Cardozo's Pub is one of these places that you don't notice when you are walking down the street. You only see a doorway and a flight of stairs leading down to some strange subterranean grotto beneath the busy streets of the Loop. Let's go back a few months so I can tell you my story; and as my readers know, my stories are often weird... Last fall, Mrs B and I decided to go into the Loop on "Black Friday," to take in an opera and do a little holiday shopping. I, as always, wanted to find a discount, so I found a Groupon deal for Cardozo's. It said they were open on weekdays during the day and evening - so it would be a convenient stop for us. So, we get there, and the place is closed - even though the sign on the door clearly states that they should be open. I take out my cellphone and try to call them, but nobody answers. So, we found another place for lunch and - gasp! - had to pay full price: a near-mortal sin. During that lunch, I phoned Groupon to gripe, and I got a message that my call would be promptly answered in 45 minutes. Fie! I called Groupon a few days later, and their "customer service" people had to research the issue. They got back with me and told me that Cardozo decided to close for the day, but I could use my Groupon for its full value until some day in December, or use the original $10 I paid afterwards. Not too groovy. The Groupon languished under a magnet on our refrigerator for several weeks, until I found that I had to go downtown on some personal business. So, I was able to use the $10 that I sent Groupon. On to the subject of Cardozo. Others are spot on that this is really a bar that offers a limited menu of sandwiches and simple entrees. I was not particularly hungry, so I just ordered a hangerber and a soda. The place is a warren of small rooms with no uniform theme nor architectural creativity. There are framed photos of show business personalities attached to the wall and a few miscellaneous posters. They still had their Xmas lights strewn on the ceiling. Frankly, you would expect this in any typical dive bar. Although the place was pretty empty, service was slow, and the waitress seemed to have disappeared for most of my tenure there. They did give me a basket which contained one slice of day-old bread and some crackers that must have been on the Mayflower (stale). The burger was OK, it was served with the obligatory slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce with a serving of French fries, Neither was greasy, thank you. Although they served me an 8 ounce glass of ice with a little bit of pop in it, they charged extra for refills. As Rocky would say, "Smoley Hokes!" So, I was a little disappointed with my experience there, and I have to assign Cardozo's a below-average rating.
(2)
Andy M.
Was in town for the weekend and saw the Groupon. Great I thought. Check Yelp for hours, open until 10 on Friday. Still great. Bought the Groupon, showed up at 6:40, the place is locked up tight. Not so great. Groupon for Chicago restaurant in Indy - worthless.
(1)
Nancy H.
I came here for happy hour and immediately felt depressed upon entering. It just has such a lousy look and feel; dimly lit basement, heavily treaded on carpeting, and ceilings that were too low. Even the tables and chairs felt dirty as if they've never been wiped down since 1970. The only bonus was free food on Fridays - sitting under warming lamps.
(1)
molly c.
great lunch option in the loop. HUGE portions quick service and nice people. and let me tell you a secret...shhhhh...they have a smoking section. HELLZ TO THE YEAH!!
(4)
Ren H.
This is a nice chill place...sometimes they have drink specials that come with a free tshirt! its an older crowd a lot but that just makes it more fun!
(4)
Amanda L.
Great for after work people watching. Divey. They make really strong drinks too. Very interesting crowd to observe.
(3)
Wendy K.
Eww...met my friend here. I don't even know how people find this place. Downstairs to a dungeon feel. Dark inside. Mostly locals, as in everyone's grandpa. She got a living social deal that did not mention alcohol was not included. They refused to accept it and after so many transactions and confusions, we still have no idea what we paid for. All I know is that my little white Russian cost $9. Are you kidding me? You do realize where you are right? In a dark creepy basement where ex offenders may feel comfy in. I think I can still smell the despair.
(1)
Emily K.
This is a good after-work drinks place if your idea of after-work drinks is Stocks and Blondes or Coogan's (which mine is- but I realize there are a few different types of "after-work drinks" places...). Yeah, it's in a basement and it's always CROWDED even though it's fairly large. And they are severely understaffed. It took 1.5 hours to get 2 burgers and our drinks and check one night. But you get what you pay for. Food is cheap (or free- pizza buffet and chilli during happy hour) and there are some decent beer specials ($2 pints of Miller). I don't think you can go wrong here as long as you know what you're getting into. Definitely stars off for the service and it's a bit grimy.
(3)
meg g.
The current signs on the door sums up Cardozo's pretty well, I'd say: One says "Smoking is Allowed", and the smaller sign underneath it says, "non smoking areas now available."
(4)
Sam E.
Awesome basement lunch hideout. No cell phone coverage, no strollers, no bad food. Everything on the menu is good. Great bar.
(5)
Edward P.
I come here for an after work drink on occasion. It is definitely old-school, which is part of the charm. The crowd is very mixed, which is also nice. It's a nice place to grab a drink and head home (or back to the office).
(3)
Aaron S.
F__kit, I am the biggest Smoking Ban Fan around but they need to create exceptions or grandfather clauses or something for places like this--as it is, the smoke of all the years past is almost visible in the air, like a ghost! Also, with all due respect to Ms. H., a pint of Guinness is $4.50 here--I don't have a Hermes bag or whatever the male equivalent is but I can certainly swing that.
(5)
Kraig K.
Cardozo's Pub is a dive but it has lots of flavor. Drinks are reasonably priced and as far as Chicago basement bars go, it's solid. Just don't order Jagermeister, as they serve it warm.
(4)
Jen K.
This is probably the closest bar to my office so I end up here occasionally. Not really my first choice though. Fridays they have free food during happy hour. Really though the smart thing would be to avoid the food. Especially if you actually order off the menu and pay for it. I think the drinks are a bit pricey for what the place is. It's a little freaky to go down into the basement only to emerge several hours later a little drunk and realize its pitch black and raining.
(3)
Justin L.
Basement dining where you can have a quiet lunch and conversation with people. Not your typical crowded downtown lunch establishment. The food is above average but the service is slow and nothing really impresses here. Cordoza's is a place to go to have a insiders meeting where you dont want people to overhear your conversations. It is not quite cloak and dagger stuff but you feel like you are semi incognito. Every time I visit Cordoza's I always go with the chicken and bacon sandwich. Generous serving of juicy chicken breast topped with crisp bacon strips makes for a satisfying lunch sammy. For downtown it is not a place I would go often because there are so many other places to people watch and dine al fresco. This is literally a basement and it is intended for quiet pow wows. It may feel borderline dingy and overall is not aesthetically pleasing. But it has its purpose among all the over priced and over hyped trendy spots that most suits go to for lunch downtown.
(3)
Erin J.
Indeed, "divey!" I liked it. It looks like the rec room in someone's parents' basement, complete with fake ivy and Christmas lights. Definitely not a high-brow place, this pub is VERY laid back. The food was probably frozen at one (or more) point(s), but the alcohol is plentiful, relatively cheap and STRONG! Service is spotty, but I expect that in a place like this. Some questionable characters reside towards the back, perfectly set up with the view of the bathroom door, which was a touch creepy. Overall, it was exactly as I thought it would be, no more, no less. Good place for a couple drinks after work, but I wouldn't get lit up there.
(3)
Geoff H.
Eh. Nothing really 'wrong' with it, but food, service and prices are about what you'd expect. As with most day-drinker spots in the Loop, lotsa regulars, maybe I felt a little out-of-place. Still, if I'm gonna sit in a basement bar and drink at lunch, I'd probably go to the Marquette over on Madison instead, or maybe Beef 'n' Brandy on State.
(3)
Katie H.
Happy Hour has always eluded me as I've never in my life worked a 9-5. So I was pleased to have the evening off this past Friday so I could partake in some early evening boozing at Cardozo's. My all-growns-up loop worker boyfriend had me primed to expect Grandma's rec room circa 1981... so I left my Hermes bag and Manolos at home (seriously... faaack anyone who goes to an underground Loop bar expecting it to be cheery. Go back to Rush St.). We really did have a grand ole time. I'm giving Cardozo's 4 stars even factoring in the pricey pints, the questionable hot food display and the gaggle of drunk suburb moms (poofy bangs, dark turtleneck layered with Chicago team sweatshirt) at the table next to me all squawking about their Blackberries and kids. Service was good. Booths were comfy. There was a gaping bass mounted behind the bar. Everyone was... happy. I'd probably avoid the food and stick to liquid dinner. Does anyone find wandering around the Loop at night whilst drunk really odd?
(4)
Dee W.
Nice little nook for some happy hour after work - this basement location may lack in light but the personality and atmosphere make up for that. On Fridays, they offer a little free buffet of some burgers and hot dogs and chips to go with the beer that you're washing down from a long week at work
(4)
Lindsay B.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in The Loop. I'm always able to get in and out in just over a half hour during lunch rush, 12-1. The patty melt is to die for, our server always remembers us and our specific order. The soda is kind of bar-like... so you're better off getting a drink-drink or water. Prices are great. It's nice to get out of the rush of The Loop into a homey-like pub.
(5)
Erika G.
Standard issue pub, and surprisingly expensive for how non-stylish and basic it is. I was surprised at what a large tab we ran up. Apparently the bartenders don't know that time honored tradition of slinging a free drink for every oh, 4 or 5 purchased. I thought that was sort of weird. It smells kind of weird too. The drinks are small. The food is average. You don't notice it at street level, as it's just a door with stairs behind. Come to think of it, this place is not that great. I doubt I'd go back, given the plethora of joints to hang out at in this area.
(2)
Natalia K.
The fact that I came here is a clear example of the fact that I'll try anything once- especially if there's a groupon deal for it. My friend and I hesitantly walked down the steps to the basement and it smelled like a stale grandparent basement. They apparently updated their look, but you wouldn't know it. We sat down and perused their small menu and decided on a steak sandwich and buffalo chicken salad. My friend ordered the salad and it came with a pitcher of dressing- they don't do the ramekin thing here, oh no, it was a full gravy pitcher of dressing. I almost wanted to ask for extra dressing, because she clearly didn't have enough. My steak sandwich was pretty meh, but what did I expect from a dive bar, right? the garlic bread it was on was pretty soggy and the steak was nothing to get excited about, though I will credit the chef for having cooked it to my order. The fries were pretty bland and made for a lower calorie situation because I didn't bother to eat them. I'm glad I tried this pub because I walk by here all the time and it has been a curiosity to me, but I will be steering clear with so many other great options for food and drink around the city.
(2)
Thomas W.
Excellent place for lunch its a small restaurant/dive bar very nice people the other lady idk manager owner off the boat Itallian woman very hospitable and friendly great food great service highly recommend this place if you are in the area
(5)
Tj P.
Great place for a quick bite to eat or drink, basement bar. Staff was really friendly.
(4)
Joseph M.
I love Cardozo's!!! I always get their pub burger, its a big @$$ cheeseburger with fries on the side, I get it cooked medium with mozarella, cheddar cheese and bacon, OMG its so juicy and delicious. If its at lunch I order to go and get in in like 10 to 15 minutes, and if its after work, ill go in and have a beer or two and it only comes out to about 20 bucks which is perfect. I love this place and will continue to go here. I also love that its underground, its an older place, kinda divey, but I feel like I fit in there and im not worried about people watching me eat like a pig lol!!!!
(5)
Kevin K.
Just take a look under the ice machine to the right of the bar. Last time I was in there around 9 pm at night, I saw either a rat or a large mouse scurrying between the kitchen and ice machine. Owner is a old fart boozepig that sits directly next to the machine. This place would be better off burning down.
(1)
Leang E.
I bought a Groupon here, because I knew one day I would not have time to bring myself lunch to work and might to step out of the office and take a lunch elsewhere. It was perfect for a place to grab food prior to a trip. They have a pretty decent sized menu. I sat at the bar and got the Chopped Southwest Salad Bowl and got the Avocado Tuna Salad special to go, and that was pretty filling for my plane ride. It was decent, but what bumps this up to 4 stars was the service. The server was great with the recommendation and was very easy going and didn't even complain when the wrong order came out. She quickly got it changed and had a great attitude about it. My water was always quickly refilled. This would be a great spot for a happy hour and to just chill.
(4)
Clements J.
Last week I had the misguided idea of using a Groupon to visit Cardozo's. The waitress was lovely, but that is where the charm of this place ends. The food is expensive and bland. I ordered a Rueben and it was served on the smallest pieces of rye bread you can imagine. These were from sort of mini loaf - not the standard wide rye most people are used to. The atmosphere was rather depressing. It kinda makes you want to examine your life choices up to this point, because something has clearly gone wrong. The ceilings are low - not recommended if you have any sort of dislike of small enclosed spaces. The bathrooms probably haven't been inspected in ages. The manager has all the charm of a bag of scorpions. The establishment itself is about as Italian as a Digiorno pizza. I will never go back to Cardozo's - even if there were free drinks all night long. There are no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
(1)
Chris C.
Good food, fast service. Nothing too fancy about this place but it's a good stop when you're tired of shopping in the loop. My wife and I went on a Tuesday and had the buffalo burger special with fries and we were seated and served within 20 minutes. Waitress was great and didn't bat an eye when we told her that we had a groupon like previous reviews.
(4)
Joe B.
A fine spot to relax and grab a drink and some bar food. You'll completely forget that you're in the middle of the Loop, and that can be a good thing if you need to park it and stretch out for a minute. I've been here a few times and I'd be back. It's a great alternative to the fancier and pricier bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
(3)
Kevin B.
Had a Groupon and went here for lunch. Nice little dive bar located on Washington (you walk in, go downstairs). Seems like a place where regulars frequent. Service was okay, nothing spectacular. Corned Beef sandwich I had was really good. Seems to be one of their most popular sandwiches. Ive also had a chicken sandwich which was a little overcooked and dry. Overall its a quick lunch spot and I wouldn't expect much else more. And if you get the Groupon its well worth the price.
(4)
Justin B.
