. The older 80's English new wave music (Depeche Mode, New Order) made me feel good.
(4)
Joseph M.
As a Londoner living in NYC for the past 8 years, I was excited to try a British-style gastropub in Chicago on a recent trip to visit my husband. I got a 30% off deal through Blackboard Eats, which I thought was a bargain, considering the menu looked very appetizing. Well, I was wrong. And not just about the food. When we arrived, it took our flustered hostess five minutes to seat us, even though the restaurant was only about a third of the way full. Once seated- near the bar, spitting distance away from the hostess stand itself- we found ourselves pretty distracted by the blaring music, and football (no, not the English kind) on the tv screens. A waitress arrived about five minutes later to take our drink orders. We both decided on cocktails, and were pleasantly surprised by what we chose- though nothing mind-blowing by any stretch of the imagination. We ordered the Heathrow Hanger for an appetizer, which we both agreed was pretty good. And then, the live music started. This young man belching out 90s cover songs just about tipped us over the edge, and we asked to be moved to the back of the restaurant, where it was a LITTLE quieter. Our waitress seemed quite flustered at this change, and didn't come back to check on us once we had moved. I had a salad and a side of roasted potatoes, both of which I could have made better at home, and my husband had a chicken curry which, quite frankly, no true Englishman would have recognized as Indian food. After all that, our waitress forgot to add the discount to our check, forcing us to remind her to do so. And thank goodness for the discount, otherwise I would have walked out mid-meal. Definitely not going back there in a hurry.
(2)
Ali H.
I've only been here once, so I'll reserve the coveted 5th star until after a few repeat appearances. My first experience, on a Wednesday evening, was quite lovely indeed. It's incredibly cozy and nice inside, with a gas fireplace and plenty of candles. We sat at the bar (even though there were plenty of tables open) and tried several of the tap beers before deciding. The bartender was really friendly and more than willing to let us try as many beers as we wanted. Their beer list rocks; the tap list is nice and long and the bottles list even better. The cocktails look great, and I can't wait to come back and try some. We shared a burger that was delish, but took a small eternity to come out even though the place was nearly empty. I was torn over the fact that a 10 dollar burger didn't come with fries or any side. I mean, not that I need to eat a big pile of fries. But, really? Didn't have the wrigleyville vibe at all. I'll definitely come back here.
(4)
Derek M.
Been looking for a place with black pudding in Chicago. Finally found this place and gave it a shot. The service was slow but the place was packed. We got our order of black pudding that I had been craving and it was COLD in the middle. I mean really cold. I sent it back and got a fresh order cooked to the proper temperature and it was delicious. I was pretty pissed about the first order but the other items we tried and fresh order of black pudding made up for it.
(4)
Evan G.
Have stopped in a few times because of convenience. Decent beer selection, never crowded, and the waitresses are making a better effort at being knowledgeable and friendly.
(3)
Arlene A.
B&B (I am not typing out Blokes & Birds over and over!) does things the way most of life goes. Some things are great, some good and some, well not so much. The decor skews as more of a contemporary lounge than public house, and I'm okay with it. B&B's interior is sleek and very grown up. Their craft cocktails are delicious, you should definitely Mind the Bollocks when you're here. The beer list is exotic as it is extensive. So far, so good. Then we go on to the food, I have to tell you, my Honey manages to always pick the yummy stuff. B&B's BLT was a delicious combination of meaty bacon, ham with a perfectly (and I mean perfectly) fried egg. We also shared a small plate of mussels with capers which was beautifully done. I decided on two small plates for my meal. The baked mac and cheese was just ok, creamy but, decidedly under seasoned. I also ordered the sausage stuffed bacon wrapped dates. I know what you're thinking. You're thinking what I was thinking. DELICIOUS! Yeah, that's what I thought. And I was WRONG. Don't do it. My disappointment was so severe, I wasn't sure if there would be any coming back. But there was, and it is called Meatballs with Yum Yum sauce. Service was fine, we'll definitely be back, and Mama's getting herself a B&B's BLT.
(3)
Camille B.
Great selection of beer and wine. The polenta and shrimp dish is phenomenal.
(4)
Erica T.
Fantastic beer list - but be careful, some of them are very strong and will sneak up on you. The downstairs area is... interesting (a karaoke lounge) but still a fun place to hang out with friends. I'll keep going back to Blokes and Birds as a place that is consistently a good time near Wrigleyville when I'm not looking for a Wrigleyville-type atmosphere.
(4)
Amanda C.
What a great place! I've probably walked past it 50 times before and never noticed it was there. It's a nicer bar/restaurant in an area of less nice places. Interesting menu of craft cocktails and food looks great, although I was only here for drinks. All of the staff was very friendly and the basement is a hidden gem with karaoke.
(4)
Rebecca H.
I've only had drinks here but I like the atmosphere and good beer selection.
(4)
Elisabeth E.
We went here for drinks after dinner so we didn't eat anything here, but we had a delicious bottle of wine, and the best part about this place is they have a whole basement area with kareoke! Super fun! And the guy who is manning the kareoke station is a really great singer :-)
(4)
Samantha L.
This place has AWESOME Shepard's pie and a good selection of beer. I went here on a double date, and my boyfriend who spent 6 years in England was excited they had Abbot Ale, and just the smell of it reminded him of English pubs. Everyone at my table seemed to enjoy their food and beverages, and my friends even got Earl Grey creme brulee for dessert and loved it. They have a free coat check as well. My only wish was that the menu be less expensive! This will be a place I'll go and enjoy occasionally, but it's not cheap enough to become my regular spot!
(5)
Matthew F.
Blokes & Birds is often lumped in with the Wrigleyville bars. I'm not sure why. Geographically, it's on the far fringe of that scene; operationally, they aim for something else entirely. I've been here for a range of occasions: From casual date night to "let's avoid the amateurs on New Year's Eve" to "let's camp out at the bar and get proper shit-faced." It works for all three. The beer menu is expansive and well-selected. It leans most heavily on US microbrews and Belgian and UK (surprise!) offerings, and there's nothing too novel in that, but they typically have a number of labels that you only see rarely. On my last visit, I stuck to their whiskey-based cocktails (Tempest, Colonial and Old Chum); all were well-conceived and well-mixed. The food is traditional pub fare with some flourishes. I seek Scotch eggs like Jay Cutler seeks mediocrity, and B&B makes a fine one. I can also vouch for the BLT (With deviled ham and a fried egg? Well played, sir.) and the curry sandwich, and my better half swears by the house burger. I've had the rumbledthumps just once and found them too heavy on the kale for my liking. It's a welcoming, open environment, with plenty of windows and wood. However, this preponderance of wood also means it can get loud at times. I'm of the opinion that the music makes or breaks a pub. While B&B generally sticks to the English standbys, the sequencing could use some work. On my last visit, they got me from Coldplay to Pink Floyd to the Clash to Cyndi Lauper (???) in under six moves. Depending on your attitude toward such things, you will find this either charming or maddening as hell. The staff has repeatedly proven themselves knowledgeable and, as importantly, adept and engaging conversationalists. One server regaled us with a story of attempting to caulk her bathtub while drunk; on another visit, a bartender & I discussed the merits of Tricky's first album and agreed that it is unassailable. On balance, a terrific spot worth checking out.
(4)
Aimee R.
Great food and drinks. Service was a little slow but I'll definitely come back for the food!
(4)
Mandi G.
Bravo Blokes & Birds! I am giving you a golf clap for the smashing time I had last night. My girlfriend wanted a more upscale but "not too fancy" bar to host her birthday party and B&B totally delivered. I have to admit, we got off to a bad start. I arrived with the birthday girl and we sat at the upstairs bar while waiting for the rest of our group. The bartender messed up my drink order both times, and when that drink is only a Ketel/soda/lime...well, you suck as a bartender. And service was painfully slow considering it was still fairly early and the bar wasn't that crowded. The manager Dan must be psychic because as soon as I was starting to feel annoyed, he magically made everything better. We were given a huge table downstairs for our group, even though the birthday girl spaced and didn't bother calling in a reservation. Our server Charlie was on point all evening. A round of peach-infused bourbon shots was given to the table. Dan personally checked in on us throughout the night and didn't seem too upset that my drunk ass kept calling him Dave. The bar itself is very sleek, yet still comfortable. The beer list is excellent. Also important to note is that they play really good music. I did not hear one Nelly song all night and that is a win for me. I really, really liked this place. The name is kinda stupid, as is the ironic mustache logo. But don't let that deter you. Good times are to be had here.
(4)
Nancy K.
Probably one of the worst dining experiences we've ever had. Had to ask the water server on his second round of filling our glasses who our waiter was. Service was so slow we seriously considered getting up and walking out, luckily there was enough eye candy there to distract my hubby from blowing a gasket! The food was lousy too, my husband found a 1 inch chunk of barely cooked beef in his slider, and the fish and chips was equally bad- greasy battered tough fish with limp, greasy fries - yuck. It is a nice space, but we had to yell to converse across the table from each other. Luckily we had a 30 percent off deal, but still considered it a complete waste of time and money.
(1)
Colleen F.
I rarely have so little to say about a place so I'm going to go with 'meh.' This place seems to do a few things exceptionally a few things terribly and all things for a hefty price tag. First, they were out of a good 4-5 items on the menu. For a relatively small menu this is a problem for me. I was really looking forward to the mussels as we ordered. "Sorry 86'ed" was the reply. "Ok, how about the deviled beef"... "Sorry, 86'ed." "Hmm... perhaps I'll try the"...you get the point. The devils on horseback were very good, stuffed and wrapped with meat. Doesn't get much better than that. The cheese platter was good and an interesting mix of cheese but for a whopping $14 I thought it lacked. Curried prawns were ok but were most definitely shrimp not prawns. We also had the cucumber salad. I enjoyed the cucumber and mint combination but would have enjoyed it more had they not forgotten to dress it, I mean really? On the other hand this place makes a mean, lean and not too sweet cocktail. I particularly enjoyed the gin concoctions. Service was good, nothing to complain about and the bartender really tried to get me a drink I'd been happy with as I struggled to make up my mind. Perhaps the kitchen will have caught up with the bar next time I drop in.
(3)
Chaz A.
How do you know when a restaurant team really cares? Well, put on your coats, boys and girls, and head on out to B&B, lake views hottest new Gastropub. (and by the way, lately, why have they all been named with an "&" in the middle... L&E, O&E, G&TG, B&L'S, T&E'S, B&B, B&L) AMMPPEEERRRSAANNNDD TAKEOVER! Because in the proprietor here, Daily Walsh, you can FEEL the passion oozing out of this man's veins, his knowledge of everything in this restaurant, his command over his troops, and his care in the customers' experience, is so highly noticeable. And the food is very good too. especially the mac & cheese, and fish & chips (M&C, F&C) A really comfortable place to hang out if you're unfortunately in the neighborhood.d
(4)
Super L.
They have some pretty delish food items here. And a nice beer selection! I tried the banana bread beer thanks to yelp recommendations, and YUM YUM YUM! I don't even like beer! We ordered four or five of the small plates, and a burger. It was all gooooood. The meatballs with wow sauce was delicious. The chicken liver pate so good. The black pudding? Delicious! It was all so gooood. The burger came on a pretzel bun, as all burgers should. We ordered ours with the Havarti Horseradish cheese, it was.... say it with me! soooo goooood. Service was a little spotty. Our server talked real low and was hard to understand. You have to ENUNCIATE, and speak up! I thought the floor and seating layout was kind of strange too. But we'll be back!
(4)
Alli W.
I am so grateful for the breath of fresh air that Blokes and Birds has brought to Wrigleyville. There is a good beer selection - draft and bottle - and a decent cocktail menu as well. You can tell that they put effort into decorating the interior of the space - I prefer the basement 's darker atmosphere around the fireplace. Our server, Terry (I'd feel awful if I messed up his name) was awesome. He helped us secure a table and cared about drink recommendations. Unfortunately when our group dispersed and we relocated upstairs, the bartenders were not as helpful and it took quite a while to get a drink. The crowd was not unpleasant, a definite improvement for the typical Wrigleyville scene. I will back here soon to try a new tasty beverage and test out the food selection.
(4)
Laura O.
Was a little hesitant about this place considering its near proximity to Wrigley Field and the rowdy crowds that typically accompany this location, BUT Blokes & Birds emanates a much classier (shall I also say cleaner??) atmosphere than I expected. All of the food I tried was delightful (I sampled quite a bit among my 8 friends). The staff were all friendly, and our server Amber was adorable & pleasant, as well as knowledgeable about the menu. Only downside was... I booked a reservation via email, received the confirmation from management, and when we arrived I was informed that management never passed on the message to the staff! Luckily, they were able to put a table together quickly for us, and the crisis was averted. Definitely check this place out!
(4)
Nick B.
I've been meaning to stop in here since I saw the sign pop up above the unopened location months ago. I finally had the chance to stop in last night with a few friends. First I have to say, I loved the lounge atmosphere. Chill, rustic, dark, low music, it was pretty slick. I was impressed by how large the space was. There was a lot of tables and a communal table in the center. It wasn't too busy when we arrived but it fill up around 9PM on a Tuesday. Anyway, I started with a drink. I was in the mood to try a craft cocktail since it was a specialty instead of a martini or something I normally get. I went with the B-Cup which features blueberries, pimms no.1 cup, aperol, Tito's vodka, absolut blueberry, st. germain, syrup, and lemon juice. I was sold on the blueberries and Tito's vodka. Cool drink. Didn't blow me away, but I enjoyed two of them and felt pretty good afterward. I have to say that I wasn't too impressed with the entrees. All meat! Blah. So we decided to go with a more "tapas" like approach and order a bunch of different sides. So damn glad we did. First side was the baked mac n' cheese. Wow. Explosion of flavor and crunchy on top. Awesome. The chips were spectacular. How can you go to an English inspired pub and not get chips? Next we got the Rumbledthumps. What the heck is that? Whipped potatoes and kale. WOW. I didn't even know restaurants in Chicago incorporated kale into dishes. Finally, we had the curried cauliflower with caramel apples. Again, extremely tasty. A solid four stars. Fun atmosphere. Low key. Cool drinks. Awesome food. Definitely a nice place to check out after a long work day.
(4)
Anthony P.
After hearing so many good things about the food, we figured that we would give the place a try. It has a nice atmosphere inside, but something is going on with the acoustics. For the size of the place and the number of people in it, it was so weirdly loud. On to the food: we had some mussels with the lemon caper brown butter. They were good, but the meat inside seemed extra tiny. I really enjoyed my burger, though. I got it with the horseradish havarti; very juicy. The only thing we didn't care for was the service. She seemed just entirely uninterested in helping us, didn't offer any recommendations, could only be bothered to check on us once after the food arrived... we couldn't wait to be done with her.
(3)
Jonathan P.
A caveat: this review pertains to pretty much every aspect of Blokes & Birds *except* their regular food menu, which I have yet to engage. Or, to begin again: my first and only experience so far at B&B occurred as a result of an eight-course Stone-beer-and-paired-fromage event they hosted in their elegantly cavernous basement space on 2 May 2011. Which is not to say I had no prior knowledge of the establishment: I had read of it, but summarily dismissed it as yet-another iteration of the ampersand-styled restaurants sprouting abundantly these days, except with the blotch of being located in a neighborhood of which I'm not particularly fond. But, this pairing menu popped up, and I had interested family who would be in the city for only one night, on that night, so I wound up just off the Belmont red-line. The space upstairs is understated, sleekly paneled with light-hued wood throughout, and appears well-organized, if fairly unimpressive. We were swiftly directed downstairs, into the much more impressive space below, where the pairing was to be orchestrated. Like a cellar, this downstairs extension is dim and bricked; it features nice, long wooden tables, an additional corner bar, and a handsomely tan-upholstered billiards table; in all, it constituted an obviously superior venue for the operation Stone and B&B had prepared. The representative from Stone, relaxed and eager, was the first to greet us after we were seated; he was courteous, and informative when prompted. His comments each round on the selected beers were not entirely unhelpful, but seemed quite basic, even reductive, and rote; he did, however, endeavor to be very available for questions. Demure, though not quite laconic, the master fromager attended to us next with introductions. She was even more knowledgeable, though likewise needed some prompting -- except when she returned with each cheese service to elaborate upon the specimen, at which point her passion for and comprehension of all the intricacies of cheese flashed outwardly. Unaffiliated with Stone, I assume, credit goes to the management of B&B for her encyclopedic presence. I *know* the management deserves credit for the response to an exigent crisis that emerged relating to the planned beer to be provided by Stone. As explained to us by their representative: due to some licensing issues, the highly anticipated final two courses originally announced - the 2011 Imperial Russian Stout and the 2011 blended with Belgian yeast and star anise - were both unavailable, forcing B&B to improvise. In the stead of these two ales, the restaurant provided pairing patrons with: (i) a now-rare 2008 vintage of the Imperial Russian, which it was agreed successfully ameliorated the loss of the 2011 premiere; and (ii) a shot of their house-spiced bourbon, which paired very poorly with the final cheese and was, moreover, a poor substitute for an eighth beer. However: when the owner-operator visited us at the end of the pairing to inquire regarding our experience, one of my companions mentioned these slight disappointments with the final alcoholic offering. Quickly, without hesitation, this owner-operator popped behind the bar, grabbed another bottle of the 2008, and shared it with us, apologizing again for something that was nonetheless out of his control. My family departed and our party halved; my remaining companion and I deliberated, but decided to persist for one more drink. Situating ourselves at the bar, I noticed and ordered one of my favorite beers, the Cuvee de Jacobins Rouge, and she ordered a cocktail off their crafted menu. Near the end of their keg, there was a flaw in my pour, so the bartender gave it gratis. A short time later, the owner-operator arose from the basement, made rounds, and eventually commented on our having stayed. After thanking him again for the additional stout, we spoke a little about his food-serving bar, and bars in general in Chicago. Among other things, he spoke concisely and cogently about what he was doing with his establishment, where, and why. As closing-time approached, he passed out free shots of their house-spiced bourbon to all the remaining patrons -- another welcome touch. All of which is a somewhat protracted justification for awarding five stars to a restaurant whose regular menu I haven't sampled, whose draught selection failed to especially impress, and whose cocktail offerings looked (and, in one case, tasted) sound but not extraordinary. The prices appeared, across the board, to be exceptionally reasonable -- a goal explicitly stated by the owner-operator in the course of our conversation, and naturally much appreciated, not to mention an additional appeal. Perhaps a future standard meal at B&B will merit four, or even fewer, stars, and I hope to eventually ascertain if these five are entirely warranted. But with such attentive and outstanding service in my one experience there, at the moment I'm left with no other choice.
(5)
Khadijah L.
Douchestop. I was born in the UK, and I kinda think its weird/pretentious when establishments think they all classy when they give an English/European theme to it. Y U NO HAZ CLASSY AMERICAN GASTROPUB? Regardless of the stupid names, the cocktails are pretty damn good (and $$$$$$$$), and the beer selection is great. The bartenders are knowledgeable. Unfortunately I've never had food here. I'm in love/hate... because I do welcome a bar with no TV screens. But then the music was terrible. underwhelmingly awful.
(3)
Robert P.
I was excited when I found out this place was going to open. I lived in England for 6 years and just reading the name on the door while it was under construction made me eager to try it out once it opened. The decor is very minimalistic and dark which I like, but I don't think it works in this place since it's themed after something besides prohibition era speakeasy. I expected more art on the wall or some accents (non-verbal). The food was very well prepared and presented. Everyone (4 people) at my table ordered something different and all of the plates looked great. I had a chicken thigh sandwich and it was very good but a little difficult to physically handle since the bread fell apart half way through it and the avocado slices kept sliding out. My GF order the sheppards pie that was made with lamb instead of minced beef. I didn't know how the pie would turn out. Regretfully I never had Sheppards pie during my time in England. It was great but I think it still would've been better with the beef. The cheese on the pie was strong and might have been stilton instead of the traditional cheddar but it works with the unique combination that they have. The prices for the food aren't too high. The beer...OMG so many choices. I am not used to so many beers being available but you can't complain about the selection. Large amount of English brews as well as Belgian brews. They also had Abbot Ale which is from the Green King brewery right by where I used to live in England. Some of the beer is priced very high but this is expected since most of them are not common in this area. I'm pretty sure this place will attract a better crowd that the rest of Wrigleyville but I still see a bit more potential in this location. I will be going back to try more beer and the rest of the menu items.
(4)
Jeannine T.
In the midst of Lakeview, practically the heart of Wrigleyville, nestles a unique and chic English gastropub. It's refreshing to find a place that allows you to step outside the realm of "sports bar" scene. A much needed haven in the neighborhood. I love food and alcohol, and per my bf probably a bit too much on the latter. So opening night we found our way to my new winter retreat, Blokes and Birds. I walked in greeted with the warmth of smiles and a nice toasty fireplace. Beautifully decorated with dark, rich colored wood and a very appetizing drink and food menu. However, we'll get to the menu later. The light in the room was lowered to the perfect dim, which allowed for the candles on the tables to create the most fitting ambiance. +1 star. The Kicks (Drinks): The selection of beers, spirits, and cocktails offered is very impressive. My sister ordered the Breakfast at Tiffany's, which B&B was very generous with the alcohol. I ordered myself a pint of beer, which I cannot remember the name of. However, we all had a couple of shots of the house custom made Makers, prepared in a marinade of spice and fruits. It was absolutely delicious. The spice and fruit creates a hint of flavor and does not take away from the taste of the whisky. I have never tried anything like this, so +1 star for introducing me to something new and tasty! The Licks (Food): We tried almost everything on the menu. Not disappointed at all. - I love french fries. I think you'll see it mentioned in my profile somewhere. The fries here - yum! - Mussels with vindaloo sauce is a must try. The sauce is not overpowering, making it perfect for bread dipping. - Foie burger is so juicy and delicious. Packed with flavors and the truffle fries is a nice compliment. - Fish and chips came with more fries! No complaints here. =) Fish was not overcooked nor too oily. The filet broke off the perfect crunch and did not sog up after being left on our table. We found ourselves nibbling on all the dishes as the evening progressed. My bf's fave and has become a fave of mine as well. - The sides were all good. They all had very unique names and since I'm not English I can't remember it for the life of me. If I had to recommend one dish it would definitely be the Foie Burger cooked to medium. So savory... Oh and the fish and chips, and the mussels, but definitely the burger. I'll definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. +1 star for the food. The Journey (Service): Our server was friendly - not overly attentive which gave us our time to chat without constant interruption of how our evening was going. He was back to refresh our drink and was available when we needed him. +1 star The Pinch (Our Tab): Every great evening must come to an end. Some with a punch and some with a pinch. For three people dining, we were all surprised at how reasonable our bill came out to be. The beautiful thing about it is that all tax is included in the price of the food. No separate row for "Tax 10.25% - Alcohol 11%" ordeal. What you see on the menu is what you pay. +1 star. Needless to say, I will be returning shortly.
(5)
Joseph F.
I must say I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Not bowled over, but pleasantly surprised. So do you want the good news or bad news first? The bad news: They play suicide music. No, It's not a genre. It's what the music will make you do after about twenty minutes. Just a horrendous music selection. Their food is decent but not solid. I will say I sampled a few dishes and they ranged from amazing (wedge salad, chili) to downright terrible (the burger, vegetable curry). Our waitress raved about the burger only to bring out a very gray, very overcooked, very salty blop of beef on a bun that tasted like it was a bit stale. The chicken tikka masala I had was good and I would probably order it again. Although made with curry, it was really well balanced with other flavors. This is what I meant by "not solid". The chef can blow your mind with some very interesting flavors then blow your colon with a passable but not edible burger. The good news: Great drink specials. On Wednesday nights the House offers a wee nip and a pint for $5. They feature a well crafted whiskey nip and a pint of local beer. Really quite tasty! The service we had was also very good. Our waitress might have overstated the quality of some of the food, but she does get paid by these people, it's her job. She was always on top of everything. The bar also features cucumber water. Some people love it. Some people hate it. I find it refreshing and definitely have "love it" checked next to the box. Overall it's good. I think with slightly better music and more solid dishes on the menu, this place could easily be 4-stars.
(3)
Thamara D.
Finally a place for grown ups in Lakeview ! Loved everything about Blokes & Birds. Starting with the door person to everyone else that took care of us, made us feel welcome and very comfortable. The menu is exceptional, Cheers to the chef for making boring English food exciting ! Mussels with Vindaloo sauce was so perfect, just that would bring me back here. Love the room, reminds me of the pubs in London, Monty Python on TV gets bonus points. I recommend lower level for drinks and "Mingling" and upper level for a sweet date. It was good to be a "Bird" here, looking forward to going back.
(5)
Kelly K.
Came here with the Gilt City promotion for brunch for two that included brunch, cocktails and coffee. 1. The coffee machine was broken. Not sure how that happened, but I was annoyed from the get go. 2. We were offered juice instead of coffee. I barely like coffee and hate juice, unless it is fresh squeezed, even more. Their juice? Tropicana. Even the crappy diner down the street from me offers fresh squeezed orange juice. 3. Not all brunch items were included in the deal, which should have been listed in the fine print. I was trying not to spoil a perfectly enjoyable Sunday, so I went with the omelet. 4. Food took a while to come, especially considering it was only us and one other table of 3. 5. Food wasn't terrible. Potatoes were rather tasty. 6. Service- friendly, but not incredibly helpful. Overall, won't be back for brunch. Maybe I'll come check it out for cocktails when the Cubs aren't in town.
(2)
Evelyn S.
Great food and drinks. The service rocked too. Lovely all around.
(4)
Yusuf B.
If you're not from the theses parts of town and heard the name you'd probably think its more of the same! Oh contraire mon frere! (its all Europe) I'm not a huge fan of the Wrigleyville corridor BUT I do like me some gastropubs and this is one of Chicago's best I'd say the bar is well stocked the atmosphere is exactly what I look for in a drinking establishment. Quiet enough to talk but with a TV in case the conversation starts to drag! The Food is fantastic as well with a super knowledgeable wait staff that will truly take care of you I've yet to order anything that I haven't loved. Even Wrigleville needs a bar without cleats... nice one lads!
(5)
Kara E.
My friend and I tried out Blokes & Birds. This was my first time at B &B- and I was pleasantly surprised. It's located in Wrigleyville, which conjured up images of 20-something drunk frat guys. B & B adds some sophistication to the 'hood. The beer menu at this place is freakin' huge and sorta overwhelming- I opted for the waiter's suggestion rather than read through the lists and lists of foreign brews. I had the Tripel Karmeliet which was very tasty and came in a really cool glass. (I'm easy to please). My friend and I shared the mussels in the abbot ale broth and ordered the chicken tikka masala to split. The mussels were huge and the broth was tasty. The chicken was a sizeable portion and the sauce was delicious. The atmosphere was kinda chill and there weren't any drunk 20-somethings (or at least they were trying to class it up at B&B). B & B is great addition to the hood with great drinks & food.
(4)
Gary C.
A couple of good blokes to have dinner with, check. Hunky-dory parking spot, check. British accent, double check [I've been practicing!]. I was really prepared to have some English grub with a couple of good blokes. So ready that I did my research [looked at their menu online] and decided what I wanted prior to arriving. I was happy with the selection of menu items. Now, I've never been to England, but I've Googled all things English just so I could fit in [it's a bit difficult as I am, how do you say, ethnic]. The place was really dark, like, the only lights that allowed patrons to see were coming from street lamps and TV screens. The music was bumpin', but it wasn't like The Beatles or any of the UK Top 75 Singles. It was a mixture of electro-80s and dance songs that could invoke seizures. I was not impressed. Onto the menu. Their list of beverages is bloody long compared to the food menu. As mentioned, I already picked my dinner, the fish and chips. Very well portioned, served with a malt vinegar aioli and a very subtle tartar sauce. I can't complain. It was good, but there was no X-Factor [Simon Cowell anyone??]. Our server seemed to be preoccupied with other tables and we sort of felt neglected. At times she was MIA, possibly in a paper plane...
(3)
Kristin J.
Went back for cocktails. Delicious. The B-Cup is still awesome. My friend had some sort of Manhattan-like cocktail with yellow corn liquor, but we both liked mine better. My other friend had a custom-blended cocktail and loved it. I love how laid back this place is, how cozy it seems with the wood and fireplace, and how it seems mellow enough at almost any hour to conduct a pleasant conversation while enjoying a cocktail.
(4)
Marc G.
Very knowledgable waitress about both the food and beer selection. After a few questions to understand the type of beer Mysore likes, she came back with 4 samples for her to try. She hit the mark with all four! The food was very good as well - tasty, well prepared and good portions.
(4)
Kate S.
I like this place as a bar, but as a restaurant it's just okay. The beer selection is extensive, and they're very friendly about letting you sample a beer before ordering it. Prices aren't crazy expensive, which is nice. The food isn't anything special. I had the fish and chips, which, while not overpriced, were generally devoid of flavor. I ordered the minted peas, and again, pretty tasteless. I absolutely love peas, but these tasted like they were recently defrosted, and didn't really enthuse me in any way. The macaroni and cheese was quite delicious, though it took several tries to get it without bacon. My bigger complaint is with the service. A Jewish friend and I (a pescatarian) ordered the mac and cheese to split, and specifically asked for it without bacon, since neither of us eat it. The dining room is quite dark, so we each had a bite. My friend said that the cheese tasted really unusual, a little saltier than most cheese. I remember bacon well from my youth, and was quite sure that's what we were tasting. When I looked more closely with the candle, I noticed the little pieces of bacon on top. But that's not the biggest problem. When we told the waiter, he argued with us. "That's not bacon, the cheese just gets crispy under the broiler." Excuse me? I'm quite sure that cheddar cheese is not red and chewy. Luckily, the manager came out and apologized for our waiter's poor behavior. Our table was also forgotten once a few other tables came in. (The restaurant was quite empty.) We sat with empty water and beer glasses for about forty minutes before we finally managed to get the waiter to bring us a check. Then, once we got it, it included beer we had never gotten. So I'll definitely be back for the beer, but I'll eat somewhere else.
(3)
Dan M.
Dark wood, dim lighting, and friendly service can all be found at this remarkable neighborhood gastropub. Also, the clientele is a little more refined (read: less boozy) than most spots in Wrigleyville, which is a nice change of pace. Things to do: Shoot pool with your mates downstairs, watch early morning soccer matches, and try all of the Wells & Young's brews at least once (Wells Banana Bread Beer, Youngs Double Chocolate Stout, etc.)
(4)
R J.
First time in, enjoyed my shepherd's pie and quality beers
(4)
Ryan F.
I went here for Dishcrawl, the service was good and they have a great beer selection. My fries tasted like they were marinated in fish...not the best. Everything else was good.
(4)
Zoe G.
I've been going to Blokes and Birds since it opened, and can't recommend it more. Very friendly staff from the waiters all the way up to the owner. Delicious specialty drinks, and delicious food. I recommend the braised lamb sandwich & the bacon aioli with fries. They also have a great cider beer. Much different vibe from the rest of Wrigley. More chill, not as crowded, and you can actually hear someone speaking to you there. Good for conversation and hanging out. Good music too, depeche mode, pumpkins, the cure, etc. A place with a little more class and personality than what you usually find in the neighborhood!
(5)
johnny b.
Great cocktails solid food
(4)
Kristine L.
I was so pleased that this place opened so close to my house, and really wanted to like it. I didn't (so sad!), but I'll have to go back again. Based on these other reviews, I must have just gone on an off night. I'm a gastopub groupie, so B&B is a refreshing change from everything else in Wrigleyville, that's for sure. The ambiance was nice, the service was helpful and friendly, and a big gold star for the beer and cocktail list. Very impressive selection and not too $$$ either! A great Two Brothers on draft with "a wee nip" of some nice whiskey was on special for 5 bucks! Hee-eey! The semi-communal table is sort of problematic if someone is sitting in the space that ends up awkwardly backed up to you. But it was pretty. The menu looked great, so we were pretty stoked for our food... But I was sooo disappointed in dinner! :( :( :( I started with the oxtail soup, and I like salty/savory flavors but WOW pretty salty. My friend chose a risotto, which looked great, but turned out to be loads of cute button mushrooms hiding the fact there was very little risotto. My amish fried chicken dish, which our nice server did say was still new, amounted to tasty chicken straight up buried in what amounted to basically mustard. I think the description mentioned a spicy sauce and some kind of chutney, but it really was chicken seriously drenched in mustard. Also, I wish I had been advised to order a side, because it literally was just the mustard-chicken. (I just noticed neither of our choices are on the website menu.. maybe we should've stuck to the less new choices?) I went to Owen & Engine with the bf not long ago, another English gastropub, and was maybe expecting B & B to compare, but my O & E experience start to finish was far better. Way more expensive, but the service was more knowledgable, and the food was really really great. B & B will get one more try since Yelpers seem to really like it. Although my mom would probably say, "Oh B&B, I'm not angry, just really disappointed in you."
(2)
Andrew C.
'A-OK' or 'Yay! I'm a fan' This is going to be a tough one to explain, I'm thinking that I'm a fan of this place. Here is why: Above average beer selection Above average mixology Above average food If anyone says that their mixed drinks are better than The Whistler or Violet Hour or Drawing Room...they don't know what they are talking about. But if you are too lazy to go to those places, you will find something to drink here that is better than 90% of the bars out there. More importantly the other places mentioned above either don't serve food or serve food that I'm not crazy about. Blokes serves sorta high end comfort food. I like that. Basically this is a safe place to meet out with your friends since they have food that everyone can relate to, beer for those that don't do mixed drinks and decent mixed drinks. That is why I'm a fan of this place. Oh and one last thing, vodka is the training wheels of liquor. When you are tired of mixing vodka with your kool-aid, start investigating what mixology is. Make it a point to drink at least one Corpse Reviver #2 during your adult life.
(4)
Brad B.
I really wanted to like this place, I did. The pro's: friendly staff, interesting / comfy decor. The con's: the food, the beverages. We went in last week Saturday evening around 7PM for dinner. The place was sorta empty, which set my spidey senses tingling....no matter though, we persevered and after much machination about where to sit, actually did. At one of communal tables in the middle of the main room. We ordered mussels and deviled eggs to start. Then the fish & chips and pork for our main courses. The eggs were not good and by not good, I mean earth-shatteringly-bad. And we told our server, politely that this was the case. He graciously removed them from our ticket. Very cool of him. The fish & chips were a solid "meh" as neither stood out in any way - either positively or negatively. The pork was better but, still nothing fantastic. They were out of half the wines that night. The "specialty" cocktails were not that special, nor flavorful....I had the B Cup and [inappropriate yet flattering, comment about women with b-cup breasts, redacted], thats all I have to say about that. I'm truly hopeful that this place works out the kinks with its menu and really starts to bring it, as it would be a shame to have yet another mediocre establishment along this stretch of Clark.
(2)
Geoff R.
This is my favorite new find in Chicago. Hands down. Wrigleyville is teeming with bars that serve "food." But this place delivers on all levels. The room is gorgeous but not pretentious. The drink list rivals any other gastro pub in the city. The food is awesome, diverse, and beyond reasonably priced. I can't recommend it highly enough. I brought my daughter and my Mom for her birthday early on a Monday. They were super welcoming of kids even though it's a pretty sophisticated vibe. This is a magical combo in my book. I'll be going back....often. I encourage you to do the same. Go. Seriously.
(5)
Jennifer S.
A welcome change form all the sports bars! Their beer selection is fantastic and the gastro-pub food was really good. My husband had the Foie-gras burger and weeks later he was still talking about it. My fish was fresh and perfectly cooked. The bread pudding was awesome- I was going to just have a bite and ate half of it. The servers are really friendly and on top of things, and they know their beer. He suggest the ALLAGASH WHITE on tap for a light, wheat beer and it was a home run. I hope more places like this open up in the neighborhood
(4)
John G.
What a great little oasis from the run-of-the-mill Wrigleyville bar scene. Their menu is fantastic, the service is above-average and their beer selection is outstanding! I highly recommend the Vindaloo mussels and grabbing onto a couple of cold ones that you've never tried before ... I guarantee you find at least one or two.
(4)
Travis J.
This was probably the most unorganized, worst experiences ever for all the restaurants I have been to in Chicago. I made a reservation for 10 people, and then called to add one more on the phone. We showed up, and the table was for 10 (no big deal), and we sat down. The waiter was rude from the start. The menus had different prices on them. Half of the menus said the drinks were $4 and the other half said they were $10. When asked about this on the menu why they are wrong, the water just goes "yeah they're $10" without any sort of apology, etc. Why would you even use those menus if they are wrong? We ordered drinks, half bloody marys and the other half various drinks. They came out two at a time over the course of 15 minutes (the first one arrived after 15 minutes so it was a 30 minute process to get drinks). Upon delivering the bloody marys, one person said "this isn't bacon vodka as on the menu." Of course the server's response was "yeah it's regular vodka," again with no explanation given. To kick it off, when asking for a straw for the drinks, he goes "we're out of straws." Really? In a restaurant? I have had dinner here before, and although the service was iffy, the food was good and it was an average experience. This guy, however, should not work in the service industry. Before we ordered food, we got our bill for the overpriced drinks that weren't even as promised on the menu (wrong vodka, etc), and paid and left to another brunch location. Amazing how one rude person lost 11 paying customers from getting brunch and multiple drinks. It sounds like this type of behavior is a regular occurrence, which is really too bad because it's a decent place inside. With that behavior though, I doubt this restaurant will be able to sustain itself much longer.
(1)
Evan S.
I came here about 3 weeks ago with my gf to see one of our friends who was celebrating their birthdays. We went straight to the basement and met up with everyone. I was real happy to find that they had Two Brothers on tap. The pour was pourfect! While all the seating around the edges was filled, it still felt a little dead with all the open space. For some, this may be comforting as it wasn't jammed pack. It is really nice to see a "big kid bar" up in Wrigleyville as opposed to the 19-21 year old infested Clark Street. Frankly, its one of the few bars I would go back to in the area.
(4)
Mira K.
"Blokes and Birds, what does that mean?" I thought when I walked in the bar. I was soon greeted by the owner who offered us tastes of different beers so we could decide on what we'd have. He explained the history of the bar, the name of the bar, the designer, and his history as owner of several bars in Chicago. He also took us on a tour of the bar, to show us the party room downstairs. All very upscale for the neighborhood, in an area where Cubs fans are more dominant than beer enthusiasts. I asked questions about beers from other areas of the world, and the owner actually went to his office to Google my question. He soon came out with a printed out page with the answers! Beer menu was unique, service was steller. Only complaint is that the bartender wouldn't sell me his awesome Blokes and Birds t-shirt, complete with a mustache/kissing birds (two for one) on the back. Speaking of back, I'll be back there soon.
(4)
Eric W.
This place should have two different places to review it. One as a Bar, the other as a Restaurant. I wish I could give it 3.5 stars, b/c that's what I thought about it. The place desperately wants to be taken seriously as an upscale "English Gastropub"... but their food just wasn't quite there. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed myself, but for a bill of $55 I was expecting to enjoy my FOOD a little more. My bird and I had a table near the front of the place on this weird cross shaped table that we shared with 3 other groups. Interesting concept, but we felt a little exposed in the middle of the floor. That, and I don't like people j/k. I really liked the rest of the interior though, real dark wood paneling and a dark reclaimed wood bar. The lady had a braised shortrib sandwich with havarti cheese and some sort of curry on ciabatta bread. It was good when hot, but the cheese congealed and was just ok after a while. I had the shepherds pie with braised shortrib. This was the first time I've ever had shepherds pie, but it seemed a little bland. I expected it to be like pot pie with mashed potatoes instead of a pie crust... nope. The rest of the menu included standard English pub fare that was spiced up a little bit. I will say that the lack of sides included with the entrees is a little weak. Especially since the only "normal" one is fries (big enough to share). There was also some weird cauliflower / apple / caramel side that sounded interesting but intimidating for $10. I don't want to spend that on a side that might suck. The beer selection is nothing short of EPIC for a wrigleyville spot. If you come here and order a bud light, they might make fun of you. I know I would. Takeaways: * I write long reviews for good beer places * Good, sometimes bland food... needs a repeat to be sure * INCREDIBLE beer selection * Very good, attentive service
(3)
Liz A.
I went here for a friends birthday last week. They do have a bigger beer selection than most bars and the ambiance is a bit nicer than most of the bars on Clark. However, the main bartender a total jerk and thinks he's really something special. Get over yourself! Your making pretty simple drinks & pouring beer. Be nice and get a tip. The beers are a bit pricey but I guess that's what you expect when you are trying to step up from Coors Light haha.
(3)
Ann K.
The upstairs is still fine but I'm no longer a fan of the downstairs "lounge". In my opinion, it used to be classy but I am not a fan of the new karaoke downstairs. The downstairs bartenders were very inattentive and also they did not have half of the beers listed on the menu downstairs.
(2)
Esther A.
Had a terrific early dinner here last night. Portions were substantial and *really* tasty. Unlike the "small plate, big price tag" aesthetic at gastropubs like Longman and Eagle or Owen and Engine, there was plenty of food on the plate for the price. Great beer list, super-friendly service, beautiful room. We will definitely be back.
(4)
Jess H.
Blokes & Birds is included in Chicago's ALA card stack {google that if you don't know what it is} and this is how I stumbled upon this place. I was immediately drawn in from the name and the beer list. Another reviewer said you should be able to review this as two different things, a restaurant or a bar - - - and I agree. As a bar, it'd probably score 4 stars - a great beer list, I love a wood decor, and the fries are awesome. I read from others that there is a basement with a pool table, but I wouldn't have known that otherwise. As a restaurant, it would be 2 stars - the menu interesting, but a little on the pricey side (for a "bar" type of atmosphere), the seating was awkward with underutilized open seating space, and sports WAS playing on the televisions, contrary to other reviews. I had an okay time, except for the fact that the server mistook my order, and brought my partner's food out quite a bit before mine, and the water boy kept hitting me because the seating was weird. Will I be back? Eh, maybe if I get dragged along by friends..
(3)
Wade F.
The staff was wonderful and attentive without being obnoxious, the selection of beer and wine was superb, missing a couple I would have enjoyed, but having others we DID enjoy. The food was above average, and the pool table downstairs was a lot of fun, a bit off level on one corner, but made things a bit challenging... A very nice comfortable atmosphere makes this a place to stop and enjoy.
(5)
Alec S.
I went with two friends for a late lunch. Was fairly happy about the beer selection, but other than that was severely disappointed. The interior is beautiful, but I think all that wood makes sound reverb, because the music playing was intrusive. Im fine with the music being loud in a bar at night, but for a sunday lunch, maybe give the techno a break. Our server seemed disinterested, and the food took too long, since we ordered a burger and two sandwiches (25 mins?). The reuben I ordered was cold by the time I got it, which was confusing since there were about 5 other people in the entire restaurant. Also, we tried to order sides but were informed that sides were only available for the brunch menu, which seemed a little odd. Burger was cooked properly, and hot when it got there, and the fries are tasty. But couldn't save Blokes & Birds from being a disappointment.
(2)
RocÃo C.
I can't believe the good reviews!!! One of the most rude and inattentive bartenders ever! After waiting at the bar for more than ten minutes, he wasn't even look at us, he was completely rude: throwing drink menus at us, not explaining anything about the huge drink menu!!! (3 pages) after ordering we had to wait another ten minutes for the drinks!!! And after all they weren't that good either. When it was time to pay for them, he charged us $12 per each ( the menu said $10). I think he was charging us the tip already. Overall a horrible experience. Unless you are a hot chick in your twenties don't even try it! I thought we had a new spot in our neighborhood but I was so mistaken. Sad to say that I'm not coming back again and I won't recommend it to any of my friends.
(1)
Daniel H.
Great place to get a cocktail. Good food. Great atmosphere
(4)
Bryan C.
This review is strictly based on brunch and I look forward to trying this place out again in the evening hours so I can explore the beer list. It was relatively dead for a late Sunday morning. I expected a huge brunch crowd, but no. Our server was really nice. We both had the Bloke's Breakfast (hello meat!) and it was pretty damn good. Swapped out the beer that comes with the meal for a glass of champagne instead. I never thought I'd enjoy blood sausage, but it turns out I do! The atmosphere was very modern yet cozy. The benches are really high for the tables (against the wall) and it was weirding me out so I had to change seats. Ha. Really not worth mentioning in a review I guess. Anyway, the menu was definitely not your average brunch menu so I certainly recommend this place to anyone looking for something different. Again, I'll be back to check out that beer list!
(4)
Kathy S.
Held a private 30th birthday party here for about 35 people and the place couldn't have been more perfect! The staff and service was excellent. Daily set us up with just the right amount of space, seating, and tables. John and the other bartenders were so attentive all night. Plus, the fun drink menu made for that little extra "something". The foreign films with sex scenes behind the bar might have been a little much for my friend's parents, but for the crowd the bar usually attracts, I'm sure they add to the atmosphere. Very refreshing place to go outside of the usual Wrigleyville craziness. Will be back!
(4)
Tony C.
I have lived in the area for almost 5 years and this place is the coolest joint I've seen come up in a long time. Trendy decor (mustaches everywhere) and great food. The chicken dish, which was recommended to us by the server, was perfectly cooked, unique and uber-flavorful. They had a decent beer selection and also some solid appetizers. It was an overall great experience. I'm looking forward to going back this weekend for some drinks!
(4)
Alex J.
I'm a pretty big fan of this place...especially since I have seen what they transformed it from (Spot 6) a few years ago. What a dump turned into a goregous place! I love that the basement is dark and they have free pool. The food is good for the most part...I'm actually not really sure why I ordered Chicken Tikka Masala at an "English" restaurant or why its even on the menu. I think curiousity got the best of me - would not recommend. However, the fish and chips are great and the drink menu is inventive and delicious!
(4)
ed s.
Just the right pace - it wasnt too crowded when we sat down for dinner on a thursday night and it was getting crowded as we left (7-9pm meal). Food was good (vegetarian pie was bland but filling). Beer was fantastic (get draught). Waitress (Brie) was very kind, friendly and interesting. All in all a good neighborhood joint.
(4)
Patti M.
Just returned from England so we were looking forward to this. Very good ales but virtually no wine. Friendly but inexperienced service. Fish and chips - nice light batter but lacked flavor and fries became soft very quickly as they were wrapped in paper and served upright in a glass. The presentation ruined them. Friends enjoyed the mash with spinach and the sea greens were very good.
(2)
Janet H.
Food: - Generally, portions run small and you feel like you didn't get value for your money. - Bangers and mash did not have mustard and were not entree sized (requires at least a starter or a side in addition). - Fries were great, wish they or something else with carbs and salt came when the beer came so we could munch while we drank - Mac and Cheese was decently good (but required more seasoning), but not worth $10 - Mussels were good, but not amazing and again, small portion sized. - Burger was juicy and flavorful but very messy to eat, no accompanying sides - Fish and chips were delicious Timing: - 1 hour and 45 minute wait for a table. - 10 minutes until the waitress could check on us - 28 minutes from order placed to food on the table (which is actually pretty good) - We didn't eat until 10:30 pm Pros: - Extensive beer selection, plenty of beers you would want to try including ones that are fairly rare (the girls particularly enjoyed original sin hard cider and timmermans lambic) - There are beers on draught (14 types), austria (1), belgium (8), england (6), germany (1), scottland (1) and us (28) - Waiters were very sweet, apologetic and helpful. - Nice music selection which added to the loud and bustling atmosphere - Management obviously cares and was vigilant on the details (wiping down tables, greeting guests) - Glasses with water vs glasses with cider repeatedly got confused by our waitress. - Some inventory issues: ran out of 2 brothers beer and did not have all the beers on the menu in stock. Cons: - Ridiculous wait time - While the design concept was neat (exposed brick, different wood grains, etc), the practicality needs work. Bar lounge tables were too low and not wide enough to hold both alcohol, water, and food so people ended up either hunched over the table or eating on their lap. Poor use of space, more tables and seating is definitely needed and can be put in. Stools needed for waiting area. - Poor lighting, you should be able to see what you're eating and read the menu Overall: Food and atmosphere were not enough to compensate for the absurd wait time and the disconnect between value and price. I wish birds and blokes the best and I hope they can learn how to turn over tables more quickly and figure out the design issues so patrons don't feel the need to have to eat either hunched over a coffee table or with they're dinner in their lap. Decent concept, poor execution.
(2)
Kate H.
The menu has high(ish) aspirations, with a plethora of craft cocktails and more upscale takes on British pub fare at very reasonable prices. The food, while not bad, did not meet its lofty goals. We started off with a Scotch egg--a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage and deep-fried--but the yolk was a tad overcooked and the sausage slightly lacking in flavor. For the main dish, I had the sausage platter, house-made sausages (very ambitious!) with ginger apple chutney, caramelized onion, and super spicy mustard accompaniments. The English banger was mild, and I think a little bland, but the blood sausage was quite tasty once I got over the softer bite that blood sausage typically has. This dish also comes with mashed potatoes topped with a fried egg, tasty but not particularly adventurous. Aaron had the burger and reached a similar verdict: not bad but not great. The ambiance is nice--dimly lit, dark wood panelling and upscale furnishings, quiet enough to have a good conversation. I would certainly go back for drinks--the atmosphere is nice, and the creative execution on drinks fun. To be honest, if this restaurant were in the suburbs or a smaller city, I think my opinion would be different. But, in a city where excellent restaurants at every price range abound, it's hard to make the case for this one. Price: ~$20/person (Entrees ~$10)
(2)
roberto a.
Hmmm, maybe the group I was with went here on a bad night, as we all came out less than impressed with this place. It seems like this was an attempt to add a touch of sophistication to a strip that is not normally associated with sophistication. Let's start with the good: The drink menu has an extensive selection of beer and cocktails. We settled on a few beers and were quite satisfied. As for the food, when it came out, we were not so satisfied. Among the dishes ordered were shepherd's pie, the sausage platter, and the pork tenderloin. I could see the look of disappointment in my friend's face as she bit into the tenderloin. She went "Is this supposed to be lukewarm? I mean it tastes good, but it seems like it was just microwaved." The sausage platter on the other hand was very good. You could tell that the sausages were home made (or if they weren't, at least a premium brand). The accompanying sauces and mash potatoes rounded out the dish and one in particular had a nice kick to it that went well with the meats. As for the shepherd's pie, one came out steaming hot, and one came out lukewarm. Not just on the outside, but the inside. Even when everyone at the table sampled the two pies, we all agreed that there was something lacking in the lukewarm one, and not just temperature. But the other one was just fine, albeit steaming hot. Overall the service was good, but the ambiance is overdone for an area that typically has much lower standards. There was a crowd, but plenty of open tables for people that came in. For awhile, the bar had more people than the tables, and plenty of floor space for the presumed weekend crowd. In the end, we left miffed, neither satisfied or dissatisfied. Part of that was the beer. And if this is all that is required to be satisfied, you can do so elsewhere for less cost. Pros: The drink menu, especially the beer list. Attentive service. Darkened ambiance, and for those of you who just need to know what the score of the game is, a few strategically placed TVs. Cons: Food was inconsistent, prices seemed high. To Sum It Up: Try it once and decide if it's worth it to come back.
(2)
Maggie S.
This place is awesome. We had to "wait" for our table, and the host accommodated us nicely at the bar. It was almost like we were going to sit down at the bar with a friend.. except he went back to doing his job after. Every staff member there was above and beyond their job. We did wait a little bit for our food, but I am guessing it takes time to make the most delicious meal ever. I had the amish chicken... It's been a few months since and I cannot stop craving it. Great beer selection. If I lived in the city, I would be here every single day. The atmosphere is comforting. Scattered through out the restaurant you will find shapes of mustaches. In my opinion, this is an incredibly witty, yet charming unique feature to the overall environment.
(4)
Scott I.
Get the Bloody you won't be disappointed!
(4)
Moe f.
Checked it out on a Sat night and managed to snag a spot at the bar. Decent beer selection and the wife dug her B-cup(cocktail). We had bacon wrapped dates with some chutney that was fantastic. Then we split the Foie Gras burger with truffle fries and mac and cheese. Both were decadent. Good service and OK crowd. Definitely not what you'd expect outta Wrigleyville.
(4)
Jane T.
I came here opening night with my sister and her bf and we pretty much sampled EVERYTHING. I honestly loved everything I ate here. *My favorite item has got to be the cauliflower side with caramel and apples. Seriously, I'm not a fan of sweet items during dinner but this just blew me away. *The mussels - get it with the vindaloo sauce. You will not regret it. *The Foie burger - shmear some garlic aioli on it. It's like heaven, extremely juicy burger with truffle fries - you can't go wrong with this combination. *The lobster bisque was one of the best I've had. I've usually come across a lot of places that tend to over-season it, so it's usually way too salty for me, but it was great here. *The pork tenderloins were some of the most tender cuts of pork I've ever had. Places that serve rubbery pork really annoy me but the texture here was great. And the kale mashed potatoes that came with it? Another fave of mine. *We had this potato side dish, I don't remember the name but it had bits of onions and cabbage in it, then it was pan seared. This was way delicious *Their desserts: we had milk & cookies and the trifle. Seriously, milk & cookies! What a cute concept! I really wanted to try the shepherd's pie but my sister is not a fan of lamb. Maybe next time, the manager told us it was one of his favorite dishes. They also have this specialty Makers Mark, which they marinade with different spices. I'm not a huge fan of whiskey but it was really tasty. Definitely ask for a shot of that. I feel like I'm missing some items. But this place is a must try. I'm going to recommend it to all my friends, especially for that Makers. Great service, really comfortable ambiance, and most importantly, delicious food.
(5)
Mallory B.
Had a wonderful dinner here with my boyfriend and we were very impressed. It is a jewel on Clark street surrounded by drunk idiots in dive bars. My salmon was great and I definitely suggest trying the Sea Beans...they were out of this world!! I was very impressed by the craft cocktails and great beer list. It was pretty noisy, when were used to quiet sit-down places but what do you expect at 9pm on a Saturday, but they were nice enough to sit us at a larger table in the corner so we could relax a bit. All in all we enjoyed the ambiance and the service was excellent. I cant stop thinking about those Sea Beans :-)
(4)
Christina F.
Went here for the first time over the weekend for brunch and it was delicious! My boyfriend wanted to eat there since he had already been and I was very impressed with the service and food. I can't wait to go back and try more! :D
(4)
Wilson P.
Outstanding Bloody Mary's.
(5)
Anne C.
Our experience at B&B was a series of hits and misses. We showed up for a late dinner on a Saturday night and I was surprised to see that for being after 9 on a Saturday in Wrigleyville the place was only moderately crowded. We were told that there were about 3 groups ahead of us waiting on tables and that the wait would be anywhere from 20 to 75 minutes... quite the window. We chatted between our group to decide whether or not we wanted to wait and when we finally decided we would then the host said we could actually be seated right away in the basement bar area. The bar area was only about half full and really didn't fill up for the entire time we were there-- until after 1 AM. It was definitely refreshing to be at a Wrigleyville bar that wasn't full of the typical tourist/bachelorette party/21-year old group that you normally see out there. Our waiter was nice, but the service overall was lacking. I asked what the risotto special was and he said that it didn't exist and that they just never printed new menus. Weird. It wasn't that busy and there weren't that many people ordering food at that point in the night-- and the food took forever to arrive. It took close to 45 minutes and when it finally did, the mac and cheese that we were planning to share amongst the group was nowhere to be found. The waiter didn't acknowledge that when the food was served and then he didn't again when he came to check in on us, which is when we reminded him about it. He came by three more times to say it would "be right out," but the rest of our meals were long gone before it finally showed up. I'm not sure if he forgot to put the order in or if the kitchen screwed things up or what, but there seemed to be an error in communication somewhere. The beer and wine selections are great and the food was very good though. I will give the waiter props as we had purchased a YouSwoop certificate to use at B&B and then forgot to bring it along. He did allow me to show it to him on my phone and then write down the certificate number instead of presenting it. After the wait and weird service experience, we sort of knew we wouldn't be rushing back again to use it so that was at least a silver lining.
(4)
Lo S.
amazing beer list + amazing food like fish n' chips + cucumber water at your table + wonderful service and affordable prices. This gastro pub is perfect for a first date, a girls night out or even just a simple, weekday night dinner. I am a huge fan of Blokes and Birds because it is not at all pretentious and its so unique to the typical Wrigleyville neighborhood places that surround it.
(4)
Reid G.
Best fries in Chicago, maybe the world. Hands down. No comparison. Nobody in our group of 8 had a culinary complaint. I'd consider this a destination restaurant with a pub theme. Service was outstanding especially considering the proximity to Wrigley. In fact, everything about this place stands out of Wrigleyville. Hopefully the shoulder-to-shoulder Moe's/Red Ivy crowd doesn't discover B&B - athough the lack of Miller Light on the menu probably deters a good percentage of the demographic.
(5)
LadyBird X.
The only reason I went here was to meet with some acquaintances. Chicago's lack of innovative night life is only reinforced with Blokes & Birds. This is the kind of bar that would have opened in NYC 10 years ago. The British "Gastropub" is so overdone and the moustache logo is comically late (moustaches are so 5 years ago). That said, this place is located in Wrigleyville, so it can't be taking itself too seriously. Plus this is probably one of the better bars in Wrigley - for whatever that's worth. I had the Peach Palmer which was very sweet, with completely undetectable liquor (the way I like it!). My husband prefers stronger drinks, and he enjoyed his "Colonial". We didn't order food. The TVs were unnecessary (unless they're playing British football for brunch or something, which they're not). The Saturday night we were there the TVs were actually playing local news, no joke. I can't say I would come back here unless I happened to find myself in Wrigleyville again (pre-concert maybe?), but I have to give Blokes & Birds credit for raising the bar (no pun intended), however slight, for the Wrigleyville area.
(2)
Saira C.
I wish I lived closer! Or strike that, I wish this place was closer to me. This place was so great! The food was made of awesome, and the prices were reasonable. I went here with a friend for dinner, but we ended up staying most of the night. The staff was ridiculously nice and good looking. They have a complimentary coat check. I can't even remember the last time a guy helped me put my coat on. Also, it smells like wood in there and I like it.
(5)
chris c.
This place is a little above average but nothing special. We did the mozzarella salad. Every part of the dish was passable with only the pesto being note worthy. Also did a burger, which on Thursdays is !) with fries and a pint of mad hatter, the gf thought the bun too sweet and I though the burger tasted a little to charred (but not the goods kind) and the fried were tremendous. The beer list is good and not too poorly priced. I would definitely hit the place up again prob later in the evening though.
(3)
Weston A.
It's close, I would go with a 3.5 if I could, but the Bloody Mary's tip the scale to a 4. We went for brunch last weekend on our search for the best Bloody Mary in Chicago, and Blokes & Birds is near the top of the list. The well garnished brunch beverage standard comes with a special infused house vodka, but I'd recommend also trying the bloody with gin instead. The food was great, but a very heavy meal. The hash with duck confit was food coma inducing, but pretty good. It's not cheap, prices are on the high side, and the service was pretty weak which dings the rating a bit. It's definitely worth checking out, but it may not make the regular rotation.
(4)
Kate S.
Fantastic in all ways! We had to wait for about 30 minutes but there was room at the bar and the bartender helped us chose a beer that wouldn't be too strong flavored before dinner. Our dinners were outstanding. My husband had the shepard's pie and i had their pork temderloin. Our waiter was incredibly friendly and helpful. I was 8.5 months pregnant when dining here and wanted to chose a really awesome beer since 1 was all I was allowed. He helped guide me perfectly. Definitely am planning a return!!
(5)
Elana L.
I have been hearing about Blokes & Birds since before they opened. I finally got a chance to go over and try it out. I am glad that I did. The food is delicious. The cocktails are even better. I asked the bartender, Chris to make me a cocktail that was not on the menu. He came up with several different cocktails for me and my friends. Each of which was unique and all were amazing. The cocktails he made were well thought out and imaginative. My favorite was a lemon cocktail that tasted like liquid lemon meringue pie, so amazingly delicious. Give it a name and put it on the cocktail menu ASAP. He also sampled out some of his homemade sweet tea vodka and it was the best sweet tea vodka I have ever drank. It was a nice balanced vodka with beautiful spice notes. If Chris is working when you come in have him make you one of his specialty cocktails. It may take a little more time then ordering a Tanquery and tonic but it is worth it. Did I mentions the amazing list of beers they feature as well? Impressive!!! Considering the time and effort that goes into making these hand crafted cocktail you are getting a bargain at $8 or $9 a drink. Most of the other places that I go to have cocktails charge $12-$14. It is a great deal. I am surprised that they haven't raised the prices for the cocktails. As for the rest of the staff, they were all very nice. Whoever made the music list should be complimented on their great taste in music. It just made the night even better. B&B has a great vibe. It's the kind upscale bar that wrigleyville needs. My only other comment about B&B is that they should do more to advertise and market themselves. I follow them on Twitter and am a FB fan. They need to talk themselves up more. Like I said this place is great and everyone should know that. Looking forward to heading back over there soon to try more food and cocktails.
(4)
James P.
Blokes and Birds is a restaurant/bar type sorely needed for this area. Very clean, contemporary, open space yet still cozy...mostly due to the wood paneled walls, ceiling and the fireplace. Nice bar area upstairs and downstairs...downstairs also has a billiards table and tvs that play Premiere league soccer. Great, extensive beer and whiskey list with some interesting cocktails as well. Bartender was spot on....helpful, friendly and knew his drink list well. We had the BLT with two diff. types of Bacon and the Chicken Thigh sandwich. Both were really flavorful and tasty. I would have preferred a thinner type of bread or at least grilling the bread, but wasn't a deal breaker. I knocked off a star because of the music really. Seems like they go Brit on everything here, including rolling the tax right into the prices which is nice, except the tunes. 70's American rock doesn't fit the ambiance here at all, gents...get some current British Alt tunes and this place is 5 stars, e.g. Kele (Bloc Party), Two Door Cinema Club, Foals, Editors, Travis, Elbow, Doves, Badly Drawn Boy etc. Can you tell I'm trying to give you a playlist? Or else if you want to go old school go Stone Roses, Smiths type route. Will make a bigggg difference. All in all a great experience and addition to the hood.
(4)
Valerie R.
This place was mostly empty on Friday night and reeked of varnish. the bartender was super nice, but $12 for a small glass of wine in Wrigleyville? No thanks. I don't plan to be back.
(2)
Bobby S.
Great night! Went for a birthday party and they took a reservation! Pretty much the only pub around that would so they got off to a great start with me. Food: for appetizers we got the sausage stuffed dates, curry mussels, and mac n cheese. All three were awesome. entrees were pretty much fish and chips which was great, short rib sandwich which was really good but not quite great, port tenderloing which everyone loved, and one burger which was supposedly really good. The bubble and squeak was a tasty side and fries were really good. The short rib sandwich needed something. All you could taste was the curry. Couldn't taste the horseradish and basil mayo at all. They could probably leave it off and it would taste the same. Maybe some type of garnish, lettuce/tomato, a horseradish sauce, and/or a toated bun would have been nice. Booze: Fantastic beer selection and my rye and soda's were nice and strong. Even better only about 8 bucks each. Service: couldn't complain. waiter was nice, food fast, food hot, and everyone always had a full drink. Venue: great lower level, we could talk without the music being too loud. Music was good but the radiohead tv videos were creepy. Didn't fit for a british pub theme at all. The videos basically looked like oldschool creepy tool videos. Overall: food was good but not the best I've ever had, would absolutely go back and eat everything on the menu, service was good, and the palce was great, but would lose the really creepy videos, crank up the solid music, and stick with the gastropub theme.
(4)
Rachel Y.
A really great upscale pub - amazing beer and drink list (you usually just get one or the other but I was really happy to see they had both). The server was really helpful and attentive. I know people were raving about the shepherd's pie on here but my friend got it and he wasn't that sold. I asked the server between the pork tenderloin and the fish & chips - enthusiastically he said to get the pork tenderloin. I second that! It was definitely the hit of the evening - make sure you order it as you will not be disappointed! And I leave you with this one final note: Order...I repeat...order...the mac & cheese appetizer.
I am Gluten Free... So eating out can be difficult sometimes. Blokes & Birds does not have a gluten free menu, but the waiter was very accommodating and was able to quickly check all menu items with the chef to see if they were gluten free. The chef evidently does not use flour in a lot of his dishes, and a number of the entrees and appetizers were naturally gluten free. I had the prime rib, and did not get sick, and it tasted great too. They messed up all our drink orders in the basement though! Other than that, good experience.
(4)
Marta P.
Went here last night after having changed my mind on the dining location at least 4 times, and I am so happy I did. I LOVE beer and this place did not disappoint. The atmosphere is great, so much attention to detail on the decor and lay out. The place is super functional, it is open and modern but at the same time really cozy. I took some suggestions from our waiter and tried 3 new beers I have never had. All of them were great especially the sour Belgium which was something totally different. My friend ordered the cucumber cocktail, which she also enjoyed. Not only do they have an extensive beer list, but the cocktails list looked creative as well. Onto the food- I have food commitment issues and I eat tapas style anywhere I go. Between the two of us we had the mac & cheese, the mushroom side dish, fish & chips and the bubble & squeak. I loved everything!! The m&c was really creamy, the mushroom side dish was a weird order since it was just a random side that we wanted to try, but I loved the salt and sour flavoring. The fish was nice and flaky and the fries were addicting! Not sure what they were seasoned with but so good!! By far the best thing was the bubble & squeak which is a mix of cabbage, potatoes, onion etc. The service was great; our server was attentive, knowledgeable and personable. At the end the owner stopped by and we also got a quick tour of the downstairs which has a fire place, pool table and an open seating area. I can not wait to go back!
(4)
Heather W.
Great food and beautiful location! They have a wide beer selection, although I didn't try any while there for dinner. I would totally go back, especially for a soccer match! I recommend the braised short rib sandwich = Delish. I wasn't pleased with their chips, but all-in-all the food was SO good!
(4)
caroline k.
Came upon this place by chance on a snowy chicago eve. Ambiance is casual hip, led by dark wood chairs and tables, a fireplace, and well stocked bar. Wait staff is friendly and seated us on a relatively empty weekday night. We had the deviled beef appetizer, fish and chips, and bloke burger. The appetizer was the best, a huge chunk of brisket (?) with a curry and host mustard pickle sauce. Burger and fish were good, but fries were soggy and mushy which was disappointing. We also had the trifle dessert which was about 3/4 cup of whip cream atop a layer of berries and soaked cake. Definitely like the ambiance, and would come back for drinks off their lengthy menu, but not necessarily the food!
(3)
Minh T.
It's about time a place like this opened in Lakeview. Blokes and Birds has a great beer/bourbon/whiskey selection and great comfort food. They also have an amazing staff who are always friendly and attentive. Case in point, after we paid for our bill, another friend joined us for drinks. I ordered a B-cup (delicious, by the way), and tried to pay with my credit card. Their computers weren't working, so they said it was on the house! As an added bonus, since Blokes and Birds aims to be an upscale, English pubhouse, you can hear plenty of New Order, Joy Division, and the Clash on their speakers.
(5)
Nicole B.
I've been to Blokes for dinner a few times and have enjoyed it each and every time. I love the decor, the food is great, and the owner is extremely friendly. But yesterday I took advantage of the Gilt City brunch offer and ventured over with a few friends to indulge. And indulge we did! We had a few salads, the shrimp and grits (the grits were to die for) with a side of chili, omelette of the day (asparagus/goat cheese), side of berries, and rosemary potatoes. We had mimosas, queen's jubilee, and bloody mary's. I never like bloody mary's and this one was made to perfection! The omelette, potatoes, berries, also all amazing!! We had a few desserts including the brulee and chocolate cake - all incredible. Cannot wait to go back!!!
(5)
Kylie C.
After spending a weekend in Chicago, I can confidently say this was the best meal I had the entire stay. As an appetizer we had the curry mussels and sausage stuffed dates wrapped in bacon and deep fryed. For our meal my boyfriend and I split a Bloke's burger and a basket of fish and chips. Everything was completely amazing!! The service was great and everything, down to the water (which is infused with cucumber) was above and beyond. The restaurant itself is beautiful with minimalistic art and a very relaxed feel to it. I would highly, highly recommend this place!!
(5)
Josh H.
I've probably been to this place like 15 times. It does help that I live next door! That said, I love this place! It's a welcome and much needed higher end addition to Wrigleyville, without being the least bit pretentious. The staff is very attentive, friendly and laid back. Don't feel bad about asking questions about the menu if you're not familiar. My server has always been able to answer all of my questions. I've tried just about everything and have yet to be disappointed. The beer and wine lists are amazing and the the bartenders/mixologists can make pretty much whatever you want. I strongly suggest having a custom drink made! Although, I usually stick to the wine. I've been the Blokes and Birds for casual dinners, dates, birthday parties and reunions with friends. The staff and ownership are very accommodating, just be sure to call ahead and let them know as they're not yet taking reservations. The lower level does become very bar-like on the weekends, so if that's not what you're looking for, stick to the upper level. If I do have one complaint... well two complaints... it's 1) I'm going to need another location opened near my new place and 2) BRING BACK THE LOBSTER RISOTTO! It's amazing!
(5)
Stephanie F.
Nice place! Not overpriced, and not too crowded. It definitely is not a Wrigleyville bar which is nice, and the music selection was great for a lounge-y type of place. The best part was probably the free whiskey shots we got from the manager :) I'm not a fan of whiskey, but I'm definitely a fan of free shots. I'd go back again.
(4)
Jori J.
If you are trying to book an event here- good luck! I am very disappointed with the lack of professionalism and am surprised at their unwillingness to accommodate me and my business. I was excited to book a surprise party for my boyfriend when I first visited Blokes and Birds because of its laid-back atmosphere and variety of beers. I was given the card of a manager named Daily Webb to contact to set up a event. It was late May so I figured that booking an event for late September shouldn't be a problem. I called Daily in June and described to him what I wanted, an estimate of how many people were coming and my information. He said he would write it down and get back to me as soon as possible. I called him a week later after waiting urgently for a call and he said that he was about to "step into a meeting" but insured me that my date for September was in his calendar. He also urged me that he would call me as soon as he was out of the meeting- and to his credit, he actually did- I was at work and he left a message saying that if I had any questions for me to call him anytime "at my convenience." So I did. Quite a few times with no response. When he decided to pick up, he said that the phone I was calling was his personal phone and that he was at home and I should call him at 1 the next day. I called him again and left a message and again, no response. Finally, in late July I left a final message just explaining to him my two simple yes or no questions about wristbands and a down payment and pleaded him to leave me a message with the answers. That was almost three weeks ago. Frustrated, I called him one final time this afternoon and he remarkably had the time to leave his busy schedule for a paying customer! I told him that I needed to cancel my event because I had been trying to get a couple questions answered in the time span of two months and I was disappointed I hadn't heard from him. He immediately blamed me for not leaving my phone number on one of my FIVE messages I left him (which he had because he took all my information when I booked the date) and then began to tell me that he has been out of town for the last couple weeks-- I don't know who takes a two month long vacation, but I sure want in on that!! I told him that I would prefer to look elsewhere and before I could say anything else he hung up! Looks like Blokes and Birds won't be getting anymore of my business!
(1)
Travis T.
Fantastic beer menu, and their cocktail list is quite nice as well! They have a house infused vanila bean cinnamon bourbon that is fantastic as well! Make reservations or get there early on a fri or sat if you want to partake in their food menu (which is good as well!)
(5)
nick t.
went back again for my birthday and it was great. the waiter came around a lot and the bartender was great. the downstairs was nice and they even have a pool table to entertain you and some friends. it was busy but not too crowded and service was still good. i recommend this place to everyone. i would say anytime is a good time but i think a sunday afternoon is best because you are able to talk to the bartender about the different beers.
(5)
Shawn M.
Great drink selection. I am not one for bourbon but the infused bourbon actually was pretty good. The food was very good. The wait for a table of more than 4 took an hour and a half but it was a Saturday evening around 9 so we should have known better. The kitchen closes at 11:30 on Saturdays. This is a place that I would go back to for drinks or for a date but not exactly group friendly.
(4)
Lynn D.
This restaurant is the most unBritish place I have been to since moving here 16 years ago. I am from the UK and the food is at most pretending to be British. As for the supposed terrific beer list, where have all the other customers of this place been? The beer menu is lame at best, with hardly a British beer in sight. Come on people, if you are going to call a place "Blokes and Birds" then at least try and be a little British. Has any one of the owners or managers actually ever visited the UK? Upon walking in and telling the waitress we had a reservation,(we stupidly thought it would be busy), she promptly walked off towards a table without a word to us. Upon sitting down the waiter came over and when my son ordered a beer he didn't understand what he said so he had to point to it on the menu (must have been the British accent). We settled down to check out the food and when the waiter came back minus the beer, we ordered and were then informed that only the brunch menu was on offer. I said we would need another few minutes to review the menu again, and the waiter walked off and 10 minutes later still had not brought the beer to the table and I could see him standing around. The place was hardly busy so not sure what his problem was. After waiting another 5 minutes, 15 minutes in all, my husband got up told the waiter who was just standing nearby to cancel the beer order as we were leaving. Never been to such a disappointing place purporting to be English before. If you want to see a real beer menu I suggested you visit a London pub, because this place's menu certainly does not have one. If you want a taste of British food and beer try the Elephant and Castle!
(1)
Julian M.
Went here last night for opening night. Food was amazing and reasonably priced. Great beer selection and interesting cocktails. Sampled a good portion of the menu. Tried the Shepherd's Pie, Pork Tenderloin, Lobster Bisque, Bloke's Burger, Abbot Ale Mussels, Fish and Chips, and a bunch of the sides. All of it was really delicious. I would have to say the Shepherd's Pie was the highlight and probably the best I've ever had! Wrigleyville needs a spot like this. Will be back.
(5)
Johanna L.
As mentioned by many other Yelpers, this bar is an oasis in Wrigleyville. It's got a great atmosphere, beer and wine selction. The food I've had (mussels, lamb burger, pate) was good. The service overall is very good - but I have had a few bartenders during the early part of the week that weren't attentive or poured sloppy drinks. All in all, this is my favorite bar in Wrigleyville/North Lakeview.
(4)
Lauren M.
Just had dinner - our server was great. Bad service was in the previous reviews but they seemed to have worked it out. The beer list was really good and the burger quite unique in it's presentation (no spoiler alert). But I always judge by the fries and man, those were some good ones. The brown paper they were served in must have kept them warm and moist. Little touches like excellent mustard and ketchup took us over the top. I would go there again.
(4)
Jenny Y.
nice food and awesome beverage selection! Recommend.
(4)
Jen P.
What an unexpected gem in the middle of the unfortunate frat-heaven that is Wrigleyville. I usually steer clear of Wrigelyville but my boyfriend happens to be a Sigma-something or other so I have to venture to this neighborhood from time to time. I was pleasantly surprised with this bar. The bar is big yet has a very cozy and romantic feel to it. The basement has live music on Tuesdays. We happened to come in on a Tuesday and were the only customers in the basement for a while. The bartender was very friendly and gave us a ton of free samples of beer. Getting drunk on free samples gets Blokes & Birds 4 starts in my book. Hint: If you are looking for traditional bar food then this place may not be for you. They have a unique yet slightly pricey food menu.
(4)
D. S.
Could have been cool, but unfortunately the bartender ignored us the whole time. A friend and I sat for over 10 minutes at the bartop without being acknowledged on a moderately slow looking Wednesday evening. Finally the Bar-back (a.k.a the guy who cleans the glasses) finally helped us get drinks, but I had to pick 3 different beers because they were out of my first 2 choices. We ordered a cheese platter, which was sat down in front of us without explanation of what anything was. Had to flag down the bartender to describe the dish, which he seemed completely unsure of. $15 for ordinary cheese, bland crackers, and a tiny piece of fig was not worth it. There's too many bars in the city who appreciate my business to have to put up with that kind of complacency.
(2)
Kat B.
I loved this place! My best friend and her husband brought me here last weekend and though we only had drinks, they were some of the best cocktails I've ever had. This place mixes a lot of their ingredients in house, and the service we had was REALLY great. On Friday we had Ali - she was very friendly, had a beautiful smile, and was great with recommendations. I went for the "Churchill Downs" which I think had basil, lime, pineapple, and a bit of rum. Possibly another liquer... I can't remember. I know it was delicious though! We were also served a complementary shot of whiskey fused with three types of cinnamon and vanilla bean. ohhhh that was tasty on a bitter cold and snowy night! The ambience of the place is a "modern pub". Exposed brick on the fireplaces (of which there are a few), dark wood horizontal boards along the walls, soft lighting, and really nice looking seating options. There were also a few leaning boards with shelving meant to stand with your cohorts as you compare your choices from the extensive international beer list! My only suggestion for improvement is to get a longer playlist - we heard the rotation twice while we were there. :) I am looking forward to visiting again for the food, which I hear is also delicious. There seems to be a casual dress code - not too dressy, but not "sports-bar" either. Your best dark wash jeans would fit in perfectly here.
(4)
Brenda R.
The cocktails here are awesome and delicious, but if you're not here for dinner, just drinks, and ordering them directly from the bar, expect some attitude from the bartenders. They must not enjoy making the cocktails on their menu because they'll come up with every excuse under the sun to NOT make your drink: "We're out of basil." Really? You can't make that whiskey drink without basil? But the best come back to a cocktail order turned out to be: "We stop cocktail service at midnight." WHAT?! What kind of bar stops cocktail service at midnight? The only reason I was there was to drink the delicious cocktails that they offer. But I don't think I'll be going back...
(2)
marissa m.
I went last night (not my first time, but maybe my last) with a 10 person group for a birthday party dinner and our server absolutely ruined the night. She started as unpleasant and ended downright hostile. Everything took FOREVER (as in over an hour between appetizers and entrees, 20 minutes for a lemonade, 30 minutes to order a beer, etc.). We had pre-ordered dessert and she promised that it would be ready to go and brought out as soon as we finished eating. 30 minutes after our table was cleared and people started to wonder what the hell was going on, our waitress was no where to be found. Fortunately the manager (owner?) checked in with us and quickly brought out the dessert. She also yelled that she would in no way split the bill (no one had even asked her to), yelled at other patrons about sitting in her section (vibe killer), and was just nasty when we asked for anything. I don't know if our server was having a bad day, or they were understaffed, but I just don't think there's an excuse for ignoring or berating your clientele. If I ever go back and am seated in her section, I will move. That being said: great beer list. Great cocktails. Great atmosphere. good food. TERRIBLE service.
(3)
Linsey C.
Well, as you can see, I have rated this restaurant/bar as 2 stars! "Meh. I've experienced better" pretty much sums up this joint, in my opinion. The salad I ordered was a citrus OVERLOAD and I ended u sending it back. However, I give them some mad props on their french fries. If you have read my other reviews, I DO love 'good' french fries, and Blokes & Birds has really done a fine job at creating a truly great fry. As far as the other food is concerned, my friends' opinions were the same as mine. The all felt as though they could have gotten better food for a better price at another location, and probably be in a better atmosphere. There is a chill area in the basement with a free pool table. If you go on a weekend night, don't expect to get a single game in, unless you're the first one up! My friend ordered the fish and chips and said that she has had much better, and it was a little pricey for what it was. However, as I always say, I am a vegetarian but I am not extremely picky, so take my review with a grain of salt. If you were genuinely interested in checking out this fairly new joint-by all means, GO FOR IT!! You might love it! This review is merely a single opinion....I won't go back, unless someone else is paying and I will only order the fries.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Johanna C.
Considering how close it is to Wrigley nonsense and Lakeview craziness, this is a surprisingly chill yet friendly place. The burger was absolutely delicious, and the bar staff are friendly and fun to chat with. The decor is also beautiful inside. It seems like an especially cozy place for the winter.
(4)Thano E.
Fun quiet bar with tons of great beers and a pool table. Bonus of the night was a hosting by Bombay gin. Free gin till 11pm and the bar had free appetizers till midnight. The perks of going out on a Tuesday night?? Minus all the free booze and food I would definitely be back!
(5)Megan K.