Dropped by for lunch today, to use up my $20 Groupon. Sometimes, I find deals on Groupon and I'm introduced to places that I eventually visit regularly. Cardozo's Pub is not that place. The fish and chips special was my first mistake. The chips were actually pretty good and Cardozo's certainly gives you plenty of them. But the fish was pretty bland. Even the tartar sauce on the side was pretty bland. Because I showed up alone, I ordered a second entree to help use up the $20. I got a turkey club to go...and I should have walked away when I was told that they were out of all sliced bread (I'm not kidding--no wheat, no white, no rye). The options were a French loaf, or a hamburger bun. Laughing, I went with the loaf; I just finished the sandwich and it was pretty bad. Yes, it had turkey, lettuce, bacon, mayo...but, the turkey was bad, the bread wasn't great, and even with the mayo, it was all pretty dry. Not only was my meal poor, but Cardozo's doesn't serve dessert. I have a major sweet tooth, and this is America, so I don't know how you don't serve dessert at a sit-down restaurant in this country. I won't be back!
(2)
Lily Z.
I felt like I was a closet drinker when I came here last week. It's dark with no windows and creepy older men are hitting on the girls at the bar. I didn't order any food but the drinks were fine. Service could have been nicer. We were looking for our waitress the entire time and kind of rude when we asked her to explain the charges. I got over charged for my beer too. Since when does $5 glass of Stella equal $11 on a check?
(2)
Tim T.
Probably my favorite dive bar in the city. It's usually not crowded, so the servers can stay pretty attentive. The typical bar food is pretty good, and they make the martinis strong. Very good place to meet friends after work if you're not trying to impress anyone.
(4)
Melanie B.
My boyfriend and I ended up here before catching a show downtown because we were looking for a pub and happened to walk by. The atmosphere isn't bad... A basement pub. Comfy enough. However, we stood by the door for a while waiting to see if anyone would greet us.. it took us wandering in a bit for someone to approach us. The menu is rather small, which is to be expected, I guess... but I would've at least expected a better drink selection. Our waitress knew nothing about the beers available whatsoever. The nachos were mediocre at best, and my boyfriend's chicken fingers were just ok, really. It took a while to get our check, and once we did get it we needed to hurry and pay to catch our show. My boyfriend tried to pay the bartender the bill and was rudely told to go sit down... so, we had to chase down the waitress to pay. The waitress was nice, but a little clueless. We won't be going back.
(1)
Justin G.
Just went to Cordozos after work with a buddy for the first time. Great if you want a beer and some bar food in an underground tavern that doesn't care about being cool. Oddly enough, the wait staff was fairly awesome, which, for a place like that, was a surprise. Mixed bag of gents in there for sure, lots of laughs. Bartendress gave us both free drinks because we said we were new to the area. Don't bring your girlfriend here to impress her with Chicago's fine dining. Bring your buddy here if you want to duck in to a corky place with a good vibe.
(5)
Derrick T.
A little bar/restaurant hidden with steps taking you straight underground to a more expansive area. It's like your suburb family diner + bar, but in the city and tucked away. Bread service to start. Thoughts? Roasted chicken plate: A sizable chicken breast pounded even that's roasted. Fairly dry and overcooked, came with a side salad of fresh veggies, a very healthy portion of cottage cheese, and half a canned peach. Verdict: Honestly, the quality of the food is just okay. The price tag of the place is affordable ($8-13) considering they serve a bread basket, sides, etc. and the selection has something for everyone. Price and service give it that extra star to bump it to three, as the waitress was constantly checking up on us and "trying" her best to handle a large table. I probably wouldn't come back though...
(3)
Chrysa L.
I love me a divey, laid back kind of bar. My friends and I call Cardozo's "Grandpa's Basement," because that is what it feels like. The outdated paneling. The steep stairs to get down there. The mirrors on the walls. The fluorescent beer signs. However, the checks are vague. A few of the servers have attitudes - as in, your mere presence is bothersome. The beer selection is limited. The bathrooms are very small. The food is pretty meh. I think the chicken fingers are OK because it's kind of hard to screw up something like that. I think there are other dives (even downtown) that I would prefer to go to over Cardozo's, but there is something cozy about it that I enjoy and I will go back from time to time. However, it is never my first choice destination.
(2)
Mathew H.
This place is one step up from prison food. I got a Reuben; the corned beef was cut too thick and was chewy. A pop is $2 with $1 refills also tiny,wtf! I give it 2 stars only because our server was nice and quick! Don't waste your time, there are plenty of great places to eat in the loop.
(2)
Christine S.
Do you want to feel like you're drinking in your Parent's basement? Do you want to feel like you're 19 again? Ok...come here. This is exactly what Cardozo's is like, drinking in your parents basement. Dive(y) bars aren't as easy to find in The Loop as you would think... So if you like dives, come here, you'll be happy. Stiff pours. Nice staff. Inexpenisive(ish). Diveeeee on in.
(4)
Kison P.
Very Chicago! From the decor, to staff, and food.. all screams Chicago, I love it! Great place for lunch and after work drinks. I highly recommend smoked chicken ravioli, maybe save half for later.
(5)
Neil R.
Pretty average place from the drinks to the food. The service is decent but overall did not jump out. If you are in the loop it could be a quick place to grab a beer and watch some TV. I had some chicken tenders here and they were average as well.
(3)
anthony n.
If the dictionary had a picture for hole-in-wall, this place would be it. We used to drink here all the time, but recently their drink prices (which seem to change every order) have skyrocket'd. Used to be worth it, but if I'm paying standard Chicago prices I'd rather go some place that doesn't have a mildew aroma.
(2)
Cathy Y.
Horrible. Just plain bad. I went in with my daughter today and I guess because I wasn't a businessman, we weren't important enough. We ordered a Sprite which we never got. We were given bread but no plates to eat it on. Our meal was supposed to come with a salad but was never mentioned by the waitress or given to us. I guess whatever was on her cell phone was more important because that's what she stared at the whole time. So unprofessional. I know this is a comfy looking place, like a grandma's old basement like one other poster mentioned, but come on. The very nice bus boy had to get her attention so we could even get our check. I used to be a server for many years so I don't feel like I am being over critical, there is just a certain level you should expect. I used to love this place when I worked downtown a few years back but it has fallen apart. Too bad.
(1)
Bobby O.
I have been going to this place for a long time having worked in the area and always enjoyed eating here. I never really ventured from the bacon cheeseburger or reuben sandwich part of the menu but friends have and said it was good. This place is mainly geared for the down town work/after work crowd.
(4)
Daniel R.
Don't let the look of this place fool you. I was there at 1 on a Friday afternoon and there was hardly a place to sit. Great food and you could tell there were a lot of regulars that frequent here.
(5)
Damian B.
Nice spot but, no Old Style......did I take a wrong train out of Chicago? I only had one beer and left. Bartender was nice. Had a good "feel" to it but hey, they close at 9:30, what Pub doesn't have Old Style and closes at 9:30?
(2)
Shain C.
I was told this place was "divey", but in a good way. It's not quite a beer and a shot kinda place, but it is quite cozy. This place is perfect for when it's just about the drinkin' and not about being seen, loud music, TVs, or crowds...
(4)
JAMES M.
Ok we wound up here before a Sox game.....and wow what a little hidden gem this is! Cheap booze, Free appetizers (Nothing fancy but filling) Kinda hidden Yeap I can definitely see myself going in here and getting ripped! SHake & bake seal of approval.
(4)
Little D.
Tonight was a nightmare experience! I ordered a burger and at the end of the night, after I paid my tab, the owner had the nerve to ask me why I like my burgers raw?? (I ordered my burger rare not RAW - he explained that he didn't know the difference). He was extremely rude and judgmental. He also asked me why I thought it's ok to trust his cook supplier of meat with my health since I like raw meat! I am NEVER coming back to pay $60 to a place where I can't trust their meat product and also a place where I will be judged by the owner for my preferences! We found out from a bartender after the owner had left that he likes his meat well done and often judges people who prefer anything else. YIKES!!!!! This used to be our happy hour spot, but after meeting the crabby, opinionated, curmudgeonly owner, we will NEVER be back!
(1)
Magen R.
I stopped in here after work for a few beers with some of my co-workers this past week. I liked the relaxed vibe of the place. No frills - just drinks and food. The beer was good and reasonably priced for the loop. We also ordered barbecue wings and buffalo chicken fingers. I was not in love with either but they were fine. All in all this is a good place to go after work for a couple of drinks.
(3)
Johnny F.
This place has two big pluses: 1) It's right across the street from my office downtown and 2) It's part of the AA Dining Advantage (so I can get miles for travel from dining). I haven't been here for anything but lunch, but their daily specials are reasonable and the waitress was prompt, which is important for the lunch hour. I'd like to come by here sometime after work and check the vibe at the bar.
(4)
Frankie J.
You're in a time machine, you're traveling in a different dimension, its the 1970s and Steve Dahl is destroying disco records at Comisky Park... and you land in Cardozo's Pub. This place has not changed since the 1970s. I would not be surprised if the ghosts of Irv Kupcinet, Mike Royko, John Belushi and hizzonahdahmayyah Senior was in da joint. If da Blues Brothers decided not to save the orphanage, they could hang out here and watch Chicago sports teams and drink Old Style or Miller High Life until it closed - which I am not sure it does. One of the last of the underground bars in Chicago, which is funny.
(3)
Laura C.
If you're downtown and suddenly feel the urge to have a beer in your grandma's basement, step into Cardoza's to be immediately transported back to 1970. The dimly lit interior with wood paneling and "family restaurant" booths a la Omega in Downer's Grove give this place a frozen in time feeling. If a cold beer is what you're looking for, it's not a bad place to stop and have a drink. It was pretty empty on a Thursday around 5, so you won't have to wait long for your order.
(3)
Jennifer L.
Good food, God awful service. My waitress made faces at my drink choice, then took twenty minutes to give me my bill and another fifteen to use my groupon and settle. Then I got the wrong change back. Busy or not, that was ridiculous.
(2)
Jonathan E.
I actually really love dives, and this place was a contender. Spartan, aged, not a dollar invested since 1972, and pretty cheesy, but who cares? With cute barkeeps and cheap drinks, it doesn't matter. The food isn't "good" as it's obviously mostly pre-fab. I had a burger that was a perfectly rounded puck of meat - something made by a machine but finally cooked by a human and delivered in 10 minutes. That said, it wasn't bad. So it qualifies as "pre-made food" done decently. Don't go there for a chow epiphany. But here's why it only gets 2 stars from me: last call at 9 pm. Huh? It wasn't a Sunday, holiday or special day. Just a weekday. Here's what happens when a dive bar has early closing hours: It's populated by the post-work crowd, which is mostly biz/finance people in downtown Chicago. And by closing at 9, it isn't frequented by the long haul characters who only come out at night. It just doesn't work. If a divey breakfast/lunch place closes up at 2 pm, that's understandable. But a good dive bar stays open past 9. That should be a rule.
(2)
Jonathan W.
This basement bar is a decent place to have a few after work. Bring friends since you probably won't make any here. Also, watch your head - the low ceilings and menagerie of random pipes make you feel like you're in some weird eastern European submarine.
(2)
Karl N.
Finally bought the groupon for this place after seeing it on the menu for a couple weeks. Perfect if you're like me and only have about 45 minutes for lunch. I got the Burger which was the Monday special ($5.95), nice thick patty with a fresh, tasty bun. Huge cut fries and obviously fresh cut veggies. Service was great (sat at the bar). Definitely not your average fly by night pub where everything tastes the same. My friend got the reuben. The beef was thick cut and while unaware it came with chips, the bartender was quick to both offer and replace them with fries without question. Great service, great food, in and out in 45 minutes.
(4)
Erin B.
I wish I could give this place 10 stars. I come with a group of friends and family for happy hour, religiously, once a week. Granted, our "regulars" status with the bartenders may be artificially inflating my views of the place, but Cardozo's is great. The staff is super nice, the drinks are good, and it lacks the pretentious crowd of most of the Loop bars. Make no mistake, it's definitely in the "dive" category, but if that's what you're going for, Cardozo's is the place to be.
(5)
Lars Z.
Great inexpensive place to grab a beer and a burger in the Loop - their wings are tasty, too. They have daily drink specials with tequila Tuesdays ranking as my personal favorite. The wait staff is personable and does a good job. The ambiance is well, er um not the most modern of places but it is comfortable with lots of booth space and its air conditioned. Oh and there's free WIFI.
(4)
Philip J.
Where do i start... the fact that im 6'3 and the ceilings there are about the same, the bathroom here is, well umm rather interesting, i think the ceiling in the bathroom was lower. at anyrate, there is no lock on the door, nor does the stall lock work. not to get to detailed but the toilet didnt flush to well... but this is a dive right? The food was good, i got the Turkey Club on dark rye, a little dry but still fresh and tasty. The wait staff is why after the bathroom happenings i gave it a three, nowhere that i have been is a waitress honest with you when you ask what is good here, they are supposed to say what is good, but usually they dont say I DONT LIKE (blank) but here not the case. her advice is to stay away from the Pita, it sucks. (I'm paraphrasing ofcouse) So if you're taller than me, and dont have to use the restroom id say GO FOR IT... cuz you might just not get the honset waitress/waiter that we did. The Grid Project
(3)
Amanda Z.
You know that part in the Wedding Singer when Adam Sandler is all depressed, yet still singing at the wedding? Well, after my visit to Cardozo's on a rainy Friday happy hour, my version rings like this: "I drink in my grandpaaaaa's baaaaaasemeeeent..." Cuz that's where I felt like I was. You walk down the stairs where there are paneled wood walls and sleeping older men. (Just one tucked away in the corner, sorry buddy, I busted you.) So, my grandpa likes to take a nap in his easy chair in the basement. He has a bar down there. The only thing missing was my grandpa's lava lamp (from the 60s, yo!) So yeah, I felt like I was drinking in my grandpa's basement. The beer is cheap ($2.50 Miller Lites on special....love it!) and the service is no-nonsense. Can't complain, after we decided to vacate Stocks and Blondes due to crowding issues, we got seats and cold drinks very quickly here. Hooray for grandpa-style, after-work drinking!