After reading the mixed reviews for Blokes & Birds I was a wee bit skeptical when we decided to finally stop in for dinner and some drinks. I made a reservation on Open Table for 7pm on a Saturday, and I was surprised to see how busy it was upon arrival. A live musician was setting up when we were seated, and the hostess placed us right next to him. I was hoping that he would be 1) decent to listen to and 2) not insanely loud as to intrude on the conversation of dinner once he started playing. All that aside, once we were seated and given menus we had to wait about 10 minutes or so for our waitress to greet us, which was a bit long. We quickly put in our first order of drinks, trying some of their signature cocktails. I tried the UK Sazerac which was an interesting combination of Aberlour Scotch, Pimm's, rosemary, and clove reduction. It was a tad bit sweet for my liking, but it was still a delicious and refreshing drink to start off the evening with. My fiance went with the Colonial which was a nice mixture Bourbon, Cynet, Noilly Pratt, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters. This drink was perfectly mixed and had a slight bitter taste at the end which I liked better than the syrupy sweetness of my drink. As we were finishing up our cocktails, our waitress came back so we put in an order for two beers from their nice selection as well as two appetizers. The appetizers we chose were delicious, my favorite being the Posh on Becks which was their take on bacon wrapped dates. We only received three dates for this appetizer, but that's not terrible considering the price tag of $6. We also ordered the Cheesy Peavey which was an apple that was baked and stuffed with cheese and served with puff pastry-esque crackers. I feel that the idea of this dish was better than it tasted, as it was a little flavorless for my liking. For our main entrees, we both chose the fish and chips. Being fiercely loyal to Owen & Engine's fish and chips, I was skeptical again about ordering this dish. Although, when they arrived, I was more than happy with my choice. The fish was lightly battered and served with a side of pea puree and tartar sauce, both of which were delicious with the fish. The fish was quite flavorful on its own, and didn't have the "fishy" flavor that many cheap fish and chip entrees serve up. As for the chips, they were perfectly seasoned with herbs and sea salt, and were a great accompaniment to the fish. As for the service, it was a bit slow, but it was a busy Saturday night. The hostess and the bus boys were friendly and attentive, so no complaints there. As for the live music, it was loud, but not obnoxiously so. Blokes & Birds is a nice refreshment for the Wrigleyville area, the crowd was decent and it made me feel like I wasn't in the midst of Lakeview on a weekend night. I'll definitely be back in the future!
(4)Luke H.
Incredible karaoke. Best spot for singing your heart out. Touch screen karaoke book, stage and lights, and an incredibly hilarious dj hosting the evenings. He is charming and cute and really sardonic. Drinks are awesome and staff seems to be having a really good time. The management there was dressed better than I looked on my wedding day and I couldn't get enough of the food. All in all a top notch experience and they definitely gained a customer for karaoke. I tipped the dj all night and got to sing whenever I wanted.
(5)Max S.
Love this place. Trifecta
(5)Victoria V.
Cool atmosphere and fun drinks
(4)Matt M.
Blokes, Birds, and Overall mediocrity. Went here on a busy saturday night and the basement was jammed. We had a table set aside and we ordered dinner. Drinks and then dinner all took forever to get delivered. The food was nothing to write home about, it was simply unique bar food and was nothing better than that. They have an extensive beer list for those of you that are interested - so that might make up for the rest of the set up/atmosphere. Its not hipster, its not trendy, but its appears like it is trying to be and that alone bothers me. The lamb burger was not very impressive, which is a shame because I really wanted it to be. The chicken dishes that I had a bit of were dry. However it does provide a reasonable avenue for get together. .
(3)Rachel T.
I am usually not a fan of whiskey, nor am I a fan of cherries, but their cherry-infused whiskey is amazing! So smooth. The first time I came here my friend and I were finishing up dinner (which was great) and contemplating ordering shots before we made our way over the the wrigley bars. After a few seconds of contemplation our server happened to walk over with 3 shots of their infused whiskey to share with us, on the house! She was great! We had the truffle mushrooms, bacon wrapped dates (ended up getting two orders because they were so good) and some other stuff I can't remember. On another more recent visit my friend and I went back to share the prime rib. Very good and a very reasonable price. After eating we always head downstairs to the bar to visit Teddy for some karaoke. The manager of the place is really sweet too, she gave me her card so I could contact her to set up a birthday party there in the future :) I love that the location is a little farther south than the bulk of Wrigley bars because it's easier to find street parking around here, it's also never crowded so it's easy to go with a few people for dinner or to hang out in the lounge downstairs. Perfect for a girl's night out or to grab a few friends for some dinner and karaoke! We'll be back again soon :D
(5)Matt R.
Yesterday morning the General Manager emailed me to ask that I call her in order to avoid a lawsuit over my last Yelp review for Blokes & Birds. This was literally the first communication of any kind in regard to my post on Friday (1/4/2013) about the poor service the evening before. I agreed to discuss any concerns in a written format but never heard back. To maintain total transparency, I revised my review after receiving the email so what is up now, although extremely similar, is not the original post. This mostly amounted to condensing a few points that were unnecessarily long. And yeah, I know it's still a lengthy read for this sort of thing. Ironically, I would have removed the post completely had I just been asked nicely. I certainly would have done so if the GM had taken responsibility and apologized for the really bad service. **************************************************Â****************************************** The GM wrote back to smooth things over. I tend to forgive people once they apologize and appreciated the change in tone. Maybe sometime down the road I'll give them another try. We'll see.
(1)Jiwon M.
Stop it already! EVERYTHING I ate was AMAZEBALLS! Yea that just happened. Cuisine was spot on. I wished more from my servers but my bartenders were great! Wish you were closer to where I live because it's the perfect place to grab a great meal when I am not in the mood to cook!
(5)Lana H.
This was such an awesome and delicious place that combines my two loves: great food and karaoke! This place is a british gastropub with a large open and casual atmosphere upstairs that is great for dinner with friends and then a fun downstairs lounge with karaoke on the weekends. All the times I've been to the lounge, it's always been a young and fun crowd and a great time! But on to the food, which is always my main focus. The food at Blokes is delicious and really reasonably priced. I recommend getting their specials--I recently had a really awesome prime rib that was perfectly seasoned and cooked to a perfect medium rare! I am a huge carnivore and this dish was amazing and perfectly browned and juicy. I've also really enjoyed their halibut (perfectly cooked), tuna tartare (light and refreshing with little chunks of mango), serrano wrapped mozzarella (grilled mozzarella wrapped with serrano ham drizzled with sweet balsamic--had to fight my friends for that one) and their amazing scotch egg (complete with slightly molten egg yum!) I have had their brunch more recently and loved their awesome biscuits and gravy (with a fried egg on top and homemade sausage and gravy) and eggs benedict (my iteration was crabcake with a delicious hollandaise sauce that would taste amazing on anything). Another nice thing about brunch was the live music which was really talented and added a nice vibe to the meal. I also really appreciated the friendly servers who always noticed if I had an empty drink and made sure they did everything they could to ensure I was having a good and comfortable meal. I definitely recommend this place and will be returning next time I'm in the area!
(5)Elibe E.
I wish that I could type this entire review in my (pretty accurate sounding) Cockney accent, ha! From what my group of friends told me earlier, Blokes was once some other establishment. Per usual, I was clueless about that. Furthermore, I admitted that I never NOTICED Blokes despite having walked past the place 2929292 times! I came here with a small group of friends to shoot the proverbial sh*t - good times. The drink menu here is pretty impressive. I was able to sample their house infusion (apple-cinnamon flavored bourbon) when checking in via Yelp! The girls were ranting and raving about the bacon-wrapped dates (appropriately named "Posh on Becks"). I had never had such a dish and reluctantly gave one of them a try - whoa, dude! These ARE good, I suggest you put in a couple of orders to share (1 order = 3 dates). Here's a quick run-down: Fries - awesome Sandwiches - awesome Bacon-Wrapped Dates - awesome Drinks - awesome NOTE: One of the bartenders has an impressive mustache - awesome.
(4)Robyn T.
Blokes & Birds has some pub grub and the bar itself has some intriguing seating options (check out that middle table arrangement - sure it looks cool but do you really want to be sitting butt to butt with that stranger behind you?) Standard pub fare like burgers and fries, and elevated dishes like duck hash on the weekends for brunch. Though I enjoyed my brunch and the food was good I wouldn't come back: 1. because I'm just not hanging out in Wrigleyville all that often looking for a brunch spot (I had a BBE coupon which is why my friend and I came for a visit) 2. while our server was very nice he was the only server. on a busy Sunday. I felt horrible for him. He persevered and couldn't have been nicer, but the B & B should really staff better on the weekends. The bartender ended up coming to help him with some of the tables. Love the acoustic guitar with the brunch fare. Would recommend for young things in their 20s for a solid brunch option after a night out on the north side.
(3)John P.
Nice space for a drink and a snack. I had the pulled lamb sandwich... Yumm extra small menu but nice selection of beer.
(4)Sarah S.
2 stars is a little generous. I came here for dinner before a concert at wrigley with three others. We had a reservation and placed out order within 15 minutes of sitting. The food took an hour to come out, and that was only after locating our waiter who had been missing for 45 minutes. He tells us "our ticket was next up." I would have had more patience if it didn't take 20 minutes and 2 reminders for a drink. Speaking of drinks, my 312 choice was unavailable, so the waiter made a recommendation- which ALSO turned out to be out, so he made the executive decision to bring me a Radner. Which is half juice. The food was mediocre- as you can imagine, half of it was cold. The busboys were hustling, but they were the only ones. The icing on the cake probably was when he returned the bill to is, he was short one credit card...which was dropped somewhere....
(2)Shari B.
The highlight of our meal was the scotch eggs, which were delicious. Unfortunately, everything else went downhill from there. My husband and I used to live in London so we know British food well. The fish & chips were alright, the lamb burger wasn't great (stringy lamb- ehhh, no thanks) and lastly, the sticky pudding was disappointing. I never thought that the dessert could be made so poorly. The service was wonderful though, so that's a plus.
(3)Char Y.
we came on a saturday night and the place was packed! we sat at the bar and ordered butterscotch bread pudding - so good! really recommend the dessert!
(4)Tom D.
This is a beautiful interior restaurant/bar with an intriguing name. I don't understand why it's not as popular as the other Wrigleyville bars. They do their best to get live music, too. Food is good and service is accommodating. Not sure what this place could do to up the ante.
(4)Laura K.
Stumbled in here blindly only to return a few nights later. Paul the bartender can sling a mean drink. It was his warmth and hospitality that brought me back. I really want this place to succeed but the location tends cater to the frat boy/douche bag crowd. So fingers crossed. There's a nice pool table in the basement and the bar is aesthetically pleasing with lots of polished wood. I didn't try the food and my ONLY complaint is the music. It was crazy weird, motown, 80's ballads, hair bands...stick with the British theme and pick music to match, easy peesy lemon squeezy
(4)Joe M.
Had a great experience here with my family for brunch last weekend. Great atmosphere, really nice decor and lively with other diners all appearing to enjoy themselves. We were seated straight away and were served by Steven, who did a great job. Really enjoyed the cucumber infused water, different and very refreshing. Great menu, everything sounded so good. My wife and daughter both had the crab cakes benedict and they both really enjoyed it. My son had the cheese burger, with amazing fries and I had the chicken & waffles, YUM. The service was very attentive, we continually had our water and soft drinks refilled. Had a great experience, we will definitely be back!!
(5)Judi R.
I'm sure the food was fine but Steve R our waiter, never brought our food. our group ordered 2 entrees and 2 sides and he claimed he never heard us order more than one entree and side. total bullshit. he made eye contact with me and nodded when I made my order. don't blame me when you fucked up, asshole
(1)Jennifer E.
Went here on a week night to meet a friend in the middle of January. First thing I noticed when I came in was...it was steaming hot. It felt I was in a sauna. In January, people dress warm (in sweaters, etc.) and this place was so hot that I wanted to strip down lol. Anyways, the food was very good. My friend loved her mac and cheese, I had the short rib sandwich (very tasty), and my hubby got the BLT which he liked as well. Our server was not attentive. It was hot so we were chugging our water and our beers like nothing to stay dehydrated and it was sad that our server visited our table maybe like 3 times during our one hour stay there. I would come back for the food but I would turn around and get back to my car if it's hot as a sauna again.
(3)Jon D.
This place claims to be British, so we'll use a Brit term to describe it: It's a bit shit. Feels like a rant worthy morning, so lets do that. I feel like the creator of this place was once told about GB, a few words and phrases, and maybe a brief overview of the food, then 10 years later he recounted what he could and tried to base a restaurant upon it. Words and phrases are strewn about the menu with no regard for meaning or context, and it ends up making the customer feel like a jackass when ordering. Cocktails: Seriously, why do restaurants feel the need to name their cocktails this way? You know what I wanted? Something with bourbon. You know what I had to order of their cocktail menu? "Mind the Bollocks". Now, I realize that this is probably in reference to the Sex Pistols (edgy...), although when it comes to it, drinks are like, one word phrases. So I have to order a "bollocks." Barkeep, please give me a "testicles" on the rock. That being said, it wasn't very good. Too sweet. Their entire cocktail menu appeared uninspired, and named like something from a themed restaurant like a Hard Rock Cafe. Food: The menu was nice and short, although I might argue TOO short. The curry, albeit tasty (and also stupidly named,) would be unrecognizable as a curry to any Brit. It felt that they had filled out the menu with standard bar food but put "English" or "the Queen's" or something in front of it. Buckingham Baked Mac N' Cheese? Marleybone Mozz & Toms? Posh on Beck? Come off it. Atmosphere: It was relatively quiet and empty at a good dining hour on a Thursday evening. TV's were everywhere, bathing the otherwise darkness in flicking, closed-captioned Sportscenter (take that as you will). It was decorated in a modern fashion, and was clean. A nice place to have a conversation UNTIL they bring in the guy with the acoustic guitar. I saw him setting up and thought 'that may be nicer in the evening,' until he started playing. Apparently he'd taken his cue from Spinal Tap, as the volume was cranked up to 11. This drove us out of there as fast as the slow waiter could bring us our check. With three tables active in the place, you'd think it would come quicker. Negative. Service: We were sat relatively quickly, although the waiter came and went at intervals which may be described as spotty. As said before, there was us (2), another group of 2, and maybe a 5-top. We saw waitstaff rarely. Avoid this place, it's just not worth your time or money.
(2)Amy H.
I had a much better time at Blokes and Birds this time around, mainly because they had all the things that I wanted to try (except for the Sea Beans, but that's ok. Beans are icky.) The scotch egg was wonderful. The bubbles and squeak was delicious. And the sausage platter?! Fuggedaboutit! Black pudding is my new favorite sausage. I still want to try some of their craft cocktails, but unfortunately my broken toe and hard core pain killers wouldn't let me. Boo hiss! :(
(5)Travis W.
True English style pub. Service was great and friendly atmosphere. I can't really comment on the food side of things as I was here with a friend really just to enjoy the spirits and boy, they were good :). They have a great selection of rare beers here on draft. Hardwood floors and mostly wood decor gives this place a warm feeling and a "at home" type atmosphere. Excellent place to grab an after work beer and feels like a neighborhood bar that I would feel comfortable frequenting often. Whether you are a Bloke or a Bird....fly into here and hang for a while and see for yourself why it's so great.
(4)Keith H.
I went to Blokes & Birds for brunch with a Groupon. I was relatively impressed with the very masculine environment without being overwhelmingly macho. There is wood EVERYWHERE and the poles are wrapped in a snakeskin plether. We were seated close enough to our reservation without a problem. I HIGHLY recommend making a reservation if you plan to head here before 1:30pm. Our food was quite good. My wife has the Smoked Salmon Hash and I had the Blokes Breakfast. The black pudding was amazing, and the truffled hollandaise they stick over their perfectly poached eggs was well balanced. While both were good, they were not overwhelmingly large - just the right amount of food. We had Mimosas which were heavily watered down, but still pleasing. Our waiter was AMAZING and if I were working at another restaurant, I would try every trick to lure him away. The cocktail menu is quite well stocked with favorites and originals. They have a wide selection of wine and beer and can make almost anything you request. That said, prices were a little bit high considering other brunch places, but keeping in par with Wrigleyville gouging. My dislikes are entirely limited to the noise. This place is LOUD. Very loud. There's a drop ceiling to hides the industrial ceiling, but they did not install any kind of noise reduction. I guess this place is also a music lounge at night, so I get why, but you lose all elements of intimacy and have to speak quite loudly to talk over everyone else. Overall I don't think I would go out of my way to head down to this place. I would have liked to see much more food on my plate for the prices considering the high priced food items on each plate were not in abundance. In my opinion, the food is really no better than any other brunch place and far inferior to some of the better local gems I've eaten at around Chicago. I can't recommend Blokes and Birds, but I wouldn't say stay away.
(3)Anne M.
I enjoy a good cocktail or two or three or four. This place has a whole craft cocktail menu from which to choose your ideal cocker; and I appreciate that. Stopped by with a group of gals last Saturday night, and given the location (Wrigley-crazy-frat-drunkenness) I was concerned it would be too packed to get in and actually be able to enjoy ourselves. However, it was smooooth sailing, and we were seated at a big, semi-private table in the back of the bar area - perfect!!! The place looks great - wood everywhere, dark, natural colors, candles atop the tables - it's got good vibrations. We all opted for the cocktails, though they do have a wine list and a great beer menu as well. Round one: "the burnham & berrow" - cucumber slices, oxley gin, lillet blanc, grey goose pear, miclo rose liqueur, lemon juice. Round two: "the b-cup" - fresh blueberries, pimms no.1 cup, aperol, tito's vodka, absolut berry açai, st. germain, simple syrup & lemon juice I would have LOVED to keep sampling these things all night long, but after a long night of drinking elsewhere and drinks at dinner, these two were just about all I could handle at this point. They're strong. They're good. They're pretty. (They're $10 a piece - not that bad for such great combos) All the beverages were also served with a pint glass of water and ample refills. I like that. Our waitress was a bit standoffish, which was kind of nice because we felt zero pressure to keep ordering drink after drink, but there were also times we DID want her to come back for another order, and she was hard to flag down. Still, I think I'd prefer this nonchalant attitude, letting us take our time and enjoy our drinks and conversation, rather than having someone hound us. I'd def like to return to try their food menu (looked so good) and more of these delightful cocktails!
(5)Megan S.
I was very impressed by the modern minimalistic style of this bar/restaurant (totally up my alley.) There were unique table configurations (think like a plus sign) which would be great for a large group or perfect for meeting new friends. Also it had a very clean and well lit bathroom. Nothing is worse than being at a bar with a disgusting bathroom. Although I was drinking only, I looked at the menu and it sounded like cool modern British fare. I would definitely return to try their menu. One complaint though. It was hot as shit in there. I don't know if the small fireplace on the wall was kicking out some serious heat or if they had the thermostat set at 85. I get that it is winter, but it was a bit much.
(4)Eileen Z.
Ay yo, if you haven't had the bloody mary at Blokes & Birds, you haven't lived. 5 stars for that alone. The brioche for the Proscuitto Benedict here is fantastic, and the deep fried, savory goodness of the Scotch Egg is wrapped in a house made banger, and the panko breading makes for a perfect crisp. I could order a platterful. The Blokes Breakfast is lovely, but may not be for the faint of heart. There will be blood [sausage]. And black pudding. Which can make a few squeamish, but it's really nothing to be scared of. It's deliciously packed with flavor.
(5)Phil N.
I've been coming here sporadically since it opened and I must say that while the staff has changed, blokes is still as great as it always has been. There really is something for everyone here. The beer and cocktail list is always stellar, the food menu always has something delicious and interesting on it and the environment is laid back.
(4)Aurore L.
What is better than brunch? Late brunch/early dinner (who counts? who cares?) at 3 pm on a Sunday afternoon in a deserted Wrigleyville. When you are just out from seeing "The Dark Knight Rises", it gives an eerie feeling to the whole experience. (O brothers where art thou? All walking on the thin ice of the frozen river?) What is better than French fries? Pureed peas. Yup. No kidz. Ok, well at least it's wayyyyyyy better than ketchup. Dunk your lovely potatoes in the mixture (PS - it comes with the fish of the infamous "fish n' chips") and enjoy. It's never been easier being green. Oh, and beer yourself.
(4)Nadeem P.
ABSOFREAKENLUTELY AMAZING! You HAVE TO try this place. Ambiance is wonderful, a laid back bar with kind of an upscale vibe to it. Set a block away from the mayhem of Wrigleyville, which equates to a more enjoyable experience. The beer list here is amazing, and not to mention very reasonably priced. They also have a full bar, and one of their most amazing drinks is their bloody mary. Bacon infused vodka, need i say more? Then comes the food...So mouth wateringly delicious you'll want to slap your mother. We had the burger, which was one of the best I've had, and the fish and chips, which were equally delicious. Lastly, the service. I nevere found myself once waiting for anything. The service was quick and extremely friendly. In all, my wife and I have found our new favorite bar in Wrigley...
(5)Carolyn L.
Wrigleyville has a very nice little gem here at Blokes & Birds. I was sooo excited to hear about a chef's tasting evening organized by The Local Tourist. For only $25 per person, you got an evening of booze and food that would impress even the most staunchly British expat. We started off with local brew Two Brother Cain and Ebel, a fantastic ale. In fact, I was very impressed with all of the beers and cocktails served last night. We didn't get entire pints of each beer but it was enough to give us enough libation for each course. The first food to come out? Bacon wrapped dates stuffed with their house sausage. Holy mother of God...color me impressed. The bacon was crispy in the right places and fatty in the other places. Not soggy or too greasy. The dates weren't too sweet to overpower the savory bacon and sausage. We had two each. I could have eaten the entire serving platter. Then came a cocktail. The 'Choke Hold: Jefferson's reserve bourbon, cynar (artichoke liqueur!!!), pama liqueur, and benedictine. It was strong, sweet, and powerful. Very yummy and a nice way to showcase the bourbon. Moving on. Next we had a light green and herbs salad served with a Pims vinaigrette. What an awesome way to use Pims!!! My last memory of Pims was sipping it mixed with lemonade and cucumber/strawberry slices sitting on the Hill at Wimbledon two summers ago. Ahh a delightful summer treat. Fruity and refreshing. On a salad? Even better, perhaps. Our next beer and cocktail selections were the Metropolitan Krankshaft Kkolsch and Mind the Bollocks: Evan Williams Bourbon, Navan liqueur, Peter Heering Cherry Heering, Perfect Puree Sour Cherry Puree, lime juice, demarera syrup, and egg white. This cocktail was pretty dang tasty. The cherry puree was dark and rich and brought out the intensity of the bourbon. But then the food kept on coming! Next was a British classic: fish and chips. But this was seriously unlike any fish and chips I'd ever had in a dreary (yet charming) London pub. B&B kicked it up a notch! The breading on the hallibut was so light and almost sweet! It reminded the people at our table of a fried dough kind of taste, which was definitely a good thing. It was served with malt vinegar aioli and thick-cut tartar sauce. The chips were also good, tossed with a bit of curry powder which brought out some spicy! I believe the final beer that was served was one of the Stone Brewery's ales, perhaps Levitation? I was a bit "forgetful" by the time. In fact, I was so forgetful that I didn't feed the meter and walked out of the restaurant to find a ticket on my car! Eh...it was worth it for all this amazingness. The last cocktail was by far my favorite. It tasted like blueberry pie. Called The B-Cup, it had fresh blueberries, Pimms No. 1 Cup, Aperol, Tito's Vodka, Absolut Blueberry, St. Germain, Simple Syrup, and lemon juice. To. Die. For. And then we got another course: pork tenderloin. Now, I love bacon and many pork products. But I've never been a pork steak kind of person. Until now. The meat was moist, cooked well, tender, and full of flavor. The meat came from Compart Farms and was served with rumbledthumps, mashed potatoes mixed with bits of kale. The potatoes were placed over an orange balsamic reduction sauce and the meat was paired with a mango chutney. Seriously, it was perfect. I'm now a pork believer!!! As if all of this wasn't enough, we were able to enjoy some tasty cheeses as the final course. There was a sheep's milk bleu cheese, very light and creemy; a light cheddar, not sharp at all, almost like manchego; and another kind which I'm forgetting right now. There were slices of membrillo and dates to accompany the cheese. Gahhhhhhhh I am having fantasies of another meal of this caliber! I urge you all to run to B&B to try even one of these dishes! The rest have to be wonderful as well. Excellent beer, wine, and cocktail selection. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Nicholas K.
I want to like this place, but they make it hard. I do not think it fits the definition of gastropub, either. We were there on a weekend, early evening and the place was nearly empty. Still, bar service was rather slow. For a place called Blokes and Birds, I would expect at least one British beer on draft, but nearly all draft options were local brews that are available most everywhere else. Some items on the menu were not available. My fish and chips were delivered without peas. They came with an odd assortment of sauces, but not malt vinegar. The Sheppard's pie was dry and mostly potatoes. It is a great location and very nice space. But, the food and service must improve.
(1)Patty C.
A friend and I came here for drinks after dinner on a Saturday night. The place was lively and packed. We managed to get seats at the bar though. The bartender was super friendly. We wanted to order two cocktails and a dessert. So, he recommended a butterscotch bread pudding for our dessert, and it was simply delicious. The level of sweetness was right on. The drinks were good too, and let me tell you they don't skimp on the alcohol here. My friend's drink was a little too strong for her, but perfect for me. My next visit here will include dinner because I was eying a very tasty looking Shepard's pie from the table behind me.
(4)Erin B.
Four of us went here on a Saturday night. First problem was the unfriendly maitre d who didn't say anything to us other than a meek hi. The place was busy but I only saw our waiter servicing the other tables so he had a lot on his plate which is what led to us not having that great of a time. It took a while for the waiter to initially greet us, when he did we placed our drink order and received them around 20 minutes later, no joke. My sister didn't like her drink which was one of their specialties, she asked to have it tweeked but it didn't help. During our meal the waiter asked if we wanted another drink, so I said yes. Again another 20 minutes and no drink, so we finally just asked for the check. I know he had a lot of tables and I'm not sure if that's a norm or because they were short staffed but we overall felt neglected. However, I did really enjoy my meal. I got the chicken Tikka Masala and so did my friend because it looked really appealing. Definitely was a good choice by us both. I really enjoyed having the live music, the musician was very talented and played good songs. Could have turned the volume down a little though cause I could barely hear my friends talk across the table.
(3)Jack P.
I'm an idiot for not eating here before. Since my first time here (maybe about a year ago), I've returned probably half a dozen times. And I don't even live in the neighborhood. Good beer selection. Friendly, helpful staff. The only thing that needs to be addressed is the menu: it hasn't changed much, if at all. That said, it's all very tasty.
(4)MG J.
Really good French fries! I had some kind of steak sandwich as well and it was really good! If I'm ever in the area I would definitely return. Really good service as well!
(4)Abigail L.
Second time here and I'm again inspired to yelp it. This place has the most amazing beer list I've ever experienced!! All the staff were amazingly helpful and fun to joke around with... Sit at the bar. Bartenders are GREAT and will let you sample beers.. I think it is genius that this place is in Wrigley. Wrigley needs an adult place to hang out... 21 year old tourists will hate this place, and that's why I love it! I also want to note, in the my last review, i said I like nothing dark (beer wize) However, after sampling much of the day yesterday. The coffee stout, which is black as can be, was AMAZING... So I now like "a" dark beer. Guess I'm broadening my horizons. Thank you Blokes & Birds! Banana Bread Beer, Coffee Stout, House Infused Bourbon, MMM, MM, MMM..
(5)Damian C.
Wait... the space with the mustache lettering in Wrigleyville is not a barber shop but rather a classy-esque gastropub?! I could have sworn it was a high-end barber shop because I never actually took the time to look inside. I was even more confused when I got the invitation to my friend's birthday party last week saying that Blokes & Birds was hosting us. I guess I should have done my research or peeked in a little bit more. My friends made a reservation for about 15 of us for a late Tuesday dinner. Since I am in grad-school-early-to-bed mode, I ate beforehand, so I only planned on coming for a couple beers and some chatter. The restaurant has two floors; the area upstairs has a bar and is better suited for dining, while the basement has a separate bar, some small tables around the perimeter, and a pool table. What I like about this place is that the tables are spaced generously and the space is open so you don't feel too crowded in (at least when we were there). They have a pretty diverse beer list (which included my old trusty Great Lake Dortmunder Gold) covering all price points, taste preferences, and alcohol percentages. I can't speak on behalf of the food because we were here WAYYYYY past my during-the-week curfew and I ate beforehand, but the salmon dish looked absolutely delicious. They flavor their water pitchers with cucumber, too. Delicious! What I can speak upon is their hospitality and accommodation. Our waiter was an absolutely joy - he seemed to love birthday parties as much as we all did and went the extra mile to make sure everyone was having a good time (everything from chatting with us to an abundance of group shots). We even had a toast to the birthday girl after everyone finished eating. By the time I had left it seemed that he was a part of our group (I am still not sure if he met them out after I left)! All of the service was timely and everyone was happy with the venue. Clark St. in Wrigleyville is funny. So many places come and so many places go, all with their own unique appeal. You've got your raging Cubs bars, your comedy clubs, your reggae bars (which are a blast, btw), and now a gastropub. Welcome to the strip and stay classy, Blokes & Birds!
(4)Kristin M.
3.5 for brunch. We used the Gilt City $40 off deal, which was great. I would never have known they offered brunch. Started with the English cucumber salad which was delicious and refreshing. The mint, raspberries and champagne vinaigrette mixed very nicely. (incidentally, after we ordered it, I heard the waiter announcing to other guests that they were out of it, we scored the last one!) I got the duck confit hash. There were big chunks of duck in the dish, which was great. At first, though, the dish was rather bland. Then I took a bite of a hot pepper which completely overpowered everything else. The fried eggs could have used another minute. Overall I liked, but did not love, the hash. Next time I want to try something else. My friend ordered the BLT with bacon aioli. It looked delicious and she really enjoyed the aioli. Fries came separately at $4. We also split a side of bacon, which was plentiful but not especially memorable. Overall, I really love Birds & Blokes, but I think dinner is their specialty. One criticism: we were the first to arrive on a Saturday (ie the first brunch service of the week), and they were already "out of" three menu items. As a few more tables arrived, we heard the waiters keep adding to the list of unavailable dishes. As it turned out, it didn't affect our choices, but it can be really irritating when a significant portion of the menu options are out first thing in the morning. I wish restaurants could stay better stocked.
(3)Dan D.
Pros: Unique menu (obviously British and some Indian food) Friendly staff Nice decor Cons: Very loud Seating was cramped Long wait for table (on a Friday night) This was a decent place. It was incredibly loud and cramped, however. I had to yell just to be heard. This looked like too nice of a place to be yelling at people to speak. They didn't have a beer list at the table when my girlfriend and I were seated. About half way through our dinner, we saw, at an adjacent table, a beer list. It would have been nice to have that at the start. I ordered a cocktail and it was incredibly strong. I guess I still got my moneys worth considering it was practically straight Maker's Mark. I split an Indian dish and the fish and chips with my girlfriend. We both loved both dishes. It was probably the best fish and chips I've ever had, very lightly battered with more fish than breading. Their chips (fries; regular and sweet potato) were also really good. I might try it again on a night that's not so busy.
(3)Anna P.
I started coming to Blokes when it opened last fall and have yet to be disappointed. Though I'm not a big whiskey drinker (which is their specialty) I always end up having a couple shots here along with my standard cider. The beer and whiskey selections are phenominal. I usually can't resist getting something to eat here as well, even when I haven't come for dinner. My favorites are the fish and chips, the rockit and romaine salad, and the pulled pork sandwich (which I don't think they have anymore, so sad). The atmosphere is also top-notch. It's the perfect place to have a low-key evening, and be sure to check out the downstairs! Yay Blokes!
(5)Mark M.
Excellent atmosphere, menu, waitstaff, food and drink. We went in around 7pm on a Friday. It wasn't super crowded with Cubs fans, even though there was a game earlier. Maybe it was the light drizzle outside that sent the cheering hoards home, or maybe the Cubbies didn't throw up a "W" against their Cardinal rivals. Who knows. We got in and had our table almost immediately. The guitarist was just about to start the live music for the night and he played a great set of 90s covers during our meal. Most of our party, there were four of us, had a fish special. I, however, had to have a burger topped with bacon and eggs. All dishes were outstanding. Be advised: entree portions are large. The place has a sense of the UK in it, but it's definitely been refined through the American grinder. Much of the food on the menu started out British, and then got that familiar fusion that you find in so many restaurants in US cities. And as we are a tipping culture on this side of the pond, you'll likely find the service is better than you'd expect out of a London pub. Try their take on the Scotch Egg, delicious!
(5)Sarah R.
I love this place! They have a wonderful brunch menu--I come back over and over for the duck confit hash and bloody marys. The beer and whiskey selection is awesome and the food consistently delicious. There is a fireplace upstairs which makes for cozy winter dining. I have hosted two birthday parties in the lounge downstairs, and both were wildly successful. Blokes and Birds is a Lakeview favorite!
(5)David S.
Had a gift cert - and was initially hesitant. BUT I will tell you the place rocks. Great beer selection and a special that incudes a nip o corn whiskey! Split the short ribe sandwhich w a friend and it was OUTSTANDING. Paul was great behind the bar -- so we will be going back soon to try other items on the menu. The menu looks great and if as good as the short ribs, well what can I say!!! Yee HA!! BTW - the fries rock
(5)Kathleen C.
Aside from the fact that we got kicked out prior to close for either a 1) sick bartender or 2) management decision, this was a pretty cool spot. I was a bit surprised that the spot wasn't more crowded, but perhaps this stretch of Lakeview doesn't appreciate this type of bar (or I was there on an off night?). So, while the atmosphere is pretty cool, I would have liked the atmosphere better had it been a bit more lively. I didn't have any drinks here, so I can't speak for them, but the bartenders were friendly. I would visit again, but I would try for some time that has a bigger crowd so that I can get a feel for the spot.
(3)Nick M.
Now this is my kind of place!! Adjectives about... STAFF -friendly, delightful, alluring, practical, and persuasive DECOR -Adaptable, colorful, charming, neighborly, and accommodating FOOD -Engaging, gallant, vivacious, restrained, and terrific Something about dark wood, friendly staff, perfect cocktail making, laid back atmosphere, and food that will make you smile, make Nick a very satisfied man. This is one of those you don't know till you know. So go and try the mussels with a Vindaloo sauce. The mussels are HUGE and the Vindaloo sauce is near drinkable. Salads are pretty darn good as well (they put pasta in them =awesome). To top it all off, get the chicken Tikka Masala. Again, the restraint shown in the sauce is crazy, so much flavor. It comes with chips. Just go...
(4)Diana R.
I've passed this place countless times since before it was opened and finally stepped in this past weekend with a friend. We stopped in to pass a little time before catching a late comedy show. She had cocktails, I had a Trappist beer. (Prices surprisingly fair, especially for Wrigleyville and for an imported specialty beer.) A dude strummed acoustic covers and original songs in a corner. The bartender offered samples of beers on tap and was incredibly friendly. I would go back based just on the ambience and service. Definitely a nice change of pace from the usual Wrigleyville crowd and atmosphere. I'm no beer connoisseur, but I do like to try new brews when I get the chance and this seems like a great place to do that - nice selection of beers, cocktails. Judging from other reviews, I'll need to stop by again and eat something.
(4)William L.
What a great find in a wasteland of terrible bars. Five of us stopped in on a Saturday night for some pre-wine tasting grub and had no problem getting a table. Their beer list is top notch, they just tapped a great cask ale that I'm really sorry I didn't try. Also, Aprihop on tap = winner winner, chicken dinner. Since the group is mostly yelpers, I'll comment on what I had: the wedge salad and the Hatch green chile & pulled pork stew. Oh lordy the stew. It was the best soup/stew/hot liquid I've ever eaten in my life. Huge chunks of tender pork and delicious, spicy, Hatch green chiles. I want it in my face now. The wedge salad, on the other hand, was a little bland. The dressing was meh and it had grilled onions on it, which I thought was a weird mix (even though I love me some onions). The decor of the place is awesome. It's a mix between old English and modern chic styles. Service was on point all night; the bartender knew his beers and the waiter knew the menu real well. What is keeping them from getting the 5th star from me was that they were out of 3 different side dishes. Get the logistics together, Blokes!
(4)Dana A.
Cute little gem in WRIGLEY! My boyfriend and I were going to go to one of our favorite tapas places Twist. Though sadly it was closed yesterday not really sure why! So we started are walk down clark lots of bars/bar food, pubs etc! We are trying to find a place a little bit healthier than bar food! We love trying new places in the city. Though typically you don't think of Wrigleyville to have "healthy" food. Service: Service was great! Our server was really nice the I forget her name. She explained the menu to us and gave us suggestions! Cocktails: They have a Banana Bread Beer! Sounded so interested so we ordered it! Soo delicious! The Peach Palmer was awesome! I would for sure recommend it plus it was only $7! The rest of the cocktails look amazzzing!! Food: Perfect Portions/ Tasty! SO some may complain that the portions may be small but I think they are perfect! I hate leaving a place feeling as if I need to be carried out the door! Mozz and Tom salad was yummy! Had a great basil pesto on it that was really good! Chelsea chippy- Okay so not the healthiest option but the portion was great! It wasn't huge we didn't feel as if we were stuffing our faces! The fries were alright! The fish was crispy and tasty! I will for sure be back!!
(4)Michael F.
Great drink selection: beers, specialty cocktails, and infused whiskeys where on our list. Great appetizer selection as well. Came with a group of six and had a great time. I would absolutely come back for an evening of drinks and good vibes!
(5)Alvina C.
Beer-o-rama! What a list---other fellow yelpers weren't kidding when they said that it was an extensive list! I was intrigued by this place and wasn't sure what to expect when I read it was a pub/bar. Went here for a baby shower recently (I know strange--I didn't see the connection either--but oh well--maybe there wasn't one!) This place was very nice and parking was easy--mostly cause it was a Sunday afternoon--but still it tends to get busy in that general area. The party was downstairs and it was a huge space that had an awesome laid back lounge feel. A pool table was available and there was a yummy brunch style buffet on the bar. This definitely would be great for groups. Tons of seating and space since there were built in benches all around. The mac and cheese was tasty, cheese grits were also yummilicious, also can't go wrong with huge ham steak slices. There were these little football shaped things that had a whole hard boiled egg inside wrapped with some sort of meat---they were tasty-the way they were shaped reminded me of the taro puffs that you can get during dim sum :P Overall nice place, attentive staff, and tasty food.
(4)Jimmy C.
It is a great spot either for a date or stop by for a pint. it has great atmosphere with it's cozy yet modern decor. I loved the wooden benches and their simple yet tasteful menu. it is a place for those with simple taste but enjoys delectable food. loves a great beer list and also yearns for the simple whiskey on the rocks.
(4)Gabi C.
I used to be a fan of Blokes and Birds... The service and management was so friendly and accommodating, not to mention the food was great. However, going there recently completely turned my opinion. There are new servers and the restaurant is obviously under new management. From our greeting to when we left, it was simply a disaster. The server didn't know what they were doing and when two of our meals came out incorrect, nothing was corrected. Basically, this experience made me completely turned off to the restaurant... I miss the old Blokes :(
(1)Erick N.
We walked by this venue several times, but never went in until today; now I wish we had tried Blokes & Birds earlier as it is a really fun pub. We immediately were impressed with the decor of this place, they did an awesome job renovating. Very tasteful and welcoming decor with an understated elegance. The menu is a nice change from the typical Wrigleyville bar scene with traditional English fare. One recommendation is that they put explanations on some of the menu items that are not common American foods. Great beer list to boot. I tried a tangerine wheat beer I had never had before that was outstanding. Another plus is they keep the music down, so you can actually easily engage in conversation unlike so many of the other nearby bars. Food wise the prices are reasonable and above average quality for pub food. My wife and I split several dishes: The mac & cheese, a burger, chips, and a cheese plate. The mac & cheese was some of the best we have had. The fries were above average as was the burger (nice presentation on the burger too). The only disappointment was the cheese plate; it was priced higher than an entree but came with four very small cubes of super market quality cheese. This item needs a big overhaul, but two thumbs up for the rest of the food and for the beers we consumed. The staff was friendly and the manager gave us a little tour of the pub after we finished our meal; we didn't even notice that they had a nice downstairs space as well. We will definitely be back and this might become one of our favorite neighborhood pubs.
(4)Jacob T.
This place puts a new twist on British pub food. I never thought I would be having brussels sprouts with bacon or that it would be so amazing. The menu was chock full of at least 20 dishes that I'd never seen before and everything I had was absolutely delightful.
(5)J G.
I've been meaning to write this review for a while but it kept slipping lower on my to do list. Recently, a friend got engaged and asked if Blokes and Birds would be a good place to host an engagement dinner... it was at that time I was rocketed back to the horrible memory of NYE '12 at Blokes and Birds. I wish I had the time to explain every last detail of the night but I will spare you the misery. Shortly after midnight a scuffle went down relatively close to where my party of 4 was sitting. We were not part of the scuffle and thought nothing of it until 45 minutes later when we were asked to leave the bar (being wrongfully associated with those in the scuffle). This is where my experience at Blokes and Birds went from blah to downright horrible. Out of the blue, the bouncer points at me and my friends and says, "get out!" with no explanation. We were just minding our own business! I stood up to protest, "we cannot leave yet, we haven't paid our bill!" The bouncer replied, "shut the **** up, you *****!" Immediately after hearing that, our party got up and left. As if that experience wasn't bad enough, a few days later we open our bank statement to find out that Blokes and Birds had taken the liberty to not only charge our bill without a signature, but to add a 20% tip!
(1)Doug O.
Blokes and Birds has good potential, but is off to a bad start with me, largely because of a night of poor service with our server, Charlie. We arrived and ordered beers. Charlie told me my first choice was out of stock, and then told me my second choice was out of stock, and then disappeared for several minutes and brought my my first choice, despite telling me it was out of stock. He brought my fiancee a glass of wine shortly thereafter, but did not bring my friend her beer until I had almost finished my first beer approximately 20 minutes later, even though she ordered at the same time the rest of us did. Later, I ordered a Bell's Amber. Charlie disappeared for quite awhile and came back and told me the bar didn't stock the beer I had requested. I pointed to the beer menu, which stated "Bell's Amber," and Charlie got flustered, apologized, and said he thought I had asked for an Alexander. I think we all know there isn't a beer called Alexander, and if you don't know that, you shouldn't be working in a beer bar. A bit later, my fiancee ordered another glass of wine. Charlie asked if she wanted a glass of water instead and brought her water. She was not drunk or overserved, and she was insulted that he treated her that way. Overall, he made the experience very unpleasant. This isn't to say that Blokes and Birds doesn't have potential. Their beer list was impressive (if they end up having what they list in stock). Moreover, the owner or manager (a gentleman in a sportcoat and scarf with a shaved head) did a great job of picking up Charlie's slack across the bar and trying to help. I will try Blokes and Birds again and hope to have a better experience, but they have some obstacles to overcome.
(2)Keith A.
Blokes and Birds has a real conflicted feel to it. They say that they're a modern interpretation of a british pub and there is definitely a modern feel to it, but it feels like they aren't sure whether they want to be a restaurant or a pub. The bar space is decent sized, but it isn't really the focus of the place and all of the tables are pretty spread out so there was a lot of room in the place as well, so it felt a bit cavernous. The food I had was pretty solid. The mussels were good and the mussels that they got had a lot of meat on the inside, which will always put a smile on my face. I also ordered up the short rib sandwich, which was good but very very heavy. I had to take home nearly 3/4 of it and have it the next day. I was mostly drinking off the beer list and I was having fun just looking at the list. Obviously it was english beer focused, but there was a good amount of domestic craft beers as well. I wouldn't mind coming back and diving into the beer list some more, but I don't know how often I would come back as it just doesn't have that feel of a place that you can just chill out and sit down for a while with a few beers
(3)Eric P.
Good food, good beer. Mediocre service. Won't split checks for large groups. Automatic 20% gratuity for large groups makes me tipping below average very difficult. I'd come back, but not with a large group.
(3)Mariah V.
Every time I walked by that big mustache out front, I would say to my friend, "Look at that mustache. I want to go here." I finally made it there for dinner. We came a little past 6:30 on a Friday. It was snowing, really windy, and miserably cold outside, so there was literally no one else there when we walked in. We got the mac and cheese to start off, and it was good and cheesy. The beer selection is great, and there are some good ones for only $5. I tried the Founders Dirty Bastard and followed that up with a favorite of mine, Dogfish Head Raison d'Etre. I also love places that have really specific glassware for beer, which isn't uncommon but still appreciated. The Dogfish Head goblet is sweet. I got the braised short rib sandwich, and it was awesome. I was told it didn't come with a side, so I got the brussel sprouts, too. They were good but too big for a side, and I felt like most of the sides were too expensive. Also the sandwich did come with somewhat of a "side." In a tiny ramekin was 1 cauliflower floret, a slice of carrot, and a slice of celery. What? Random, but they were actually kind of good. My friend liked their beef stew, and I was really tempted to order the confit of the day (duck and caramelized onions). I was really happy with my sandwich, though. Our waitress checked on us often enough, even as the place started to fill up more. She also didn't get annoyed with my friend and I who are total lingerers when we eat. I have no idea how long their playlist is, but we stayed long enough to hear a couple songs again. I liked the decor, because it's just like WOOD EVERYWHERE. I'll have to make a trip back to try more beer, a cocktail or two (the Colonial looked good), and the house whiskey. Also here's a tip: Don't try to go through the door that's more south. It was locked, and for some reason 80% of people tried to walk through that one first. Or do, because it got funny for my friend and me after watching it happen three times.
(4)Arun L.
A nice addition to the growing "affordable gastro pub" genre, Blokes & Birds still has a few things to work on. 1) Drink: Great local beer list, plenty on tap. Excellent and creative cocktails with one MAJOR flaw - they use the wrong kind of ice. Expect your cocktail to be watered down before you get halfway through. I asked for my second cocktail served "up" - MUCH better. 2) Food: We tried a bunch of different stuff on the menu. All good and CHEAP. Its a little on the bland side, but hey - it's British food! - The Shepards pie is excellent (the lamb was braised in stout for half a day!) - The Mac & Cheese is a little watery. - The Fish & Chips are classic. Huge, meaty fish fillets and chips with a good potato taste. - The mussels were large and tender - not small and shriveled like many places. - "Devils on Horseback" ie sausage-filled dates wrapped in bacon were out of this world...watch out AVEC! - The truffled forest mushrooms were so-so. Basically just mushrooms. 3) Service: B&B lost points here. Our server was brand new and pretty inattentive. He hadn't tried most of the things on the menu and was unable to provide much guidance. At least he was honest though! 4) Ambiance: This place is cool - post-industrial with lots of wood. Plenty of standing room for when the bar fills up, but this makes for awkward spacing of tables. We were seated in the back by a large open space and the kitchen - it sucked. But the front of the house has some cool seating. Overall, a great value and a fun spot to meet up with some friends and enjoy some food and drink.
(3)Borracho G.
In the sea of the sports bars that cater to the after game mayhem, it was nice to come across this place. I was happy to see such an extensive list of bottle and draft beers and whiskey choices they had to offer. That list alone would get me to visit this place again. The menu had the typical British dishes but without the bland and simple tastes. If you like mussels then you have to try their mussels in vindaloo sauce. The sauce alone is worth it. The bloke burger was large and you'll want to order the fries with curry dipping sauce to go with it. The braised short rib sandwich was very tasty and more like a sub then a sandwich. Mixed feelings about the shepherd pie being too potato heavy and the lobster pot pie lacking more veggies. Both were still tasty and worth a try though. All around a very stylish establishment with a very friendly staff. I also like a place that will not hesitate to give you a taste or two from the overwhelming types of beers on tap.
(4)Danny W.
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Blokes & Birds with SpotHero CEO and Founder Jeremy Aaron Smith. While dining with Jeremy is a treat on its own, it was made even better with some delicious Fish and Chips. Admittedly, we didn't sample a lot off the menu- I had the special of the mahi fish and chips (super good) and Jeremy had the Bloke's Burger, which he described as "My kind of burger- big and wet," which was meant as a compliment for those of you wondering. Also, they have a deal on Wednesday where you get a shot of whiskey and a beer for $5, which worked for me. Overall, our experience was pretty positive. B&B is not like a typical Wrigleyville bar, so I could see how somebody would actually want to spend time there outside of a quick meal. The place seemed a bit swankier than I was expecting for an English pub, but the prices were reasonable, and the food and drinks were good so you're okay in my book B&B. Also, they immediately move in to the 2nd seed on my "All-Time B&B Rankings" behind B&B Enterprises from "The Wire."
(4)Carol A.
The pork sirloin was delicious !!!! Great date night restaurant or for a GNO. Very inexpensive as well. The fish and chips looked delicious and came with a beer for $10. Can't really beat that.
(5)Becky P.
YAY! Good beer list, EXCELLENT HOUSE INFUSED ALCOHOL, and yummy Amish chicken (and mac & cheese!). I haven't come here for brunch yet, but their bloody marys are unreal. The vodka they use for it is infused with bacon, need I say more?? We've been here a few times now, and every time has been a blast. Seats at the bar can be found with proper rearranging of chairs from random areas. We even got to play a few games of pool in the homey downstairs area.
(5)J P.
Food is ok, the wait staff was rude. The menu does actually represent what the food item is. For example, friend ordered the bacon wrapped dates, she got bacon wrapped sausage.. she told the waitor and was told that the management wont change it eveb though they know its not right. Won't split checks, and we had a small group so it shouldn't have been a problem. Overall not a great experience. In Chicago you have a lot better choices... Won't be back
(2)Linda D.
Have you ever dined somewhere several times and enjoyed the food so much and then came back and they had totally changed everthing on the menu? Well that is what happened here. Nary an item that I can or would want to eat on the menu. The previous menu always featured an awesome composed pork or fish entree that was so scrumptious. Great soups and salads. Now that is all gone. Buh bye. Then to make matters worse they are now closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in addition to Mondays. So many changes here and not for the best I am afraid. Sorry to say this, but I'll be amazed if this place is still open in a year. Good luck with trying to appeal to the Frat boys and Trixies along the Wrigleyville Bar and Grill strip on Clark Street. You see, Blokes and Birds you were so much more appealing when you were the alternative to all that craziness and mayhem. Farwell and buh bye.
(1)Elle M.
A couple weeks ago I had an amazing meal at Longman & Eagle and am now making all the ampersand gastropub rounds. I had high expectations going in. That damn ampersand gets me every time. The atmosphere of the place is nice, but a little sports bar-ish. If you were actually going for the English pub feel you could've skipped the plasma tvs. Just sayin'. We got seated right away, which was amazing for 7:30 on a Saturday night. I wasn't too thrilled with their appetizer menu, but we went with the cheese plate. Meh. The selection was okay. Cheddar, stilton, a blue cheddar and a little goat cheese. But there were accompaniments on the plate (three tiny slices of date and a squiggle of balsamic syrup) that weren't explained to us. Plus they had these weird chocolate discs sliding around on the plate as well. I still don't know why those were there. We got four tiny pieces of toasted (one blackened) bread. And they brought our food out before we had finished the cheese. I hate that. A lot. That being said, their craft cocktails are deeeelicious. I had a Churchill Downs and a Cobbles & Stone. Both great. And the burger I had with cheddar and onions and vinegar aoli- good lordy it was awesome. Really up there with one of the best burgers I've ever had. It was cooked perfectly to my specifications too, which is always nice. So I'd say if you're craving a burger or some sausages and a great cocktail this is a pretty reliable choice. Too bad it's in douchebagville- AHEM. I mean Wrigleyville. Anyway, I'd go back, but not before I try the other ampersands.
(3)Sarah S.
I went here Saturday night with some friends for a birthday. I immediately liked the awesome mustache outside! That's an awesome logo, I must say. We were carded going in and moseyed on downstairs where they have tables for hanging out, a bar and pool tables. We were surprised it was dead. The weekend before St. Patrick's Day and no one around when other bars on the street were packed....hmm...weird. Either way, the bartender was super awesome and friendly. They have some really unique drinks which were quite tasty. All in all, we make fun wherever we go but would have liked some more lively music & people around us. Also, there is no parking! We ended up using the valet at Soca. :)
(3)Susan F.
Blokes & Birds actually has a great brunch. Their menu is split between sweets and savories along with a lot of liquored libations. I had a huge meat and cheese crepe along with a mimosa, coffee, and fruit. It was part of a Gilt City package, or I would have probably not spend the upwards $25-$30 it would have cost me. The coffee was amazing and so was the crepe. It was huge! If you're parents are coming into town or you're on a date for brunch, make them take you here ;)
(4)Margo A.
I really love this place! We have been to blokes and birds about 4 times and each time the food had been fabulous. The drinks are also carefully crafted and yummy! They use a lot of truffle in their dishes which my husband and I love!
(5)Kim K.
I went to Blokes & Birds for the first, and probably only, time on Saturday with my fiancee. We had a 7:15pm reservation and they seated us right away. That was a plus. The section we were seated in was not very busy, and was being covered by one waiter. Therefore we were expecting awesome service. I wish I could say that was the case. We were seated for about a minute when the waiter came by our table, never really stopping, and asked for our drink orders. He was literally mid stride and didn't actually stop to address our table. I asked for iced tea, they didn't have it...whatever not his fault, I stuck with water. Again he walked away and a few minutes later when we were ready to put in our appetizer order, he still didn't stop. Every time he took our order it was as though it were an after thought. As if he was too busy to stop and really address us. When we put in the order for our entree it was the same drill, he was mid stride and basically walking away before I could complete my order. I literally had to stop him before he left so I could order a side of Brussels sprouts. My fiance wanted a side of the bacon aioli because he was curious as to what that tasted like, but again, the waiter was long gone before he had the chance. Aside from the terrible service, the food was so so. I had the Amish chicken with a side of Brussels sprouts. The chicken was moist, and the sauce was good. But the Brussels sprouts were undercooked, hard to eat, and just all around flavorless. I wish I could review the bacon aioli, but alas, we never had the chance to ask. I don't see myself going back, just from the level of service alone. Also, it is so incredibly LOUD in there, it is nearly impossible to hear the person sitting across the table from you. Big shame...
(2)Magen R.
I went to Blokes and Birds over MLK Jr weekend for a birthday party of a friend of a friend. I really enjoyed the atmosphere. It was very chill and comfortable with plenty of seating and not too crowded at all. It is definitely not your average Wrigleyville bar though, something I appreciated. We did not eat so I cannot speak to the food but there was an extensive alcohol list with both beers and mixed drinks. However, if you are looking for Bud/Miller/Coors products they do not serve them (one of my friends was extremely disappointed about this). I would recommend Blokes and Birds to anyone who wants to actually hear what they other people in their party have to say and is interested in having a relaxing, enjoyable evening. If you are looking for a typical Wrigley bar with lots of drunk people, loud music and dancing this is not the place for you. Will I be back again? Definitely.
(4)Mollie D.
I came to Blokes & Birds this past September for my birthday. I spent my birthday the year before in London and was desperately missing it, so I thought this would be a great way to celebrate. They were extremely accommodating when it came to reservations, even last minute, and were friendly and helpful when only a few of us got there first. The drinks were incredible, for one. I missed out on Pimm's in London, but theirs were incredible. My friends enjoyed the beer selection and I got fish and chips. Their chips were closer to British chips than most places, not quite right, but the vinegar added a great touch that was exciting. Good food, great atmosphere. I just wish there were a few more options for food. Otherwise an incredible place that I'd recommend.
(4)PingPing N.
The meatball appetizer landed a unanimous vote--most pitiful ball of meat any of us ever had!!! Weird weird texture, kind of like...potted meat and the flavor was just...bad. But Im a fan bc of the experience. First off, the place is upscale-y and sophisticated looking. A great venue for table-talk Sat at the bar for a few hours and had the time of our lives. Place was pretty empty when we arrived around 8p on a Friday night but by 10, there was not a seat in sight. The bartender was attentive, friendly, suggestive, and just a great guy to have behind the bar. We came in quiet and reserved but left jolly and looking for trouble. Jk, we're not trouble-makers. An extensive and elaborate liquor menu listing everything they have, mainly focusing on whiskey. Impressive selection on draft beer as well. I forgot my phone in the back restroom, never to be seen again but a wonderful soul turned it to the Host and I was able to retrieve it. Oh.my .gosh. AMAZING for him to return it and AMAZING for the Host to not keep it himself. This made me believe in Human-Kind just a bit more.
(4)Colleen D.
Loud, loud, loud. Was with a party of seven and could not have a conversation. Also, two buses pulled up and unloaded a huge crowd of 21 year olds that came in, lined up and went downstairs to what I assume is the karaoke lounge. Upstairs, the musician kept playing sad songs. The food was nothing special. We were entertaining a first time Chicago visitor and, unfortunately, B&B was much less than impressive.
(2)Virginia T.
The boss and I went to Blokes & Birds after a long hard week. I opted for the pork tenderloin. It was good but could have been a little more moist. Bossman had the chicken tikka masala, and liked it-ate every bite. We sat at the bar, the bartender was really nice and service was good. Their specialty cocktails looked good. One thing that struck me odd was that they had a lot (4-6+) of beers available on draft as well as in bottles. They had a decent beer list, but nothing that was striking my fancy that night.
(4)Jay S.
AMAZING! I have dined, drank, and karaoked at Blokes and Birds multiple times and I have never been disappointed. The food is delish! From the fish and chips, to the prime rib, to the truffle fries, every single item on the menu is mouth watering. My personal favorite would be the mac and cheese and beet salad. What makes the food even better, being swooned by the live music performances! Drinks. I am the type of girl that can never decide what I want to drink and the staff at Blokes is always tentative and very helpful in describing all their house specialities. Last, but not least, the lounge downstairs is always a fun time. Who doesn't love to belt out to their favorite song with their friends? Blokes is a great place whether you are looking just to eat great food, or have one, or ten drinks with your friends. A must try, if you haven't yet!
(5)Heather E.
My cousins were recently in town to celebrate a 30th birthday, and although they like to maintain a certain level of class, they are an overall raucous crowd. We were planning a night with a diverse list of bars, and Blokes and Birds was the designated craft cocktail/mellow atmosphere place. We were able to get a low table and booth for our group, and were pretty much planted there until the night's end. I love that even on a Saturday night we were able to find a table relatively easy. The basement is dimly lit with candles, and is very open. The bar is surrounded by long wood tables and some low benches and tables around the perimeter of the room. The atmosphere is quiet enough to talk in a group and be heard, but not so stuffy that you feel like you can't get up and dance or laugh or take a birthday shot. Our server was awesome! Logan (as I recall) catered to our every whim, and we had many. He brought us limes, extra glasses, a cup of soda water, etc. He was incredibly gracious the entire time, and spent time with our group explaining the fun cocktails and basically providing top-notch service that you wouldn't normally expect on a Saturday night on the fringes of Wrigleyville. My sister maintains he was the best waiter she had ever had. We didn't have any food, but as I noted earlier, the cocktails are fun, extensive and strong. They also have a beer list that made the gentlemen and some of the ladies of the group happy. Overall, it was a great atmosphere, crowd, and night.
(5)L O S.
Food and entertainment were amazing. Though I thought the service was not as efficient and hardly checked up on myself and my date. Pricing for food was also generous.
(4)James L.
My first time here was good. Really good food, good beer selection and real chill place. The atmosphere is modern, dark, clean. I ordered a lot but don't remember everything. I just remember the mushroom truffle was really good.
(4)Johnny T.
Wot's all that, then? Sorry. Had to say it. I also need to say that I'm a fan. A big one. The only reason this place doesn't get 5 big ones from me is because I don't know for sure that it's as good as it gets. But, I'm interested in seeing if it does. First off, a grown-up, has-nothing-to-do-with-the-Cubs establishment on Clark (in Wrigleyville) that isn't packed to the gills with a crowd that juuust might make me the teensiest bit stabby. Unbelievable! But just because it's not packed with Bud Light's finest doesn't mean that it's not packed. The word's out and has been out for a while. Arrive with a game plan and/or at grandma time or prepare to wait and stalk some tables. It'll all be worth it if you follow my rules to eating and drinking. Or, drinking and eating. Drinking: Liquor before beer, you're in the clear. Start with some craft cocktails. Since even the butchest Brit can make one's 'dar go off (the accent + the non-ironic use of the word 'darling' is very confusing), go for a 'girlie' drink and do it with gusto. I suggest a B-Cup (*rimshot* and, yes). Pimms, blueberry, acai, vodka, St. Germain, etc. it has all the elements of that fruit-filled cocktail you've always wanted to drink in public but never had the nerve to do. Here, you can do it and say you're just tapping into your inner Brit (how dapper, polished and refined). See? See?? I was also a fan of the Breakfast at Tiffanys but I think it's off the menu. What? If you're going to do it, go.all.out. With the craft cocktail out of your system, head over to beer-land and stay there. The servers are pretty well suited to advise you on what pairs with your food, so trust their opinion. I tend to go with Belgians and English beers. I have yet to have a bad one. Eating: now that you're getting sauced (you randy scouse git), get some food in your belly (said with a Scottish accent). Eat these things. I repeat: eat these things and you're guaranteed to have a positive experience: 1.) Green Chile & Pork Chili. It may not be on the regular menu but it's been there each time I've been. It's phenomenal. It's also very spicy. Use the bread on the table as a sopping agent and eat it as a wet plate dish. This way, you won't have a belly full of hot, spicy broth... which can not and will not lead to good things after.; 2.) Scotch Egg. It all comes down to the sweet mustard, as the thought of egg-encrusted pork is still a little baffling. Tastes good, though; 3.) Kedgeree. It's a Scottish dish but get it any way. Smoked salmon, curry, rice = incredible. Thinking about it, the mix of smoked fish and curry makes sense within the context of Scotland but, admittedly, the idea through me for a loop.; 4.) Bubble & Squeak. Fight the temptation to believe that the names are all made up and just go with it. Browned potatoes with cabbage and other crunchy bits inside. You're not done. It's time for dessert. What? Eat. It's cold in England. People eat, wear sweaters and deal with pleasant plumpness. Except for Kate Moss. The selections vary but if either of these goodies are up for grabs, grab 'em both: trifle with berries, custard, sponge cake, cream, and (I think) some sort of booze sauce. Yes. Oh, yes. Aaaand, the Earl Grey Creme Brulee. If I need to say any more about this, we can't be friends. Can' t.be .friends. So there you have it. A sure-fire way to enjoy yourself at Blokes and Birds. Granted, you'll have a food baby to resemble the Octo-Mom but what do you care? Summer's over. It's time to enjoy yourself and eat rich food. Isn't that why we live in Lond... er, Chicago?
(4)Kara W.
I wish I would have been able to the try the food, as I have heard good things, but alas, they had run out of it at 3 pm on a Sunday by the time we arrived. (????????????????) My boyfriend and I went to go to Blokes and Birds on a Sunday afternoon for a late brunch. We checked ahead of time and saw that B&B serves brunch until 4. When we arrived (after a long bus ride), we went to the host's stand and were met by a completely unapologetic man (seemed more like an owner than a host) who told us that sorry, they were out of food. WHAT?? Literally, that's what he said. How is that even possible? So we asked to eat off of the dinner menu instead since they were OUT of brunch (not sure how that happens with such a large menu) and he replied that they were only serving drinks until dinner started at 5. His attitude and demeanor was terrible. He did not care in the slightest that he was angering his potential customers and he acted kind of uppity and, for lack of a better word, douchey, about it. We were shocked to say the least. No heartfelt apologies, no coupon or voucher to get us back in the restaurant at a later day. Nothing. He just turned us away hungry. It was the worst service I've had all year, bar none. PS This is my first Yelp review. Thanks for the encouragement, B&B!
(1)Andrea M.
Wonderful service. I work in the catering industry and was completely satisfied here. Great planning and nothing left to chance. I will recommend them to anyone that wants to have a fabulous time with great food and exceptional service.
(4)Jaclyn A.
Great bar. Cocktails take a while to make but they are well worth the wait. It's a nice respite from the other Wrigley bars.
(4)Claudia R.
The most surprising part of this experience was the fact that I called and asked how the bloody's were before dropping in. "We have some of the best in the city" said the voice at the end of the line. Conversely this was one of the worst bloody's I have ever had. The bacon-infused vodka didn't blend well with the lackluster bloody mix that tasted like a mix and the prosciutto garnish made my stomach turn. After asking a waitress (we couldn't get the attention of our waiter) to bring us some horseradish and tabasco to improve our drinks my brunch partner and I had to throw in the towel. We ordered a different drink and our waiter hardly apologized and offered to remove one of the untouched drinks from our tab - not both. Because of the terrible service on the part of our waiter and the worst bloody in the city I will be staying away from this joint.
(1)Fernando G.
Holy Crap! I can't believe this used to be a bar called SPOT 6.. for those of you who never experienced Spot 6, if you look in the Guinness Book of World Records for worst managed dive bar in the world, you would see a picture of Spot 6. They've completely gutted the place and it looks amazing! The wood paneling on the walls is a very classy touch. Again, if you didn't know what this place looked like before, you probably won't be as amazed as I am. Okay, on to the food review. On my first visit I ordered the Fish n Chips which I loved so much that I have yet to try something else here on the 2 visits afterwards. The Banana Bread Beer is simply delicious and moderately priced. This makes a great place to take a date if she's down to earth and low maintenance.
(5)Blake H.
i went on a whim right after work because i had gotten a coupon for it from someplace. while the food was good, the service was not. the whole process took over two hours which usually isn't an issue for me but when i am just trying out a new place real quick, that isn't what i want. i had the posh on becks, because i will always order the stuffed dates at a place. they were good but a little unremarkable. i also ordered the jullox which is their foie gras dish. it was also good but a little sweeter than i like. i also ordered the bubble and squeak, which i will never be able to say a bad thing about. i had one beer while i was eating and then a cocktail for desert. it was good but i probably won't be going back, which is a shame because it is so close to my house!
(3)Matt B.
Went here with a group for a birthday dinner and really enjoyed the drinks while we were waiting. Once we were seated, the waiter basically ruined our experience. Was extremely short with us and didn't enhance the experience whatsoever. The food and drinks were awesome. Also, no tv's so if you're trying to catch a game, keep that in mind.
(3)Sandie B.
Wow--so reasonably priced for such yummy food. On our server's suggestion, I had the Amish chicken, and substituted the roasted potatoes for some potatoes thing called bubbles and squeak. Yum! Plus a tasty side salad and great service--all for a mere $12. The cocktail list looked enticing, too, but we didn't indulge.
(4)Derek B.
5 stars for the drinks. I haven't tried a lot of the food. The atmosphere is quite nice, and the downstairs karaoke is a lot of fun.
(4)Kate W.
Blokes. Let me sum it up: The food is awesome. I've been there at least 8 times in the past 6 months and have never had a bad meal (or drink). The live music is fantastic (bonus - no cover). Constantly rotating, delicious drafts. Don't go in and order a Bud Light, that's just silliness. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Karaoke bar in the basement. After plenty of delicious food and drink upstairs, take the party to the lounge, it promises to be a good time for a group of friends! I cannot understand why this place doesn't have a 30 minute wait every night. Luckily for me there is usually a table or a couple of bar spots open
(5)Lisa V.
I had my wedding reception here 8/10/13 and it was great! My party was around 60 people and no one was disappointed. I had never been to Blokes and Birds before when scoping out reception venues, but I really liked the look of the place, specifically the downstairs lounge area. Kenny was patient and a very helpful "wedding planner" He seemed to anticipate what I needed when we were making plans and everything was carried out wonderfully. The bar and wait staff were professional and efficient while being friendly and fun. Tons of guests raved about the food (I didn't get to eat much) and trays were replenished and cleaned promptly. The DJ was awesome too. Worked wonderfully with our request of oldies/jazzy/lounge style music in the beginning and was great with requests and karaoke! I'd recommend having any kind of party here. My guests, both Chicagoans and out of towners were impressed with the space.
(5)Anna V.
I first went here a long time ago and still don't get it: how is this in Wrigleyville? I bet this moustache restaurant confuses the hell out of people during the weekend bro-crawl. Great beer list, really nice craft selection of stuff I've actually heard of. The interior space is great: minimal, rustic, sharp. Weirdly intimate... this is a nice place for a date, which is what I came here for. Remarkably uncrowded for a place that doesn't take reservations. The Thursday special is great: $15 gets you chips, a burger, and a craft beer of your choosing (and the burgers are very tasty). Mac n cheese is solid, as are the truffled mushrooms... earthy, delicious, textural. They have definitely added to this menu since the last time I was here and I'm really curious to try it again.
(4)Patty S.
Came here for a private event that took over their entire downstairs lounge area. I didn't know what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised when I walked it. You definitely don't feel like you're in Lakeview when you walk into the space. It's got rich wood paneling, dim lights, several tables areas for intimate conversations or group of 10. The whole space feels very classy and upscale with being overly stuffy. There is a large beer selection and the craft cocktails were delicious as well.
(4)BJ E.
This place is fun to visit as an out of towner. The drinks are delicious, the staff is super friendly, and the food is delicious. The bar has two levels. Downstairs is where you will often kind Karaoke or a comedy show. The next time I blow through Chicago, this place is definitely on my list!
(5)Belle L.
Prices close to $10. Good Enough Guy Portion. Dish and Ingredient sophistication in comfort food. JOSH HOP HASH ($11) -- a balanced dish. Josh's recommendation for scrambled eggs was perfect. I request a bit more Angus beef. I always hesitate when ketchup is introduced...but when you dip potatoes in ketchup - tasty! Edge into the hollandaise sauce. METROPOLIS COFFEE -- I am in heaven for $2 bottomless. Great presentation. SERVICE -- Patrick is informative upbeat with passion. VENUE -- clean, organized. Single stall Ladies Room has mouthwash and lotion to prep you for a make out session with a hottie. *wink*
(5)Gwen D.
Review for karaoke lounge only. If you're in the area, Blokes & Birds' karaoke lounge makes an irresistible option for a Friday or Saturday night! Although the DJ doesn't provide a song list, leaving patrons to think of songs from the top of mind, we were more than pleased that all our songs were available. He did seem to alternate between karaoke and standard numbers, which made the wait for the mic longer. Fun bartenders, if a little overworked, and a friendly crowd to boot. I'll be back as long as I'm nearby!
(4)Samantha V.
So, I came because yelp said there was karaoke! But wow this place is a little high brow for me. Not sure about upstairs, but downstairs, where the karaoke is, is very dimly lit yet elegant and I feel like I've walked into the super spacious living room of someone very well-to-do. Comfortable leather couches with sparse yet trendy furnishings and an intimate bar with very nice glassware. Everyone is dressed rather nicely, definitely not your jeans and t-shirt dive har karaoke! Staff seems very nice. Touch screen song selection with music videos on the screen is interesting and probably more entertaining for the audience but a little distracting to the singer.
(4)Ethan H.
Went here for dinner to try it out since we passed by it so often. First impressions were great, seemed like a cool place inside, seated right away at a cool table. Drinks were out in no time, and the old fashioned I got was really great - that's the only reason this is a 2 star instead of a 1. To be fair, we should've been warned by the kitschy cliche mustaches that adorned everything... Waitress took a long time to come and take our food orders, and mine came out wrong even though she had read it back correctly. Supposed to be a medium-cooked plain cheeseburger, came out well done and coated in some kind of gross mayo. I asked the person who brought it out for some ketchup to hide the taste since I couldn't scrape it off entirely, and he promised to get it right away - that was the last we ever saw of him. I waited for a while, as my girlfriend finished a third of her meal, and finally managed to wave down another server - for being only half full, it seemed like no one was really paying attention. The hostess was on her phone the entire time actually - how unprofessional is that! You come into the restaurant and she's leaning at the stand and visibly scrolling on Facebook or whatever, while I'm ten feet away and waving for service. Wow. I finally flagged someone down and demanded just one little bowl of ketchup already so I could eat, and our waitress brought it back, noticed the plate where I had scraped everything off because she got my order wrong, didn't seem to care, and walked away immediately. Ok... After all that, biting into it and finding out it was thoroughly well done wasn't so bad because I was pretty resigned to having a bad experience here anyway. The waitress never even seemed to care. Didn't even apologize or offer to correct it. Wouldn't have been a big deal if it was just, like, a tomato that I could pick off, but this gross mayo sauce was so soaked into the whole burger and bun that I couldn't even finish it. I left with a disgusting taste in my mouth and I'm never coming back. There are plenty of other options just steps away - don't waste your time with this lackluster place.
(2)Ryne I.
Pros: The food is great! Lots of options for brunch and lunch. It has a great atmosphere and vibe. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. Cons: Service is rough. I think it's a management issue, as the staff is hustling constantly, but organization is poor. Our group's food came out over the course of 5-10 minutes instead of all at once, drinks weren't refilled consistently, and we have our order taken for a long time. Servers have way too much to do and not enough support. They didn't get our orders correct in the kitchen. The server repeated them correctly, but food came out incorrect. The acoustic brunch thing. This is the big one. It's a really cool idea, in theory. In practice, it's too loud, no one likes it, and it's unnecessary. No one is coming here for this, and it's actually probably turning more people away than it's bringing in. If the set was shortened and the volume lowered significantly, the experience would be greatly improved and more enjoyable.
(2)Ken O.
Having seen this restaurant many times as I rode past it on the bus and having read reviews about this restaurant, I decided to try it.... finally. I had arrived about 5:00pm on a recent Saturday. I figure this place was going to be very busy or slow (since it was early). I walked in and the restaurant was empty. I was greeted by the hostess, who was very charming. She had seated me in the front by the large windows. The menu is very basic - a little bit of everything. Jon, server, had greeted me and went over the menu and specials. From all of the reviews, I knew that I was going to order the Fish 'n Chips. I didn't order any appetizers so I would have room for dessert at the end of the meal. The dining room has a very modern feeling to it with the wall to wall windows, wooden floors, exposed brick to the exposed ceiling beams and the wooden planks to cover some of the ceiling. The food runner brought the meal to me within a reasonable amount of time. The one piece to fish was place over the plate of fries. The filet was very meaty and flaky. The fries were very well seasoned with maybe with sea salt. Jon was check in periodically without being overbearing. Great server. After eating the one piece of fish and majority of the fries, I was done. No room for dessert. Jon did go over the desserts, but I just couldn't eat another bite. So if you are in the Wrigleyville area, check out this restaurant! I look forward to my next adventure to this restaurant.
(5)Kate U.
This is a great place to come to, sit at the bar and order dinner or lunch. This place has a classic bar feel to it and the bartenders really make you feel at home. We came in and they gave us a taste of their bourbon which was fabulous. I'm normally not a big bourbon person but it had a lot of flavor. I ended up sticking with beer though and tried the pumpkin ale. It has all of the flavors of pumpkin without losing that classic beer finish. To be honest coming in I wasn't expecting much of the food, but don't be mistaken this place has a great menu that doesn't consist of typical bar food. I had the lamb burger with sweet potato fries and it was out of this world good. The lamb was juicy and cooked perfectly. The sweet potato fries came out hot and they had tons of flavor! In summary, go here for a game and sit at the bar. You won't be disappointed. The drinks are good, the food is good, and the service is fantastic.
(4)E W.
Great atmosphere, good cocktails and good food. I know this sounds juvenile, but their mac and cheese is actually surprisingly good! Especially when the special is lobster mac! ((I have a shellfish allergy, so I have to live vicariously through manfriend on that one.)) Great fries. Good burgers. We have never gotten dessert here, because we are always way too full, but I want to try one next time! Great place for smaller groups. We had a hard time getting a comfy spot with more than 6. The food service is a little slow on a busy weekend night. Definitely recommend visiting during the week.
(4)Cristina P.
Every time I come here I have a fantastic time. The bartenders are cool. The food is so delicious. I ordered halibut and didn't expect much. God damn ! It was amazing. I loved the capers combined with the fish and mash potatoes. Just wow. Establishments take note, This is how you earn repeat customers! Its a blend between great servers, delicious food and drinks, and just overall great customer service.
(5)Kristi E.
First off - there is a check-in special. A nip of their house-infused bourbon...how can you pass this up? Our server brought a shot-glass full of the flavor of the month, which in July happened to be a combination of vanilla, granny smith apples, and spices. Delightful. You're off to a real good start, Blokes and Birds. On Sunday they serve brunch until 3, which is when most people decide is the most sensible time of day to actually roll out of bed for their weekly supply of biscuits and gravy. Luckily, I was on a little vaca in Chicago, so my better half made sure we got there by 2 :) The open-air style of seating is something that the Twin Cities could definitely take a few tips on from Chicago. The restaurant itself is all dark wood and the lighting is sparse, but with all the doors all open, the darkness felt cool, and more like a refuge from the scorching sun outside. I also enjoyed the fresh cucumber water they served in place of regular tap water, and the table settings were simple, and not fussy. Pair that with the soft reggae music from above, and the breezes from outside, I really felt relaxed and at ease inside the space. Errywhere I go for brunch, I look for eggs benny or biscuits and gravy. Meet their first cousin: spicy sausage gravy on top of thick biscuits, with a fried egg and dill sprigs, topped with 2 more large sausage links. My oh my, what a heavenly, meaty sensation. This was a brunch special, so I am not sure if you would find it on the regular menu. The only thing I didn't get, was that it was advertised as reflecting English-pub culture. I really didn't catch on to any of that - like at all. I think if I was coming to experience that aspect, I would have been disappointed. But lucky for me, I was greedy for brunch, and blinded by gravy.
(4)Angie M.
It wasn't totally offensive, which I consider a good thing considering: 1. I'm 35-years-old 2. This bar is in Wrigleyville So here we are. Blokes & Birds is kind of that medium between dive and really upscale bar. They have lots of high tables, seating and a more than decent menu. They also have a dude with a guitar signing which got really loud, really annoying and really lame after awhile. Prices are on the higher end, too, but nothing crazy. $10 for an old fashioned. A decent selection of craft beers. Some specialty cocktails if that's your thing. Coors Light if you're not feeling fancy. I liked the big open space. I didn't like the single ladies bathroom. WTF. We need more than one toilet, yo. So... medium?
(3)Kyle D.
Overall: Good bar atmosphere with a 'classier' feel, especially for the area. Good food and beer list. A solid option when it comes to bars and food in Wrigley. The Good: Good food at decent prices. Some unique options, especially for a bar. Definitely higher class but the prices are great. Plus, free shot when you check in! Decent atmosphere. The bad: Louder music, the live singer wasn't that good. The food portions are smaller. I left wanting more. The waitress was so-so. They didn't even have the Hawks game audio on. Atmosphere: 7.5 Service: 7/10 Food: 7.5/10
(4)Hannah C.
Beware: this spot apparently charges $2 on top of menu price for "neat" spirits. This was nowhere on the menu and I honestly can't fathom why on earth they charge more for the privilege of not having ice cubes. We were really peeved that they decide to up-charge our relatively large bill for no apparent reason. The food menu (at least on NYE) left something to be desired. The cocktails were good and they have an impressive scotch collection - this is a great place to bring the whiskey addict in your life for drinks (with the caveat mentioned above). The burger was woefully under-flavored and "medium well" still bled when I cut into it. They make a variety of amazing aoilis that they don't use in cooking - you can just order them on the side. Service was slow - so much so that the bartender eventually brought us our drinks after noting we were staring at them up on the bar since our waiter hadn't bothered to come pick them up. Overall, not a bad spot for a drink, but there are better bars in the area.
(2)Jamar T.
Love this place. Way more upscale in design than the places a little farther north on Clark and way less duchy as well. They recently updated the lower level which features many seating sections for groups of people. They also have karaoke on Friday nights! The staff and bartenders are all really cool. They even make their own house infused vodka! The craft cocktails all look really good. I would definitely recommend The Statesider. I can't wait to go back and try the food too! Overall it's a really chill bar that would be great to hang out with a group of friends down in the lower lever or even a date with dimly lit intimate setting of the main floor
(4)Linh L.
Service has always been outstanding, more than I would expect, and never less than perfect. Went here the other night and my first timer friends loved it here. Definitely check out their desserts (my friend said it was the best cookie he ever had which was a la mode) and house infused bourbon. They have great beer and alcohol selection. Dinner and drinks here with friends could make you stay here for HOURS. We were there from 7:30pm to 2:30am. Never had their pork chop and the Amish chicken but my friends raved about them. I'll have to try it next time. The only reason why I'm taking off one star though... Is because there's no steak on the menu.
(4)Karolina T.
Came here prior to heading to a concert at the Vic. The place is really nice inside but I was less than impressed with the service. Our waiter seemed nice and the appetizer came out quickly; however, we waited over 30 minutes for our entrees to come out, even though they weren't anything that should have taken that long and the place was only half full. During our wait for our food, our waiter was no where to be seen. When the food finally came out, they messed up some of the order and it wasn't warm. My bf got the fish and chips which he thought was okay. I ordered the gnocchi primavera which was completely flavorless and bland. My friend on the other hand thought her pork rib sandwich was decent. Least to say, I will not be back.
(2)Ben B.