(3)
Joseluis A.
i was in downtown a bit hungry and thirsty.. but i was afraid i was going to walk into a fancy fartsy downtown spot and that i was going to get charged $50 for a burger and a guinness. i was lucky to spot cardozos tiny sign and i decided to check it out immediately. its a little basement. theres tvs all over. seems like a place for people who work in the area but i was there during lunch time and there wasnt that much movement. better for me cause service was pretty fast. i got a burger and a guinness (of course, what else?) and paid about 11 bucks without tip. pretty nice for a big juicy burger and and delicious and nutritious guinness stout. dont ya think?
(4)
Ben E.
The other day I was craving old-style Italian food along the lines of Italian Village, and happened across Cardozo's Pub. The service was desultory at best, and the food was...well...awful. I figured I couldn't go too far wrong by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and Italian sausage, but I was thoroughly mistaken. I already assumed that 'al dente' wouldn't be a term that applied to this place, but I figured 'flavor' might. No such luck. And, quite frankly, the Italian sausage tasted like dog food. I was disgusted and will never be back. Perhaps other items on the menu are better, but I certainly will never find out for myself. I've never had worse pasta in my life.
(1)
Amanda G.
After avoiding this place for a long time because basement bars seem creepy, I visited with some coworkers. And I discovered that Cardoza's is pretty awesome. There is a really diverse group here. Obviously, officey types there for after-work drinks. But I think there were some illicit affairs going on around us (in a basement bar in the loop! NO WAY!). Old(er) men sitting at the bar. And at the booth behind us, there was this middle aged lady in a Minnie Mouse sweatshirt that must have been from 1985. Adults in old clothing featuring Disney characters always fascinate me. Overall, she wasn't out of place; the bar had a very 1985 feel, or what I'd imagine is a "bar in 1985" feel (I was 5 then, and I know I was taken to a few bars -- yes, I grew up borderline white trash -- but I don't remember their ambience very well). It's kind of like if Fast Times at Ridgemont High was about a bunch of 20somethings who worked in a generic office -- this would be their after-work spot. So there's a certain sense of recent nostalgia that I find appealing Don't expect an amazing beverage menu (the beer selection was kind of sparse). And the food menu seemed to rely heavily on the fryer (frier?). However, we had a really good time.
(4)
Jeff L.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in the loop. It has a much slower atmosphere than everything else around it. The bar is underground so it has some character. Most importantly it has some of the cheapest beer around, including Green Line! It's the perfect place to hang out with friends and talk.
(4)
Alison O.
Cardoza's is basically the closest bar to my building for drinks and food after work, so my coworkers and I will go there occasionally. This is a DIVE bar if I have ever seen one. When you walk in, you feel like you are walking down the stairs to your friends basement in high school. Once you are in the bar, their are no windows and the chairs and booths look like another era. I would recommend not going there for the food. We had Nachos and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The nachos were ok but they had green olives on them which I think made them a little too salty. And the tender were just meh. All in all good place to stop and have a beer after work, but that's about it.
(3)
Tara M.
Ah, it's nice to have some place to go for lunch that's the same today as it was when I was a kid. I didn't go there as a kid, that I can remember, but it has the same feel as all the places my mom took me for lunch when I was a little girl and my parents had an office in the south loop. Cardozo's is comfortable and the food is good, the service isn't too shabby either. It's nice to go somewhere and order a sandwich, get it, have the waitress come by and refill your drinks, the bus person clear off the table and get the check in an hour. I'm so glad I can rely on having a place like this at lunch time! It's never too crowded and the food is always good.
(5)
Jonathan T.
I had a steak salad that was marginal at best. Nothing very creative on the menu and I think the food was precooked. I have been here before but used Groupon this time. I like the throw back, simple cafe environment, but watching a blasted version of some reality show isn't my idea of kicking back. Friendly service thought and reasonable prices. It is in a basement afterall so prices should be good. They close way too early.
(2)
Bob R.
Good food, friendly, kind service and good drinks. Plus a total deal. This place is a best kept secret I hate to share but I want them to thrive. Check them out. Love the avocado blt and even their fish is good. Food also comes out fast for busy lunches.
(4)
Lindsay B.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in The Loop. I'm always able to get in and out in just over a half hour during lunch rush, 12-1. The patty melt is to die for, our server always remembers us and our specific order. The soda is kind of bar-like... so you're better off getting a drink-drink or water. Prices are great. It's nice to get out of the rush of The Loop into a homey-like pub.
(5)
Erika G.
Standard issue pub, and surprisingly expensive for how non-stylish and basic it is. I was surprised at what a large tab we ran up. Apparently the bartenders don't know that time honored tradition of slinging a free drink for every oh, 4 or 5 purchased. I thought that was sort of weird. It smells kind of weird too. The drinks are small. The food is average. You don't notice it at street level, as it's just a door with stairs behind. Come to think of it, this place is not that great. I doubt I'd go back, given the plethora of joints to hang out at in this area.
(2)
Natalia K.
The fact that I came here is a clear example of the fact that I'll try anything once- especially if there's a groupon deal for it. My friend and I hesitantly walked down the steps to the basement and it smelled like a stale grandparent basement. They apparently updated their look, but you wouldn't know it. We sat down and perused their small menu and decided on a steak sandwich and buffalo chicken salad. My friend ordered the salad and it came with a pitcher of dressing- they don't do the ramekin thing here, oh no, it was a full gravy pitcher of dressing. I almost wanted to ask for extra dressing, because she clearly didn't have enough. My steak sandwich was pretty meh, but what did I expect from a dive bar, right? the garlic bread it was on was pretty soggy and the steak was nothing to get excited about, though I will credit the chef for having cooked it to my order. The fries were pretty bland and made for a lower calorie situation because I didn't bother to eat them. I'm glad I tried this pub because I walk by here all the time and it has been a curiosity to me, but I will be steering clear with so many other great options for food and drink around the city.
(2)
Thomas W.
Excellent place for lunch its a small restaurant/dive bar very nice people the other lady idk manager owner off the boat Itallian woman very hospitable and friendly great food great service highly recommend this place if you are in the area
(5)
Richard B.
Cardozo's Pub is one of these places that you don't notice when you are walking down the street. You only see a doorway and a flight of stairs leading down to some strange subterranean grotto beneath the busy streets of the Loop. Let's go back a few months so I can tell you my story; and as my readers know, my stories are often weird... Last fall, Mrs B and I decided to go into the Loop on "Black Friday," to take in an opera and do a little holiday shopping. I, as always, wanted to find a discount, so I found a Groupon deal for Cardozo's. It said they were open on weekdays during the day and evening - so it would be a convenient stop for us. So, we get there, and the place is closed - even though the sign on the door clearly states that they should be open. I take out my cellphone and try to call them, but nobody answers. So, we found another place for lunch and - gasp! - had to pay full price: a near-mortal sin. During that lunch, I phoned Groupon to gripe, and I got a message that my call would be promptly answered in 45 minutes. Fie! I called Groupon a few days later, and their "customer service" people had to research the issue. They got back with me and told me that Cardozo decided to close for the day, but I could use my Groupon for its full value until some day in December, or use the original $10 I paid afterwards. Not too groovy. The Groupon languished under a magnet on our refrigerator for several weeks, until I found that I had to go downtown on some personal business. So, I was able to use the $10 that I sent Groupon. On to the subject of Cardozo. Others are spot on that this is really a bar that offers a limited menu of sandwiches and simple entrees. I was not particularly hungry, so I just ordered a hangerber and a soda. The place is a warren of small rooms with no uniform theme nor architectural creativity. There are framed photos of show business personalities attached to the wall and a few miscellaneous posters. They still had their Xmas lights strewn on the ceiling. Frankly, you would expect this in any typical dive bar. Although the place was pretty empty, service was slow, and the waitress seemed to have disappeared for most of my tenure there. They did give me a basket which contained one slice of day-old bread and some crackers that must have been on the Mayflower (stale). The burger was OK, it was served with the obligatory slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce with a serving of French fries, Neither was greasy, thank you. Although they served me an 8 ounce glass of ice with a little bit of pop in it, they charged extra for refills. As Rocky would say, "Smoley Hokes!" So, I was a little disappointed with my experience there, and I have to assign Cardozo's a below-average rating.
(2)
Bobby O.
I have been going to this place for a long time having worked in the area and always enjoyed eating here. I never really ventured from the bacon cheeseburger or reuben sandwich part of the menu but friends have and said it was good. This place is mainly geared for the down town work/after work crowd.
(4)
Daniel R.
Don't let the look of this place fool you. I was there at 1 on a Friday afternoon and there was hardly a place to sit. Great food and you could tell there were a lot of regulars that frequent here.
(5)
Damian B.
Nice spot but, no Old Style......did I take a wrong train out of Chicago? I only had one beer and left. Bartender was nice. Had a good "feel" to it but hey, they close at 9:30, what Pub doesn't have Old Style and closes at 9:30?
(2)
Shain C.
I was told this place was "divey", but in a good way. It's not quite a beer and a shot kinda place, but it is quite cozy. This place is perfect for when it's just about the drinkin' and not about being seen, loud music, TVs, or crowds...
(4)
JAMES M.
Ok we wound up here before a Sox game.....and wow what a little hidden gem this is! Cheap booze, Free appetizers (Nothing fancy but filling) Kinda hidden Yeap I can definitely see myself going in here and getting ripped! SHake & bake seal of approval.
(4)
Little D.
Tonight was a nightmare experience! I ordered a burger and at the end of the night, after I paid my tab, the owner had the nerve to ask me why I like my burgers raw?? (I ordered my burger rare not RAW - he explained that he didn't know the difference). He was extremely rude and judgmental. He also asked me why I thought it's ok to trust his cook supplier of meat with my health since I like raw meat! I am NEVER coming back to pay $60 to a place where I can't trust their meat product and also a place where I will be judged by the owner for my preferences! We found out from a bartender after the owner had left that he likes his meat well done and often judges people who prefer anything else. YIKES!!!!! This used to be our happy hour spot, but after meeting the crabby, opinionated, curmudgeonly owner, we will NEVER be back!
(1)
Magen R.
I stopped in here after work for a few beers with some of my co-workers this past week. I liked the relaxed vibe of the place. No frills - just drinks and food. The beer was good and reasonably priced for the loop. We also ordered barbecue wings and buffalo chicken fingers. I was not in love with either but they were fine. All in all this is a good place to go after work for a couple of drinks.
(3)
Johnny F.
This place has two big pluses: 1) It's right across the street from my office downtown and 2) It's part of the AA Dining Advantage (so I can get miles for travel from dining). I haven't been here for anything but lunch, but their daily specials are reasonable and the waitress was prompt, which is important for the lunch hour. I'd like to come by here sometime after work and check the vibe at the bar.
(4)
Frankie J.
You're in a time machine, you're traveling in a different dimension, its the 1970s and Steve Dahl is destroying disco records at Comisky Park... and you land in Cardozo's Pub. This place has not changed since the 1970s. I would not be surprised if the ghosts of Irv Kupcinet, Mike Royko, John Belushi and hizzonahdahmayyah Senior was in da joint. If da Blues Brothers decided not to save the orphanage, they could hang out here and watch Chicago sports teams and drink Old Style or Miller High Life until it closed - which I am not sure it does. One of the last of the underground bars in Chicago, which is funny.
(3)
Laura C.
If you're downtown and suddenly feel the urge to have a beer in your grandma's basement, step into Cardoza's to be immediately transported back to 1970. The dimly lit interior with wood paneling and "family restaurant" booths a la Omega in Downer's Grove give this place a frozen in time feeling. If a cold beer is what you're looking for, it's not a bad place to stop and have a drink. It was pretty empty on a Thursday around 5, so you won't have to wait long for your order.
(3)
Jennifer L.
Good food, God awful service. My waitress made faces at my drink choice, then took twenty minutes to give me my bill and another fifteen to use my groupon and settle. Then I got the wrong change back. Busy or not, that was ridiculous.
(2)
Jonathan E.
I actually really love dives, and this place was a contender. Spartan, aged, not a dollar invested since 1972, and pretty cheesy, but who cares? With cute barkeeps and cheap drinks, it doesn't matter. The food isn't "good" as it's obviously mostly pre-fab. I had a burger that was a perfectly rounded puck of meat - something made by a machine but finally cooked by a human and delivered in 10 minutes. That said, it wasn't bad. So it qualifies as "pre-made food" done decently. Don't go there for a chow epiphany. But here's why it only gets 2 stars from me: last call at 9 pm. Huh? It wasn't a Sunday, holiday or special day. Just a weekday. Here's what happens when a dive bar has early closing hours: It's populated by the post-work crowd, which is mostly biz/finance people in downtown Chicago. And by closing at 9, it isn't frequented by the long haul characters who only come out at night. It just doesn't work. If a divey breakfast/lunch place closes up at 2 pm, that's understandable. But a good dive bar stays open past 9. That should be a rule.
(2)
Jonathan W.
This basement bar is a decent place to have a few after work. Bring friends since you probably won't make any here. Also, watch your head - the low ceilings and menagerie of random pipes make you feel like you're in some weird eastern European submarine.
(2)
Karl N.
Finally bought the groupon for this place after seeing it on the menu for a couple weeks. Perfect if you're like me and only have about 45 minutes for lunch. I got the Burger which was the Monday special ($5.95), nice thick patty with a fresh, tasty bun. Huge cut fries and obviously fresh cut veggies. Service was great (sat at the bar). Definitely not your average fly by night pub where everything tastes the same. My friend got the reuben. The beef was thick cut and while unaware it came with chips, the bartender was quick to both offer and replace them with fries without question. Great service, great food, in and out in 45 minutes.
(4)
Erin B.
I wish I could give this place 10 stars. I come with a group of friends and family for happy hour, religiously, once a week. Granted, our "regulars" status with the bartenders may be artificially inflating my views of the place, but Cardozo's is great. The staff is super nice, the drinks are good, and it lacks the pretentious crowd of most of the Loop bars. Make no mistake, it's definitely in the "dive" category, but if that's what you're going for, Cardozo's is the place to be.
(5)
Lars Z.
Great inexpensive place to grab a beer and a burger in the Loop - their wings are tasty, too. They have daily drink specials with tequila Tuesdays ranking as my personal favorite. The wait staff is personable and does a good job. The ambiance is well, er um not the most modern of places but it is comfortable with lots of booth space and its air conditioned. Oh and there's free WIFI.
(4)
Philip J.
Where do i start... the fact that im 6'3 and the ceilings there are about the same, the bathroom here is, well umm rather interesting, i think the ceiling in the bathroom was lower. at anyrate, there is no lock on the door, nor does the stall lock work. not to get to detailed but the toilet didnt flush to well... but this is a dive right? The food was good, i got the Turkey Club on dark rye, a little dry but still fresh and tasty. The wait staff is why after the bathroom happenings i gave it a three, nowhere that i have been is a waitress honest with you when you ask what is good here, they are supposed to say what is good, but usually they dont say I DONT LIKE (blank) but here not the case. her advice is to stay away from the Pita, it sucks. (I'm paraphrasing ofcouse) So if you're taller than me, and dont have to use the restroom id say GO FOR IT... cuz you might just not get the honset waitress/waiter that we did. The Grid Project
(3)
Amanda Z.
You know that part in the Wedding Singer when Adam Sandler is all depressed, yet still singing at the wedding? Well, after my visit to Cardozo's on a rainy Friday happy hour, my version rings like this: "I drink in my grandpaaaaa's baaaaaasemeeeent..." Cuz that's where I felt like I was. You walk down the stairs where there are paneled wood walls and sleeping older men. (Just one tucked away in the corner, sorry buddy, I busted you.) So, my grandpa likes to take a nap in his easy chair in the basement. He has a bar down there. The only thing missing was my grandpa's lava lamp (from the 60s, yo!) So yeah, I felt like I was drinking in my grandpa's basement. The beer is cheap ($2.50 Miller Lites on special....love it!) and the service is no-nonsense. Can't complain, after we decided to vacate Stocks and Blondes due to crowding issues, we got seats and cold drinks very quickly here. Hooray for grandpa-style, after-work drinking!
(3)
Joseluis A.
i was in downtown a bit hungry and thirsty.. but i was afraid i was going to walk into a fancy fartsy downtown spot and that i was going to get charged $50 for a burger and a guinness. i was lucky to spot cardozos tiny sign and i decided to check it out immediately. its a little basement. theres tvs all over. seems like a place for people who work in the area but i was there during lunch time and there wasnt that much movement. better for me cause service was pretty fast. i got a burger and a guinness (of course, what else?) and paid about 11 bucks without tip. pretty nice for a big juicy burger and and delicious and nutritious guinness stout. dont ya think?
(4)
Ben E.
The other day I was craving old-style Italian food along the lines of Italian Village, and happened across Cardozo's Pub. The service was desultory at best, and the food was...well...awful. I figured I couldn't go too far wrong by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and Italian sausage, but I was thoroughly mistaken. I already assumed that 'al dente' wouldn't be a term that applied to this place, but I figured 'flavor' might. No such luck. And, quite frankly, the Italian sausage tasted like dog food. I was disgusted and will never be back. Perhaps other items on the menu are better, but I certainly will never find out for myself. I've never had worse pasta in my life.
(1)
Amanda G.
After avoiding this place for a long time because basement bars seem creepy, I visited with some coworkers. And I discovered that Cardoza's is pretty awesome. There is a really diverse group here. Obviously, officey types there for after-work drinks. But I think there were some illicit affairs going on around us (in a basement bar in the loop! NO WAY!). Old(er) men sitting at the bar. And at the booth behind us, there was this middle aged lady in a Minnie Mouse sweatshirt that must have been from 1985. Adults in old clothing featuring Disney characters always fascinate me. Overall, she wasn't out of place; the bar had a very 1985 feel, or what I'd imagine is a "bar in 1985" feel (I was 5 then, and I know I was taken to a few bars -- yes, I grew up borderline white trash -- but I don't remember their ambience very well). It's kind of like if Fast Times at Ridgemont High was about a bunch of 20somethings who worked in a generic office -- this would be their after-work spot. So there's a certain sense of recent nostalgia that I find appealing Don't expect an amazing beverage menu (the beer selection was kind of sparse). And the food menu seemed to rely heavily on the fryer (frier?). However, we had a really good time.
(4)
Jeff L.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in the loop. It has a much slower atmosphere than everything else around it. The bar is underground so it has some character. Most importantly it has some of the cheapest beer around, including Green Line! It's the perfect place to hang out with friends and talk.
(4)
Alison O.
Cardoza's is basically the closest bar to my building for drinks and food after work, so my coworkers and I will go there occasionally. This is a DIVE bar if I have ever seen one. When you walk in, you feel like you are walking down the stairs to your friends basement in high school. Once you are in the bar, their are no windows and the chairs and booths look like another era. I would recommend not going there for the food. We had Nachos and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The nachos were ok but they had green olives on them which I think made them a little too salty. And the tender were just meh. All in all good place to stop and have a beer after work, but that's about it.
(3)
Tara M.
Ah, it's nice to have some place to go for lunch that's the same today as it was when I was a kid. I didn't go there as a kid, that I can remember, but it has the same feel as all the places my mom took me for lunch when I was a little girl and my parents had an office in the south loop. Cardozo's is comfortable and the food is good, the service isn't too shabby either. It's nice to go somewhere and order a sandwich, get it, have the waitress come by and refill your drinks, the bus person clear off the table and get the check in an hour. I'm so glad I can rely on having a place like this at lunch time! It's never too crowded and the food is always good.
(5)
Jonathan T.
I had a steak salad that was marginal at best. Nothing very creative on the menu and I think the food was precooked. I have been here before but used Groupon this time. I like the throw back, simple cafe environment, but watching a blasted version of some reality show isn't my idea of kicking back. Friendly service thought and reasonable prices. It is in a basement afterall so prices should be good. They close way too early.
(2)
Bob R.
Good food, friendly, kind service and good drinks. Plus a total deal. This place is a best kept secret I hate to share but I want them to thrive. Check them out. Love the avocado blt and even their fish is good. Food also comes out fast for busy lunches.
(4)
Wendy K.
Eww...met my friend here. I don't even know how people find this place. Downstairs to a dungeon feel. Dark inside. Mostly locals, as in everyone's grandpa. She got a living social deal that did not mention alcohol was not included. They refused to accept it and after so many transactions and confusions, we still have no idea what we paid for. All I know is that my little white Russian cost $9. Are you kidding me? You do realize where you are right? In a dark creepy basement where ex offenders may feel comfy in. I think I can still smell the despair.
(1)
Emily K.
This is a good after-work drinks place if your idea of after-work drinks is Stocks and Blondes or Coogan's (which mine is- but I realize there are a few different types of "after-work drinks" places...). Yeah, it's in a basement and it's always CROWDED even though it's fairly large. And they are severely understaffed. It took 1.5 hours to get 2 burgers and our drinks and check one night. But you get what you pay for. Food is cheap (or free- pizza buffet and chilli during happy hour) and there are some decent beer specials ($2 pints of Miller). I don't think you can go wrong here as long as you know what you're getting into. Definitely stars off for the service and it's a bit grimy.
(3)
meg g.
The current signs on the door sums up Cardozo's pretty well, I'd say: One says "Smoking is Allowed", and the smaller sign underneath it says, "non smoking areas now available."
(4)
Sam E.
Awesome basement lunch hideout. No cell phone coverage, no strollers, no bad food. Everything on the menu is good. Great bar.
(5)
Edward P.
I come here for an after work drink on occasion. It is definitely old-school, which is part of the charm. The crowd is very mixed, which is also nice. It's a nice place to grab a drink and head home (or back to the office).
(3)
Aaron S.
F__kit, I am the biggest Smoking Ban Fan around but they need to create exceptions or grandfather clauses or something for places like this--as it is, the smoke of all the years past is almost visible in the air, like a ghost! Also, with all due respect to Ms. H., a pint of Guinness is $4.50 here--I don't have a Hermes bag or whatever the male equivalent is but I can certainly swing that.
(5)
Kraig K.
Cardozo's Pub is a dive but it has lots of flavor. Drinks are reasonably priced and as far as Chicago basement bars go, it's solid. Just don't order Jagermeister, as they serve it warm.
(4)
Jen K.
This is probably the closest bar to my office so I end up here occasionally. Not really my first choice though. Fridays they have free food during happy hour. Really though the smart thing would be to avoid the food. Especially if you actually order off the menu and pay for it. I think the drinks are a bit pricey for what the place is. It's a little freaky to go down into the basement only to emerge several hours later a little drunk and realize its pitch black and raining.
(3)
Nancy H.
I came here for happy hour and immediately felt depressed upon entering. It just has such a lousy look and feel; dimly lit basement, heavily treaded on carpeting, and ceilings that were too low. Even the tables and chairs felt dirty as if they've never been wiped down since 1970. The only bonus was free food on Fridays - sitting under warming lamps.
(1)
molly c.
great lunch option in the loop. HUGE portions quick service and nice people. and let me tell you a secret...shhhhh...they have a smoking section. HELLZ TO THE YEAH!!
(4)
Justin L.
Basement dining where you can have a quiet lunch and conversation with people. Not your typical crowded downtown lunch establishment. The food is above average but the service is slow and nothing really impresses here. Cordoza's is a place to go to have a insiders meeting where you dont want people to overhear your conversations. It is not quite cloak and dagger stuff but you feel like you are semi incognito. Every time I visit Cordoza's I always go with the chicken and bacon sandwich. Generous serving of juicy chicken breast topped with crisp bacon strips makes for a satisfying lunch sammy. For downtown it is not a place I would go often because there are so many other places to people watch and dine al fresco. This is literally a basement and it is intended for quiet pow wows. It may feel borderline dingy and overall is not aesthetically pleasing. But it has its purpose among all the over priced and over hyped trendy spots that most suits go to for lunch downtown.
(3)
Erin J.
Indeed, "divey!" I liked it. It looks like the rec room in someone's parents' basement, complete with fake ivy and Christmas lights. Definitely not a high-brow place, this pub is VERY laid back. The food was probably frozen at one (or more) point(s), but the alcohol is plentiful, relatively cheap and STRONG! Service is spotty, but I expect that in a place like this. Some questionable characters reside towards the back, perfectly set up with the view of the bathroom door, which was a touch creepy. Overall, it was exactly as I thought it would be, no more, no less. Good place for a couple drinks after work, but I wouldn't get lit up there.
(3)
Geoff H.
Eh. Nothing really 'wrong' with it, but food, service and prices are about what you'd expect. As with most day-drinker spots in the Loop, lotsa regulars, maybe I felt a little out-of-place. Still, if I'm gonna sit in a basement bar and drink at lunch, I'd probably go to the Marquette over on Madison instead, or maybe Beef 'n' Brandy on State.
(3)
Katie H.
Happy Hour has always eluded me as I've never in my life worked a 9-5. So I was pleased to have the evening off this past Friday so I could partake in some early evening boozing at Cardozo's. My all-growns-up loop worker boyfriend had me primed to expect Grandma's rec room circa 1981... so I left my Hermes bag and Manolos at home (seriously... faaack anyone who goes to an underground Loop bar expecting it to be cheery. Go back to Rush St.). We really did have a grand ole time. I'm giving Cardozo's 4 stars even factoring in the pricey pints, the questionable hot food display and the gaggle of drunk suburb moms (poofy bangs, dark turtleneck layered with Chicago team sweatshirt) at the table next to me all squawking about their Blackberries and kids. Service was good. Booths were comfy. There was a gaping bass mounted behind the bar. Everyone was... happy. I'd probably avoid the food and stick to liquid dinner. Does anyone find wandering around the Loop at night whilst drunk really odd?
(4)
Dee W.
Nice little nook for some happy hour after work - this basement location may lack in light but the personality and atmosphere make up for that. On Fridays, they offer a little free buffet of some burgers and hot dogs and chips to go with the beer that you're washing down from a long week at work
(4)
Ren H.
This is a nice chill place...sometimes they have drink specials that come with a free tshirt! its an older crowd a lot but that just makes it more fun!
(4)
Amanda L.
Great for after work people watching. Divey. They make really strong drinks too. Very interesting crowd to observe.
(3)
Joseph M.
I love Cardozo's!!! I always get their pub burger, its a big @$$ cheeseburger with fries on the side, I get it cooked medium with mozarella, cheddar cheese and bacon, OMG its so juicy and delicious. If its at lunch I order to go and get in in like 10 to 15 minutes, and if its after work, ill go in and have a beer or two and it only comes out to about 20 bucks which is perfect. I love this place and will continue to go here. I also love that its underground, its an older place, kinda divey, but I feel like I fit in there and im not worried about people watching me eat like a pig lol!!!!
(5)
Andy M.
Was in town for the weekend and saw the Groupon. Great I thought. Check Yelp for hours, open until 10 on Friday. Still great. Bought the Groupon, showed up at 6:40, the place is locked up tight. Not so great. Groupon for Chicago restaurant in Indy - worthless.
(1)
Joe B.
A fine spot to relax and grab a drink and some bar food. You'll completely forget that you're in the middle of the Loop, and that can be a good thing if you need to park it and stretch out for a minute. I've been here a few times and I'd be back. It's a great alternative to the fancier and pricier bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
(3)
Kevin B.