For drinks? Yes. 100%. They have good cocktails. Often takes a bit of time to get them, but they're tasty. For food? Forget it. We went with a group of 12 to Blokes & Birds before the Billy Joel concert at Wrigley. We had a reservation. When we showed up, there were just two menus on the table. After sharing menus, we ordered our drinks and appetizers. Some people had to reiterate their drink orders, since our server seemed to have forgotten them. When the apps showed up, they didn't bring silverware or plates, so we initially made due with the few place-settings that were on the table to begin with. Our entrees took nearly an hour to arrive. And when they did, we still had a severe shortage of napkins and silverware. I had to walk over to the place where all that was stacked and ask an employee to hook us up. Many entrees came out prepared incorrectly. My fries were overcooked and flavorless. I've been to Blokes & Birds several times and I generally enjoy it. But on a night when you know you're going to get slammed and when a 12-top submits a credit card number to hold a reservation, maybe consider things like having enough silverware, plates and menus for each customer to have one. That seems like what they teach you on day one of Restaurant School. If you plan on eating here before an event at Wrigley, budget at least two and a half hours so you can compensate for their slow-ass service.
(3)Catherine N.
I was really excited to try this place and I brought a few friends to hang out with but what a disappointment! It was a Friday night and to be safe, I made reservations, but apparently.. none were needed.. this place was not even close to packed. That should have been a giveaway. BUT, we were like... must just be too early. Here's the run down: Food - okay. I've experienced better with better service. The Scotch Egg was good, but they could have given you what kind of sausage it was. One of my friends couldn't even try it because we weren't sure if it was beef or pork. The Chicken Tikka was BLAND. DO NOT GET THIS. When I order indian food... I expect a nice blend of spices and flavor. This did not suffice. The Chelsea Fish and Chips was not really an entree. They gave such a tiny portion (one piece of fish) it should have been considered an appetizer. The best thing was the Pork-Rib Sandwich, but meat covered in bbq sauce? How can you go wrong? Also, the menu said that the Pork-Rib came with an "asian" bbq sauce.. it didn't taste like asian.. it tasted like your normal run of the mill bbq sauce. Drinks - I liked the British Cup... that was it. Oh, they also give you zucchini water.. it's a hit or miss with some people. Service - AWFUL. I know our waiter tried to be super nice but he came off really weird. I felt like he was sneaking up on me and I never saw him coming. The guy who served our food was TERRIBLE. So here's the thing... when you serve someone their food.. you try NOT to let it slide off the plate into their lap and have them catch the food as it's falling. If that happens.. you also try to APOLOGIZE. Nope.. No apologies.. just a look like, "yea you're SUPPOSE to catch your food". Ridiculous. I never wanted to leave more in my life. Why this place has so many stars? I have no idea.. but I wouldn't recommend it.
(2)Margaret H.
I came here tonight for dinner and really liked the decor and ambience. Doesn't have a 'gastropub' feel, in my opinion. For the food, we had the bacon infused mussels and the truffle risotto. We enjoyed both. The mussels were very flavorful and served with bread for dipping in the sauce. The truffle risotto was creamy, but not overwhelmingly so either. I would recommend pairing it with another dish, as it's not quite an entree on its own. In fact, I'm still hungry... The server was kind, but it took quite some time for our entree to come out, after we finished our starter. Our meal took almost 2 hours for two dishes and a nearly empty restaurant. My only recommendation would be to update your online menu. I came here with a fellow foodie and we saw several dishes missing and replaced with simpler dishes, that we were considering. Overall, great food and decor. I would recommend it to a friend!
(4)Hollina U.
Check in here to get a free "nip of house infusion!" I ordered a Summer Breeze here, which really did taste like summer. It's one of those well-concocted cocktails that puts a smile on your face with the first sip. I really like the decor of this place, so classy in an area so close to Wrigleyville. You won't find the bros that run all over Wrigley here in Blokes and Birds. There's also a downstairs, that someone told me has karaoke, but I didn't have a chance to check it out. Next time!
(4)Arlene G.
went here a few weeks ago with the homies & enjoyed ourselves. the food was not really outstanding to me nor did they have the type of liquor i like but i really like the karaoke area downstairs, hence the 3 stars. they didnt even have the food item that 1 of my friends ordered so she was disappointed bout that. i tried their drinks from their menu but not impressed. i just wanted flavored ciroc or effen and they didnt have either!! wtf!??!?! i really like when restaurants have the open windows so that u can still feel like ur outside even though ur inside but sometimes the people walkin around can be rude & intrusive towards the people eatin. overall id go back for the entertainment downstairs but not for their food or drink selection.
(3)Rudy C.
I absolutely loved this place. Probably my new favorite brunch spot in Chicago. $13 bottomless mimosas and so much amazing food--you must try the blokes breakfast. Anything you order is flawless! Nicole was my server and she was outstanding--my definition of outstanding is going above and beyond. She kept the drinks filled and made sure I was comfortable. I'll be back for sure!
(5)Enrique R.
Went here to start our groups TBox experience last year and the service was great and beer kept flowing! easy place to get to and find bc of its unique name.
(4)Alexandria T.
I went on a double date to Blokes & Birds this past Saturday night. I wanted to go to Owen and Engine, but they have recently blown up and couldn't take reservations, so we settled on this other gastropub. We were able to make a reservation for 8:15pm. We arrived a little early and the place was almost full, but they don't have that many tables. We were seated right away and left to wait for the other couple. What I mean by left is left to sit for 15 minutes before our server even came over to take our drink order. And then left to sit for another 15 minutes before he came to finally take our food order. He was very attentive with the other tables around us, but he kind of seemed to be ignoring our table. I got tired of waiting, and my boyfriend had to do an airport pickup after dinner, so I finally just told him we were ready to take our order as he hurried past our table. We wanted to order everything together, but he just took our appetizer order and then told us he'd be back. His rationale was that we ordered a baked cheese that would take a long time. I wish we had ordered it within ten minutes of sitting down, but it was too late for that. We braced ourselves to see if he actually would return, but he did within a few minutes to take our food order. We started off with the baked brie, which actually comes baked in an apple. It wasn't anything substantial or flavorful, and I would probably skip it. When our appetizer was brought, I asked about the Yelp offer, which was for a nip of the house infusion. The house infusion is an infused bourbon which they change monthly. The one had an almost minty flavor. And he brought a nap, small taste, over for everyone at our table. At that point, our service had improved greatly, but I was still a little annoyed about having to sit for so long without ordering. I had the fish and chips as my entree. It came with four sauces for dipping which was nice. One of them was the pea puree and another a malt vinegar aioli that was really tasty. The fish was very flavorful and the chips tasted really fresh and delicious. Everyone else said their food was really good, which redeemed the experience.
(3)Jill D.
Great place for a private party. They have a big space downstairs from the restaurant with a large bar, monitors, and best of all - a karaoke set-up on stage! Great staff and great beer list, and amazingly delicious food menu! Even though it's a hike from West Loop, I will be back! MUST TRY: Their signature cherry-infused Bourbon! It's outstanding.
(5)Alex J.
A classy establishment with mustaches and a basement popping with events worth your while. Whether it's live music, comedy shows, or karaoke - don't mind me passionately belting out tunes from my childhood after ingesting Blokes' hearty grub - you're in for a treat. Shoot for their pulled pork or beef sandwiches, or their mushroom ragu. My only complaint is that service has been somewhat slow on a couple of occasions, but I wasn't in the biggest rush, either, so it didn't ruin my experience. The staff is actually really personable and helpful, also boosting the review.
(4)James R.
Really like this place! We were looking for an evening of drinks and comfort food and this place fit the bill! The wife ordered the British cup cocktail and I the Blackcurrant cider. Both delicious! For starters, the Bacon dates (sorry, forgot the fancy name they gave them!), were great. The sliders and burger that followed were equally delicious and very filling. I was surprised the place was pretty quiet, considering it's a spacious and stylish venue for a Friday evening- the snow/ice on the ground could be a factor. The only thing I might do to make it better is to incorporate more enticing dishes onto the menu, instead of just the burgers, sandwiches, pub staples etc. Perhaps also a few more dessert options. However, don't let that take away from the great experience we had. Next time, we may even check out their karaoke lounge!
(4)Casey A.
Went for drinks last evening (not having been back since prior review 2 yrs ago) around 7:30/8pm and was really pleasantly surprised by their revamped drink list (including wine). The bartenders are some of the best - attentive but laid back; friendly but not oversharing their life story. We couldn't stay for dinner due to other plans made, but as a few of the items went by I would have loved to cancel them and stay!
(5)Joshua C.
Stopped in here because from the outside it got my attention, but when I went inside I was impressed. I stopped in for a drink and wind up having another, plus a shot. The bartender was real cool and well informed about the beer selections. Looked over the menu and my mouth was watering at what they had on it. I will be back and they also have Karaoke so that can be a fun night out on the weekend.
(4)Jen K.
It's a short review because I haven't had the opportunity to eat here but I have been a few times for drinks. I love the atmosphere. It's clean and upscale and most of the bartenders are rocking some sick staches. They are very nice and skilled. I have tried a few of their specialty cocktails and they always do the trick. I really need to head back at some point for the food, but I can definitely say it's a great cocktails place.
(4)Danica W.
LOVE this place so much that I'm writing my first Yelp review! From the waitstaff to the bartenders, appetizers and drinks to entrees, the entire experience at Blokes is a treat. We started out with bacon-wrapped dates and mushroom ragu. I would have been fine just ordering that again for my meal, but we ended up going with Fish and Chips, Amish Chicken and a gnocchi dish. The fish was huge and the only part of our meal that we didn't polish off 100%. Chicken was hands down the BEST I've ever had- juicy and full of flavor. Gnocchi was a great vegetarian option- creamy and cheesy but not too overwhelming. Paired with a few of their specialty cocktails (personal favorite was one with gin, lemon, pear and cucumber), this was the perfect start to our night. Blokes is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Wrigleyville.
(5)Saro O.
For a little kareoke someone suggested this spot, which I had never heard of even though it's on the every changing strip of Clark between Belmont and Newport. It's dark and woody ~ Not sure about being british or a gastropub but it was a nice interior. We went first to check it out and had a great dining experience. My husband had the fish & chips and I had the blackened catfish on a bed of enchiladas. It tasted very good and I found it unique. It is loud upstairs and it is hit & miss as far as getting someone's attention, but everyone we encountered was friendly. We then set a reservation for kareoke the next Friday and everyone had an amazing time! The lounge is intimate and the KJ was funny and friendly. The bar staff downstairs doesn't have everything that upstairs does (and it can be an intimidating selection) but they had no problem sending a server up for drinks or food from upstairs. I couldn't have asked for a better time with friends and if anyone asks I will certainly recommend them for a fun time with friends, good food, and an interesting array of drinks to try.
(4)LaKia W.
Awesome!!!! I had a wonderful time. The sliders were delicious. The spicy chicken wings were wonderful. The karaoke space was wonderful. My only complaint was karaoke selection was not was as vast as I was told. The DJ was filling in for the regular DJ. So, my party kept asking for artists and was told that he couldn't find the song. We asked whether he could download the requested song. But, he said that he was filling in and didn't know how. They didn't have Proud Mary by Ike and Tina Turner???Also, he seemed to have lost control over the stage at times which could be attributed to lack of experience. Overall, we had a great time!!!
(4)Derrick N.
Wonderful atmosphere, the live music was amazing! Although there were some aspects of the restaurant that didn't fulfill my expectations. Mind you we were the FIRST to arrive and the only ones in the restaurant for 10 minutes. The service took longer than expected, there were 3 of our waters that had particles in them, it took about 30 minutes to get one pint of beer, and the food took about 45 minutes to receive. This needs improvement!
(2)Elizabeth S.
Well-rounded: interesting bar selection with quality food, great service, and an awesome, throwback-friendly playlist. Had a great time last night, trying this place for the first time. We appreciated the unique beer selection. (I can't believe Well's Banana Bread actually tastes like liquid banana bread!) And our food was on par for an adventurous foodie - yet completely accessible for a "meat & potatoes" eater, too. The ambiance works really well for the area. The playlist was fun with a lot of old school tracks - it's practically impossible to have a bad time when Ace of Base comes on. And the decor was well-kept for a place that seems to get very busy and lively with Wrigleyville/Lakeview "party traffic." Good drinks: check. Good food: check. Atmosphere: check... So lastly, the service: AMAZING. Raul was incredibly thoughtful, personable and knowledgeable. He's the main reason I'll be back and recommending this spot to friends in the area. (Thanks again, Raul!)
(5)Kate K.
Haven't been here, but ordered takeout from Blokes & Birds... Delivery was quick, guy was friendly. Food was DELISHIS! Best burger I've had in Chicago, ever. Hands down. That is all.
(5)Curtis H.
A group of about 8 of us visited for this year's Easter brunch and were surprised to find the place not that busy. That being said we were all pleasantly surprised with the delicious food. Not a person was disappointed with their selection, and my vegetarian omelet was nicely prepared and delicious. The accompanying breakfast potatoes and fruit cup made for a perfectly satisfying meal. Prices and service were also great. My only complaint is that they don't offer a bottomless mimosa. If that were an option this place would be a mainstay on our brunch rotation.
(4)Van N.
The ambiance was amazing but the service was terrible. Just went there with a few friends to grab some drinks and it took them a whole hour to get us what we ordered.
(2)Zachary A.
I was here on a Saturday night and really enjoyed the vibe / atmosphere. The food selection seemed pretty good, but I zoned right in on the lamb burger. I was mostly pleased with it, but I thought they could've seasoned the lamb a little better, as it was a littly gamey tasting (typical of lamb anyway). The fries were so good. They tasted fresh and very few places make "homemade" fries like that. The beer selection was also tasty and I'm a big fan of any place that carries Brooklyn Brewery selections. The service was also really good and the server did a great job of being nice and keeping up when the restaurant was clearly quite busy. I'll definitely be back some time!
(4)Kris R.
this place is probably the gem in wrigleyville. seems like it doesn't belong, but i believe it brings charm to the area, which exists of old crappy college bars. a classy joint. to celebrate my good friend's first night of being a citizen of the city of chicago, we walked over to blokes & birds. super cool, wood everywhere (thats what she said), and a kick-ass mustache to welcome you. i was expecting it to be more of a bar scene than a restaurant scene, so i was pleasantly surprised when we walked in around 930p and were seated at a table in front. i was ready to get my drank on and asked which craft cocktail he recommended - the b-cup. i asked if they had a d-cup, since that's what i possess. he laughed uncomfortably and replied with, "well, it'd come in a pint glass." clever. my friend asked for recommendations on a lighter beer - i think he came up with one of the saison belgian beers. it was pretty damn good. the b-cup was average. ha. i ended up ordering the queen's jublilee, which was more up my alley. we ate light and ordered the lemon mussels and the bacon wrapped dates. both were delicious. we ordered more bread to sop up all that mussel juice. fantastico. also, when i checked in, we were entitled the house infusion - i think whiskey or bourbon of some sort - one peach and one pineapple. awesome - but that threw me overboard bc i woke up with a crazy hangover. the server was the shit. took care of us well. i'd definitely come back since i'll be up in the wrigs more often this summer!
(4)Sandy N.
Blokes and Birds has some very strong points going for it. It fills a very small niche of good food AND good beer selection AND good ambiance. Most English or Irish pub food is pretty boring, and doesn't go very far beyond bangers and mash. I was really happy with the creativity of the food here. We went here yesterday during the whole crazy NU-UIUC mayhem and stepped into very chill, non-crazy Blokes and Birds. It's not a huge space, but they did a good job with the layout of the tables. You can sit down and eat at a +-shaped table, which can accommodate up to four 2-4 person groups, which is really much better than a whole bunch of tiny tables meant for 2 people each that really take up space when the bar is full. It's got a really nice mellow pub-like feel, but also classy (not dive-y). The food was great, and the beer selection was huge. We had the: baked mac and cheese - good flavor, a little runny (i like my cheese sauce nice and thick, but bf liked that it wasn't thick) bubble and squeak, which is made of whipped potatoes and some vegetables and fried into a croquette-like thing (not exactly, but sort of) curried cauliflower with caramel apples - very creative, and nice pairing of the curry with caramel lobster-stuffed deviled eggs with tobikko caviar - good, but tiny! basically a huge amount of money for 2 fancy eggs creme brulee - not bad, but nothing special i had the b-cup cocktail which was tasty, and bf had 2 pints of the Abbey Ale, which I also liked. Our server was really great too. It really seemed like she cared that we had a good time, and she came by at regular intervals to check up on us. Overall, I really like Blokes and Birds. Considering how close it is to my apartment, I might just give up Rockit for awhile until they vamp up their menu (where food choices have severely declined.. truffle fries just don't make the cut for dinner) and patronize Blokes and Birds instead. The food is really creative while still giving those comfort food options that you really want at a pub. Prices weren't too unreasonable either, and I will definitely be back to try other menu items.
(4)Anna P.
We're gonna do cheers and jeers for this one, in the grand ole English tradition... Cheers: - I lived in London for a year and have traveled all around the UK, and can say with confidence that this is a more genuine British pub than many of the tourist traps in London ;-) - Clean, well-appointed, stylish space that wasn't crowded at all and seemed much further from Wrigleyville than it is (that's definitely a good thing) - Service was really friendly and nice - Definitely a very good beer, wine and cocktail list. Well-priced too! - The menu is interesting and has some of the traditional British pub fare as well as some more innovative dishes, so there is something for everyone. - Food was solid: we had the scotch egg, burger, salmon and french fries and everything was very tasty. Jeers: - I don't know if it's a "jeer", per se, but more just that this place didn't blow me away. Everything was good and we had a really nice experience, but I didn't leave aching to go back immediately. Balance Sheet: The total is probably actually 3.5 stars, inching towards 4...I'd definitely give it another try.
(3)Kelly W.
I came here with a large group and was pleasantly surprised by how attentive the service was, especially for a Saturday night. Our waitress was really great and patient as we waited for our group to trickle in and then as we payed with about 5 CCs and the rest cash. They have a pretty good cocktail list. I tried the Churchill Downs.. aka a fancier margarita as well as a traditional Pimm's Cup (yumz). And of course, we got a sampling of the house whiskey. Wowza. Foodwise, I would give this place 3.5 stars. Some great appetizesr and side options (I would have tried more but they were sort of on the expensive side). I was pleased with the Amish Chicken but, for a sandwich, it was difficult to eat. But definitely get the chips and add the curry sauce... you won't be disappointed. Oh and the desserts for our friend's bday (earl grey creme brulee and a decadent chocolate cake) were delicious and a wonderful surprise to end the meal! This truly is a breath of fresh air in Wrigleyville.
(4)Young S.
Exceptional food & service ! Several tasty appetizers (yummy blood sausage & veggies curry) & the waitress was so great. Their beer selection is spot on, but the cocktails (Churchill downs) were what we were in the mood for. My girlfriends & I enjoyed the atmosphere & certainly the owner Dale was awesome .
(5)Kimberly R.
Extensive beer list, wonderful service, knowledgeable staff, delicious fries with featured aioli (one was basil, the other, bacon)! Very comfortable, warm atmosphere with some bar seats and some booth-type seating both upstairs and downstairs. We sat downstairs where it seemed like most patrons were happily enjoying items from the exotic beer and cocktail list. The upstairs area was mostly restaurant. It was helpful to separate the Happy Hour crowd from the dinner crowd! I highly recommend this place.
(5)Jenn H.
Let's face it: A restaurant should never be centered around English food, especially when it's just trying to cash in on the whole "we're not a sports bar but we're in Wrigleyville" theme. The Highs: 1. Friendly service, just a little new and un-informed 2. Extensive beer list -- but why do the beers after the letter "S" have to be on the back of the drink menu? Poor beers. Revised formatting could serve this beer list well. 3. Cross table: I hate sitting across from my boyfriend at a table so sitting cornered off from him was much more cozy 4. Break from the norm: the atmosphere is pretty cool and is a nice respite from Cubs memorabilia 5. Ladies room is on the main floor, men's room is downstairs. Kind of a nice touch especially when you're in heels! (Note from my boyfriend reading this: I was NOT in heels on this particular night) The Lows: 1. The food: Over-priced, under-whelming, under-portioned. The cheese plate is $15 and I'm pretty sure it was picked up from Jewel earlier that day. Lobster risotto: Well-prepared, just not that good. Everything else was basically English themed, and as we've learned from Jim Gaffigan: English food is gross. 2. Wine List: Horrible. Insulting! With a beer and cocktail list as extensive as theirs, how can they justify this? 3. Music: All English musicians. I get it, the theme, blah blah, but....the mix was a little off. 4. Only 1 viewable television....playing Monty Python. I love MP just as much as the next person, but on a silent loop in a bar? No. The friendly staff is just not enough to get this place above 2 stars: A re-vamped menu and tone-down English-ness will serve this place well. Wanna-be scenesters, or 20-something's who don't know any better: Enjoy!
(2)Chris S.
First and foremost, the service here is great. From the hostess who remembered us after we had been there only two other times, to the bartenders who are eager to talk discuss their extensive beer lists, to the rest of the staff who would rather walk you to the restroom than just point in a general direction, service is important to the staff at Blokes and Birds and appreciated by the patrons. Beer (did I mention the extensive list?) is king here, and it comes in bottles, on tap, and if you're lucky, barrel-aged. Beyond the beer, there is a big bar full of glorious scotch and bourbon. The food is hearty, English fare, with a killer shepherd's pie, great chips, and plenty of other starch heavy items to keep one warm through a long Chicago winter. The space is wide open, with tables in the front, and a bar in the rear of a dimly lit, wood and tile covered room. Not upscale, but definitely a step above totally casual. A great addition to the neighborhood, and worth returning to again and again.
(4)Sarah H.
I had a great experience here! It was a perfect spot for having a chill evening with friends. the beer selection was great and fairly priced. the bar tender was super amazing. My sober friend declared him "the best bartender he ever had" - as the bar tender regularly kept his water fill and the free refills coming.
(5)Maria M.
We should've know when we walked in to the bar at 12pm on Sunday with only two tables sat and the waitress/hostess greets us with a stone face and says 'um, do you have a reservation?'. It was dead. Reservation? My bro's drink arrived late and my Mom's never did. I ordered the $4 fresh-squeezed OJ and it tasted like regular OJ. I asked her if it was fresh-squeeze and she said 'yeah, it was. but it wasn't squeezed here'. What does that mean? That doesn't sound fresh. If it is juice from behind the bar, that's cool, just don't claim it was fresh squeezed. Weird. My husband's blt was great and the rest of the food was pretty good, but the bizarre shitty service was unreal. When she charged for my Mom's drink that didn't arrive, we asked it to be removed. Waitress returned with our bill and a 20% service charge for 5 people and the shittiest service. I've been a waitress for years at all kinds of places (wrigleyville, fancy Italian, Mexican family owned, TGIFriday's) and this service was bottom of the barrel. There are too many places in Wrigleyville where service is good and food is better.
(1)Trisha S.
I joined yelp just to review this place. And though there have been several I've thought worth reviewing, and though I've used yelp 100+ times over the years, B&B deserves my time. A note to the owners: 1. Thanks for opening a day to night establishment in the neighborhood. Wrigleyville needed a fun place for the sophisticated palette (I'm talking taste in food, drink, and ambiance). 2. The slightly higher prices (or competitive pricing compared to some of your worthy neighborhood competitors like Deleece and Mia Francesca) are well worth it (except for on the lackluster martinis in my experience). The pork tenderloin: the best in Chicago. Perfectly done. Perfect to taste. With a mango chutney on a bed of deliciously put together mashed potatoes. I pray to God you're consistent on this one. I don't know how I'll ever order anything else now. The truffle forest mushrooms app is a nice change from truffle everything else on the food scene. But your truffle mac 'n cheese is the best I've had yet - ever. While the Scotch eggs are novel, I'll probably try other, tastier apps instead. 3. The complimentary cinnamon, etc., infused bourbon is OK, but what makes it great is that a) it's yours and b) you are gracious enough to give a drinking, eating, paying customer (and probably some who aren't) a sample. It's such a signature move and a neighborly thing to do. Kind of like what Cesars does down the street with their house tequila shots except for yours is actually the "good stuff". 4. It's that pride and integrity that is evident...from the food and specialty drink (see #2 and #3) to the soundtrack to our dinner (Depeche Mode, The Cure etc.) to the CC movies playing (e.g., Monty Python & The Holy Grail) to the personal "hello, is everything OK". I figured after the first week of greeting customers by pouring our water and sitting down with us for a drink after our meals, you'd be done with working on the ground floor. I am happy to see that you're still involved at the "all in" level. 5. I've brought several out of town and locals to B&B and they have all been pleased. From foodies to clubbers (which this is not) to low-key bar goers in their 20s and 30s we've enjoyed your scene on each occasion. So in the most simple of words: Thanks for being a great Chicago restaurant and bar. Not many (including The Gage) have done both as well as you have.
(4)Phil X.
Came here with the intention of grabbing food and a couple brews with friends. Unfortunately, the kitchen was already closed. I wished the kitchen hours were posted on the website. I even called to ask them but nobody answered the phone. Blokes & Birds redeemed themselves with excellent service. They have a good beer selection. Bonus points for carrying my faves from Founder's and Bell's! Our waiter was very knowledgeable on beer. He knew what drinks to suggest based on what we stated we liked. My friends and I definitely had a good time just hanging out here chatting and drinking. There is plenty of space here and it is good for large groups. I will definitely be back here. ***There's a downstairs w/ pool tables***
(4)Tom R.
Amazingly cool interior and the bar really sets this place apart. Very reasonably prices craft beers ($5 for many) and awesome selection of specialty drinks ($10). Service was a bit spotty throughout the entire meal. Food was great, too. Started with a Scotch egg and the lemon caper and brown butter mussels. The mussels were outstanding and thankfully they provide you with a few slices of sourdough toast to soak up the buttery goodness at the bottom of the bowl. I had the pork tenderloin which was very tasty even though it was a tiny bit dry. My girlfriend ordered the Amish chicken which absolutely blew me away. Will definitely be ordering that nest time I go back.
(4)Clif P.
My fiance and I went here with our parents. Downstairs is very dim-lit, fairly quiet dining. It was great for our group. The food was unique, but also very tasty. It is very moderately & competitively priced. I recommend Blokes and Birds.
(4)Mihir P.
I was really looking forward to checking this barroom out. As a person who has aged 5 years in 5 months, this was ideal for me in the Wrigley area. I liked the mellow atmosphere with the minimal, woody yet dignified interior. Sadly the service was overly mellow as well. There were maybe 10 people in the venue - 5 being my posse. I waited for a drink showing my $$. The bartender kept walking by me back and forth but never stopped. I have no idea what he was doing. I think he may have been new and was being trained. At that point I expect the trainer to acknowledge my presence or instruct the trainee to do so. What was I thinking??? The trainer, that is if he was in fact the trainer, finally came up to me after about 10 minutes. Not friendly but there..Made the drinks with a minimal exchange of words. At least the drinks were unique and strong.
(2)Jonathan C.
Only excellent brews on draft, top shelf liquor, friendly staff, not your typical "Wrigley bar" at all and I'm grateful for that. It is also not a typical Wrigley crowd by any means. The food is quite excellent as well, come in on Tuesdays and have all you can eat fish and chips for $12. They also have brunch on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Ask for Chris, the best bartender in this city, he will make you a drink you are guaranteed to like just by saying "surprise me". There are two floors, the bottom one has a pool table. If you want a chill time with your friends, this is the place to be.
(5)Mike M.
Blokes & Birds seems a bit out of place in Wrigleyville and that couldn't make me happier. In Chicago's equivalent to the Jersey Shore on a weekend night, the owners of this gastropub were brave enough to shun the fizzy yellow beer pedalled to the masses elsewhere on Clark and instead have pulled together a diverse draft and bottle list that pays homage to English, Belgian, and American craft brewers. Also, B&B is one of the few establishments to feature hand-pulled cask beer earning extra points in my book. The menu is an elevated take on traditional, hearty English pub fare in an ever crowding genre of gastropubs sprouting up with ampersands across the city. The sheppard's pie I ordered includes 14hr stout braised lamb which when encased in mashed potato was comforting on a cold winter night. A friend who had lived in the UK was elated to see bubble and squeak on the menu. Tip of the hat to the manager who realized the kitchen was taking a bit too long and brought our table a consolation dram of infused bourbon for the table The quintessential neighborhood gastropub
(4)Hayley R.
LOVED the atmosphere, music, drink list, menu, pricing and friendly service--so why only 3 stars? Our group of 7 had issues with the service (long wait time and incorrect orders) We put in our name at 7 on a Saturday night and finally ordered dinner after 10pm. The issues we had would probably not happen on a less busy night, so I suggest checking it out on a weekday--SALUD!
(3)Shannon R.
We (party of 2) went here on a Friday around 8pm for dinner and drinks. It wasn't a special occasion, but the atmosphere was absolutely perfect. I love how the tables are set up. A few in the center downstairs are connected to give a communal yet intimate feel. They have an incredible beer selection and various specials daily. I had the beet salad that was to die for. It honestly may have been one of the best salads I've ever had. I also tried the skullsplitter beer and loved it. The waitress was pretty knowledgeable. I wasn't in love with the area it was in, but walking inside felt like you were in a different part of town. There was also live music that wasn't too loud, but set a good mood. Loved it!
(4)Julie Z.
Great for drinks and good beer. I also had dinner here. I was actually pretty impressed with the food but it is quite loud to eat there b/c people are mostly there to drink and chat. Bartenders are nice and give you samples of the beer which helps making a choice easier particularly if they don't carry your favorite. Good for larger groups.
(3)Cassie L.
The beer list is amazing, I had a banana nut beer, a sour ale, and two others that I wish I could remembera little better...Morimoto something and another brewed by Stone that had to do with self-righteousness.. Don't judge, this was a spontaneous, post-bears game stop.... The bartender was knowledgeable about all of the beers and let us sample some of the drafts we were contemplating. The infused bourbon was killer. Casual atmosphere, lowkey, and trendy but not so fancy and affected that we felt we were disrupting other clientel with our high abv beer induced drunkenness.
(4)Scott C.
So our friends suggested Blokes and Birds saying that it was "gourmet English food" - which sounded like an oxymoron but needless to say we were pleasantly surprised. The place is very trendy and well done - it beats the typical sports bars that line Clark street near Wrigley Field. The staff was friendly and helpful - although they were introducing a new menu and it seemed like the first items we ordered that night were not available. Bummer - but it did work out for us. First of all - the beer list here seriously rocks! It's a fantastic selection - including Tripel Karmeliet on tap! They offer samples of their tap beer so you don't have to sink a couple of bucks on a beer that you may not like. I can't wait to go back and try more selections. Now to the food. It's pretty good - I was pleasantly surprised with a big tip of my cap to their curry sauce which is fantastic - especially with fries. For our meal we ordered several appetizers - shrimp/prawns in the curry sauce, bacon wrapped dates, mussels, and bacon wrapped scallops. All of which were tasty - with good usage of spices and curry sauce. Our friends ate the venison and a pub burger - both were happy with their meals with a thumbs up for the venison. Definitely check this place out for the beer list and appetizers - both are excellent!
(4)Terris A.
My BF and I went there for the Gilt City promotion- brunch for two, included two coffees and two cocktails- GREAT deal. The waitress was super friendly and made sure we understood what was covered by our coupon and what would be a small extra price. My BF got his prime rib and from a vegetarian's point of view (mine) this thing looked way undercooked but from his, he thought it was slightly undercooked. :) My good was okay, not great. However the Bloody Mary was REALLY good and I wish now that I got another one.... Definitely a fan.
(4)Amanda R.
This is a great place that doesn't seem like it belongs in Wrigleyville. The ambience is great, candle lit with a little bit of music playing over the speakers but not too loud where you can't hear your converstaion. I like the fact that downstairs has little booths like a night club/bottle service area but its not that pretencious, It also has a bar downstairs and a pool table. Upstairs is more for dining and they have cool standing islands place where if it gets crowded you can still hang your coat on the island and have a place to set your drink. The food is amazing, I have had the fish and chips twice and the mussels. Everything is good, my friends tried a variety of different fare the first time I went and everyone was pleased. All in all the great selection of beers and malts is great for all tastes and it also has a great variety of food. I will continue to come back to this place!
(4)KM I.
2 stars just for being British guys. Went here on a Gilt City promotion $20 for $40 worth of brunch. Seemed like a good idea...well it was not. I still ended up spending another $20+.....the kicker is bacon cost $12 for 6 pieces of regular ol' bacon. You would think this was some holy bacon, yep $12.00. French toast each was $10 and was quite delicious, full of berries and what not.....but between those 2 dishes, bacon, and ONE bloody mary, which was not so tasty, I spent close to $70 for brunch. I am literally turned off to this place and I am the biggest fan of everything related to Britain.
(2)Luci D.
Talk about nickel-and-diming a customer. I had the foie burger, and when the waitress suggested special dipping sauces for the (too salty) truffle fries, I happily agreed to two of them. Little did I know that it would cost me extra to receive glorified mayo. Now, my friend had the wedge salad, asked for extra bacon, and got that for free. She got meat for free, which I saw another reviewer say that their brunch bacon was pricey. I GOT CHARGED FOR AIOLI. It's a nice change of pace from other Wrigley locations, and their sparkling serving is quite generous. I would go back, but I think now I know how to navigate their menu better. Also, make sure to tell your server you want separate checks when you order, because their computer system apparently isn't sophisticated enough to split them at the end of your meal. Meh.
(2)Mark D.
I came here for dinner early on a Friday night and thought it was a good experience. The open seating and atmosphere was actually more laid back than I had expected being only blocks from Wrigley and was a nice surprise. There was a guy playing various covers on a solo electric guitar which was awesome. Drinks - Beer and cocktail list was pretty solid with an above average selection. I had a couple questions about some beers and the waitress was able to make some suggestions. I didn't try any cocktails since I wasnt in the mood but the list looked decent. The cucumber flavored water was a bit of a stretch as I don't think it went well with hearty English food... Food - I had the fish and chips and I also tried the pulled chicken. I'm surprised by the good reviews of the fish and chips as I thought the fish was actually pretty bad - the batter was good but the fish itself was very tough and definitely not fresh. The fries and pulled chicken, however, were above average and I would definitely get the chicken if I go back again. Service - The service was great. Our waitress was always around to see if we needed refills but was not pushy. Overall a good dinner/drinks locale but the fish and chips definitely lost them a star, especially given that I had decent expectations for a place that bills themselves as an English pub. For dinner & a drink for 2, the total tab was much less than I expected.
(3)Mike S.
I love this place because as my friend said when we went there, "Wow, look at all these HDTVs and no sports on!" Blokes and Birds is different than your typical Wrigleyville Sports Bar that way AND I LOVE IT. South of the Roscoe Curve on the Brown Line, it is disinctly geographically and culturally separate from the sloppy 22-year old messes you see at John Barleycorn, Sluggers and the like. It's a dressier, more mature, more professional crowd, as everyone appears to be 24 and up. No bros here. Hallelujah! The atmosphere is subdued with low lighting, fireplaces, wood paneling, and intimate nooks and couches. Not gonna lie, the scenery wasn't too bad either. However, like all good things, you gotta pay for it. I had a Chocolate Stout and a Stiegl, and ended up with a $12 tab. Ouch. Also, the basement bar was pretty understaffed when I was there. Despite a full room, they appeared to only have one bartender on duty. Insufficient. I know it's not "Wrigleyville" and the point isn't to get hammered, but when I want another drink, I shouldn't have to stand around like a dumbass for 10 minutes. I really love this place's vibe, but the price tag may keep my visits sparing for the time being.
(4)Amanda G.
I have been wanting to stop by for the past several months and finally experienced the fun, last weekend! The space is quaint and loved the candles on the tables; added a bit of ambiance. Since I can't eat red meat and pork, I was concerned that I might have a challenge on my hands. I was partially right, but not too bad. We started with a half order of mussels with vindaloo sauce. The mussels were almost as large as my head (in the top 3 of Chi-town mussel experiences)! And the sauce?!? Amazing! It was less creamier than the typical vindaloo sauce and had a welcomed kick of garlic. I was tossing around the idea of spooning out and slurping on some of the sauce when the mussels were gone. Next we settled on a salad (no bacon), chicken tikka masala, and french fries. Loved the fact the salad had some pasta added to it. Different textures partying in my mouth! And, there was barely any dressing (forgot to ask for it on the side), which allowed the ingredients to sing more! As for the chicken dish. Slightly sweet with a hint of heat and the Amish chicken was cooked very well. Again, there was less cream included than what is usually expected (My hips were happy!). French fries?? Fresh-cut, a bit sweet and salty, and crisp. Yes, please! There was a decent offering of red wine and I decided on a sweet red to compliment the slightly spicy sauces. Best way to tie the evening together? Great music! A whole lot of "old" school and "new" school Indie music.
(4)Hollus G.
I have been here three times and love it. The food has been consistantly good, especially the fish and chips. They do a wonderful twist on English pub fair. It is also nice to have a non-sports bar in the area surrounded by sports bars. I don't even like bourbon, but i did try the infused bourbon which was amazing. The downstairs bar was more of a sports bar and open which is nice and out of the way for those that are eating upstairs. The only reason I am giving it 4 vs 5 stars is that on the weekends it is crazy and the seating organization was lacking. We waited over 1:30 for a table when we were told we would be seated in 30 minutes. I don't mind waiting, however, table turn-around with a busy crowd was not ideal.
(4)Erin W.
wonderful atmosphere. incredible selections. i traveled to chicago, and a friend i met took me here after a cubs game. the mood was nice, and the service was great. next time i'm in chicago, i will definitely be back.
(5)Mindy S.
B&B it is only a slight step above your typical Wrigleyville bars. The crowd seemed to be a touch older than what you'd find at nearby bars, but the general overall feel was no different. The music was very loud, and again, seemed to be similar to what's playing up the street. The beer selection is extensive, and the bartender was very nice and attentive. B&B is not like the latest upscale brewpubs that have been opening as of late, so skip it if you're in the mood for a non-Wrigleyville experience.
(2)Robert R.
Though I live in the loop, I spend a LOT of time in the Wrigleyville area, especially in the summer, and yeah, I love the loud, beer-soaked wings joints and the places with loud party music and an overflow of scantily-clad dunk girls and the pseudo-muscleheaded douchebags who love them, clogging up Clark street, just call me sentimental. Blokes and Birds though, is a different place with a different vibe and I say? Vive le difference! The beer selection is bloody massive, but not oppressively so, the whiskey menu is stout but standard (by the way, Southern Comfort isn't really whiskey, it belongs on the cordial list, fellas) and you don't really see a rye whiskey list, even at three it trumps anything close. The food is inventive without being stuffy and make no mistake, despite this being an English Public House, the food takes its' influences from around the world. I had the seasonal stew of tomatillos, jalapenos and chicken and it was fantastic! Although those special soups and stews can be pricey, mine was $10, had I payed attention, I would have avoided it. The fish and chips (I had cod) were good but stopped short of great. The chips were better than the fish but my SO had the rocket salad and it was fantastic. The server, Jon I believe, was helpful, attentive and brought around a shot of spiced Evan Williams, which was dreadfully easy to drink, and had we stayed for drinks, I'd have needed a cab. The ambiance is friendly and nice. The decor clean, simple and elegant. The communal tables are interesting, the downside being if you happen to have long legs (and I do), certain tables defeat your ability to stretch, which sucks. The only other quirk about the place is the entry, one door works, the other doesn't. People were walking into the wrong door all night. Put a permanent sign on the non-working door please? It makes people feel bad before they even get in and psychology matters, trust me. Overall, if you're in the neighborhood, go here. It's good, it's fresh and it's like nothing else in Wrigleyville.
(4)Michael H.
Blokes and Birds will not succeed. Yes, I said it. Not only is it in the wrong part of the city, but this block of Clark Street is somewhat desolate compared to just north of the el tracks. That being said, it is a nice addition to the area and tastefully decorated. I'm not sure about the recent spate of "gastropubs" to open, but the beer list is top notch! I did not eat (English food?) but the menu had a vast array of hearty choices.
(3)Ashley L.
Really good customer service. We had a pretty large group and someone always came over to make sure we were doing alright. A great beer selection for fair prices. Bartenders were all very attentive and friendly. I really loved the environment here, too bad I don't live in Chicago :(
(4)Joshua P.