Had a Groupon and went here for lunch. Nice little dive bar located on Washington (you walk in, go downstairs). Seems like a place where regulars frequent. Service was okay, nothing spectacular. Corned Beef sandwich I had was really good. Seems to be one of their most popular sandwiches. Ive also had a chicken sandwich which was a little overcooked and dry. Overall its a quick lunch spot and I wouldn't expect much else more. And if you get the Groupon its well worth the price.
(4)
Leang E.
I bought a Groupon here, because I knew one day I would not have time to bring myself lunch to work and might to step out of the office and take a lunch elsewhere. It was perfect for a place to grab food prior to a trip. They have a pretty decent sized menu. I sat at the bar and got the Chopped Southwest Salad Bowl and got the Avocado Tuna Salad special to go, and that was pretty filling for my plane ride. It was decent, but what bumps this up to 4 stars was the service. The server was great with the recommendation and was very easy going and didn't even complain when the wrong order came out. She quickly got it changed and had a great attitude about it. My water was always quickly refilled. This would be a great spot for a happy hour and to just chill.
(4)
Clements J.
Last week I had the misguided idea of using a Groupon to visit Cardozo's. The waitress was lovely, but that is where the charm of this place ends. The food is expensive and bland. I ordered a Rueben and it was served on the smallest pieces of rye bread you can imagine. These were from sort of mini loaf - not the standard wide rye most people are used to. The atmosphere was rather depressing. It kinda makes you want to examine your life choices up to this point, because something has clearly gone wrong. The ceilings are low - not recommended if you have any sort of dislike of small enclosed spaces. The bathrooms probably haven't been inspected in ages. The manager has all the charm of a bag of scorpions. The establishment itself is about as Italian as a Digiorno pizza. I will never go back to Cardozo's - even if there were free drinks all night long. There are no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
(1)
Chris C.
Good food, fast service. Nothing too fancy about this place but it's a good stop when you're tired of shopping in the loop. My wife and I went on a Tuesday and had the buffalo burger special with fries and we were seated and served within 20 minutes. Waitress was great and didn't bat an eye when we told her that we had a groupon like previous reviews.
(4)
Justin B.
Dropped by for lunch today, to use up my $20 Groupon. Sometimes, I find deals on Groupon and I'm introduced to places that I eventually visit regularly. Cardozo's Pub is not that place. The fish and chips special was my first mistake. The chips were actually pretty good and Cardozo's certainly gives you plenty of them. But the fish was pretty bland. Even the tartar sauce on the side was pretty bland. Because I showed up alone, I ordered a second entree to help use up the $20. I got a turkey club to go...and I should have walked away when I was told that they were out of all sliced bread (I'm not kidding--no wheat, no white, no rye). The options were a French loaf, or a hamburger bun. Laughing, I went with the loaf; I just finished the sandwich and it was pretty bad. Yes, it had turkey, lettuce, bacon, mayo...but, the turkey was bad, the bread wasn't great, and even with the mayo, it was all pretty dry. Not only was my meal poor, but Cardozo's doesn't serve dessert. I have a major sweet tooth, and this is America, so I don't know how you don't serve dessert at a sit-down restaurant in this country. I won't be back!
(2)
Lily Z.
I felt like I was a closet drinker when I came here last week. It's dark with no windows and creepy older men are hitting on the girls at the bar. I didn't order any food but the drinks were fine. Service could have been nicer. We were looking for our waitress the entire time and kind of rude when we asked her to explain the charges. I got over charged for my beer too. Since when does $5 glass of Stella equal $11 on a check?
(2)
Tim T.
Probably my favorite dive bar in the city. It's usually not crowded, so the servers can stay pretty attentive. The typical bar food is pretty good, and they make the martinis strong. Very good place to meet friends after work if you're not trying to impress anyone.
(4)
Melanie B.
My boyfriend and I ended up here before catching a show downtown because we were looking for a pub and happened to walk by. The atmosphere isn't bad... A basement pub. Comfy enough. However, we stood by the door for a while waiting to see if anyone would greet us.. it took us wandering in a bit for someone to approach us. The menu is rather small, which is to be expected, I guess... but I would've at least expected a better drink selection. Our waitress knew nothing about the beers available whatsoever. The nachos were mediocre at best, and my boyfriend's chicken fingers were just ok, really. It took a while to get our check, and once we did get it we needed to hurry and pay to catch our show. My boyfriend tried to pay the bartender the bill and was rudely told to go sit down... so, we had to chase down the waitress to pay. The waitress was nice, but a little clueless. We won't be going back.
(1)
Tj P.
Great place for a quick bite to eat or drink, basement bar. Staff was really friendly.
(4)
Justin G.
Just went to Cordozos after work with a buddy for the first time. Great if you want a beer and some bar food in an underground tavern that doesn't care about being cool. Oddly enough, the wait staff was fairly awesome, which, for a place like that, was a surprise. Mixed bag of gents in there for sure, lots of laughs. Bartendress gave us both free drinks because we said we were new to the area. Don't bring your girlfriend here to impress her with Chicago's fine dining. Bring your buddy here if you want to duck in to a corky place with a good vibe.
(5)
Kevin K.
Just take a look under the ice machine to the right of the bar. Last time I was in there around 9 pm at night, I saw either a rat or a large mouse scurrying between the kitchen and ice machine. Owner is a old fart boozepig that sits directly next to the machine. This place would be better off burning down.
(1)
Derrick T.
A little bar/restaurant hidden with steps taking you straight underground to a more expansive area. It's like your suburb family diner + bar, but in the city and tucked away. Bread service to start. Thoughts? Roasted chicken plate: A sizable chicken breast pounded even that's roasted. Fairly dry and overcooked, came with a side salad of fresh veggies, a very healthy portion of cottage cheese, and half a canned peach. Verdict: Honestly, the quality of the food is just okay. The price tag of the place is affordable ($8-13) considering they serve a bread basket, sides, etc. and the selection has something for everyone. Price and service give it that extra star to bump it to three, as the waitress was constantly checking up on us and "trying" her best to handle a large table. I probably wouldn't come back though...
(3)
Chrysa L.
I love me a divey, laid back kind of bar. My friends and I call Cardozo's "Grandpa's Basement," because that is what it feels like. The outdated paneling. The steep stairs to get down there. The mirrors on the walls. The fluorescent beer signs. However, the checks are vague. A few of the servers have attitudes - as in, your mere presence is bothersome. The beer selection is limited. The bathrooms are very small. The food is pretty meh. I think the chicken fingers are OK because it's kind of hard to screw up something like that. I think there are other dives (even downtown) that I would prefer to go to over Cardozo's, but there is something cozy about it that I enjoy and I will go back from time to time. However, it is never my first choice destination.
(2)
Mathew H.
This place is one step up from prison food. I got a Reuben; the corned beef was cut too thick and was chewy. A pop is $2 with $1 refills also tiny,wtf! I give it 2 stars only because our server was nice and quick! Don't waste your time, there are plenty of great places to eat in the loop.
(2)
Christine S.
Do you want to feel like you're drinking in your Parent's basement? Do you want to feel like you're 19 again? Ok...come here. This is exactly what Cardozo's is like, drinking in your parents basement. Dive(y) bars aren't as easy to find in The Loop as you would think... So if you like dives, come here, you'll be happy. Stiff pours. Nice staff. Inexpenisive(ish). Diveeeee on in.
(4)
Kison P.
Very Chicago! From the decor, to staff, and food.. all screams Chicago, I love it! Great place for lunch and after work drinks. I highly recommend smoked chicken ravioli, maybe save half for later.
(5)
Neil R.
Pretty average place from the drinks to the food. The service is decent but overall did not jump out. If you are in the loop it could be a quick place to grab a beer and watch some TV. I had some chicken tenders here and they were average as well.
(3)
anthony n.
If the dictionary had a picture for hole-in-wall, this place would be it. We used to drink here all the time, but recently their drink prices (which seem to change every order) have skyrocket'd. Used to be worth it, but if I'm paying standard Chicago prices I'd rather go some place that doesn't have a mildew aroma.
(2)
Cathy Y.
Horrible. Just plain bad. I went in with my daughter today and I guess because I wasn't a businessman, we weren't important enough. We ordered a Sprite which we never got. We were given bread but no plates to eat it on. Our meal was supposed to come with a salad but was never mentioned by the waitress or given to us. I guess whatever was on her cell phone was more important because that's what she stared at the whole time. So unprofessional. I know this is a comfy looking place, like a grandma's old basement like one other poster mentioned, but come on. The very nice bus boy had to get her attention so we could even get our check. I used to be a server for many years so I don't feel like I am being over critical, there is just a certain level you should expect. I used to love this place when I worked downtown a few years back but it has fallen apart. Too bad.
(1)
Jeff L.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in the loop. It has a much slower atmosphere than everything else around it. The bar is underground so it has some character. Most importantly it has some of the cheapest beer around, including Green Line! It's the perfect place to hang out with friends and talk.
(4)
Alison O.
Cardoza's is basically the closest bar to my building for drinks and food after work, so my coworkers and I will go there occasionally. This is a DIVE bar if I have ever seen one. When you walk in, you feel like you are walking down the stairs to your friends basement in high school. Once you are in the bar, their are no windows and the chairs and booths look like another era. I would recommend not going there for the food. We had Nachos and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The nachos were ok but they had green olives on them which I think made them a little too salty. And the tender were just meh. All in all good place to stop and have a beer after work, but that's about it.
(3)
Tara M.
Ah, it's nice to have some place to go for lunch that's the same today as it was when I was a kid. I didn't go there as a kid, that I can remember, but it has the same feel as all the places my mom took me for lunch when I was a little girl and my parents had an office in the south loop. Cardozo's is comfortable and the food is good, the service isn't too shabby either. It's nice to go somewhere and order a sandwich, get it, have the waitress come by and refill your drinks, the bus person clear off the table and get the check in an hour. I'm so glad I can rely on having a place like this at lunch time! It's never too crowded and the food is always good.
(5)
Jonathan T.
I had a steak salad that was marginal at best. Nothing very creative on the menu and I think the food was precooked. I have been here before but used Groupon this time. I like the throw back, simple cafe environment, but watching a blasted version of some reality show isn't my idea of kicking back. Friendly service thought and reasonable prices. It is in a basement afterall so prices should be good. They close way too early.
(2)
Shain C.
I was told this place was "divey", but in a good way. It's not quite a beer and a shot kinda place, but it is quite cozy. This place is perfect for when it's just about the drinkin' and not about being seen, loud music, TVs, or crowds...
(4)
JAMES M.
Ok we wound up here before a Sox game.....and wow what a little hidden gem this is! Cheap booze, Free appetizers (Nothing fancy but filling) Kinda hidden Yeap I can definitely see myself going in here and getting ripped! SHake & bake seal of approval.
(4)
Bob R.
Good food, friendly, kind service and good drinks. Plus a total deal. This place is a best kept secret I hate to share but I want them to thrive. Check them out. Love the avocado blt and even their fish is good. Food also comes out fast for busy lunches.
(4)
Emily K.
This is a good after-work drinks place if your idea of after-work drinks is Stocks and Blondes or Coogan's (which mine is- but I realize there are a few different types of "after-work drinks" places...). Yeah, it's in a basement and it's always CROWDED even though it's fairly large. And they are severely understaffed. It took 1.5 hours to get 2 burgers and our drinks and check one night. But you get what you pay for. Food is cheap (or free- pizza buffet and chilli during happy hour) and there are some decent beer specials ($2 pints of Miller). I don't think you can go wrong here as long as you know what you're getting into. Definitely stars off for the service and it's a bit grimy.
(3)
Sam E.
Awesome basement lunch hideout. No cell phone coverage, no strollers, no bad food. Everything on the menu is good. Great bar.
(5)
Edward P.
I come here for an after work drink on occasion. It is definitely old-school, which is part of the charm. The crowd is very mixed, which is also nice. It's a nice place to grab a drink and head home (or back to the office).
(3)
Aaron S.
F__kit, I am the biggest Smoking Ban Fan around but they need to create exceptions or grandfather clauses or something for places like this--as it is, the smoke of all the years past is almost visible in the air, like a ghost! Also, with all due respect to Ms. H., a pint of Guinness is $4.50 here--I don't have a Hermes bag or whatever the male equivalent is but I can certainly swing that.
(5)
Kraig K.
Cardozo's Pub is a dive but it has lots of flavor. Drinks are reasonably priced and as far as Chicago basement bars go, it's solid. Just don't order Jagermeister, as they serve it warm.
(4)
Jen K.
This is probably the closest bar to my office so I end up here occasionally. Not really my first choice though. Fridays they have free food during happy hour. Really though the smart thing would be to avoid the food. Especially if you actually order off the menu and pay for it. I think the drinks are a bit pricey for what the place is. It's a little freaky to go down into the basement only to emerge several hours later a little drunk and realize its pitch black and raining.
(3)
Nancy H.
I came here for happy hour and immediately felt depressed upon entering. It just has such a lousy look and feel; dimly lit basement, heavily treaded on carpeting, and ceilings that were too low. Even the tables and chairs felt dirty as if they've never been wiped down since 1970. The only bonus was free food on Fridays - sitting under warming lamps.
(1)
molly c.
great lunch option in the loop. HUGE portions quick service and nice people. and let me tell you a secret...shhhhh...they have a smoking section. HELLZ TO THE YEAH!!
(4)
Ren H.
This is a nice chill place...sometimes they have drink specials that come with a free tshirt! its an older crowd a lot but that just makes it more fun!
(4)
Amanda L.
Great for after work people watching. Divey. They make really strong drinks too. Very interesting crowd to observe.
(3)
Lindsay B.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in The Loop. I'm always able to get in and out in just over a half hour during lunch rush, 12-1. The patty melt is to die for, our server always remembers us and our specific order. The soda is kind of bar-like... so you're better off getting a drink-drink or water. Prices are great. It's nice to get out of the rush of The Loop into a homey-like pub.
(5)
Justin L.