I love this place! Time and time again, you never disappoint. I have been here about a half dozen times usually for dinner, but yesterday I tried the brunch. First, if you go for dinner, get the Foie Burger with the truffle fries. One of my favorite things on the menu. So yesterday my girlfriend suggested we try the brunch. Absolutely outstanding! The smoked salmon plate was delicious, and the omelet was superb. The bloody mary was overly peppery, but I wasn't about to complain when everything else is so good. Keep up the good work, I look forward to coming back.
(5)Michael C.
I don't give out many 5 stars, but this place really is worth it....here's why: Draft beer list: As good as Hopleaf. I believe they have about 20, maybe a few less. Huge bottle selection. Always unique beers on draft that I've never had before. I'm a beer snob, and this place always satisfies. Oh, great cocktail list....everyone will be satisfied. Food: Great food, very unique. Everything I've had has always been great. Love the Tikka masala. It's a twist of the traditional Indian version, theirs is a more dry version with the basmati rice already mixed in. This is not like an Indian rest. that is more buttery. There is not an orange sauce, but it's very moist, flavorful, and has a slight kick. I must say, one of the best I've had. All the food is freshly made and very good. Dessert: If they have it in season, best blueberry pie I've ever fantastic. Should be on the menu all the time, but to our chagrin, it wasn't on the last time we were there. Atmosphere: more sophisticated. large open space. enough tables for those that want to sit. Large bar area. Enough people to feel like your not the only one there, but we've never had to wait for a table. In fact, it feels like the secret is not yet out about this place. Get there before everyone talks talking this place up. Also, never had bad service, staff is on top of everything. Enjoy, one of our favorite places.
(5)Julie B.
Went here last night with the girls for the Bulls game and was thoroughly impressed. It's nice to have a place like this in the Wrigley area that is not your typical sports bar. Their drink menu is awesome along with the food. We sat downstairs which is very cool (a little on the dark side) and posted up at the bar. I wish I got our bartenders name because he was great and gave perfect recommendations for us ladies. We tried the foie burger, fish and chips, BLT and their short rib sandwich. All were FANTASTIC. We wished the short rib and BLT came with fries as well. Everyone was picking the fries off of my plate! There weren't a lot of peeps in the joint and we all figured out why...the name. Blokes and Birds sounds pretentious and at the same time nerdy. I'm just saying B & B...think about it
(4)Alicia G.
This place is great for so many occasions. A date? Check. Out with a co-worker for a TGIF drink? Definitely. Brunch? Totally recommended. The interior gives a nice atmosphere that suits all of these occasions. Dark, but not too dark to be awkward for non-romantic outings. Their weekly specials are great as well. Things I recommend: The Bloody Mary comes with Jamón. Jamón. Try one of their beers. Even if you aren't a beer lover, there's something in their vast selection to suit your tastes. One last thing: The way the menu is priced is nice. Really, you can spend anywhere from $11-$30 on a meal (+/- drinks)
(5)Karen C.
WHY did I wait so long to come to Blokes & Birds? I've been walking past it forever, thinking how amazing it looked inside, and who can go wrong with a giant awesome mustache logo? I'm currently kicking myself for waiting so long. We arrived at parent-dinner time, so we had no trouble getting a table... the place was filled up 45 minutes after we arrived, so I'm glad we got there when we did. The beer list here is stellar (though my friend pointed out, it's IPA heavy, but that's a good thing for a girl like me, so yes. Stellar. And very well-priced, save for the $5 can of PBR... but I personally think if you order a PBR, you deserve to pay $5). I started with a Modus Hoperandi & had the Amish Chicken for my entree, and seriously... this is the best meal I've eaten in a week. Granted, when home alone, I make things like mac & cheese and popcorn for dinner, so maybe that's not saying a lot. However, the chicken was super juicy, potatoes were killer, and as a girl that strongly dislikes capers, I even liked the caper aioli that came with it. My normally non-meat eating friend got down on the Pork Tenderloin, and my other friend had the Shepherd's Pie. Everyone strongly agreed that we should have been coming here for months now. I only had one beer, so I felt that I deserved to order the Sticky Toffee Pudding for the table, and yes, it was great too. Could have been a little "stickier", but it was definitely a great way to end a delicious meal. Our waiter was wonderful, also... friendly, funny, and seemingly was waiting tables for the entire place. It was a relaxing dinner and we were in no hurry to get out of there, so it wasn't a huge deal that it was a more slow-paced meal. Blokes & Birds just has a great vibe... I love all the dark wood, the sorta-darkness of the place, the fact that there are no TV's hanging above the bar, and the soundtrack was great as well. I'll definitely be back soon.
(5)Jelena Z.
Still not a huge proponent of their food, but I do love the sleek yet somehow impossibly warm and cozy interior. And in a welcome coup, B & B easily snagged the best beer list title in Wrigleyville. Someone had to, right? If I want one more before heading home, this is where I go!
(4)Erica R.
I go here for karaoke, which is down in the basement. They have only top 40 songs available, so don't go there if you are a hardcore karaoke fan and want a serious karaoke experience. That said, the karaoke experience mimics that of a "superstar." You have lights in your eyes and generally everyone screams in delight for you. If you have any singing skills people give you high fives and tell you how amazing you are when you finish up. It's a fun go-to and generally not many people are there on the weeknights so if you ACTUALLY want to sing, you will certainly get your turn.
(3)Janelle C.
I thoroughly enjoyed this place. Upscale bar-type restaurant. Exactly my thing. The atmosphere was nice. The cucumber water was tasty and a nice twist. The beet salad was outstanding and as a connoisseur, I have MANY to compare it to. The entrees were good, but I have to dock them a star for their lack of vegan or even vegetarian options. They were out of their one veggie entrée. I would go back, especially if they become more socially conscious; we shouldn't need meat and cheese to make a tasty meal. Nice place though.
(4)Shannon L.
The cocktails were delicious and the food was great! Live music was a lovely dining touch, not over-powering - just the right volume and vibe. Will definitely be returning.
(4)Mica G.
Hello Fish. Hello Chips. My name is "unbridled craving for a crispy, beer-battered savory delight that goes amazingly well with several cold refreshing wheat-y malty beverage." Pleased to make your acquaintance. Yeah ... well it went a little something like that. I happened to be in this neighborhood that I'm not usually in and the big old moustache in the front caught my attention. I wandered in grabbed a seat next to the window. Nice place inside. Warm interior ... lots of wood. You may have gathered, I had the fish & chips, which really hit the spot for me. Batter was excellent. A nice crisp texture and then hot&steamy flaky fish on the inside. Nice job on the fries (good portion, good cut with a little sweet & salty seasoning) too. I paired it with a couple two ... three lil' sumpin' sumpin's (Lagunitas ... now a "chicago" brew...sort of ). An eagle rare served 'neat' for dessert. It was my own little heaven. *Sigh* Anyway ... solid beer list. Solid whiskeys & Scotch selection. Good food. At least what I tried. Service was also excellent. The host was welcoming & my server was attentive without being overbearing. Room was intimate and had a nice vibe to it. Nice people watching from the window seat too. Blokes & Birds ... I think of you ... often. I count the days when our paths cross again. Yours always, and all ways. oMG.
(5)Christine D.
Chill atmosphere, great for catching up with friends..and meeting new ones. It's really a nice experience with little candles on the table, and all. The drinks and beer selections are really great as well. I had a 'Jammy Bastard'..it was really good and strong! ..and also perfect for getting really drunk with friends. We went downstairs after our dinner and drinks and they had 40's on special. 40's. ON SPECIAL. Who does that? It's genius.
(5)Ryan H.
Blokes & Birds = Great service & gay friendly I celebrated my birthday here last night, August 9th, and was pleasantly surprised by how great a time my party of 9 had. Our server, Patrick, was very attentive and was great at accommodating lactose-intolerant (me), gluten free, and vegetarian dietary restrictions. I tend to be known as a difficult orderer and Patrick was very much willing to make sure my foot was cooked without any lactose ingredients. I called ahead and let them know that some of my friends were dressed in "Market Days" gear and they were perfectly okay with it. I will definitely be back and check out there downstairs lounge. PS - Give Patrick a raise cause servers like that are hard to come by. :)
(4)Michael J.
Had a wonderful experience at Blokes n Birds. After we sat down our server Raul (excellent server) asked if we had been here before and we said no. He told us about the great drinks they have. The Summer Breeze and Satan's Whiskers were great drinks my wife and I had. He then explained some specials. The Prime rib was excellent. Fish n chips excellent. To top it off my mother in law ordered the butterscotch creme brulee and she wouldn't share. We finally did get a bite and it was to die for. We will be coming back!
(5)Justine C.
Great spot! Went for a dinner meeting and some drinks and everything was amazing. Dinner menu is impressive (with great prices), as is the beer and whiskey selection. Definitely appreciated the bartenders being knowledgeable, welcoming, and attentive . Also, the downstairs lounge has a very casual, cool, hip, intimate atmosphere. Amazing space. Thursday nights they hold a 40s special accompanied by fresh djs playing new and old hip hop. I will definitely be coming back.
(5)Jenni F.
Came in for a comedy show a friend was performing in so we were sitting downstairs. The atmosphere is fabulous. I loved it. It's very comfortable and open. The beer selection is great too. The bartenders were maybe not the most friendly of people but they seemed to know their stuff. The prices weren't too bad but service was a little slow at the downstairs bar. I would head back for another event.
(4)Dominic T.
What a find! Gastropub without the attitude and pretension you can find at others. Swordfish special, bacon wrapped dates, pork sandwich were all amazing! Great service, fun staff and extremely wide selection all for very reasonable prices. Enjoy!
(5)Monica R.
Brunch is definitely the best time to head here, Bottomless mimosas $13? STEAL! and no need to waive your waiter down, if you're party is big enough they bring the bottle to you. Crab cake Benedict a personal fave but don't skip the chicken and waffles also a crowd pleaser. All around I'll be back (I've been back about 3 times now)
(5)Lisa S.
Go for the food but dont stay for the Karaoke! I was very excited to find a place that had decent meals, prices and an option for Karaoke in the bottom lounge portion of the bar. Upstairs: We arrived there kind of late for our reservation; the staff was very accommodating and friendly. The service was really good, the staff was attentive. The food was reasonably priced and delicious. Around 10:00 we headed downstairs for Karaoke Downstairs: The downstairs was a cute lounge with TV's set up so you can sing along with the person on stage. I was excited to have a fun night of goofy singing and drinks. There were many people who were lined up to sing so it seemed that it would be a fun night... then things went downhill from there. Very quickly, it became apparent that the DJ had his favorites or "regulars" many of the same people sang over and over and many people who signed up did not get put on the song list. When the DJ was addressed and asked why some people did not get their turns, he just said they were on the list but had to wait. You could tell that there were many professional singers there, which could be fun but some of them actually got on stage and took the microphone from people who did not sing as well as they did. Overall, I would recommend this place for food and drinks but not for Karaoke. Too bad something that is supposed to be silly and enjoyable has been turned into something a bit less fun and shame on the DJ for being part of it.
(3)Brandon M.
Went here last week after work and sat at the bar, initially I went in because I bought a restaurant.com coupon and I really wanted to try the Liverpool Lamb. Unfortunately, they were still in the process of making the lamb (later on that night the guy who makes it explained the process to me, very friendly staff). The bartender, Heron was a great guy and he could tell I was pretty bummed out about the item not being available, so he had some other great recommendations. Took his advice and tried the Swansea Braised Short Rib sandwich with truffle fries, HOLY SMIT! That thing was excellent. I also inquired about their specialty drinks, to which I was directed to Satan's Whiskers.... probably one of the best tasting drinks I've ever had. Told Heron I will definitely be back. Overall, Great Food, Fantastic drinks and excellent service (at least at the bar)
(5)Sam N.
A place for grown ups in Wrigleyville. Go figure I was here for 2 events this summer that utilized the downstairs space. Upstairs is nice too. I would definitely come back here to chill downstairs. It has a nice loungy vibe usually not found in this neighborood. The service is immidiate and good.
(5)Stephanie G.
Holy Moly this place has the best chopped salad ever!!! Was it the cilantro-lime dressing?? Was it the hearts of palm?? It was all of it!! This salad was packed with flavor!! One of a kind!! Good service, good decor. Perfect spot for after work drinks and dinner.
(5)Kimberly A.
Man, our group was really let down by the food quality and the service here. I am completely shocked that this place has such good yelp reviews. As far as service goes, our waiter was nice once he finally got to our table... But that's about all he had going for him. He forgot to put in one of my friends orders, so he had to wait until we were all finished to eat (although he should have just cancelled it the food was so bad). I ordered the fish and chips... The fish itself was okay, but the batter was incredibly soggy (the soggiest I've ever seen, in fact). The tartar sauce was very plain and under seasoned. My boyfriend and I split two sides, the roasted Brussels sprouts and the mac and cheese and man was that a mistake. The roasted sprouts had absolutely no caramelization of and kind, they tasted like they'd been just barely steamed and they were sprinkled with room temperature bacon. They hadn't been seasoned at all. The mac and cheese was awful, they literally would have been better off melting velveeta on pasta. It somehow managed to have NO flavor, and I thought it was impossible to mess up a melted cheese dish. It's called "salt" gang, familiarize yourselves. My boyfriend got the risotto, and that's where the real atrocities arose. I'm fairly certain they used plain white rice, I've never tasted an arborio risotto with a mushy mealy and watery texture. The overwhelming flavor was truffle oil- like the chemically gross flavor- not fresh truffle shavings. I think that may have covered up another inevitable seasoning fail, but who could tell with the perfume factory slapping my in my senses. Ugh, bad food. Oh and my friend (who is a mixologist of sorts) said his cocktail was not great either. But I can't attest to that, I had a beer which was great. I certainly won't be back to eat.
(1)Jennifer J.
Good ol' pub fare.
(4)Johannah B.
The menu was a lot smaller than I expected. The place opens at 6 and crowds up later in the evening. Service was excellent but I wasn't WOW'd by the food. I would probably come back.
(3)Peter g.
A very Unique offering. It is worth the visit if you are a drinker, as they have MANY choices all Craft or small micro brews, and they are also concocting deadly elixirs on the bar for weeks at a time to help you get stewed quickly. The layout was a little strange, it appeared a slight waste of usable floor space for a Sunday visit, however I have not seen the Friday or Saturday night crowds so maybe they are sacraficing table space for standing floor space. Either way there is not a lot of sitting room for what is quite a roomy space for a City Pub. Some VERY Irish choice on the menu, (in Chicago? WOW) but while the food choices for sunday brunch were not in great quantity, the food was excellent, the service outstanding, but it was a little slow in getting to us for a not so crowded day. While we waited we talked about the craft brews and the bartop glass mixers(for lack of a bettter word) brewing other highly different strong drinks, all of which the friendly barkeep kept offering us sample choices for tasting. Very nice of him to do so again and again. I think by the time our breakfast came we each had multiple shots glasses of about 6 different items, this was a great day to get breakfast and get tipsy by 12! Stop by for the friendly staff, stay for the variety of brews, just make sure to eat first!
(4)Meg K.
Love this place. Nice and cozy on warm days. Cool and fun on summer nights. Their bacon wrapped dates amaZZZING. Their mac and cheese, very nice! Unfortunately I always forget this place exists and don't go nearly as much as I should. Don't try to be trendy and order an 'interesting drink,' you will more than likely not like it. Order what you like instead!
(5)Jonathan H.
Just came back to B&B on a Saturday night to karaoke and had a terrible experience. I asked the downstairs bartender for a manhattan and he shook up some whiskey and grenadine and tossed it over ice. Not only that but he had to make it 3 times before my "pink drink" was to his liking. This ain't the frat house. Oh how far they have fallen.
(2)Sean B.
We had a reservation for 8. This also included a Groupon that would cover like 6 of us. 55 minutes after our reservation, we were seated. Very poor planning on the restaurant's part. Then, we waited for a menu. We waited for water. We ordered the first round of mimosas that were part of the groupon. They took nearly 25 minutes to bring out. They were like a garden threw up in our glass. I had to use my teeth to strain leaves out of the mimosa I was drinking. Really? The subsequent rounds took forever to bring out. They were 95% juice. No champagne sign whatsoever. Our friend ordered a beer flight that took nearly 40 minutes to come out. Groupon doesn't mean "screw frequent brunch goers." Finally we were able to order our food. I had picked out a salad. You'd think they'd have salad available at lunch, right? Wrong. Dinner only. Not stated anywhere on the menu. Nothing irritates me like being forced into 1/3 of the menu. Literally they were out of large categories of things. I finally decided to have a salmon hash. The eggs were stiff, the dish had about 500% of my daily salt in it. Not good AT ALL. The salmon quality was good. That was the only redeeming value to the dish. If you want awful service and slow service go hear. We won't be back. What the others said about the space was true. It is cozy and nice. We all went and had our first real drink of the day elsewhere after 3 rounds of juice. Where's my insulin?
(2)Shauna D.
Very cute place! Great atmosphere, good beer selection, interesting cocktails. Service was a little inconsistent (bus boy on top of it, server not very attentive). The wagyu slider was delicious, the angus one was 'ok,' and the fries were very salty, but, if they weren't they would have been top notch. I got a side of the bacon aioli which was incredible! My friend got the mac and cheese which was a larger portion than expected, and very tasty. I'll definitely be back.
(4)Fred S.
The space is really well used, beautiful restaurant, great lighting, and vibe. I was very impressed by their offering of cocktails and beer. My friend and I shared the Chicken Tikka, the Scotch Egg, and the Fish and Chips; all British pub mainstays with a fresh spin on them. The staff was friendly, food came out of the kitchen hot and promptly. We had a really nice conversation with one of the owners, Pan. It was clear that he has great passion for their food and the experience.
(4)Carol K.
The food? Quite good. The service? Spot on. And throw in some live music on Thursdays- Sunday? I'm a fan. But if you want to enjoy that food in a less hectic environment and you have your heart set on going on a Saturday night- go around 7. . . . for by the time 9pm rolls around, this place is hopping, the noise level is way up and it moves from restaurant to bar. Knowing this- we made reservations for 7 on a recent Saturday and got a table right up front for our group. Our server, Natalia, was terrific- her knowledge of the menu was second to none and there was nothing that we asked her that she didn't have the answer for. The name of this place alone will tell you that this is "English food" with a bit of a twist. And know that the portion sizes are quite large so order accordingly. Up first- we tried the foie gras, the cheesy peavy, and the green chili along with a couple of salads. For this cheese lovin' girl the Cheesy peavy was a winner (think brie cheese and toast) I thought the place was a bar- but the entrees said restaurant. My pork tenderloin rivaled some of the best I have had, and the whitefish special of the day was also a clear winner. And the two at our table that got one of their burgers were also pleased. And for dessert? Try the sticky pudding. Made me think I was over the pond in the UK! There are really two bars in this place. The main floor bar has live music (usually a guitar playing soloist) but downstairs there is a karaoke bar that really gets going as the night goes on. Parking was surprisingly easy on this stretch of Clark (not during the baseball season) although I am not sure I would even try if the Cubs were in town. All in all I was actually surprised at how much I liked this place. A good restaurant/bar this close to Wrigleyville? Now that's surprising!
(4)Randall Y.
Drinks were decent, but nothing too special. They do have a good selection of beers
(4)Girard S.
Skip the burgers, go straight for the steak sandwich. It's got the most delicious aioli, and they managed to cook a single piece of steak medium-rare, which is very impressive. The sticky pudding is another grade-A fantastic dish. And it's perfect for two. Service was decent, prices a smidge on the high side. Downstairs is a real different mood, you could meet some cool cats down there. Don't go on a Monday night for dinner - they don't serve it. Tuesdays are good: live music that's real lively, if a bit loud.
(4)Erik Y.
Stopped in Saturday for beers and appetizers. It was my first time it and was pretty impressed. All the appetizers ranged from good to awesome! There were three of us and we ended up sharing five apps. All great. Beer was good albeit a small-ish tap. The manager stopped by to check on us. Not an "Applebee's manager stopping by every table because he has to" checking on us. He casually walked by, we caught eyes, and he just inquired how things were. Nice touch. I'll def. be back. The rest of the menu looked/smelled great. Nice place for a casual dinner or drinks!
(4)Carolyn B.
I came here for brunch with a few girlfriends on a Sunday afternoon. The decor is sleek and masculine, and there was a guitar player who serenaded us throughout the meal, which was really nice. The bad: Our server was new (she told us it was her first day), so things definitely took longer than they should've. She was very sweet and gave us a few drinks for free to make up for it, but food definitely took awhile to come out (30+ minutes). The grits were pretty bland on their own. Also, splitting the check took forever (it was split evenly, not person-by-person), even after our server got a manager involved. She forgot things like coffee and refills, but, to be expected with a new server I guess. The good: I ordered the duck confit hash and it was fabulous. There was plenty of duck (though the duck was sliiiiightly dry), the truffled hollandaise was phenomenally tasty, and the sunny-side up eggs were perfectly runny. Everyone else at the table gave rave reviews for the french toast and the prosciutto benedict (though I do think the truffle hollandaise overwhelmed the benedict a bit). Our waitress recommended the St. Germain cocktail and it was perfectly refreshing with a fun presentation to boot. All in all, the food was delicious, but I would hope for smoother service on my next visit!
(3)Andre W.
I have heard lots of great things about this place over the past year so after seeing a show on Belmont, we decided to take a walk over to check it out. Nice decor with dark wood as it was pretty dim lit which sets an intimate mood. This is the part of the review where things get a little hairy. It took awhile for someone to come to our table of 2 after we were seated. Once the server showed up he brought us drinks. I had a gin/tonic and my friend had a beer from the tap. Her beer was room temperature (basically not drinkable) and once we told the server he decided to tell us that some of the taps have been acting up throughout the day. I felt he should have informed us of this when he heard her order a beer from the tap. We wanted to order and there were about 4 items on the menu that they did not have anymore for the night. Once we started ordering and he saw the first thing was gone, he should have been proactive with letting us know what they were all sold out of. In short it took us awhile to order due to us rambling through the menu hoping they had something that looked interesting. I tried the brussel sprouts and they were pretty good. He made up for his non diligence by referring her to a decent canned craft beer. He was a nice guy and all, but he needs some tips on being in the service industry. I would probably check it out again at some point, but its not on the priority list
(3)Tom S.
Had an awesome brunch here today! Great food and service. The experience started with a cheery hostess seating by Dana. To start, I had a bacon infused vodka Bloody Mary to start-perfection! The meal began with the BLTe that is to die for (yes, "e" as is egg!)!!! We moved on to the new biscuits and gravy are genius with three types of sausage: crumbled in the gravy, a patty on one biscuit and a large link on another biscuit. Yummy! Then, the new Chiliquiles are awesome (not on the menu yet)! The green chili sauce and crispy-damp chips are classic. The background music was live from Ted Henderson and was terrific!! Wish I had room for the prime rib and a few other menu items! I'll be back very soon!!!!
(5)Janique D.
This place is such an undiscovered secret which is great for us but maybe not so much for them! The food is constantly perfect. And I mean perfect. I realize that's a tough standard to sustain, but I can dream. Last night, we had the blackened swordfish (which I would never normally order but someone beside us ordered it and it looked fantastic) it was served ON TOP of mini enchiladas in a spicy verde sauce. It sounds like a lot but the enchiladas were so light and flavorful, it was such a great, unique combination. We always go there for the burger, which is honestly one of the best i've had in Chicago (and i've been lucky enough to try the tasty morsels at Kumas, Burger Bar, DMK and the Butcher and the burger). We didn't even touch our burger last night until we finished the swordfish. The beer selection is awesome, the food is outstanding and the staff is very friendly (especially the bus boys, who in my opinion are more attentive than some of the serving staff. We tipped the bus boy as much as the server).
(5)Maddie L.
The atmosphere is great and the people were nice (I had a major girl-crush on our waitress), but our food took forever. When it did arrive, though, it was very yummy. I recommend the prosciutto wrapped mozzarella bites to start!
(3)Bret B.
The owners need to be sure they are staffed to handle a Sunday Brunch crowd. Two of us went in at noon and the wait for a table was about 30 minutes so we decided to sit at the bar. We sat there for over 15 minutes and the bartenders did not acknowledge us or attempt to wait on us. We have eaten there in the past with no issues however the service seems to be suffering.
(2)Lindy K.
I went here the other night for the first time in a couple of years. We ended up staying several hours to stay out of the rain and because everything was better than expected. We got there early(ish) so we got quite a bit of attention from the bar-tender, which was awesome. Drinks: The bartender let my friend try quiet a few of the beers before deciding on one (her go to is PBR so the samples were helpful!). My whiskey sampler was tasty and he gave us both samples of the infused whiskey they make monthly there. I had a craft cocktail too, which was excellent. Food: BEST macaroni and cheese I have ever had. ever. period. The truffle mushrooms were great too.
(5)Laura C.
Sophisticated, dimly lit decor, floral arrangements, tea lights, infusions behind the bar, and a warm greeting from the host/server set the stage for a swanky English dinner, or so I thought. None of the cocktails jumped out at me, so I went for the Neopolitan Stout, which was outrageously sweet, so I went to my standard order of the hoppiest IPA on the menu, which was 86'd for the night, or maybe forever...Our server recommended the Six Point 3Beans Stout, which was drinkable, but not exactly memorable. Foodwise, we did the 25 minute wait for the Shepherd's Pie, a braised lamb, curry spiced stew covered in a blanket of mashed potatoes. A bit bland but filling, paired with the Braised Short Rib Sarnie, I left full, but my tastebuds were a bit sad. I love the decor and the service, I just wouldn't come back here for the food.
(3)Meghan D.
Great beer list - a diverse spread with interesting beers. The atmosphere is a very mellow but vibrant escape from Clark Street. Live acoustic music on weekend nights. The food has a kind of London-meets-Chicago trendy deliciousness to it.
(5)Christopher S.
The food here is pretty awesome and they have a fun drink list. I've come here on dates with two different girls and I must say that the customer service is stellar. I never felt forgotten about or overly attended to. They get the vibe that you're on a date and give you your space, but rush over when your drink runs dry. The food is great. I recommend the half chicken. Whatever sauce they use is pretty much crack. This is a great place with a nice atmosphere. It's usually pretty empty between the hours of 6pm and 8pm but that's not a bad thing at all. It's great for first dates when you really want to impress, talk and focus on the person you're with. Quality food, service and atmosphere. DO IT!
(4)Sarah V.
Blokes & Birds' service is a lot like the Detroit Lions. I can expect abysmal service from cute guys most of the time, but occasionally they surprise the crap out of me and get my party's order right, refill water glasses, AND keep up with our drink requests. They might even split the check six ways. It's rare, but it does happen. B&B's food menu doesn't so much speak to me. I'm not a purveyor of British food for the most part. The mac and cheese is a great option, but the burgers are frequently under-cooked and and I've yet to have an entree that needed repeating. The drink menu, however, is always seasonal and their beer menu is great. Anyone who carries Gumball Head gets a star next to their name. The Satan's Whiskers cocktail is my go-to "get me drunk on a cold, snowy night" and it in fact does. Seasonal cocktails are the best invention of all time. Seasonal cocktails that are not chocolate, apple and pure sugar are even better. I've said it before, I'll say it again. Sugar is for children and dessert, not alcohol. B&B provides a warm, intimate watering hole for small, coquettish groups of smarties with supple seating and flickering candlelight. After dinner cocktails, perfect. Dinner with the family, not so much. Like a Lion's fan, I can't stop going, and hoping for something better in the way of food. Instead I should just enjoy B&B for what it is, a good cocktail location, just like the Lions are good for looking at boys in tight pants. That they haven't been able to fumble. Yet.
(3)Ben R.
I was pleasantly surprised by Blokes and Birds. The beer list was quite good, and the food didn't disappoint. Noise level was manageable as well. I think this all was probably unique for the sports bar-centric area. Downstairs they had karaoke (T-F-S I think?) that stared at 9pm. We were there early and stayed for only one song, the lounge was quite comfortable though!
(4)Coleen F.
Service was great, food was awesome!
(5)J W.
Excellent place. The ambience is amazing the basement for Karaoke or private party. I am planning a trip back here really soon.
(5)Denise D.
Was happy to wander in on a chilly Friday night after finding other places in the neighborhood too packed--at B&B we easily found a couple places at the bar. We didn't order any food, but just had a couple of drinks and found the bartender to be very pleasant. He gave us nice, attentive service without being pushy. I was surprised that he didn't know how to make a Gordon's Cup, but he did offer to try making one if I'd tell him what was in it. I decided to stick with beer. He offered to give me tasters of some drafts (which wouldn't have been as necessary if the menu had some descriptions, just sayin') and I had a couple of nice brown ales. I especially appreciated that he accommodated my request to let me smell the bitters without looking at me like I was a nut. So many people don't understand how lovely it is to smell bitters.
(3)Becky A.
Amazing experience. Kudos to the owner, Jade, and the team. Management here certainly knows how to run a business. Came on a Sat night, listened to some great live music while we ordered at least half of the apps and some mixed drinks. Everything rocked! ESP love the Serrano wrapped moz and the bacon wrapped dates...sensing a wrapped theme. Anyways, Jade came and hung with our table for a good portion of the night and even had us try a few desserts for free. Wow! The warm choc chip cookie one takes time to bake as fresh cookies do, but dang...worth it. I was even inspired to have my birthday here I was so impressed with the welcoming vibe. Chicago needs more truly cozy yet hip places like this that don't have their noses in the air about it.
(5)Jay D.
It's your typical American type restaurant bar. Came here with a group of friends Friday night. The waiter was very attentive and came around a bunch of times to check up on is and refill drinks. The atmosphere was great, they had live music that wasn't loud or obnoxious. I got the blokes burger which tasted great, I could barely fit it in my mouth. Wish we'd stayed for dessert
(5)Jamie H.
I came here early on a Sunday night. There was one other guy at the bar and another couple, so it felt pretty weird being in a place that was so quiet! I ordered a salad, which was quite good ad a beer. My friend got a meat dish (can't remember which one) and said it was also good. I loved the wood at the place and it had a great vibe to it, next time I'd be sure to come back when it was a little later and not so dead! Great service, though!
(4)Delaney G.
After leaving a review about a bad experience, the owner contacted me, let me know they were already replacing the guy who have off bad vibes, and offered free drinks to my entire party whenever I came on next. So now on top of quality food and great live music I can also add great people leading the place. One of the truly quality place in wrigleyville
(5)Lauren P.
You fancy huh? ;-) I always love places with hardwood floors, loungy couches, a fireplace, super awesome music, and a good crowd. Blokes & Birds has all of that and more! They have awesome karaoke in the basement with a bunch of flat screens so that everyone can watch the song you're singing. The drinks are crazy strong with unique names. I for once in a lifetime prefer the beer here than the mixed drinks. Phil J. recommended I try Gulden Draak, and it was amazeballs! Plus - you get a fancy glass. Haven't tried the food here yet but I will be coming back for my second dose of fun, karaoke, and awesome beer!
(5)Jason M.
What a fun place! Great food, drinks, and interesting and thoughtful wines list. The staff is friendly and attentive. Make your way down stairs for some karaoke. Will be back. Great infusions too!
(5)Kirby M.
My friends and I were able to get a 7pm reservation on a Saturday evening... for good reason. The food was fine - a little greasy, burgers were a little overcooked, a friend who ordered gnocchi hardly even touched it. It was the service that really ruined the entire experience - and from the moment I walked in, no less. I walked in and the hostess had her back to me and was chatting up another patron. I stood and waited patiently until the gentleman she was talking to motioned to her that I was there. She turned around, glared at me, asked my name, and then huffed because "how could I not see that my friends were sitting in the back corner?!" Our waitress came by and asked us for our drink orders which we got promptly. Then she didn't come back for our food orders. And once we did finally place our food orders, it took an hour (A FULL HOUR), to get our food. Now, we had show tickets at 9pm just around the corner. One would think that you needn't a full 2 hours to eat a burger, but apparently you do. It took multiple attempts (asking the busboy and other waiters) to get our check. When she finally brought it, she essentially threw it at us and ran away (we were all sitting there, credit cards in hand at the ready). So my friend took the bill up to the bar to get it paid. When she noticed, she got upset asking us why we didn't mention we had a time limit. I suppose we didn't realize that it needed to be stated that dinner should be complete in less than 2 hours. The ambiance is great - it's a near replica of Hutch down the block. Too bad the service and food quality isn't on par. Seems like a no-brainer that Hutch had no reservations available and this place was wide open. I won't be going back. TLDR; I want to like this place as the cheaper, prettier cousin of Hutch. But I can't. Not until the service and food quality improves.
(2)Jessica Q.
I went back to Blokes on Saturday. Had the Blacked Swordfish and it was perfect! I also had a couple of draft beers Morning Wood by Local Option. Taste like coffee super yummy. Once again I had a great time there it's becoming my go to chill bar :)
(5)Meg R.
Love this place! Wanted to try it for awhile after it opened, and finally grabbed dinner and drinks with a friend. Wonderful food, even better service. Will definitely be coming back again!
(5)Stephanie M.
This rating is long overdue. I am speaking in regards to an experience from August. It pains me to rate the restaurant with one star, but our server was so non-chalent and slow, that it ruined my whole experience at this place. I will not be going back. It actually ruined my day as well. We came in with a large group of ten, and while every place in Wrigleyville/Boy's Town was too busy on Saturday morning to take an impromptu big party, Blokes & Birds was empty. I had a fonder memory of eating here before, and decided to pay no attention to the tumble weeds blowing through the place. We decided to start the meal with a shot. We ordered 10 shots of Jameson, and our server invited himself to have one as well. I take that as a positive start to the experience. He's fun, this is going to be a fun time. After that he was nowhere to be found. Well, he was, he was busy socializing with the bartenders, and cooks, and not worrying about actually getting any of our orders. We sat waiting for him to take our drink orders. Once he got those from us, my friends who took part in the bottomless mimosas deal, received maybe two more refills and really just found themselves sitting in front of empty glasses. So the deal wasn't a good one when you're only getting like, two drinks out of it. We wanted water, we wanted to order our food, we wanted refills. This guy was just terrible. And again, the restaurant was empty on this particular Saturday morning. I eventually couldn't take it anymore, and I had to get up and say something to him. I wasn't nice about it. But he was so goddamn casual, he made it easy to take a stern tone with him. He had forgotten to put our food orders in, and then when he did, he failed to actually order some, so the meals were staggered. It was crap. It was such a crap experience, he lost his playful attitude, and instead apologized to the table for the poor service we experienced from him. My boyfriend, and I, and the whole table are in the food service industry. And after we closed out the bill, I snuck a look at the tip my overly giving boyfriend left, and it was like 25%. There's nothing I can do about that, but let me just say, if I had been the one closing out the bill, it would have been less than 15%. There was no excuse for his bad performance. None. I ended up mentioning to my boyfriend that he over-tipped, which lead to an argument, which messed with our day. This incompetent server had an effect on the rest of my Saturday. I won't ever go back again, for fear of having him again, or seeing him, and feeling the urge to tell him how I felt about this past experience.
(1)Karen N.
A great addition to the Clark/Wrigley strip. Love their beer list, the short rib sandwich, fish and chips and sliders. Warm cozy decor, with a contemporary fill. Also they have a full basement that you can use for a private party, nice lounge feel, fireplace, karaoke, full bar downstairs.
(4)Kevin F.
I brought a friend here from out of town based on the reviews and it was NOT what we expected. Service: poor, drinks: ok, prices: nothing special. After spending about $50 on 3 drinks we went downstairs for karaoke, put in our request at maybe 11pm, waited 3 HOURS (until 2pm closing) and we were never called. In fact, the karaoke DJ decided to perform a number of songs himself no matter how many paying customers were on the list. Poor service, shitty Dj/karaoke, and not amazing drink specials... I highly recommend looking elsewhere.
(1)Alyssa F.
Three stars because I've been here before and liked it, but the last time I went, the downstairs smelled like cat pee, the pool table was gone, and there was apparently karaoke going except no one was actually singing...? This was like, 11 PM on a Saturday, too. I'm not sure if the pool table was just moved for the karaoke, but bring that back and stop smelling like a litter box, and up to four stars you'll go.
(3)Jason A.
Sadly, for a place so close to where I live, this places needs to go. Nothing was enjoyable about my experience. Draft list was really weak. The beer I ordered, which I've had dozens of times tasted old or from an unclean tap line. The menu was boring, nothing really grabs your attention as a must try. Bacon wrapped dates app was decent, but too expensive when only giving you 3. Both entrees were atrocious, unseasoned with no flavor. Couldn't even chock them down. This is pass.
(1)Sophia Q.
Without a doubt my favorite place in Wrigleyville. Quality food, nice atmosphere, tasty drinks. Living around the corner makes me love this place even more but I'd def travel across the city to go here regardless. Highlights below: - baked mac & cheese: perfect cheese-noodle-gooeyness. - foie burger: big. piece. of. foie. uhmm... need I say any more? - B & B's blt: the egg on top makes it. I always thought people who got BLT's at restaurants were crazy since it's so easy to put together yourself... but this one is very much worth it. - BRAISED SHORT RIB SANDWICH: one of the best sandwiches I've had... EVER! the meat is so tender and flavorful... +1 for the server that recommended this. - house-infused whiskey: strong & delicious - the tempest: my personal favorite cocktail - cucumber-infused water: simple and touch of fancy. refreshing. Only con about this is place is the confusion as to when the kitchen closes since it seems to vary based on how busy it is/who the hostess/server is.... They also seem to be out of at least 1 or 2 items on the menu every time I go which is odd... Either way, thank you B&B for adding some quality to the cuisine in this hood'!
(4)Joel G.
meh not a bad place, rock solid beer selection of about 50 or so on tap or in bottles. Didn't try the food. Place is not bad but it's setup weird with a lot of open space that goes unused. It seems just off. Enjoyed my beers and will likely return as it's near several BYOB places we go to.
(3)Ronald Noah K.
I've always been a fan of this restaurant for dinner & brunch. But I came in the past Sunday with a group of 8 for a reservation at 12:30pm for brunch. We had to wait 45 minutes for our table with a reservation. Nothing was done to remedy that situation. No free drink or app. Service was miserable. The server clearly had no sense of humor or personality. Mimosas took FOREVER to come out. I mean 15-20 minutes. Unacceptable for drinks. One in the part ordered a beer flight. It doesn't take 20 minutes to pour beer! And to top it all off, they must have had a sale on salt at the grocery store. I think we all had our sodium intake for the month. Never again. They lost a good customer and 7 other potential customers. Shame.
(1)Steve B.
It is crap that we are waiting over 1.5 hours to get the food. I would have to say pass on this place.
(1)Richie D.
I stepped in unsure if I'd be a Bird or a Bloke. It became even more difficult when I had to find which washroom to use... I mean I am a feminine gay male, so I suppose I could use either. Not to mention that my coworkers refer to me as "the bird" of the office. We won't go into the reasons but this public house confused the birds out of this bloke!! When freezing in the Midwest winter, all I want is comfort food. Oh and according to Urban Daddy, B&B has got it! I am pleased to confirm that you can sometimes believe what you read. Four words: BRAISED LAMB SHEPHERDS PIE!! Large shredded chunks of braised lamb hidden deeply in a sweet mix of carrots and beans (no corn, thank goodness). The protective top layer of buttery mashed potatoes melt in your mouth and have the perfectly crispy edges. Pair that off with a heart-warming shot of alcohol, and I call it quits. The fireplace, warm wood interior, heavy door that keeps in the heat, and fun mustache logo all add to the ambiance as the perfect place to lounge and perch. A few drinks later, and you'll really have a difficult time figuring out the birds from the blokes!
(5)Mary R.
Blokes & Birds offers high end meals, in a casual environment, for a very reasonable price! I experienced friendly & attentive service, a cool atmosphere, nice beer selection, and unique, tasty cocktails. However, the greatest thing about this restaurant is the food! Both my husband and I were blown away by the taste and presentation of our entrees. I would highly recommend the Fish & Chips, and my husband was literally going on about the Amish Chicken for days. I've never checked out the downstairs karoake bar, but I expect we will be back.
(5)Taranika E.
Perfect man cave - it is hip, dark and houses an absurd selection of bourbon. I think it's hilarious that the menus are HUGE! Someone running the business is getting a good laugh at people rummaging between the sheets. And, thankfully the pulled pork sandwich was a godsend. The whiskey drinks delightful. Ladies, this is a perfect place to ask your burly midwestern man on a date -- get him nice and tipsy on the house whiskey then beat him at a game of pool (free downstairs). The drinks are a bit pricey; however they are mostly house specialities and well worth the flavors.