Basement dining where you can have a quiet lunch and conversation with people. Not your typical crowded downtown lunch establishment. The food is above average but the service is slow and nothing really impresses here. Cordoza's is a place to go to have a insiders meeting where you dont want people to overhear your conversations. It is not quite cloak and dagger stuff but you feel like you are semi incognito. Every time I visit Cordoza's I always go with the chicken and bacon sandwich. Generous serving of juicy chicken breast topped with crisp bacon strips makes for a satisfying lunch sammy. For downtown it is not a place I would go often because there are so many other places to people watch and dine al fresco. This is literally a basement and it is intended for quiet pow wows. It may feel borderline dingy and overall is not aesthetically pleasing. But it has its purpose among all the over priced and over hyped trendy spots that most suits go to for lunch downtown.
(3)
Erin J.
Indeed, "divey!" I liked it. It looks like the rec room in someone's parents' basement, complete with fake ivy and Christmas lights. Definitely not a high-brow place, this pub is VERY laid back. The food was probably frozen at one (or more) point(s), but the alcohol is plentiful, relatively cheap and STRONG! Service is spotty, but I expect that in a place like this. Some questionable characters reside towards the back, perfectly set up with the view of the bathroom door, which was a touch creepy. Overall, it was exactly as I thought it would be, no more, no less. Good place for a couple drinks after work, but I wouldn't get lit up there.
(3)
Tj P.
Great place for a quick bite to eat or drink, basement bar. Staff was really friendly.
(4)
Amanda G.
After avoiding this place for a long time because basement bars seem creepy, I visited with some coworkers. And I discovered that Cardoza's is pretty awesome. There is a really diverse group here. Obviously, officey types there for after-work drinks. But I think there were some illicit affairs going on around us (in a basement bar in the loop! NO WAY!). Old(er) men sitting at the bar. And at the booth behind us, there was this middle aged lady in a Minnie Mouse sweatshirt that must have been from 1985. Adults in old clothing featuring Disney characters always fascinate me. Overall, she wasn't out of place; the bar had a very 1985 feel, or what I'd imagine is a "bar in 1985" feel (I was 5 then, and I know I was taken to a few bars -- yes, I grew up borderline white trash -- but I don't remember their ambience very well). It's kind of like if Fast Times at Ridgemont High was about a bunch of 20somethings who worked in a generic office -- this would be their after-work spot. So there's a certain sense of recent nostalgia that I find appealing Don't expect an amazing beverage menu (the beer selection was kind of sparse). And the food menu seemed to rely heavily on the fryer (frier?). However, we had a really good time.
(4)
Leang E.
I bought a Groupon here, because I knew one day I would not have time to bring myself lunch to work and might to step out of the office and take a lunch elsewhere. It was perfect for a place to grab food prior to a trip. They have a pretty decent sized menu. I sat at the bar and got the Chopped Southwest Salad Bowl and got the Avocado Tuna Salad special to go, and that was pretty filling for my plane ride. It was decent, but what bumps this up to 4 stars was the service. The server was great with the recommendation and was very easy going and didn't even complain when the wrong order came out. She quickly got it changed and had a great attitude about it. My water was always quickly refilled. This would be a great spot for a happy hour and to just chill.
(4)
Clements J.
Last week I had the misguided idea of using a Groupon to visit Cardozo's. The waitress was lovely, but that is where the charm of this place ends. The food is expensive and bland. I ordered a Rueben and it was served on the smallest pieces of rye bread you can imagine. These were from sort of mini loaf - not the standard wide rye most people are used to. The atmosphere was rather depressing. It kinda makes you want to examine your life choices up to this point, because something has clearly gone wrong. The ceilings are low - not recommended if you have any sort of dislike of small enclosed spaces. The bathrooms probably haven't been inspected in ages. The manager has all the charm of a bag of scorpions. The establishment itself is about as Italian as a Digiorno pizza. I will never go back to Cardozo's - even if there were free drinks all night long. There are no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
(1)
Chris C.
Good food, fast service. Nothing too fancy about this place but it's a good stop when you're tired of shopping in the loop. My wife and I went on a Tuesday and had the buffalo burger special with fries and we were seated and served within 20 minutes. Waitress was great and didn't bat an eye when we told her that we had a groupon like previous reviews.
(4)
Joe B.
A fine spot to relax and grab a drink and some bar food. You'll completely forget that you're in the middle of the Loop, and that can be a good thing if you need to park it and stretch out for a minute. I've been here a few times and I'd be back. It's a great alternative to the fancier and pricier bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
(3)
Joseph M.
I love Cardozo's!!! I always get their pub burger, its a big @$$ cheeseburger with fries on the side, I get it cooked medium with mozarella, cheddar cheese and bacon, OMG its so juicy and delicious. If its at lunch I order to go and get in in like 10 to 15 minutes, and if its after work, ill go in and have a beer or two and it only comes out to about 20 bucks which is perfect. I love this place and will continue to go here. I also love that its underground, its an older place, kinda divey, but I feel like I fit in there and im not worried about people watching me eat like a pig lol!!!!
(5)
Justin B.
Dropped by for lunch today, to use up my $20 Groupon. Sometimes, I find deals on Groupon and I'm introduced to places that I eventually visit regularly. Cardozo's Pub is not that place. The fish and chips special was my first mistake. The chips were actually pretty good and Cardozo's certainly gives you plenty of them. But the fish was pretty bland. Even the tartar sauce on the side was pretty bland. Because I showed up alone, I ordered a second entree to help use up the $20. I got a turkey club to go...and I should have walked away when I was told that they were out of all sliced bread (I'm not kidding--no wheat, no white, no rye). The options were a French loaf, or a hamburger bun. Laughing, I went with the loaf; I just finished the sandwich and it was pretty bad. Yes, it had turkey, lettuce, bacon, mayo...but, the turkey was bad, the bread wasn't great, and even with the mayo, it was all pretty dry. Not only was my meal poor, but Cardozo's doesn't serve dessert. I have a major sweet tooth, and this is America, so I don't know how you don't serve dessert at a sit-down restaurant in this country. I won't be back!
(2)
Lily Z.
I felt like I was a closet drinker when I came here last week. It's dark with no windows and creepy older men are hitting on the girls at the bar. I didn't order any food but the drinks were fine. Service could have been nicer. We were looking for our waitress the entire time and kind of rude when we asked her to explain the charges. I got over charged for my beer too. Since when does $5 glass of Stella equal $11 on a check?
(2)
Tim T.
Probably my favorite dive bar in the city. It's usually not crowded, so the servers can stay pretty attentive. The typical bar food is pretty good, and they make the martinis strong. Very good place to meet friends after work if you're not trying to impress anyone.
(4)
Melanie B.
My boyfriend and I ended up here before catching a show downtown because we were looking for a pub and happened to walk by. The atmosphere isn't bad... A basement pub. Comfy enough. However, we stood by the door for a while waiting to see if anyone would greet us.. it took us wandering in a bit for someone to approach us. The menu is rather small, which is to be expected, I guess... but I would've at least expected a better drink selection. Our waitress knew nothing about the beers available whatsoever. The nachos were mediocre at best, and my boyfriend's chicken fingers were just ok, really. It took a while to get our check, and once we did get it we needed to hurry and pay to catch our show. My boyfriend tried to pay the bartender the bill and was rudely told to go sit down... so, we had to chase down the waitress to pay. The waitress was nice, but a little clueless. We won't be going back.
(1)
Justin G.
Just went to Cordozos after work with a buddy for the first time. Great if you want a beer and some bar food in an underground tavern that doesn't care about being cool. Oddly enough, the wait staff was fairly awesome, which, for a place like that, was a surprise. Mixed bag of gents in there for sure, lots of laughs. Bartendress gave us both free drinks because we said we were new to the area. Don't bring your girlfriend here to impress her with Chicago's fine dining. Bring your buddy here if you want to duck in to a corky place with a good vibe.
(5)
Kevin K.
Just take a look under the ice machine to the right of the bar. Last time I was in there around 9 pm at night, I saw either a rat or a large mouse scurrying between the kitchen and ice machine. Owner is a old fart boozepig that sits directly next to the machine. This place would be better off burning down.
(1)
Derrick T.
A little bar/restaurant hidden with steps taking you straight underground to a more expansive area. It's like your suburb family diner + bar, but in the city and tucked away. Bread service to start. Thoughts? Roasted chicken plate: A sizable chicken breast pounded even that's roasted. Fairly dry and overcooked, came with a side salad of fresh veggies, a very healthy portion of cottage cheese, and half a canned peach. Verdict: Honestly, the quality of the food is just okay. The price tag of the place is affordable ($8-13) considering they serve a bread basket, sides, etc. and the selection has something for everyone. Price and service give it that extra star to bump it to three, as the waitress was constantly checking up on us and "trying" her best to handle a large table. I probably wouldn't come back though...
(3)
Chrysa L.
I love me a divey, laid back kind of bar. My friends and I call Cardozo's "Grandpa's Basement," because that is what it feels like. The outdated paneling. The steep stairs to get down there. The mirrors on the walls. The fluorescent beer signs. However, the checks are vague. A few of the servers have attitudes - as in, your mere presence is bothersome. The beer selection is limited. The bathrooms are very small. The food is pretty meh. I think the chicken fingers are OK because it's kind of hard to screw up something like that. I think there are other dives (even downtown) that I would prefer to go to over Cardozo's, but there is something cozy about it that I enjoy and I will go back from time to time. However, it is never my first choice destination.
(2)
Mathew H.
This place is one step up from prison food. I got a Reuben; the corned beef was cut too thick and was chewy. A pop is $2 with $1 refills also tiny,wtf! I give it 2 stars only because our server was nice and quick! Don't waste your time, there are plenty of great places to eat in the loop.
(2)
Christine S.
Do you want to feel like you're drinking in your Parent's basement? Do you want to feel like you're 19 again? Ok...come here. This is exactly what Cardozo's is like, drinking in your parents basement. Dive(y) bars aren't as easy to find in The Loop as you would think... So if you like dives, come here, you'll be happy. Stiff pours. Nice staff. Inexpenisive(ish). Diveeeee on in.
(4)
Kison P.
Very Chicago! From the decor, to staff, and food.. all screams Chicago, I love it! Great place for lunch and after work drinks. I highly recommend smoked chicken ravioli, maybe save half for later.
(5)
Neil R.
Pretty average place from the drinks to the food. The service is decent but overall did not jump out. If you are in the loop it could be a quick place to grab a beer and watch some TV. I had some chicken tenders here and they were average as well.
(3)
anthony n.
If the dictionary had a picture for hole-in-wall, this place would be it. We used to drink here all the time, but recently their drink prices (which seem to change every order) have skyrocket'd. Used to be worth it, but if I'm paying standard Chicago prices I'd rather go some place that doesn't have a mildew aroma.
(2)
Cathy Y.
Horrible. Just plain bad. I went in with my daughter today and I guess because I wasn't a businessman, we weren't important enough. We ordered a Sprite which we never got. We were given bread but no plates to eat it on. Our meal was supposed to come with a salad but was never mentioned by the waitress or given to us. I guess whatever was on her cell phone was more important because that's what she stared at the whole time. So unprofessional. I know this is a comfy looking place, like a grandma's old basement like one other poster mentioned, but come on. The very nice bus boy had to get her attention so we could even get our check. I used to be a server for many years so I don't feel like I am being over critical, there is just a certain level you should expect. I used to love this place when I worked downtown a few years back but it has fallen apart. Too bad.
(1)
Bobby O.
I have been going to this place for a long time having worked in the area and always enjoyed eating here. I never really ventured from the bacon cheeseburger or reuben sandwich part of the menu but friends have and said it was good. This place is mainly geared for the down town work/after work crowd.
(4)
Daniel R.
Don't let the look of this place fool you. I was there at 1 on a Friday afternoon and there was hardly a place to sit. Great food and you could tell there were a lot of regulars that frequent here.
(5)
Damian B.
Nice spot but, no Old Style......did I take a wrong train out of Chicago? I only had one beer and left. Bartender was nice. Had a good "feel" to it but hey, they close at 9:30, what Pub doesn't have Old Style and closes at 9:30?
(2)
Little D.
Tonight was a nightmare experience! I ordered a burger and at the end of the night, after I paid my tab, the owner had the nerve to ask me why I like my burgers raw?? (I ordered my burger rare not RAW - he explained that he didn't know the difference). He was extremely rude and judgmental. He also asked me why I thought it's ok to trust his cook supplier of meat with my health since I like raw meat! I am NEVER coming back to pay $60 to a place where I can't trust their meat product and also a place where I will be judged by the owner for my preferences! We found out from a bartender after the owner had left that he likes his meat well done and often judges people who prefer anything else. YIKES!!!!! This used to be our happy hour spot, but after meeting the crabby, opinionated, curmudgeonly owner, we will NEVER be back!
(1)
Magen R.
I stopped in here after work for a few beers with some of my co-workers this past week. I liked the relaxed vibe of the place. No frills - just drinks and food. The beer was good and reasonably priced for the loop. We also ordered barbecue wings and buffalo chicken fingers. I was not in love with either but they were fine. All in all this is a good place to go after work for a couple of drinks.
(3)
Johnny F.
This place has two big pluses: 1) It's right across the street from my office downtown and 2) It's part of the AA Dining Advantage (so I can get miles for travel from dining). I haven't been here for anything but lunch, but their daily specials are reasonable and the waitress was prompt, which is important for the lunch hour. I'd like to come by here sometime after work and check the vibe at the bar.
(4)
Frankie J.
You're in a time machine, you're traveling in a different dimension, its the 1970s and Steve Dahl is destroying disco records at Comisky Park... and you land in Cardozo's Pub. This place has not changed since the 1970s. I would not be surprised if the ghosts of Irv Kupcinet, Mike Royko, John Belushi and hizzonahdahmayyah Senior was in da joint. If da Blues Brothers decided not to save the orphanage, they could hang out here and watch Chicago sports teams and drink Old Style or Miller High Life until it closed - which I am not sure it does. One of the last of the underground bars in Chicago, which is funny.