(4)SL-S L.
I love this place, their cocktails are creative and when I went there when it first opened, it had an amazing and lengthy beer list. I went there often and took many friends just because of the beer list they had. The ambiance is really cool as well. But, I went there last night and their beer list had literally been cut in half. What happened Blokes & Birds? I hope this is a temporary thing because there were a lot of good beers that were no longer listed. I'd still go for the ambiance and atmosphere, but I'm a little disappointed with the change in beer offerings.
(3)Michael M.
Great beer list and pretty good kitchen. Feels more gastropub and less English pub. The special dessert that night, Toffee pudding, was outstanding. And if they have the bean and ham soup on special, get that too. Other reviewers are correct, this is casual but not a college dude dive. The older 80's English new wave music (Depeche Mode, New Order) made me feel good.
(4)Joseph M.
As a Londoner living in NYC for the past 8 years, I was excited to try a British-style gastropub in Chicago on a recent trip to visit my husband. I got a 30% off deal through Blackboard Eats, which I thought was a bargain, considering the menu looked very appetizing. Well, I was wrong. And not just about the food. When we arrived, it took our flustered hostess five minutes to seat us, even though the restaurant was only about a third of the way full. Once seated- near the bar, spitting distance away from the hostess stand itself- we found ourselves pretty distracted by the blaring music, and football (no, not the English kind) on the tv screens. A waitress arrived about five minutes later to take our drink orders. We both decided on cocktails, and were pleasantly surprised by what we chose- though nothing mind-blowing by any stretch of the imagination. We ordered the Heathrow Hanger for an appetizer, which we both agreed was pretty good. And then, the live music started. This young man belching out 90s cover songs just about tipped us over the edge, and we asked to be moved to the back of the restaurant, where it was a LITTLE quieter. Our waitress seemed quite flustered at this change, and didn't come back to check on us once we had moved. I had a salad and a side of roasted potatoes, both of which I could have made better at home, and my husband had a chicken curry which, quite frankly, no true Englishman would have recognized as Indian food. After all that, our waitress forgot to add the discount to our check, forcing us to remind her to do so. And thank goodness for the discount, otherwise I would have walked out mid-meal. Definitely not going back there in a hurry.
(2)Ali H.
I've only been here once, so I'll reserve the coveted 5th star until after a few repeat appearances. My first experience, on a Wednesday evening, was quite lovely indeed. It's incredibly cozy and nice inside, with a gas fireplace and plenty of candles. We sat at the bar (even though there were plenty of tables open) and tried several of the tap beers before deciding. The bartender was really friendly and more than willing to let us try as many beers as we wanted. Their beer list rocks; the tap list is nice and long and the bottles list even better. The cocktails look great, and I can't wait to come back and try some. We shared a burger that was delish, but took a small eternity to come out even though the place was nearly empty. I was torn over the fact that a 10 dollar burger didn't come with fries or any side. I mean, not that I need to eat a big pile of fries. But, really? Didn't have the wrigleyville vibe at all. I'll definitely come back here.
(4)Derek M.
Been looking for a place with black pudding in Chicago. Finally found this place and gave it a shot. The service was slow but the place was packed. We got our order of black pudding that I had been craving and it was COLD in the middle. I mean really cold. I sent it back and got a fresh order cooked to the proper temperature and it was delicious. I was pretty pissed about the first order but the other items we tried and fresh order of black pudding made up for it.
(4)Evan G.
Have stopped in a few times because of convenience. Decent beer selection, never crowded, and the waitresses are making a better effort at being knowledgeable and friendly.
(3)Arlene A.
B&B (I am not typing out Blokes & Birds over and over!) does things the way most of life goes. Some things are great, some good and some, well not so much. The decor skews as more of a contemporary lounge than public house, and I'm okay with it. B&B's interior is sleek and very grown up. Their craft cocktails are delicious, you should definitely Mind the Bollocks when you're here. The beer list is exotic as it is extensive. So far, so good. Then we go on to the food, I have to tell you, my Honey manages to always pick the yummy stuff. B&B's BLT was a delicious combination of meaty bacon, ham with a perfectly (and I mean perfectly) fried egg. We also shared a small plate of mussels with capers which was beautifully done. I decided on two small plates for my meal. The baked mac and cheese was just ok, creamy but, decidedly under seasoned. I also ordered the sausage stuffed bacon wrapped dates. I know what you're thinking. You're thinking what I was thinking. DELICIOUS! Yeah, that's what I thought. And I was WRONG. Don't do it. My disappointment was so severe, I wasn't sure if there would be any coming back. But there was, and it is called Meatballs with Yum Yum sauce. Service was fine, we'll definitely be back, and Mama's getting herself a B&B's BLT.
(3)Camille B.
Great selection of beer and wine. The polenta and shrimp dish is phenomenal.
(4)Erica T.
Fantastic beer list - but be careful, some of them are very strong and will sneak up on you. The downstairs area is... interesting (a karaoke lounge) but still a fun place to hang out with friends. I'll keep going back to Blokes and Birds as a place that is consistently a good time near Wrigleyville when I'm not looking for a Wrigleyville-type atmosphere.
(4)Amanda C.
What a great place! I've probably walked past it 50 times before and never noticed it was there. It's a nicer bar/restaurant in an area of less nice places. Interesting menu of craft cocktails and food looks great, although I was only here for drinks. All of the staff was very friendly and the basement is a hidden gem with karaoke.
(4)Rebecca H.
I've only had drinks here but I like the atmosphere and good beer selection.
(4)Elisabeth E.
We went here for drinks after dinner so we didn't eat anything here, but we had a delicious bottle of wine, and the best part about this place is they have a whole basement area with kareoke! Super fun! And the guy who is manning the kareoke station is a really great singer :-)
(4)Samantha L.
This place has AWESOME Shepard's pie and a good selection of beer. I went here on a double date, and my boyfriend who spent 6 years in England was excited they had Abbot Ale, and just the smell of it reminded him of English pubs. Everyone at my table seemed to enjoy their food and beverages, and my friends even got Earl Grey creme brulee for dessert and loved it. They have a free coat check as well. My only wish was that the menu be less expensive! This will be a place I'll go and enjoy occasionally, but it's not cheap enough to become my regular spot!
(5)Matthew F.
Blokes & Birds is often lumped in with the Wrigleyville bars. I'm not sure why. Geographically, it's on the far fringe of that scene; operationally, they aim for something else entirely. I've been here for a range of occasions: From casual date night to "let's avoid the amateurs on New Year's Eve" to "let's camp out at the bar and get proper shit-faced." It works for all three. The beer menu is expansive and well-selected. It leans most heavily on US microbrews and Belgian and UK (surprise!) offerings, and there's nothing too novel in that, but they typically have a number of labels that you only see rarely. On my last visit, I stuck to their whiskey-based cocktails (Tempest, Colonial and Old Chum); all were well-conceived and well-mixed. The food is traditional pub fare with some flourishes. I seek Scotch eggs like Jay Cutler seeks mediocrity, and B&B makes a fine one. I can also vouch for the BLT (With deviled ham and a fried egg? Well played, sir.) and the curry sandwich, and my better half swears by the house burger. I've had the rumbledthumps just once and found them too heavy on the kale for my liking. It's a welcoming, open environment, with plenty of windows and wood. However, this preponderance of wood also means it can get loud at times. I'm of the opinion that the music makes or breaks a pub. While B&B generally sticks to the English standbys, the sequencing could use some work. On my last visit, they got me from Coldplay to Pink Floyd to the Clash to Cyndi Lauper (???) in under six moves. Depending on your attitude toward such things, you will find this either charming or maddening as hell. The staff has repeatedly proven themselves knowledgeable and, as importantly, adept and engaging conversationalists. One server regaled us with a story of attempting to caulk her bathtub while drunk; on another visit, a bartender & I discussed the merits of Tricky's first album and agreed that it is unassailable. On balance, a terrific spot worth checking out.
(4)Aimee R.
Great food and drinks. Service was a little slow but I'll definitely come back for the food!
(4)Mandi G.
Bravo Blokes & Birds! I am giving you a golf clap for the smashing time I had last night. My girlfriend wanted a more upscale but "not too fancy" bar to host her birthday party and B&B totally delivered. I have to admit, we got off to a bad start. I arrived with the birthday girl and we sat at the upstairs bar while waiting for the rest of our group. The bartender messed up my drink order both times, and when that drink is only a Ketel/soda/lime...well, you suck as a bartender. And service was painfully slow considering it was still fairly early and the bar wasn't that crowded. The manager Dan must be psychic because as soon as I was starting to feel annoyed, he magically made everything better. We were given a huge table downstairs for our group, even though the birthday girl spaced and didn't bother calling in a reservation. Our server Charlie was on point all evening. A round of peach-infused bourbon shots was given to the table. Dan personally checked in on us throughout the night and didn't seem too upset that my drunk ass kept calling him Dave. The bar itself is very sleek, yet still comfortable. The beer list is excellent. Also important to note is that they play really good music. I did not hear one Nelly song all night and that is a win for me. I really, really liked this place. The name is kinda stupid, as is the ironic mustache logo. But don't let that deter you. Good times are to be had here.
(4)Nancy K.
Probably one of the worst dining experiences we've ever had. Had to ask the water server on his second round of filling our glasses who our waiter was. Service was so slow we seriously considered getting up and walking out, luckily there was enough eye candy there to distract my hubby from blowing a gasket! The food was lousy too, my husband found a 1 inch chunk of barely cooked beef in his slider, and the fish and chips was equally bad- greasy battered tough fish with limp, greasy fries - yuck. It is a nice space, but we had to yell to converse across the table from each other. Luckily we had a 30 percent off deal, but still considered it a complete waste of time and money.
(1)Colleen F.
I rarely have so little to say about a place so I'm going to go with 'meh.' This place seems to do a few things exceptionally a few things terribly and all things for a hefty price tag. First, they were out of a good 4-5 items on the menu. For a relatively small menu this is a problem for me. I was really looking forward to the mussels as we ordered. "Sorry 86'ed" was the reply. "Ok, how about the deviled beef"... "Sorry, 86'ed." "Hmm... perhaps I'll try the"...you get the point. The devils on horseback were very good, stuffed and wrapped with meat. Doesn't get much better than that. The cheese platter was good and an interesting mix of cheese but for a whopping $14 I thought it lacked. Curried prawns were ok but were most definitely shrimp not prawns. We also had the cucumber salad. I enjoyed the cucumber and mint combination but would have enjoyed it more had they not forgotten to dress it, I mean really? On the other hand this place makes a mean, lean and not too sweet cocktail. I particularly enjoyed the gin concoctions. Service was good, nothing to complain about and the bartender really tried to get me a drink I'd been happy with as I struggled to make up my mind. Perhaps the kitchen will have caught up with the bar next time I drop in.
(3)Chaz A.
How do you know when a restaurant team really cares? Well, put on your coats, boys and girls, and head on out to B&B, lake views hottest new Gastropub. (and by the way, lately, why have they all been named with an "&" in the middle... L&E, O&E, G&TG, B&L'S, T&E'S, B&B, B&L) AMMPPEEERRRSAANNNDD TAKEOVER! Because in the proprietor here, Daily Walsh, you can FEEL the passion oozing out of this man's veins, his knowledge of everything in this restaurant, his command over his troops, and his care in the customers' experience, is so highly noticeable. And the food is very good too. especially the mac & cheese, and fish & chips (M&C, F&C) A really comfortable place to hang out if you're unfortunately in the neighborhood.d
(4)Super L.
They have some pretty delish food items here. And a nice beer selection! I tried the banana bread beer thanks to yelp recommendations, and YUM YUM YUM! I don't even like beer! We ordered four or five of the small plates, and a burger. It was all gooooood. The meatballs with wow sauce was delicious. The chicken liver pate so good. The black pudding? Delicious! It was all so gooood. The burger came on a pretzel bun, as all burgers should. We ordered ours with the Havarti Horseradish cheese, it was.... say it with me! soooo goooood. Service was a little spotty. Our server talked real low and was hard to understand. You have to ENUNCIATE, and speak up! I thought the floor and seating layout was kind of strange too. But we'll be back!
(4)Alli W.
I am so grateful for the breath of fresh air that Blokes and Birds has brought to Wrigleyville. There is a good beer selection - draft and bottle - and a decent cocktail menu as well. You can tell that they put effort into decorating the interior of the space - I prefer the basement 's darker atmosphere around the fireplace. Our server, Terry (I'd feel awful if I messed up his name) was awesome. He helped us secure a table and cared about drink recommendations. Unfortunately when our group dispersed and we relocated upstairs, the bartenders were not as helpful and it took quite a while to get a drink. The crowd was not unpleasant, a definite improvement for the typical Wrigleyville scene. I will back here soon to try a new tasty beverage and test out the food selection.
(4)Laura O.
Was a little hesitant about this place considering its near proximity to Wrigley Field and the rowdy crowds that typically accompany this location, BUT Blokes & Birds emanates a much classier (shall I also say cleaner??) atmosphere than I expected. All of the food I tried was delightful (I sampled quite a bit among my 8 friends). The staff were all friendly, and our server Amber was adorable & pleasant, as well as knowledgeable about the menu. Only downside was... I booked a reservation via email, received the confirmation from management, and when we arrived I was informed that management never passed on the message to the staff! Luckily, they were able to put a table together quickly for us, and the crisis was averted. Definitely check this place out!
(4)Nick B.
I've been meaning to stop in here since I saw the sign pop up above the unopened location months ago. I finally had the chance to stop in last night with a few friends. First I have to say, I loved the lounge atmosphere. Chill, rustic, dark, low music, it was pretty slick. I was impressed by how large the space was. There was a lot of tables and a communal table in the center. It wasn't too busy when we arrived but it fill up around 9PM on a Tuesday. Anyway, I started with a drink. I was in the mood to try a craft cocktail since it was a specialty instead of a martini or something I normally get. I went with the B-Cup which features blueberries, pimms no.1 cup, aperol, Tito's vodka, absolut blueberry, st. germain, syrup, and lemon juice. I was sold on the blueberries and Tito's vodka. Cool drink. Didn't blow me away, but I enjoyed two of them and felt pretty good afterward. I have to say that I wasn't too impressed with the entrees. All meat! Blah. So we decided to go with a more "tapas" like approach and order a bunch of different sides. So damn glad we did. First side was the baked mac n' cheese. Wow. Explosion of flavor and crunchy on top. Awesome. The chips were spectacular. How can you go to an English inspired pub and not get chips? Next we got the Rumbledthumps. What the heck is that? Whipped potatoes and kale. WOW. I didn't even know restaurants in Chicago incorporated kale into dishes. Finally, we had the curried cauliflower with caramel apples. Again, extremely tasty. A solid four stars. Fun atmosphere. Low key. Cool drinks. Awesome food. Definitely a nice place to check out after a long work day.
(4)Anthony P.
After hearing so many good things about the food, we figured that we would give the place a try. It has a nice atmosphere inside, but something is going on with the acoustics. For the size of the place and the number of people in it, it was so weirdly loud. On to the food: we had some mussels with the lemon caper brown butter. They were good, but the meat inside seemed extra tiny. I really enjoyed my burger, though. I got it with the horseradish havarti; very juicy. The only thing we didn't care for was the service. She seemed just entirely uninterested in helping us, didn't offer any recommendations, could only be bothered to check on us once after the food arrived... we couldn't wait to be done with her.
(3)Jonathan P.
A caveat: this review pertains to pretty much every aspect of Blokes & Birds *except* their regular food menu, which I have yet to engage. Or, to begin again: my first and only experience so far at B&B occurred as a result of an eight-course Stone-beer-and-paired-fromage event they hosted in their elegantly cavernous basement space on 2 May 2011. Which is not to say I had no prior knowledge of the establishment: I had read of it, but summarily dismissed it as yet-another iteration of the ampersand-styled restaurants sprouting abundantly these days, except with the blotch of being located in a neighborhood of which I'm not particularly fond. But, this pairing menu popped up, and I had interested family who would be in the city for only one night, on that night, so I wound up just off the Belmont red-line. The space upstairs is understated, sleekly paneled with light-hued wood throughout, and appears well-organized, if fairly unimpressive. We were swiftly directed downstairs, into the much more impressive space below, where the pairing was to be orchestrated. Like a cellar, this downstairs extension is dim and bricked; it features nice, long wooden tables, an additional corner bar, and a handsomely tan-upholstered billiards table; in all, it constituted an obviously superior venue for the operation Stone and B&B had prepared. The representative from Stone, relaxed and eager, was the first to greet us after we were seated; he was courteous, and informative when prompted. His comments each round on the selected beers were not entirely unhelpful, but seemed quite basic, even reductive, and rote; he did, however, endeavor to be very available for questions. Demure, though not quite laconic, the master fromager attended to us next with introductions. She was even more knowledgeable, though likewise needed some prompting -- except when she returned with each cheese service to elaborate upon the specimen, at which point her passion for and comprehension of all the intricacies of cheese flashed outwardly. Unaffiliated with Stone, I assume, credit goes to the management of B&B for her encyclopedic presence. I *know* the management deserves credit for the response to an exigent crisis that emerged relating to the planned beer to be provided by Stone. As explained to us by their representative: due to some licensing issues, the highly anticipated final two courses originally announced - the 2011 Imperial Russian Stout and the 2011 blended with Belgian yeast and star anise - were both unavailable, forcing B&B to improvise. In the stead of these two ales, the restaurant provided pairing patrons with: (i) a now-rare 2008 vintage of the Imperial Russian, which it was agreed successfully ameliorated the loss of the 2011 premiere; and (ii) a shot of their house-spiced bourbon, which paired very poorly with the final cheese and was, moreover, a poor substitute for an eighth beer. However: when the owner-operator visited us at the end of the pairing to inquire regarding our experience, one of my companions mentioned these slight disappointments with the final alcoholic offering. Quickly, without hesitation, this owner-operator popped behind the bar, grabbed another bottle of the 2008, and shared it with us, apologizing again for something that was nonetheless out of his control. My family departed and our party halved; my remaining companion and I deliberated, but decided to persist for one more drink. Situating ourselves at the bar, I noticed and ordered one of my favorite beers, the Cuvee de Jacobins Rouge, and she ordered a cocktail off their crafted menu. Near the end of their keg, there was a flaw in my pour, so the bartender gave it gratis. A short time later, the owner-operator arose from the basement, made rounds, and eventually commented on our having stayed. After thanking him again for the additional stout, we spoke a little about his food-serving bar, and bars in general in Chicago. Among other things, he spoke concisely and cogently about what he was doing with his establishment, where, and why. As closing-time approached, he passed out free shots of their house-spiced bourbon to all the remaining patrons -- another welcome touch. All of which is a somewhat protracted justification for awarding five stars to a restaurant whose regular menu I haven't sampled, whose draught selection failed to especially impress, and whose cocktail offerings looked (and, in one case, tasted) sound but not extraordinary. The prices appeared, across the board, to be exceptionally reasonable -- a goal explicitly stated by the owner-operator in the course of our conversation, and naturally much appreciated, not to mention an additional appeal. Perhaps a future standard meal at B&B will merit four, or even fewer, stars, and I hope to eventually ascertain if these five are entirely warranted. But with such attentive and outstanding service in my one experience there, at the moment I'm left with no other choice.
(5)Khadijah L.
Douchestop. I was born in the UK, and I kinda think its weird/pretentious when establishments think they all classy when they give an English/European theme to it. Y U NO HAZ CLASSY AMERICAN GASTROPUB? Regardless of the stupid names, the cocktails are pretty damn good (and $$$$$$$$), and the beer selection is great. The bartenders are knowledgeable. Unfortunately I've never had food here. I'm in love/hate... because I do welcome a bar with no TV screens. But then the music was terrible. underwhelmingly awful.
(3)Robert P.
I was excited when I found out this place was going to open. I lived in England for 6 years and just reading the name on the door while it was under construction made me eager to try it out once it opened. The decor is very minimalistic and dark which I like, but I don't think it works in this place since it's themed after something besides prohibition era speakeasy. I expected more art on the wall or some accents (non-verbal). The food was very well prepared and presented. Everyone (4 people) at my table ordered something different and all of the plates looked great. I had a chicken thigh sandwich and it was very good but a little difficult to physically handle since the bread fell apart half way through it and the avocado slices kept sliding out. My GF order the sheppards pie that was made with lamb instead of minced beef. I didn't know how the pie would turn out. Regretfully I never had Sheppards pie during my time in England. It was great but I think it still would've been better with the beef. The cheese on the pie was strong and might have been stilton instead of the traditional cheddar but it works with the unique combination that they have. The prices for the food aren't too high. The beer...OMG so many choices. I am not used to so many beers being available but you can't complain about the selection. Large amount of English brews as well as Belgian brews. They also had Abbot Ale which is from the Green King brewery right by where I used to live in England. Some of the beer is priced very high but this is expected since most of them are not common in this area. I'm pretty sure this place will attract a better crowd that the rest of Wrigleyville but I still see a bit more potential in this location. I will be going back to try more beer and the rest of the menu items.
(4)Jeannine T.
In the midst of Lakeview, practically the heart of Wrigleyville, nestles a unique and chic English gastropub. It's refreshing to find a place that allows you to step outside the realm of "sports bar" scene. A much needed haven in the neighborhood. I love food and alcohol, and per my bf probably a bit too much on the latter. So opening night we found our way to my new winter retreat, Blokes and Birds. I walked in greeted with the warmth of smiles and a nice toasty fireplace. Beautifully decorated with dark, rich colored wood and a very appetizing drink and food menu. However, we'll get to the menu later. The light in the room was lowered to the perfect dim, which allowed for the candles on the tables to create the most fitting ambiance. +1 star. The Kicks (Drinks): The selection of beers, spirits, and cocktails offered is very impressive. My sister ordered the Breakfast at Tiffany's, which B&B was very generous with the alcohol. I ordered myself a pint of beer, which I cannot remember the name of. However, we all had a couple of shots of the house custom made Makers, prepared in a marinade of spice and fruits. It was absolutely delicious. The spice and fruit creates a hint of flavor and does not take away from the taste of the whisky. I have never tried anything like this, so +1 star for introducing me to something new and tasty! The Licks (Food): We tried almost everything on the menu. Not disappointed at all. - I love french fries. I think you'll see it mentioned in my profile somewhere. The fries here - yum! - Mussels with vindaloo sauce is a must try. The sauce is not overpowering, making it perfect for bread dipping. - Foie burger is so juicy and delicious. Packed with flavors and the truffle fries is a nice compliment. - Fish and chips came with more fries! No complaints here. =) Fish was not overcooked nor too oily. The filet broke off the perfect crunch and did not sog up after being left on our table. We found ourselves nibbling on all the dishes as the evening progressed. My bf's fave and has become a fave of mine as well. - The sides were all good. They all had very unique names and since I'm not English I can't remember it for the life of me. If I had to recommend one dish it would definitely be the Foie Burger cooked to medium. So savory... Oh and the fish and chips, and the mussels, but definitely the burger. I'll definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. +1 star for the food. The Journey (Service): Our server was friendly - not overly attentive which gave us our time to chat without constant interruption of how our evening was going. He was back to refresh our drink and was available when we needed him. +1 star The Pinch (Our Tab): Every great evening must come to an end. Some with a punch and some with a pinch. For three people dining, we were all surprised at how reasonable our bill came out to be. The beautiful thing about it is that all tax is included in the price of the food. No separate row for "Tax 10.25% - Alcohol 11%" ordeal. What you see on the menu is what you pay. +1 star. Needless to say, I will be returning shortly.
(5)Joseph F.
I must say I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Not bowled over, but pleasantly surprised. So do you want the good news or bad news first? The bad news: They play suicide music. No, It's not a genre. It's what the music will make you do after about twenty minutes. Just a horrendous music selection. Their food is decent but not solid. I will say I sampled a few dishes and they ranged from amazing (wedge salad, chili) to downright terrible (the burger, vegetable curry). Our waitress raved about the burger only to bring out a very gray, very overcooked, very salty blop of beef on a bun that tasted like it was a bit stale. The chicken tikka masala I had was good and I would probably order it again. Although made with curry, it was really well balanced with other flavors. This is what I meant by "not solid". The chef can blow your mind with some very interesting flavors then blow your colon with a passable but not edible burger. The good news: Great drink specials. On Wednesday nights the House offers a wee nip and a pint for $5. They feature a well crafted whiskey nip and a pint of local beer. Really quite tasty! The service we had was also very good. Our waitress might have overstated the quality of some of the food, but she does get paid by these people, it's her job. She was always on top of everything. The bar also features cucumber water. Some people love it. Some people hate it. I find it refreshing and definitely have "love it" checked next to the box. Overall it's good. I think with slightly better music and more solid dishes on the menu, this place could easily be 4-stars.
(3)Thamara D.
Finally a place for grown ups in Lakeview ! Loved everything about Blokes & Birds. Starting with the door person to everyone else that took care of us, made us feel welcome and very comfortable. The menu is exceptional, Cheers to the chef for making boring English food exciting ! Mussels with Vindaloo sauce was so perfect, just that would bring me back here. Love the room, reminds me of the pubs in London, Monty Python on TV gets bonus points. I recommend lower level for drinks and "Mingling" and upper level for a sweet date. It was good to be a "Bird" here, looking forward to going back.
(5)Kelly K.
Came here with the Gilt City promotion for brunch for two that included brunch, cocktails and coffee. 1. The coffee machine was broken. Not sure how that happened, but I was annoyed from the get go. 2. We were offered juice instead of coffee. I barely like coffee and hate juice, unless it is fresh squeezed, even more. Their juice? Tropicana. Even the crappy diner down the street from me offers fresh squeezed orange juice. 3. Not all brunch items were included in the deal, which should have been listed in the fine print. I was trying not to spoil a perfectly enjoyable Sunday, so I went with the omelet. 4. Food took a while to come, especially considering it was only us and one other table of 3. 5. Food wasn't terrible. Potatoes were rather tasty. 6. Service- friendly, but not incredibly helpful. Overall, won't be back for brunch. Maybe I'll come check it out for cocktails when the Cubs aren't in town.
(2)Evelyn S.
Great food and drinks. The service rocked too. Lovely all around.
(4)Yusuf B.
If you're not from the theses parts of town and heard the name you'd probably think its more of the same! Oh contraire mon frere! (its all Europe) I'm not a huge fan of the Wrigleyville corridor BUT I do like me some gastropubs and this is one of Chicago's best I'd say the bar is well stocked the atmosphere is exactly what I look for in a drinking establishment. Quiet enough to talk but with a TV in case the conversation starts to drag! The Food is fantastic as well with a super knowledgeable wait staff that will truly take care of you I've yet to order anything that I haven't loved. Even Wrigleville needs a bar without cleats... nice one lads!
(5)Kara E.
My friend and I tried out Blokes & Birds. This was my first time at B &B- and I was pleasantly surprised. It's located in Wrigleyville, which conjured up images of 20-something drunk frat guys. B & B adds some sophistication to the 'hood. The beer menu at this place is freakin' huge and sorta overwhelming- I opted for the waiter's suggestion rather than read through the lists and lists of foreign brews. I had the Tripel Karmeliet which was very tasty and came in a really cool glass. (I'm easy to please). My friend and I shared the mussels in the abbot ale broth and ordered the chicken tikka masala to split. The mussels were huge and the broth was tasty. The chicken was a sizeable portion and the sauce was delicious. The atmosphere was kinda chill and there weren't any drunk 20-somethings (or at least they were trying to class it up at B&B). B & B is great addition to the hood with great drinks & food.
(4)Gary C.
A couple of good blokes to have dinner with, check. Hunky-dory parking spot, check. British accent, double check [I've been practicing!]. I was really prepared to have some English grub with a couple of good blokes. So ready that I did my research [looked at their menu online] and decided what I wanted prior to arriving. I was happy with the selection of menu items. Now, I've never been to England, but I've Googled all things English just so I could fit in [it's a bit difficult as I am, how do you say, ethnic]. The place was really dark, like, the only lights that allowed patrons to see were coming from street lamps and TV screens. The music was bumpin', but it wasn't like The Beatles or any of the UK Top 75 Singles. It was a mixture of electro-80s and dance songs that could invoke seizures. I was not impressed. Onto the menu. Their list of beverages is bloody long compared to the food menu. As mentioned, I already picked my dinner, the fish and chips. Very well portioned, served with a malt vinegar aioli and a very subtle tartar sauce. I can't complain. It was good, but there was no X-Factor [Simon Cowell anyone??]. Our server seemed to be preoccupied with other tables and we sort of felt neglected. At times she was MIA, possibly in a paper plane...
(3)Kristin J.
Went back for cocktails. Delicious. The B-Cup is still awesome. My friend had some sort of Manhattan-like cocktail with yellow corn liquor, but we both liked mine better. My other friend had a custom-blended cocktail and loved it. I love how laid back this place is, how cozy it seems with the wood and fireplace, and how it seems mellow enough at almost any hour to conduct a pleasant conversation while enjoying a cocktail.
(4)Marc G.
Very knowledgable waitress about both the food and beer selection. After a few questions to understand the type of beer Mysore likes, she came back with 4 samples for her to try. She hit the mark with all four! The food was very good as well - tasty, well prepared and good portions.
(4)Kate S.
I like this place as a bar, but as a restaurant it's just okay. The beer selection is extensive, and they're very friendly about letting you sample a beer before ordering it. Prices aren't crazy expensive, which is nice. The food isn't anything special. I had the fish and chips, which, while not overpriced, were generally devoid of flavor. I ordered the minted peas, and again, pretty tasteless. I absolutely love peas, but these tasted like they were recently defrosted, and didn't really enthuse me in any way. The macaroni and cheese was quite delicious, though it took several tries to get it without bacon. My bigger complaint is with the service. A Jewish friend and I (a pescatarian) ordered the mac and cheese to split, and specifically asked for it without bacon, since neither of us eat it. The dining room is quite dark, so we each had a bite. My friend said that the cheese tasted really unusual, a little saltier than most cheese. I remember bacon well from my youth, and was quite sure that's what we were tasting. When I looked more closely with the candle, I noticed the little pieces of bacon on top. But that's not the biggest problem. When we told the waiter, he argued with us. "That's not bacon, the cheese just gets crispy under the broiler." Excuse me? I'm quite sure that cheddar cheese is not red and chewy. Luckily, the manager came out and apologized for our waiter's poor behavior. Our table was also forgotten once a few other tables came in. (The restaurant was quite empty.) We sat with empty water and beer glasses for about forty minutes before we finally managed to get the waiter to bring us a check. Then, once we got it, it included beer we had never gotten. So I'll definitely be back for the beer, but I'll eat somewhere else.
(3)Dan M.
Dark wood, dim lighting, and friendly service can all be found at this remarkable neighborhood gastropub. Also, the clientele is a little more refined (read: less boozy) than most spots in Wrigleyville, which is a nice change of pace. Things to do: Shoot pool with your mates downstairs, watch early morning soccer matches, and try all of the Wells & Young's brews at least once (Wells Banana Bread Beer, Youngs Double Chocolate Stout, etc.)
(4)R J.
First time in, enjoyed my shepherd's pie and quality beers
(4)Ryan F.
I went here for Dishcrawl, the service was good and they have a great beer selection. My fries tasted like they were marinated in fish...not the best. Everything else was good.
(4)Zoe G.
I've been going to Blokes and Birds since it opened, and can't recommend it more. Very friendly staff from the waiters all the way up to the owner. Delicious specialty drinks, and delicious food. I recommend the braised lamb sandwich & the bacon aioli with fries. They also have a great cider beer. Much different vibe from the rest of Wrigley. More chill, not as crowded, and you can actually hear someone speaking to you there. Good for conversation and hanging out. Good music too, depeche mode, pumpkins, the cure, etc. A place with a little more class and personality than what you usually find in the neighborhood!
(5)johnny b.
Great cocktails solid food
(4)Kristine L.
I was so pleased that this place opened so close to my house, and really wanted to like it. I didn't (so sad!), but I'll have to go back again. Based on these other reviews, I must have just gone on an off night. I'm a gastopub groupie, so B&B is a refreshing change from everything else in Wrigleyville, that's for sure. The ambiance was nice, the service was helpful and friendly, and a big gold star for the beer and cocktail list. Very impressive selection and not too $$$ either! A great Two Brothers on draft with "a wee nip" of some nice whiskey was on special for 5 bucks! Hee-eey! The semi-communal table is sort of problematic if someone is sitting in the space that ends up awkwardly backed up to you. But it was pretty. The menu looked great, so we were pretty stoked for our food... But I was sooo disappointed in dinner! :( :( :( I started with the oxtail soup, and I like salty/savory flavors but WOW pretty salty. My friend chose a risotto, which looked great, but turned out to be loads of cute button mushrooms hiding the fact there was very little risotto. My amish fried chicken dish, which our nice server did say was still new, amounted to tasty chicken straight up buried in what amounted to basically mustard. I think the description mentioned a spicy sauce and some kind of chutney, but it really was chicken seriously drenched in mustard. Also, I wish I had been advised to order a side, because it literally was just the mustard-chicken. (I just noticed neither of our choices are on the website menu.. maybe we should've stuck to the less new choices?) I went to Owen & Engine with the bf not long ago, another English gastropub, and was maybe expecting B & B to compare, but my O & E experience start to finish was far better. Way more expensive, but the service was more knowledgable, and the food was really really great. B & B will get one more try since Yelpers seem to really like it. Although my mom would probably say, "Oh B&B, I'm not angry, just really disappointed in you."
(2)Andrew C.
'A-OK' or 'Yay! I'm a fan' This is going to be a tough one to explain, I'm thinking that I'm a fan of this place. Here is why: Above average beer selection Above average mixology Above average food If anyone says that their mixed drinks are better than The Whistler or Violet Hour or Drawing Room...they don't know what they are talking about. But if you are too lazy to go to those places, you will find something to drink here that is better than 90% of the bars out there. More importantly the other places mentioned above either don't serve food or serve food that I'm not crazy about. Blokes serves sorta high end comfort food. I like that. Basically this is a safe place to meet out with your friends since they have food that everyone can relate to, beer for those that don't do mixed drinks and decent mixed drinks. That is why I'm a fan of this place. Oh and one last thing, vodka is the training wheels of liquor. When you are tired of mixing vodka with your kool-aid, start investigating what mixology is. Make it a point to drink at least one Corpse Reviver #2 during your adult life.
(4)Brad B.
I really wanted to like this place, I did. The pro's: friendly staff, interesting / comfy decor. The con's: the food, the beverages. We went in last week Saturday evening around 7PM for dinner. The place was sorta empty, which set my spidey senses tingling....no matter though, we persevered and after much machination about where to sit, actually did. At one of communal tables in the middle of the main room. We ordered mussels and deviled eggs to start. Then the fish & chips and pork for our main courses. The eggs were not good and by not good, I mean earth-shatteringly-bad. And we told our server, politely that this was the case. He graciously removed them from our ticket. Very cool of him. The fish & chips were a solid "meh" as neither stood out in any way - either positively or negatively. The pork was better but, still nothing fantastic. They were out of half the wines that night. The "specialty" cocktails were not that special, nor flavorful....I had the B Cup and [inappropriate yet flattering, comment about women with b-cup breasts, redacted], thats all I have to say about that. I'm truly hopeful that this place works out the kinks with its menu and really starts to bring it, as it would be a shame to have yet another mediocre establishment along this stretch of Clark.
(2)Geoff R.
This is my favorite new find in Chicago. Hands down. Wrigleyville is teeming with bars that serve "food." But this place delivers on all levels. The room is gorgeous but not pretentious. The drink list rivals any other gastro pub in the city. The food is awesome, diverse, and beyond reasonably priced. I can't recommend it highly enough. I brought my daughter and my Mom for her birthday early on a Monday. They were super welcoming of kids even though it's a pretty sophisticated vibe. This is a magical combo in my book. I'll be going back....often. I encourage you to do the same. Go. Seriously.
(5)Jennifer S.
A welcome change form all the sports bars! Their beer selection is fantastic and the gastro-pub food was really good. My husband had the Foie-gras burger and weeks later he was still talking about it. My fish was fresh and perfectly cooked. The bread pudding was awesome- I was going to just have a bite and ate half of it. The servers are really friendly and on top of things, and they know their beer. He suggest the ALLAGASH WHITE on tap for a light, wheat beer and it was a home run. I hope more places like this open up in the neighborhood
(4)John G.
What a great little oasis from the run-of-the-mill Wrigleyville bar scene. Their menu is fantastic, the service is above-average and their beer selection is outstanding! I highly recommend the Vindaloo mussels and grabbing onto a couple of cold ones that you've never tried before ... I guarantee you find at least one or two.
(4)Travis J.
This was probably the most unorganized, worst experiences ever for all the restaurants I have been to in Chicago. I made a reservation for 10 people, and then called to add one more on the phone. We showed up, and the table was for 10 (no big deal), and we sat down. The waiter was rude from the start. The menus had different prices on them. Half of the menus said the drinks were $4 and the other half said they were $10. When asked about this on the menu why they are wrong, the water just goes "yeah they're $10" without any sort of apology, etc. Why would you even use those menus if they are wrong? We ordered drinks, half bloody marys and the other half various drinks. They came out two at a time over the course of 15 minutes (the first one arrived after 15 minutes so it was a 30 minute process to get drinks). Upon delivering the bloody marys, one person said "this isn't bacon vodka as on the menu." Of course the server's response was "yeah it's regular vodka," again with no explanation given. To kick it off, when asking for a straw for the drinks, he goes "we're out of straws." Really? In a restaurant? I have had dinner here before, and although the service was iffy, the food was good and it was an average experience. This guy, however, should not work in the service industry. Before we ordered food, we got our bill for the overpriced drinks that weren't even as promised on the menu (wrong vodka, etc), and paid and left to another brunch location. Amazing how one rude person lost 11 paying customers from getting brunch and multiple drinks. It sounds like this type of behavior is a regular occurrence, which is really too bad because it's a decent place inside. With that behavior though, I doubt this restaurant will be able to sustain itself much longer.
(1)Evan S.
I came here about 3 weeks ago with my gf to see one of our friends who was celebrating their birthdays. We went straight to the basement and met up with everyone. I was real happy to find that they had Two Brothers on tap. The pour was pourfect! While all the seating around the edges was filled, it still felt a little dead with all the open space. For some, this may be comforting as it wasn't jammed pack. It is really nice to see a "big kid bar" up in Wrigleyville as opposed to the 19-21 year old infested Clark Street. Frankly, its one of the few bars I would go back to in the area.
(4)Mira K.
"Blokes and Birds, what does that mean?" I thought when I walked in the bar. I was soon greeted by the owner who offered us tastes of different beers so we could decide on what we'd have. He explained the history of the bar, the name of the bar, the designer, and his history as owner of several bars in Chicago. He also took us on a tour of the bar, to show us the party room downstairs. All very upscale for the neighborhood, in an area where Cubs fans are more dominant than beer enthusiasts. I asked questions about beers from other areas of the world, and the owner actually went to his office to Google my question. He soon came out with a printed out page with the answers! Beer menu was unique, service was steller. Only complaint is that the bartender wouldn't sell me his awesome Blokes and Birds t-shirt, complete with a mustache/kissing birds (two for one) on the back. Speaking of back, I'll be back there soon.
(4)Eric W.
This place should have two different places to review it. One as a Bar, the other as a Restaurant. I wish I could give it 3.5 stars, b/c that's what I thought about it. The place desperately wants to be taken seriously as an upscale "English Gastropub"... but their food just wasn't quite there. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed myself, but for a bill of $55 I was expecting to enjoy my FOOD a little more. My bird and I had a table near the front of the place on this weird cross shaped table that we shared with 3 other groups. Interesting concept, but we felt a little exposed in the middle of the floor. That, and I don't like people j/k. I really liked the rest of the interior though, real dark wood paneling and a dark reclaimed wood bar. The lady had a braised shortrib sandwich with havarti cheese and some sort of curry on ciabatta bread. It was good when hot, but the cheese congealed and was just ok after a while. I had the shepherds pie with braised shortrib. This was the first time I've ever had shepherds pie, but it seemed a little bland. I expected it to be like pot pie with mashed potatoes instead of a pie crust... nope. The rest of the menu included standard English pub fare that was spiced up a little bit. I will say that the lack of sides included with the entrees is a little weak. Especially since the only "normal" one is fries (big enough to share). There was also some weird cauliflower / apple / caramel side that sounded interesting but intimidating for $10. I don't want to spend that on a side that might suck. The beer selection is nothing short of EPIC for a wrigleyville spot. If you come here and order a bud light, they might make fun of you. I know I would. Takeaways: * I write long reviews for good beer places * Good, sometimes bland food... needs a repeat to be sure * INCREDIBLE beer selection * Very good, attentive service
(3)Liz A.
I went here for a friends birthday last week. They do have a bigger beer selection than most bars and the ambiance is a bit nicer than most of the bars on Clark. However, the main bartender a total jerk and thinks he's really something special. Get over yourself! Your making pretty simple drinks & pouring beer. Be nice and get a tip. The beers are a bit pricey but I guess that's what you expect when you are trying to step up from Coors Light haha.
(3)Ann K.
The upstairs is still fine but I'm no longer a fan of the downstairs "lounge". In my opinion, it used to be classy but I am not a fan of the new karaoke downstairs. The downstairs bartenders were very inattentive and also they did not have half of the beers listed on the menu downstairs.
(2)Esther A.
Had a terrific early dinner here last night. Portions were substantial and *really* tasty. Unlike the "small plate, big price tag" aesthetic at gastropubs like Longman and Eagle or Owen and Engine, there was plenty of food on the plate for the price. Great beer list, super-friendly service, beautiful room. We will definitely be back.
(4)Jess H.
Blokes & Birds is included in Chicago's ALA card stack {google that if you don't know what it is} and this is how I stumbled upon this place. I was immediately drawn in from the name and the beer list. Another reviewer said you should be able to review this as two different things, a restaurant or a bar - - - and I agree. As a bar, it'd probably score 4 stars - a great beer list, I love a wood decor, and the fries are awesome. I read from others that there is a basement with a pool table, but I wouldn't have known that otherwise. As a restaurant, it would be 2 stars - the menu interesting, but a little on the pricey side (for a "bar" type of atmosphere), the seating was awkward with underutilized open seating space, and sports WAS playing on the televisions, contrary to other reviews. I had an okay time, except for the fact that the server mistook my order, and brought my partner's food out quite a bit before mine, and the water boy kept hitting me because the seating was weird. Will I be back? Eh, maybe if I get dragged along by friends..
(3)Wade F.
The staff was wonderful and attentive without being obnoxious, the selection of beer and wine was superb, missing a couple I would have enjoyed, but having others we DID enjoy. The food was above average, and the pool table downstairs was a lot of fun, a bit off level on one corner, but made things a bit challenging... A very nice comfortable atmosphere makes this a place to stop and enjoy.
(5)Alec S.
I went with two friends for a late lunch. Was fairly happy about the beer selection, but other than that was severely disappointed. The interior is beautiful, but I think all that wood makes sound reverb, because the music playing was intrusive. Im fine with the music being loud in a bar at night, but for a sunday lunch, maybe give the techno a break. Our server seemed disinterested, and the food took too long, since we ordered a burger and two sandwiches (25 mins?). The reuben I ordered was cold by the time I got it, which was confusing since there were about 5 other people in the entire restaurant. Also, we tried to order sides but were informed that sides were only available for the brunch menu, which seemed a little odd. Burger was cooked properly, and hot when it got there, and the fries are tasty. But couldn't save Blokes & Birds from being a disappointment.
(2)RocÃo C.
I can't believe the good reviews!!! One of the most rude and inattentive bartenders ever! After waiting at the bar for more than ten minutes, he wasn't even look at us, he was completely rude: throwing drink menus at us, not explaining anything about the huge drink menu!!! (3 pages) after ordering we had to wait another ten minutes for the drinks!!! And after all they weren't that good either. When it was time to pay for them, he charged us $12 per each ( the menu said $10). I think he was charging us the tip already. Overall a horrible experience. Unless you are a hot chick in your twenties don't even try it! I thought we had a new spot in our neighborhood but I was so mistaken. Sad to say that I'm not coming back again and I won't recommend it to any of my friends.
(1)Daniel H.
Great place to get a cocktail. Good food. Great atmosphere
(4)Bryan C.
This review is strictly based on brunch and I look forward to trying this place out again in the evening hours so I can explore the beer list. It was relatively dead for a late Sunday morning. I expected a huge brunch crowd, but no. Our server was really nice. We both had the Bloke's Breakfast (hello meat!) and it was pretty damn good. Swapped out the beer that comes with the meal for a glass of champagne instead. I never thought I'd enjoy blood sausage, but it turns out I do! The atmosphere was very modern yet cozy. The benches are really high for the tables (against the wall) and it was weirding me out so I had to change seats. Ha. Really not worth mentioning in a review I guess. Anyway, the menu was definitely not your average brunch menu so I certainly recommend this place to anyone looking for something different. Again, I'll be back to check out that beer list!
(4)Kathy S.
Held a private 30th birthday party here for about 35 people and the place couldn't have been more perfect! The staff and service was excellent. Daily set us up with just the right amount of space, seating, and tables. John and the other bartenders were so attentive all night. Plus, the fun drink menu made for that little extra "something". The foreign films with sex scenes behind the bar might have been a little much for my friend's parents, but for the crowd the bar usually attracts, I'm sure they add to the atmosphere. Very refreshing place to go outside of the usual Wrigleyville craziness. Will be back!
(4)Tony C.
I have lived in the area for almost 5 years and this place is the coolest joint I've seen come up in a long time. Trendy decor (mustaches everywhere) and great food. The chicken dish, which was recommended to us by the server, was perfectly cooked, unique and uber-flavorful. They had a decent beer selection and also some solid appetizers. It was an overall great experience. I'm looking forward to going back this weekend for some drinks!
(4)Alex J.
I'm a pretty big fan of this place...especially since I have seen what they transformed it from (Spot 6) a few years ago. What a dump turned into a goregous place! I love that the basement is dark and they have free pool. The food is good for the most part...I'm actually not really sure why I ordered Chicken Tikka Masala at an "English" restaurant or why its even on the menu. I think curiousity got the best of me - would not recommend. However, the fish and chips are great and the drink menu is inventive and delicious!
(4)ed s.
Just the right pace - it wasnt too crowded when we sat down for dinner on a thursday night and it was getting crowded as we left (7-9pm meal). Food was good (vegetarian pie was bland but filling). Beer was fantastic (get draught). Waitress (Brie) was very kind, friendly and interesting. All in all a good neighborhood joint.
(4)Patti M.
Just returned from England so we were looking forward to this. Very good ales but virtually no wine. Friendly but inexperienced service. Fish and chips - nice light batter but lacked flavor and fries became soft very quickly as they were wrapped in paper and served upright in a glass. The presentation ruined them. Friends enjoyed the mash with spinach and the sea greens were very good.
(2)Janet H.
Food: - Generally, portions run small and you feel like you didn't get value for your money. - Bangers and mash did not have mustard and were not entree sized (requires at least a starter or a side in addition). - Fries were great, wish they or something else with carbs and salt came when the beer came so we could munch while we drank - Mac and Cheese was decently good (but required more seasoning), but not worth $10 - Mussels were good, but not amazing and again, small portion sized. - Burger was juicy and flavorful but very messy to eat, no accompanying sides - Fish and chips were delicious Timing: - 1 hour and 45 minute wait for a table. - 10 minutes until the waitress could check on us - 28 minutes from order placed to food on the table (which is actually pretty good) - We didn't eat until 10:30 pm Pros: - Extensive beer selection, plenty of beers you would want to try including ones that are fairly rare (the girls particularly enjoyed original sin hard cider and timmermans lambic) - There are beers on draught (14 types), austria (1), belgium (8), england (6), germany (1), scottland (1) and us (28) - Waiters were very sweet, apologetic and helpful. - Nice music selection which added to the loud and bustling atmosphere - Management obviously cares and was vigilant on the details (wiping down tables, greeting guests) - Glasses with water vs glasses with cider repeatedly got confused by our waitress. - Some inventory issues: ran out of 2 brothers beer and did not have all the beers on the menu in stock. Cons: - Ridiculous wait time - While the design concept was neat (exposed brick, different wood grains, etc), the practicality needs work. Bar lounge tables were too low and not wide enough to hold both alcohol, water, and food so people ended up either hunched over the table or eating on their lap. Poor use of space, more tables and seating is definitely needed and can be put in. Stools needed for waiting area. - Poor lighting, you should be able to see what you're eating and read the menu Overall: Food and atmosphere were not enough to compensate for the absurd wait time and the disconnect between value and price. I wish birds and blokes the best and I hope they can learn how to turn over tables more quickly and figure out the design issues so patrons don't feel the need to have to eat either hunched over a coffee table or with they're dinner in their lap. Decent concept, poor execution.
(2)Kate H.
The menu has high(ish) aspirations, with a plethora of craft cocktails and more upscale takes on British pub fare at very reasonable prices. The food, while not bad, did not meet its lofty goals. We started off with a Scotch egg--a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage and deep-fried--but the yolk was a tad overcooked and the sausage slightly lacking in flavor. For the main dish, I had the sausage platter, house-made sausages (very ambitious!) with ginger apple chutney, caramelized onion, and super spicy mustard accompaniments. The English banger was mild, and I think a little bland, but the blood sausage was quite tasty once I got over the softer bite that blood sausage typically has. This dish also comes with mashed potatoes topped with a fried egg, tasty but not particularly adventurous. Aaron had the burger and reached a similar verdict: not bad but not great. The ambiance is nice--dimly lit, dark wood panelling and upscale furnishings, quiet enough to have a good conversation. I would certainly go back for drinks--the atmosphere is nice, and the creative execution on drinks fun. To be honest, if this restaurant were in the suburbs or a smaller city, I think my opinion would be different. But, in a city where excellent restaurants at every price range abound, it's hard to make the case for this one. Price: ~$20/person (Entrees ~$10)
(2)roberto a.
Hmmm, maybe the group I was with went here on a bad night, as we all came out less than impressed with this place. It seems like this was an attempt to add a touch of sophistication to a strip that is not normally associated with sophistication. Let's start with the good: The drink menu has an extensive selection of beer and cocktails. We settled on a few beers and were quite satisfied. As for the food, when it came out, we were not so satisfied. Among the dishes ordered were shepherd's pie, the sausage platter, and the pork tenderloin. I could see the look of disappointment in my friend's face as she bit into the tenderloin. She went "Is this supposed to be lukewarm? I mean it tastes good, but it seems like it was just microwaved." The sausage platter on the other hand was very good. You could tell that the sausages were home made (or if they weren't, at least a premium brand). The accompanying sauces and mash potatoes rounded out the dish and one in particular had a nice kick to it that went well with the meats. As for the shepherd's pie, one came out steaming hot, and one came out lukewarm. Not just on the outside, but the inside. Even when everyone at the table sampled the two pies, we all agreed that there was something lacking in the lukewarm one, and not just temperature. But the other one was just fine, albeit steaming hot. Overall the service was good, but the ambiance is overdone for an area that typically has much lower standards. There was a crowd, but plenty of open tables for people that came in. For awhile, the bar had more people than the tables, and plenty of floor space for the presumed weekend crowd. In the end, we left miffed, neither satisfied or dissatisfied. Part of that was the beer. And if this is all that is required to be satisfied, you can do so elsewhere for less cost. Pros: The drink menu, especially the beer list. Attentive service. Darkened ambiance, and for those of you who just need to know what the score of the game is, a few strategically placed TVs. Cons: Food was inconsistent, prices seemed high. To Sum It Up: Try it once and decide if it's worth it to come back.
(2)Maggie S.
This place is awesome. We had to "wait" for our table, and the host accommodated us nicely at the bar. It was almost like we were going to sit down at the bar with a friend.. except he went back to doing his job after. Every staff member there was above and beyond their job. We did wait a little bit for our food, but I am guessing it takes time to make the most delicious meal ever. I had the amish chicken... It's been a few months since and I cannot stop craving it. Great beer selection. If I lived in the city, I would be here every single day. The atmosphere is comforting. Scattered through out the restaurant you will find shapes of mustaches. In my opinion, this is an incredibly witty, yet charming unique feature to the overall environment.
(4)Scott I.
Get the Bloody you won't be disappointed!
(4)Moe f.
Checked it out on a Sat night and managed to snag a spot at the bar. Decent beer selection and the wife dug her B-cup(cocktail). We had bacon wrapped dates with some chutney that was fantastic. Then we split the Foie Gras burger with truffle fries and mac and cheese. Both were decadent. Good service and OK crowd. Definitely not what you'd expect outta Wrigleyville.
(4)Jane T.
I came here opening night with my sister and her bf and we pretty much sampled EVERYTHING. I honestly loved everything I ate here. *My favorite item has got to be the cauliflower side with caramel and apples. Seriously, I'm not a fan of sweet items during dinner but this just blew me away. *The mussels - get it with the vindaloo sauce. You will not regret it. *The Foie burger - shmear some garlic aioli on it. It's like heaven, extremely juicy burger with truffle fries - you can't go wrong with this combination. *The lobster bisque was one of the best I've had. I've usually come across a lot of places that tend to over-season it, so it's usually way too salty for me, but it was great here. *The pork tenderloins were some of the most tender cuts of pork I've ever had. Places that serve rubbery pork really annoy me but the texture here was great. And the kale mashed potatoes that came with it? Another fave of mine. *We had this potato side dish, I don't remember the name but it had bits of onions and cabbage in it, then it was pan seared. This was way delicious *Their desserts: we had milk & cookies and the trifle. Seriously, milk & cookies! What a cute concept! I really wanted to try the shepherd's pie but my sister is not a fan of lamb. Maybe next time, the manager told us it was one of his favorite dishes. They also have this specialty Makers Mark, which they marinade with different spices. I'm not a huge fan of whiskey but it was really tasty. Definitely ask for a shot of that. I feel like I'm missing some items. But this place is a must try. I'm going to recommend it to all my friends, especially for that Makers. Great service, really comfortable ambiance, and most importantly, delicious food.
(5)Mallory B.
Had a wonderful dinner here with my boyfriend and we were very impressed. It is a jewel on Clark street surrounded by drunk idiots in dive bars. My salmon was great and I definitely suggest trying the Sea Beans...they were out of this world!! I was very impressed by the craft cocktails and great beer list. It was pretty noisy, when were used to quiet sit-down places but what do you expect at 9pm on a Saturday, but they were nice enough to sit us at a larger table in the corner so we could relax a bit. All in all we enjoyed the ambiance and the service was excellent. I cant stop thinking about those Sea Beans :-)
(4)Christina F.
Went here for the first time over the weekend for brunch and it was delicious! My boyfriend wanted to eat there since he had already been and I was very impressed with the service and food. I can't wait to go back and try more! :D
(4)Wilson P.
Outstanding Bloody Mary's.
(5)Anne C.
Our experience at B&B was a series of hits and misses. We showed up for a late dinner on a Saturday night and I was surprised to see that for being after 9 on a Saturday in Wrigleyville the place was only moderately crowded. We were told that there were about 3 groups ahead of us waiting on tables and that the wait would be anywhere from 20 to 75 minutes... quite the window. We chatted between our group to decide whether or not we wanted to wait and when we finally decided we would then the host said we could actually be seated right away in the basement bar area. The bar area was only about half full and really didn't fill up for the entire time we were there-- until after 1 AM. It was definitely refreshing to be at a Wrigleyville bar that wasn't full of the typical tourist/bachelorette party/21-year old group that you normally see out there. Our waiter was nice, but the service overall was lacking. I asked what the risotto special was and he said that it didn't exist and that they just never printed new menus. Weird. It wasn't that busy and there weren't that many people ordering food at that point in the night-- and the food took forever to arrive. It took close to 45 minutes and when it finally did, the mac and cheese that we were planning to share amongst the group was nowhere to be found. The waiter didn't acknowledge that when the food was served and then he didn't again when he came to check in on us, which is when we reminded him about it. He came by three more times to say it would "be right out," but the rest of our meals were long gone before it finally showed up. I'm not sure if he forgot to put the order in or if the kitchen screwed things up or what, but there seemed to be an error in communication somewhere. The beer and wine selections are great and the food was very good though. I will give the waiter props as we had purchased a YouSwoop certificate to use at B&B and then forgot to bring it along. He did allow me to show it to him on my phone and then write down the certificate number instead of presenting it. After the wait and weird service experience, we sort of knew we wouldn't be rushing back again to use it so that was at least a silver lining.
(4)Lo S.
amazing beer list + amazing food like fish n' chips + cucumber water at your table + wonderful service and affordable prices. This gastro pub is perfect for a first date, a girls night out or even just a simple, weekday night dinner. I am a huge fan of Blokes and Birds because it is not at all pretentious and its so unique to the typical Wrigleyville neighborhood places that surround it.
(4)Reid G.
Best fries in Chicago, maybe the world. Hands down. No comparison. Nobody in our group of 8 had a culinary complaint. I'd consider this a destination restaurant with a pub theme. Service was outstanding especially considering the proximity to Wrigley. In fact, everything about this place stands out of Wrigleyville. Hopefully the shoulder-to-shoulder Moe's/Red Ivy crowd doesn't discover B&B - athough the lack of Miller Light on the menu probably deters a good percentage of the demographic.
(5)LadyBird X.
The only reason I went here was to meet with some acquaintances. Chicago's lack of innovative night life is only reinforced with Blokes & Birds. This is the kind of bar that would have opened in NYC 10 years ago. The British "Gastropub" is so overdone and the moustache logo is comically late (moustaches are so 5 years ago). That said, this place is located in Wrigleyville, so it can't be taking itself too seriously. Plus this is probably one of the better bars in Wrigley - for whatever that's worth. I had the Peach Palmer which was very sweet, with completely undetectable liquor (the way I like it!). My husband prefers stronger drinks, and he enjoyed his "Colonial". We didn't order food. The TVs were unnecessary (unless they're playing British football for brunch or something, which they're not). The Saturday night we were there the TVs were actually playing local news, no joke. I can't say I would come back here unless I happened to find myself in Wrigleyville again (pre-concert maybe?), but I have to give Blokes & Birds credit for raising the bar (no pun intended), however slight, for the Wrigleyville area.
(2)Saira C.
I wish I lived closer! Or strike that, I wish this place was closer to me. This place was so great! The food was made of awesome, and the prices were reasonable. I went here with a friend for dinner, but we ended up staying most of the night. The staff was ridiculously nice and good looking. They have a complimentary coat check. I can't even remember the last time a guy helped me put my coat on. Also, it smells like wood in there and I like it.
(5)chris c.
This place is a little above average but nothing special. We did the mozzarella salad. Every part of the dish was passable with only the pesto being note worthy. Also did a burger, which on Thursdays is !) with fries and a pint of mad hatter, the gf thought the bun too sweet and I though the burger tasted a little to charred (but not the goods kind) and the fried were tremendous. The beer list is good and not too poorly priced. I would definitely hit the place up again prob later in the evening though.
(3)Weston A.
It's close, I would go with a 3.5 if I could, but the Bloody Mary's tip the scale to a 4. We went for brunch last weekend on our search for the best Bloody Mary in Chicago, and Blokes & Birds is near the top of the list. The well garnished brunch beverage standard comes with a special infused house vodka, but I'd recommend also trying the bloody with gin instead. The food was great, but a very heavy meal. The hash with duck confit was food coma inducing, but pretty good. It's not cheap, prices are on the high side, and the service was pretty weak which dings the rating a bit. It's definitely worth checking out, but it may not make the regular rotation.
(4)Kate S.
Fantastic in all ways! We had to wait for about 30 minutes but there was room at the bar and the bartender helped us chose a beer that wouldn't be too strong flavored before dinner. Our dinners were outstanding. My husband had the shepard's pie and i had their pork temderloin. Our waiter was incredibly friendly and helpful. I was 8.5 months pregnant when dining here and wanted to chose a really awesome beer since 1 was all I was allowed. He helped guide me perfectly. Definitely am planning a return!!
(5)Elana L.
I have been hearing about Blokes & Birds since before they opened. I finally got a chance to go over and try it out. I am glad that I did. The food is delicious. The cocktails are even better. I asked the bartender, Chris to make me a cocktail that was not on the menu. He came up with several different cocktails for me and my friends. Each of which was unique and all were amazing. The cocktails he made were well thought out and imaginative. My favorite was a lemon cocktail that tasted like liquid lemon meringue pie, so amazingly delicious. Give it a name and put it on the cocktail menu ASAP. He also sampled out some of his homemade sweet tea vodka and it was the best sweet tea vodka I have ever drank. It was a nice balanced vodka with beautiful spice notes. If Chris is working when you come in have him make you one of his specialty cocktails. It may take a little more time then ordering a Tanquery and tonic but it is worth it. Did I mentions the amazing list of beers they feature as well? Impressive!!! Considering the time and effort that goes into making these hand crafted cocktail you are getting a bargain at $8 or $9 a drink. Most of the other places that I go to have cocktails charge $12-$14. It is a great deal. I am surprised that they haven't raised the prices for the cocktails. As for the rest of the staff, they were all very nice. Whoever made the music list should be complimented on their great taste in music. It just made the night even better. B&B has a great vibe. It's the kind upscale bar that wrigleyville needs. My only other comment about B&B is that they should do more to advertise and market themselves. I follow them on Twitter and am a FB fan. They need to talk themselves up more. Like I said this place is great and everyone should know that. Looking forward to heading back over there soon to try more food and cocktails.
(4)James P.
Blokes and Birds is a restaurant/bar type sorely needed for this area. Very clean, contemporary, open space yet still cozy...mostly due to the wood paneled walls, ceiling and the fireplace. Nice bar area upstairs and downstairs...downstairs also has a billiards table and tvs that play Premiere league soccer. Great, extensive beer and whiskey list with some interesting cocktails as well. Bartender was spot on....helpful, friendly and knew his drink list well. We had the BLT with two diff. types of Bacon and the Chicken Thigh sandwich. Both were really flavorful and tasty. I would have preferred a thinner type of bread or at least grilling the bread, but wasn't a deal breaker. I knocked off a star because of the music really. Seems like they go Brit on everything here, including rolling the tax right into the prices which is nice, except the tunes. 70's American rock doesn't fit the ambiance here at all, gents...get some current British Alt tunes and this place is 5 stars, e.g. Kele (Bloc Party), Two Door Cinema Club, Foals, Editors, Travis, Elbow, Doves, Badly Drawn Boy etc. Can you tell I'm trying to give you a playlist? Or else if you want to go old school go Stone Roses, Smiths type route. Will make a bigggg difference. All in all a great experience and addition to the hood.
(4)Valerie R.
This place was mostly empty on Friday night and reeked of varnish. the bartender was super nice, but $12 for a small glass of wine in Wrigleyville? No thanks. I don't plan to be back.
(2)Bobby S.
Great night! Went for a birthday party and they took a reservation! Pretty much the only pub around that would so they got off to a great start with me. Food: for appetizers we got the sausage stuffed dates, curry mussels, and mac n cheese. All three were awesome. entrees were pretty much fish and chips which was great, short rib sandwich which was really good but not quite great, port tenderloing which everyone loved, and one burger which was supposedly really good. The bubble and squeak was a tasty side and fries were really good. The short rib sandwich needed something. All you could taste was the curry. Couldn't taste the horseradish and basil mayo at all. They could probably leave it off and it would taste the same. Maybe some type of garnish, lettuce/tomato, a horseradish sauce, and/or a toated bun would have been nice. Booze: Fantastic beer selection and my rye and soda's were nice and strong. Even better only about 8 bucks each. Service: couldn't complain. waiter was nice, food fast, food hot, and everyone always had a full drink. Venue: great lower level, we could talk without the music being too loud. Music was good but the radiohead tv videos were creepy. Didn't fit for a british pub theme at all. The videos basically looked like oldschool creepy tool videos. Overall: food was good but not the best I've ever had, would absolutely go back and eat everything on the menu, service was good, and the palce was great, but would lose the really creepy videos, crank up the solid music, and stick with the gastropub theme.
(4)Rachel Y.
A really great upscale pub - amazing beer and drink list (you usually just get one or the other but I was really happy to see they had both). The server was really helpful and attentive. I know people were raving about the shepherd's pie on here but my friend got it and he wasn't that sold. I asked the server between the pork tenderloin and the fish & chips - enthusiastically he said to get the pork tenderloin. I second that! It was definitely the hit of the evening - make sure you order it as you will not be disappointed! And I leave you with this one final note: Order...I repeat...order...the mac & cheese appetizer.
(4)shai h.
I went a couple nights ago with my boyfriend and a few friends. Love the ambiance. The food was delicious. Definitely try the vindaloo mussels. The chopped salad was okay (I don't like so much dressing). The pork entree is amazing! I liked the vegetarian curry dish, although I was expecting something more like a curry. It was a dry rice entree. (not dry like too dry, dry like not saucy). The flourless chocolate dessert was so good my bf didn't want to share. The hazelnut creme brûlée was just okay. The server was great (Sean) and we never waited for anything :]
(4)Stephen S.
I am Gluten Free... So eating out can be difficult sometimes. Blokes & Birds does not have a gluten free menu, but the waiter was very accommodating and was able to quickly check all menu items with the chef to see if they were gluten free. The chef evidently does not use flour in a lot of his dishes, and a number of the entrees and appetizers were naturally gluten free. I had the prime rib, and did not get sick, and it tasted great too. They messed up all our drink orders in the basement though! Other than that, good experience.
(4)Marta P.
Went here last night after having changed my mind on the dining location at least 4 times, and I am so happy I did. I LOVE beer and this place did not disappoint. The atmosphere is great, so much attention to detail on the decor and lay out. The place is super functional, it is open and modern but at the same time really cozy. I took some suggestions from our waiter and tried 3 new beers I have never had. All of them were great especially the sour Belgium which was something totally different. My friend ordered the cucumber cocktail, which she also enjoyed. Not only do they have an extensive beer list, but the cocktails list looked creative as well. Onto the food- I have food commitment issues and I eat tapas style anywhere I go. Between the two of us we had the mac & cheese, the mushroom side dish, fish & chips and the bubble & squeak. I loved everything!! The m&c was really creamy, the mushroom side dish was a weird order since it was just a random side that we wanted to try, but I loved the salt and sour flavoring. The fish was nice and flaky and the fries were addicting! Not sure what they were seasoned with but so good!! By far the best thing was the bubble & squeak which is a mix of cabbage, potatoes, onion etc. The service was great; our server was attentive, knowledgeable and personable. At the end the owner stopped by and we also got a quick tour of the downstairs which has a fire place, pool table and an open seating area. I can not wait to go back!
(4)Heather W.
Great food and beautiful location! They have a wide beer selection, although I didn't try any while there for dinner. I would totally go back, especially for a soccer match! I recommend the braised short rib sandwich = Delish. I wasn't pleased with their chips, but all-in-all the food was SO good!
(4)caroline k.
Came upon this place by chance on a snowy chicago eve. Ambiance is casual hip, led by dark wood chairs and tables, a fireplace, and well stocked bar. Wait staff is friendly and seated us on a relatively empty weekday night. We had the deviled beef appetizer, fish and chips, and bloke burger. The appetizer was the best, a huge chunk of brisket (?) with a curry and host mustard pickle sauce. Burger and fish were good, but fries were soggy and mushy which was disappointing. We also had the trifle dessert which was about 3/4 cup of whip cream atop a layer of berries and soaked cake. Definitely like the ambiance, and would come back for drinks off their lengthy menu, but not necessarily the food!
(3)Minh T.
It's about time a place like this opened in Lakeview. Blokes and Birds has a great beer/bourbon/whiskey selection and great comfort food. They also have an amazing staff who are always friendly and attentive. Case in point, after we paid for our bill, another friend joined us for drinks. I ordered a B-cup (delicious, by the way), and tried to pay with my credit card. Their computers weren't working, so they said it was on the house! As an added bonus, since Blokes and Birds aims to be an upscale, English pubhouse, you can hear plenty of New Order, Joy Division, and the Clash on their speakers.
(5)Nicole B.
I've been to Blokes for dinner a few times and have enjoyed it each and every time. I love the decor, the food is great, and the owner is extremely friendly. But yesterday I took advantage of the Gilt City brunch offer and ventured over with a few friends to indulge. And indulge we did! We had a few salads, the shrimp and grits (the grits were to die for) with a side of chili, omelette of the day (asparagus/goat cheese), side of berries, and rosemary potatoes. We had mimosas, queen's jubilee, and bloody mary's. I never like bloody mary's and this one was made to perfection! The omelette, potatoes, berries, also all amazing!! We had a few desserts including the brulee and chocolate cake - all incredible. Cannot wait to go back!!!
(5)Kylie C.
After spending a weekend in Chicago, I can confidently say this was the best meal I had the entire stay. As an appetizer we had the curry mussels and sausage stuffed dates wrapped in bacon and deep fryed. For our meal my boyfriend and I split a Bloke's burger and a basket of fish and chips. Everything was completely amazing!! The service was great and everything, down to the water (which is infused with cucumber) was above and beyond. The restaurant itself is beautiful with minimalistic art and a very relaxed feel to it. I would highly, highly recommend this place!!
(5)Josh H.
I've probably been to this place like 15 times. It does help that I live next door! That said, I love this place! It's a welcome and much needed higher end addition to Wrigleyville, without being the least bit pretentious. The staff is very attentive, friendly and laid back. Don't feel bad about asking questions about the menu if you're not familiar. My server has always been able to answer all of my questions. I've tried just about everything and have yet to be disappointed. The beer and wine lists are amazing and the the bartenders/mixologists can make pretty much whatever you want. I strongly suggest having a custom drink made! Although, I usually stick to the wine. I've been the Blokes and Birds for casual dinners, dates, birthday parties and reunions with friends. The staff and ownership are very accommodating, just be sure to call ahead and let them know as they're not yet taking reservations. The lower level does become very bar-like on the weekends, so if that's not what you're looking for, stick to the upper level. If I do have one complaint... well two complaints... it's 1) I'm going to need another location opened near my new place and 2) BRING BACK THE LOBSTER RISOTTO! It's amazing!
(5)Stephanie F.
Nice place! Not overpriced, and not too crowded. It definitely is not a Wrigleyville bar which is nice, and the music selection was great for a lounge-y type of place. The best part was probably the free whiskey shots we got from the manager :) I'm not a fan of whiskey, but I'm definitely a fan of free shots. I'd go back again.
(4)Jori J.
If you are trying to book an event here- good luck! I am very disappointed with the lack of professionalism and am surprised at their unwillingness to accommodate me and my business. I was excited to book a surprise party for my boyfriend when I first visited Blokes and Birds because of its laid-back atmosphere and variety of beers. I was given the card of a manager named Daily Webb to contact to set up a event. It was late May so I figured that booking an event for late September shouldn't be a problem. I called Daily in June and described to him what I wanted, an estimate of how many people were coming and my information. He said he would write it down and get back to me as soon as possible. I called him a week later after waiting urgently for a call and he said that he was about to "step into a meeting" but insured me that my date for September was in his calendar. He also urged me that he would call me as soon as he was out of the meeting- and to his credit, he actually did- I was at work and he left a message saying that if I had any questions for me to call him anytime "at my convenience." So I did. Quite a few times with no response. When he decided to pick up, he said that the phone I was calling was his personal phone and that he was at home and I should call him at 1 the next day. I called him again and left a message and again, no response. Finally, in late July I left a final message just explaining to him my two simple yes or no questions about wristbands and a down payment and pleaded him to leave me a message with the answers. That was almost three weeks ago. Frustrated, I called him one final time this afternoon and he remarkably had the time to leave his busy schedule for a paying customer! I told him that I needed to cancel my event because I had been trying to get a couple questions answered in the time span of two months and I was disappointed I hadn't heard from him. He immediately blamed me for not leaving my phone number on one of my FIVE messages I left him (which he had because he took all my information when I booked the date) and then began to tell me that he has been out of town for the last couple weeks-- I don't know who takes a two month long vacation, but I sure want in on that!! I told him that I would prefer to look elsewhere and before I could say anything else he hung up! Looks like Blokes and Birds won't be getting anymore of my business!
(1)Travis T.
Fantastic beer menu, and their cocktail list is quite nice as well! They have a house infused vanila bean cinnamon bourbon that is fantastic as well! Make reservations or get there early on a fri or sat if you want to partake in their food menu (which is good as well!)
(5)nick t.
went back again for my birthday and it was great. the waiter came around a lot and the bartender was great. the downstairs was nice and they even have a pool table to entertain you and some friends. it was busy but not too crowded and service was still good. i recommend this place to everyone. i would say anytime is a good time but i think a sunday afternoon is best because you are able to talk to the bartender about the different beers.
(5)Shawn M.
Great drink selection. I am not one for bourbon but the infused bourbon actually was pretty good. The food was very good. The wait for a table of more than 4 took an hour and a half but it was a Saturday evening around 9 so we should have known better. The kitchen closes at 11:30 on Saturdays. This is a place that I would go back to for drinks or for a date but not exactly group friendly.
(4)Lynn D.
This restaurant is the most unBritish place I have been to since moving here 16 years ago. I am from the UK and the food is at most pretending to be British. As for the supposed terrific beer list, where have all the other customers of this place been? The beer menu is lame at best, with hardly a British beer in sight. Come on people, if you are going to call a place "Blokes and Birds" then at least try and be a little British. Has any one of the owners or managers actually ever visited the UK? Upon walking in and telling the waitress we had a reservation,(we stupidly thought it would be busy), she promptly walked off towards a table without a word to us. Upon sitting down the waiter came over and when my son ordered a beer he didn't understand what he said so he had to point to it on the menu (must have been the British accent). We settled down to check out the food and when the waiter came back minus the beer, we ordered and were then informed that only the brunch menu was on offer. I said we would need another few minutes to review the menu again, and the waiter walked off and 10 minutes later still had not brought the beer to the table and I could see him standing around. The place was hardly busy so not sure what his problem was. After waiting another 5 minutes, 15 minutes in all, my husband got up told the waiter who was just standing nearby to cancel the beer order as we were leaving. Never been to such a disappointing place purporting to be English before. If you want to see a real beer menu I suggested you visit a London pub, because this place's menu certainly does not have one. If you want a taste of British food and beer try the Elephant and Castle!
(1)Julian M.
Went here last night for opening night. Food was amazing and reasonably priced. Great beer selection and interesting cocktails. Sampled a good portion of the menu. Tried the Shepherd's Pie, Pork Tenderloin, Lobster Bisque, Bloke's Burger, Abbot Ale Mussels, Fish and Chips, and a bunch of the sides. All of it was really delicious. I would have to say the Shepherd's Pie was the highlight and probably the best I've ever had! Wrigleyville needs a spot like this. Will be back.
(5)Johanna L.
As mentioned by many other Yelpers, this bar is an oasis in Wrigleyville. It's got a great atmosphere, beer and wine selction. The food I've had (mussels, lamb burger, pate) was good. The service overall is very good - but I have had a few bartenders during the early part of the week that weren't attentive or poured sloppy drinks. All in all, this is my favorite bar in Wrigleyville/North Lakeview.
(4)Lauren M.
Just had dinner - our server was great. Bad service was in the previous reviews but they seemed to have worked it out. The beer list was really good and the burger quite unique in it's presentation (no spoiler alert). But I always judge by the fries and man, those were some good ones. The brown paper they were served in must have kept them warm and moist. Little touches like excellent mustard and ketchup took us over the top. I would go there again.
(4)Jenny Y.
nice food and awesome beverage selection! Recommend.
(4)Jen P.
What an unexpected gem in the middle of the unfortunate frat-heaven that is Wrigleyville. I usually steer clear of Wrigelyville but my boyfriend happens to be a Sigma-something or other so I have to venture to this neighborhood from time to time. I was pleasantly surprised with this bar. The bar is big yet has a very cozy and romantic feel to it. The basement has live music on Tuesdays. We happened to come in on a Tuesday and were the only customers in the basement for a while. The bartender was very friendly and gave us a ton of free samples of beer. Getting drunk on free samples gets Blokes & Birds 4 starts in my book. Hint: If you are looking for traditional bar food then this place may not be for you. They have a unique yet slightly pricey food menu.
(4)D. S.
Could have been cool, but unfortunately the bartender ignored us the whole time. A friend and I sat for over 10 minutes at the bartop without being acknowledged on a moderately slow looking Wednesday evening. Finally the Bar-back (a.k.a the guy who cleans the glasses) finally helped us get drinks, but I had to pick 3 different beers because they were out of my first 2 choices. We ordered a cheese platter, which was sat down in front of us without explanation of what anything was. Had to flag down the bartender to describe the dish, which he seemed completely unsure of. $15 for ordinary cheese, bland crackers, and a tiny piece of fig was not worth it. There's too many bars in the city who appreciate my business to have to put up with that kind of complacency.
(2)Kat B.
I loved this place! My best friend and her husband brought me here last weekend and though we only had drinks, they were some of the best cocktails I've ever had. This place mixes a lot of their ingredients in house, and the service we had was REALLY great. On Friday we had Ali - she was very friendly, had a beautiful smile, and was great with recommendations. I went for the "Churchill Downs" which I think had basil, lime, pineapple, and a bit of rum. Possibly another liquer... I can't remember. I know it was delicious though! We were also served a complementary shot of whiskey fused with three types of cinnamon and vanilla bean. ohhhh that was tasty on a bitter cold and snowy night! The ambience of the place is a "modern pub". Exposed brick on the fireplaces (of which there are a few), dark wood horizontal boards along the walls, soft lighting, and really nice looking seating options. There were also a few leaning boards with shelving meant to stand with your cohorts as you compare your choices from the extensive international beer list! My only suggestion for improvement is to get a longer playlist - we heard the rotation twice while we were there. :) I am looking forward to visiting again for the food, which I hear is also delicious. There seems to be a casual dress code - not too dressy, but not "sports-bar" either. Your best dark wash jeans would fit in perfectly here.
(4)Brenda R.
The cocktails here are awesome and delicious, but if you're not here for dinner, just drinks, and ordering them directly from the bar, expect some attitude from the bartenders. They must not enjoy making the cocktails on their menu because they'll come up with every excuse under the sun to NOT make your drink: "We're out of basil." Really? You can't make that whiskey drink without basil? But the best come back to a cocktail order turned out to be: "We stop cocktail service at midnight." WHAT?! What kind of bar stops cocktail service at midnight? The only reason I was there was to drink the delicious cocktails that they offer. But I don't think I'll be going back...
(2)marissa m.
I went last night (not my first time, but maybe my last) with a 10 person group for a birthday party dinner and our server absolutely ruined the night. She started as unpleasant and ended downright hostile. Everything took FOREVER (as in over an hour between appetizers and entrees, 20 minutes for a lemonade, 30 minutes to order a beer, etc.). We had pre-ordered dessert and she promised that it would be ready to go and brought out as soon as we finished eating. 30 minutes after our table was cleared and people started to wonder what the hell was going on, our waitress was no where to be found. Fortunately the manager (owner?) checked in with us and quickly brought out the dessert. She also yelled that she would in no way split the bill (no one had even asked her to), yelled at other patrons about sitting in her section (vibe killer), and was just nasty when we asked for anything. I don't know if our server was having a bad day, or they were understaffed, but I just don't think there's an excuse for ignoring or berating your clientele. If I ever go back and am seated in her section, I will move. That being said: great beer list. Great cocktails. Great atmosphere. good food. TERRIBLE service.
(3)Linsey C.
Well, as you can see, I have rated this restaurant/bar as 2 stars! "Meh. I've experienced better" pretty much sums up this joint, in my opinion. The salad I ordered was a citrus OVERLOAD and I ended u sending it back. However, I give them some mad props on their french fries. If you have read my other reviews, I DO love 'good' french fries, and Blokes & Birds has really done a fine job at creating a truly great fry. As far as the other food is concerned, my friends' opinions were the same as mine. The all felt as though they could have gotten better food for a better price at another location, and probably be in a better atmosphere. There is a chill area in the basement with a free pool table. If you go on a weekend night, don't expect to get a single game in, unless you're the first one up! My friend ordered the fish and chips and said that she has had much better, and it was a little pricey for what it was. However, as I always say, I am a vegetarian but I am not extremely picky, so take my review with a grain of salt. If you were genuinely interested in checking out this fairly new joint-by all means, GO FOR IT!! You might love it! This review is merely a single opinion....I won't go back, unless someone else is paying and I will only order the fries.
(2)