(3)
Laura C.
If you're downtown and suddenly feel the urge to have a beer in your grandma's basement, step into Cardoza's to be immediately transported back to 1970. The dimly lit interior with wood paneling and "family restaurant" booths a la Omega in Downer's Grove give this place a frozen in time feeling. If a cold beer is what you're looking for, it's not a bad place to stop and have a drink. It was pretty empty on a Thursday around 5, so you won't have to wait long for your order.
(3)
Jennifer L.
Good food, God awful service. My waitress made faces at my drink choice, then took twenty minutes to give me my bill and another fifteen to use my groupon and settle. Then I got the wrong change back. Busy or not, that was ridiculous.
(2)
Jonathan E.
I actually really love dives, and this place was a contender. Spartan, aged, not a dollar invested since 1972, and pretty cheesy, but who cares? With cute barkeeps and cheap drinks, it doesn't matter. The food isn't "good" as it's obviously mostly pre-fab. I had a burger that was a perfectly rounded puck of meat - something made by a machine but finally cooked by a human and delivered in 10 minutes. That said, it wasn't bad. So it qualifies as "pre-made food" done decently. Don't go there for a chow epiphany. But here's why it only gets 2 stars from me: last call at 9 pm. Huh? It wasn't a Sunday, holiday or special day. Just a weekday. Here's what happens when a dive bar has early closing hours: It's populated by the post-work crowd, which is mostly biz/finance people in downtown Chicago. And by closing at 9, it isn't frequented by the long haul characters who only come out at night. It just doesn't work. If a divey breakfast/lunch place closes up at 2 pm, that's understandable. But a good dive bar stays open past 9. That should be a rule.
(2)
Jonathan W.
This basement bar is a decent place to have a few after work. Bring friends since you probably won't make any here. Also, watch your head - the low ceilings and menagerie of random pipes make you feel like you're in some weird eastern European submarine.
(2)
Karl N.
Finally bought the groupon for this place after seeing it on the menu for a couple weeks. Perfect if you're like me and only have about 45 minutes for lunch. I got the Burger which was the Monday special ($5.95), nice thick patty with a fresh, tasty bun. Huge cut fries and obviously fresh cut veggies. Service was great (sat at the bar). Definitely not your average fly by night pub where everything tastes the same. My friend got the reuben. The beef was thick cut and while unaware it came with chips, the bartender was quick to both offer and replace them with fries without question. Great service, great food, in and out in 45 minutes.
(4)
Erin B.
I wish I could give this place 10 stars. I come with a group of friends and family for happy hour, religiously, once a week. Granted, our "regulars" status with the bartenders may be artificially inflating my views of the place, but Cardozo's is great. The staff is super nice, the drinks are good, and it lacks the pretentious crowd of most of the Loop bars. Make no mistake, it's definitely in the "dive" category, but if that's what you're going for, Cardozo's is the place to be.
(5)
Lars Z.
Great inexpensive place to grab a beer and a burger in the Loop - their wings are tasty, too. They have daily drink specials with tequila Tuesdays ranking as my personal favorite. The wait staff is personable and does a good job. The ambiance is well, er um not the most modern of places but it is comfortable with lots of booth space and its air conditioned. Oh and there's free WIFI.
(4)
Philip J.
Where do i start... the fact that im 6'3 and the ceilings there are about the same, the bathroom here is, well umm rather interesting, i think the ceiling in the bathroom was lower. at anyrate, there is no lock on the door, nor does the stall lock work. not to get to detailed but the toilet didnt flush to well... but this is a dive right? The food was good, i got the Turkey Club on dark rye, a little dry but still fresh and tasty. The wait staff is why after the bathroom happenings i gave it a three, nowhere that i have been is a waitress honest with you when you ask what is good here, they are supposed to say what is good, but usually they dont say I DONT LIKE (blank) but here not the case. her advice is to stay away from the Pita, it sucks. (I'm paraphrasing ofcouse) So if you're taller than me, and dont have to use the restroom id say GO FOR IT... cuz you might just not get the honset waitress/waiter that we did. The Grid Project
(3)
Amanda Z.
You know that part in the Wedding Singer when Adam Sandler is all depressed, yet still singing at the wedding? Well, after my visit to Cardozo's on a rainy Friday happy hour, my version rings like this: "I drink in my grandpaaaaa's baaaaaasemeeeent..." Cuz that's where I felt like I was. You walk down the stairs where there are paneled wood walls and sleeping older men. (Just one tucked away in the corner, sorry buddy, I busted you.) So, my grandpa likes to take a nap in his easy chair in the basement. He has a bar down there. The only thing missing was my grandpa's lava lamp (from the 60s, yo!) So yeah, I felt like I was drinking in my grandpa's basement. The beer is cheap ($2.50 Miller Lites on special....love it!) and the service is no-nonsense. Can't complain, after we decided to vacate Stocks and Blondes due to crowding issues, we got seats and cold drinks very quickly here. Hooray for grandpa-style, after-work drinking!
(3)
Joseluis A.
i was in downtown a bit hungry and thirsty.. but i was afraid i was going to walk into a fancy fartsy downtown spot and that i was going to get charged $50 for a burger and a guinness. i was lucky to spot cardozos tiny sign and i decided to check it out immediately. its a little basement. theres tvs all over. seems like a place for people who work in the area but i was there during lunch time and there wasnt that much movement. better for me cause service was pretty fast. i got a burger and a guinness (of course, what else?) and paid about 11 bucks without tip. pretty nice for a big juicy burger and and delicious and nutritious guinness stout. dont ya think?
(4)
Ben E.
The other day I was craving old-style Italian food along the lines of Italian Village, and happened across Cardozo's Pub. The service was desultory at best, and the food was...well...awful. I figured I couldn't go too far wrong by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and Italian sausage, but I was thoroughly mistaken. I already assumed that 'al dente' wouldn't be a term that applied to this place, but I figured 'flavor' might. No such luck. And, quite frankly, the Italian sausage tasted like dog food. I was disgusted and will never be back. Perhaps other items on the menu are better, but I certainly will never find out for myself. I've never had worse pasta in my life.
(1)
meg g.
The current signs on the door sums up Cardozo's pretty well, I'd say: One says "Smoking is Allowed", and the smaller sign underneath it says, "non smoking areas now available."
(4)
Geoff H.
Eh. Nothing really 'wrong' with it, but food, service and prices are about what you'd expect. As with most day-drinker spots in the Loop, lotsa regulars, maybe I felt a little out-of-place. Still, if I'm gonna sit in a basement bar and drink at lunch, I'd probably go to the Marquette over on Madison instead, or maybe Beef 'n' Brandy on State.
(3)
Katie H.
Happy Hour has always eluded me as I've never in my life worked a 9-5. So I was pleased to have the evening off this past Friday so I could partake in some early evening boozing at Cardozo's. My all-growns-up loop worker boyfriend had me primed to expect Grandma's rec room circa 1981... so I left my Hermes bag and Manolos at home (seriously... faaack anyone who goes to an underground Loop bar expecting it to be cheery. Go back to Rush St.). We really did have a grand ole time. I'm giving Cardozo's 4 stars even factoring in the pricey pints, the questionable hot food display and the gaggle of drunk suburb moms (poofy bangs, dark turtleneck layered with Chicago team sweatshirt) at the table next to me all squawking about their Blackberries and kids. Service was good. Booths were comfy. There was a gaping bass mounted behind the bar. Everyone was... happy. I'd probably avoid the food and stick to liquid dinner. Does anyone find wandering around the Loop at night whilst drunk really odd?
(4)
Dee W.
Nice little nook for some happy hour after work - this basement location may lack in light but the personality and atmosphere make up for that. On Fridays, they offer a little free buffet of some burgers and hot dogs and chips to go with the beer that you're washing down from a long week at work
(4)
Erika G.
Standard issue pub, and surprisingly expensive for how non-stylish and basic it is. I was surprised at what a large tab we ran up. Apparently the bartenders don't know that time honored tradition of slinging a free drink for every oh, 4 or 5 purchased. I thought that was sort of weird. It smells kind of weird too. The drinks are small. The food is average. You don't notice it at street level, as it's just a door with stairs behind. Come to think of it, this place is not that great. I doubt I'd go back, given the plethora of joints to hang out at in this area.
(2)
Natalia K.
The fact that I came here is a clear example of the fact that I'll try anything once- especially if there's a groupon deal for it. My friend and I hesitantly walked down the steps to the basement and it smelled like a stale grandparent basement. They apparently updated their look, but you wouldn't know it. We sat down and perused their small menu and decided on a steak sandwich and buffalo chicken salad. My friend ordered the salad and it came with a pitcher of dressing- they don't do the ramekin thing here, oh no, it was a full gravy pitcher of dressing. I almost wanted to ask for extra dressing, because she clearly didn't have enough. My steak sandwich was pretty meh, but what did I expect from a dive bar, right? the garlic bread it was on was pretty soggy and the steak was nothing to get excited about, though I will credit the chef for having cooked it to my order. The fries were pretty bland and made for a lower calorie situation because I didn't bother to eat them. I'm glad I tried this pub because I walk by here all the time and it has been a curiosity to me, but I will be steering clear with so many other great options for food and drink around the city.
(2)
Thomas W.
Excellent place for lunch its a small restaurant/dive bar very nice people the other lady idk manager owner off the boat Itallian woman very hospitable and friendly great food great service highly recommend this place if you are in the area
(5)
Richard B.
Cardozo's Pub is one of these places that you don't notice when you are walking down the street. You only see a doorway and a flight of stairs leading down to some strange subterranean grotto beneath the busy streets of the Loop. Let's go back a few months so I can tell you my story; and as my readers know, my stories are often weird... Last fall, Mrs B and I decided to go into the Loop on "Black Friday," to take in an opera and do a little holiday shopping. I, as always, wanted to find a discount, so I found a Groupon deal for Cardozo's. It said they were open on weekdays during the day and evening - so it would be a convenient stop for us. So, we get there, and the place is closed - even though the sign on the door clearly states that they should be open. I take out my cellphone and try to call them, but nobody answers. So, we found another place for lunch and - gasp! - had to pay full price: a near-mortal sin. During that lunch, I phoned Groupon to gripe, and I got a message that my call would be promptly answered in 45 minutes. Fie! I called Groupon a few days later, and their "customer service" people had to research the issue. They got back with me and told me that Cardozo decided to close for the day, but I could use my Groupon for its full value until some day in December, or use the original $10 I paid afterwards. Not too groovy. The Groupon languished under a magnet on our refrigerator for several weeks, until I found that I had to go downtown on some personal business. So, I was able to use the $10 that I sent Groupon. On to the subject of Cardozo. Others are spot on that this is really a bar that offers a limited menu of sandwiches and simple entrees. I was not particularly hungry, so I just ordered a hangerber and a soda. The place is a warren of small rooms with no uniform theme nor architectural creativity. There are framed photos of show business personalities attached to the wall and a few miscellaneous posters. They still had their Xmas lights strewn on the ceiling. Frankly, you would expect this in any typical dive bar. Although the place was pretty empty, service was slow, and the waitress seemed to have disappeared for most of my tenure there. They did give me a basket which contained one slice of day-old bread and some crackers that must have been on the Mayflower (stale). The burger was OK, it was served with the obligatory slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce with a serving of French fries, Neither was greasy, thank you. Although they served me an 8 ounce glass of ice with a little bit of pop in it, they charged extra for refills. As Rocky would say, "Smoley Hokes!" So, I was a little disappointed with my experience there, and I have to assign Cardozo's a below-average rating.
(2)
Andy M.
Was in town for the weekend and saw the Groupon. Great I thought. Check Yelp for hours, open until 10 on Friday. Still great. Bought the Groupon, showed up at 6:40, the place is locked up tight. Not so great. Groupon for Chicago restaurant in Indy - worthless.
(1)
Kevin B.
Had a Groupon and went here for lunch. Nice little dive bar located on Washington (you walk in, go downstairs). Seems like a place where regulars frequent. Service was okay, nothing spectacular. Corned Beef sandwich I had was really good. Seems to be one of their most popular sandwiches. Ive also had a chicken sandwich which was a little overcooked and dry. Overall its a quick lunch spot and I wouldn't expect much else more. And if you get the Groupon its well worth the price.
(4)
Wendy K.
Eww...met my friend here. I don't even know how people find this place. Downstairs to a dungeon feel. Dark inside. Mostly locals, as in everyone's grandpa. She got a living social deal that did not mention alcohol was not included. They refused to accept it and after so many transactions and confusions, we still have no idea what we paid for. All I know is that my little white Russian cost $9. Are you kidding me? You do realize where you are right? In a dark creepy basement where ex offenders may feel comfy in. I think I can still smell the despair.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey, Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Juke Box Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Tue, Wed, Thu Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Richard B.
Cardozo's Pub is one of these places that you don't notice when you are walking down the street. You only see a doorway and a flight of stairs leading down to some strange subterranean grotto beneath the busy streets of the Loop. Let's go back a few months so I can tell you my story; and as my readers know, my stories are often weird... Last fall, Mrs B and I decided to go into the Loop on "Black Friday," to take in an opera and do a little holiday shopping. I, as always, wanted to find a discount, so I found a Groupon deal for Cardozo's. It said they were open on weekdays during the day and evening - so it would be a convenient stop for us. So, we get there, and the place is closed - even though the sign on the door clearly states that they should be open. I take out my cellphone and try to call them, but nobody answers. So, we found another place for lunch and - gasp! - had to pay full price: a near-mortal sin. During that lunch, I phoned Groupon to gripe, and I got a message that my call would be promptly answered in 45 minutes. Fie! I called Groupon a few days later, and their "customer service" people had to research the issue. They got back with me and told me that Cardozo decided to close for the day, but I could use my Groupon for its full value until some day in December, or use the original $10 I paid afterwards. Not too groovy. The Groupon languished under a magnet on our refrigerator for several weeks, until I found that I had to go downtown on some personal business. So, I was able to use the $10 that I sent Groupon. On to the subject of Cardozo. Others are spot on that this is really a bar that offers a limited menu of sandwiches and simple entrees. I was not particularly hungry, so I just ordered a hangerber and a soda. The place is a warren of small rooms with no uniform theme nor architectural creativity. There are framed photos of show business personalities attached to the wall and a few miscellaneous posters. They still had their Xmas lights strewn on the ceiling. Frankly, you would expect this in any typical dive bar. Although the place was pretty empty, service was slow, and the waitress seemed to have disappeared for most of my tenure there. They did give me a basket which contained one slice of day-old bread and some crackers that must have been on the Mayflower (stale). The burger was OK, it was served with the obligatory slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce with a serving of French fries, Neither was greasy, thank you. Although they served me an 8 ounce glass of ice with a little bit of pop in it, they charged extra for refills. As Rocky would say, "Smoley Hokes!" So, I was a little disappointed with my experience there, and I have to assign Cardozo's a below-average rating.
(2)Andy M.
Was in town for the weekend and saw the Groupon. Great I thought. Check Yelp for hours, open until 10 on Friday. Still great. Bought the Groupon, showed up at 6:40, the place is locked up tight. Not so great. Groupon for Chicago restaurant in Indy - worthless.
(1)Nancy H.
I came here for happy hour and immediately felt depressed upon entering. It just has such a lousy look and feel; dimly lit basement, heavily treaded on carpeting, and ceilings that were too low. Even the tables and chairs felt dirty as if they've never been wiped down since 1970. The only bonus was free food on Fridays - sitting under warming lamps.
(1)molly c.
great lunch option in the loop. HUGE portions quick service and nice people. and let me tell you a secret...shhhhh...they have a smoking section. HELLZ TO THE YEAH!!
(4)Ren H.
This is a nice chill place...sometimes they have drink specials that come with a free tshirt! its an older crowd a lot but that just makes it more fun!
(4)Amanda L.
Great for after work people watching. Divey. They make really strong drinks too. Very interesting crowd to observe.
(3)Wendy K.
Eww...met my friend here. I don't even know how people find this place. Downstairs to a dungeon feel. Dark inside. Mostly locals, as in everyone's grandpa. She got a living social deal that did not mention alcohol was not included. They refused to accept it and after so many transactions and confusions, we still have no idea what we paid for. All I know is that my little white Russian cost $9. Are you kidding me? You do realize where you are right? In a dark creepy basement where ex offenders may feel comfy in. I think I can still smell the despair.
(1)Emily K.
This is a good after-work drinks place if your idea of after-work drinks is Stocks and Blondes or Coogan's (which mine is- but I realize there are a few different types of "after-work drinks" places...). Yeah, it's in a basement and it's always CROWDED even though it's fairly large. And they are severely understaffed. It took 1.5 hours to get 2 burgers and our drinks and check one night. But you get what you pay for. Food is cheap (or free- pizza buffet and chilli during happy hour) and there are some decent beer specials ($2 pints of Miller). I don't think you can go wrong here as long as you know what you're getting into. Definitely stars off for the service and it's a bit grimy.
(3)meg g.
The current signs on the door sums up Cardozo's pretty well, I'd say: One says "Smoking is Allowed", and the smaller sign underneath it says, "non smoking areas now available."
(4)Sam E.
Awesome basement lunch hideout. No cell phone coverage, no strollers, no bad food. Everything on the menu is good. Great bar.
(5)Edward P.
I come here for an after work drink on occasion. It is definitely old-school, which is part of the charm. The crowd is very mixed, which is also nice. It's a nice place to grab a drink and head home (or back to the office).
(3)Aaron S.
F__kit, I am the biggest Smoking Ban Fan around but they need to create exceptions or grandfather clauses or something for places like this--as it is, the smoke of all the years past is almost visible in the air, like a ghost! Also, with all due respect to Ms. H., a pint of Guinness is $4.50 here--I don't have a Hermes bag or whatever the male equivalent is but I can certainly swing that.
(5)Kraig K.
Cardozo's Pub is a dive but it has lots of flavor. Drinks are reasonably priced and as far as Chicago basement bars go, it's solid. Just don't order Jagermeister, as they serve it warm.
(4)Jen K.
This is probably the closest bar to my office so I end up here occasionally. Not really my first choice though. Fridays they have free food during happy hour. Really though the smart thing would be to avoid the food. Especially if you actually order off the menu and pay for it. I think the drinks are a bit pricey for what the place is. It's a little freaky to go down into the basement only to emerge several hours later a little drunk and realize its pitch black and raining.
(3)Justin L.
Basement dining where you can have a quiet lunch and conversation with people. Not your typical crowded downtown lunch establishment. The food is above average but the service is slow and nothing really impresses here. Cordoza's is a place to go to have a insiders meeting where you dont want people to overhear your conversations. It is not quite cloak and dagger stuff but you feel like you are semi incognito. Every time I visit Cordoza's I always go with the chicken and bacon sandwich. Generous serving of juicy chicken breast topped with crisp bacon strips makes for a satisfying lunch sammy. For downtown it is not a place I would go often because there are so many other places to people watch and dine al fresco. This is literally a basement and it is intended for quiet pow wows. It may feel borderline dingy and overall is not aesthetically pleasing. But it has its purpose among all the over priced and over hyped trendy spots that most suits go to for lunch downtown.
(3)Erin J.
Indeed, "divey!" I liked it. It looks like the rec room in someone's parents' basement, complete with fake ivy and Christmas lights. Definitely not a high-brow place, this pub is VERY laid back. The food was probably frozen at one (or more) point(s), but the alcohol is plentiful, relatively cheap and STRONG! Service is spotty, but I expect that in a place like this. Some questionable characters reside towards the back, perfectly set up with the view of the bathroom door, which was a touch creepy. Overall, it was exactly as I thought it would be, no more, no less. Good place for a couple drinks after work, but I wouldn't get lit up there.
(3)Geoff H.
Eh. Nothing really 'wrong' with it, but food, service and prices are about what you'd expect. As with most day-drinker spots in the Loop, lotsa regulars, maybe I felt a little out-of-place. Still, if I'm gonna sit in a basement bar and drink at lunch, I'd probably go to the Marquette over on Madison instead, or maybe Beef 'n' Brandy on State.
(3)Katie H.
Happy Hour has always eluded me as I've never in my life worked a 9-5. So I was pleased to have the evening off this past Friday so I could partake in some early evening boozing at Cardozo's. My all-growns-up loop worker boyfriend had me primed to expect Grandma's rec room circa 1981... so I left my Hermes bag and Manolos at home (seriously... faaack anyone who goes to an underground Loop bar expecting it to be cheery. Go back to Rush St.). We really did have a grand ole time. I'm giving Cardozo's 4 stars even factoring in the pricey pints, the questionable hot food display and the gaggle of drunk suburb moms (poofy bangs, dark turtleneck layered with Chicago team sweatshirt) at the table next to me all squawking about their Blackberries and kids. Service was good. Booths were comfy. There was a gaping bass mounted behind the bar. Everyone was... happy. I'd probably avoid the food and stick to liquid dinner. Does anyone find wandering around the Loop at night whilst drunk really odd?
(4)Dee W.
Nice little nook for some happy hour after work - this basement location may lack in light but the personality and atmosphere make up for that. On Fridays, they offer a little free buffet of some burgers and hot dogs and chips to go with the beer that you're washing down from a long week at work
(4)Lindsay B.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in The Loop. I'm always able to get in and out in just over a half hour during lunch rush, 12-1. The patty melt is to die for, our server always remembers us and our specific order. The soda is kind of bar-like... so you're better off getting a drink-drink or water. Prices are great. It's nice to get out of the rush of The Loop into a homey-like pub.
(5)Erika G.
Standard issue pub, and surprisingly expensive for how non-stylish and basic it is. I was surprised at what a large tab we ran up. Apparently the bartenders don't know that time honored tradition of slinging a free drink for every oh, 4 or 5 purchased. I thought that was sort of weird. It smells kind of weird too. The drinks are small. The food is average. You don't notice it at street level, as it's just a door with stairs behind. Come to think of it, this place is not that great. I doubt I'd go back, given the plethora of joints to hang out at in this area.
(2)Natalia K.
The fact that I came here is a clear example of the fact that I'll try anything once- especially if there's a groupon deal for it. My friend and I hesitantly walked down the steps to the basement and it smelled like a stale grandparent basement. They apparently updated their look, but you wouldn't know it. We sat down and perused their small menu and decided on a steak sandwich and buffalo chicken salad. My friend ordered the salad and it came with a pitcher of dressing- they don't do the ramekin thing here, oh no, it was a full gravy pitcher of dressing. I almost wanted to ask for extra dressing, because she clearly didn't have enough. My steak sandwich was pretty meh, but what did I expect from a dive bar, right? the garlic bread it was on was pretty soggy and the steak was nothing to get excited about, though I will credit the chef for having cooked it to my order. The fries were pretty bland and made for a lower calorie situation because I didn't bother to eat them. I'm glad I tried this pub because I walk by here all the time and it has been a curiosity to me, but I will be steering clear with so many other great options for food and drink around the city.
(2)Thomas W.
Excellent place for lunch its a small restaurant/dive bar very nice people the other lady idk manager owner off the boat Itallian woman very hospitable and friendly great food great service highly recommend this place if you are in the area
(5)Tj P.
Great place for a quick bite to eat or drink, basement bar. Staff was really friendly.
(4)Joseph M.
I love Cardozo's!!! I always get their pub burger, its a big @$$ cheeseburger with fries on the side, I get it cooked medium with mozarella, cheddar cheese and bacon, OMG its so juicy and delicious. If its at lunch I order to go and get in in like 10 to 15 minutes, and if its after work, ill go in and have a beer or two and it only comes out to about 20 bucks which is perfect. I love this place and will continue to go here. I also love that its underground, its an older place, kinda divey, but I feel like I fit in there and im not worried about people watching me eat like a pig lol!!!!
(5)Kevin K.
Just take a look under the ice machine to the right of the bar. Last time I was in there around 9 pm at night, I saw either a rat or a large mouse scurrying between the kitchen and ice machine. Owner is a old fart boozepig that sits directly next to the machine. This place would be better off burning down.
(1)Leang E.
I bought a Groupon here, because I knew one day I would not have time to bring myself lunch to work and might to step out of the office and take a lunch elsewhere. It was perfect for a place to grab food prior to a trip. They have a pretty decent sized menu. I sat at the bar and got the Chopped Southwest Salad Bowl and got the Avocado Tuna Salad special to go, and that was pretty filling for my plane ride. It was decent, but what bumps this up to 4 stars was the service. The server was great with the recommendation and was very easy going and didn't even complain when the wrong order came out. She quickly got it changed and had a great attitude about it. My water was always quickly refilled. This would be a great spot for a happy hour and to just chill.
(4)Clements J.
Last week I had the misguided idea of using a Groupon to visit Cardozo's. The waitress was lovely, but that is where the charm of this place ends. The food is expensive and bland. I ordered a Rueben and it was served on the smallest pieces of rye bread you can imagine. These were from sort of mini loaf - not the standard wide rye most people are used to. The atmosphere was rather depressing. It kinda makes you want to examine your life choices up to this point, because something has clearly gone wrong. The ceilings are low - not recommended if you have any sort of dislike of small enclosed spaces. The bathrooms probably haven't been inspected in ages. The manager has all the charm of a bag of scorpions. The establishment itself is about as Italian as a Digiorno pizza. I will never go back to Cardozo's - even if there were free drinks all night long. There are no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
(1)Chris C.
Good food, fast service. Nothing too fancy about this place but it's a good stop when you're tired of shopping in the loop. My wife and I went on a Tuesday and had the buffalo burger special with fries and we were seated and served within 20 minutes. Waitress was great and didn't bat an eye when we told her that we had a groupon like previous reviews.
(4)Joe B.
A fine spot to relax and grab a drink and some bar food. You'll completely forget that you're in the middle of the Loop, and that can be a good thing if you need to park it and stretch out for a minute. I've been here a few times and I'd be back. It's a great alternative to the fancier and pricier bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
(3)Kevin B.
Had a Groupon and went here for lunch. Nice little dive bar located on Washington (you walk in, go downstairs). Seems like a place where regulars frequent. Service was okay, nothing spectacular. Corned Beef sandwich I had was really good. Seems to be one of their most popular sandwiches. Ive also had a chicken sandwich which was a little overcooked and dry. Overall its a quick lunch spot and I wouldn't expect much else more. And if you get the Groupon its well worth the price.
(4)Justin B.
Dropped by for lunch today, to use up my $20 Groupon. Sometimes, I find deals on Groupon and I'm introduced to places that I eventually visit regularly. Cardozo's Pub is not that place. The fish and chips special was my first mistake. The chips were actually pretty good and Cardozo's certainly gives you plenty of them. But the fish was pretty bland. Even the tartar sauce on the side was pretty bland. Because I showed up alone, I ordered a second entree to help use up the $20. I got a turkey club to go...and I should have walked away when I was told that they were out of all sliced bread (I'm not kidding--no wheat, no white, no rye). The options were a French loaf, or a hamburger bun. Laughing, I went with the loaf; I just finished the sandwich and it was pretty bad. Yes, it had turkey, lettuce, bacon, mayo...but, the turkey was bad, the bread wasn't great, and even with the mayo, it was all pretty dry. Not only was my meal poor, but Cardozo's doesn't serve dessert. I have a major sweet tooth, and this is America, so I don't know how you don't serve dessert at a sit-down restaurant in this country. I won't be back!
(2)Lily Z.
I felt like I was a closet drinker when I came here last week. It's dark with no windows and creepy older men are hitting on the girls at the bar. I didn't order any food but the drinks were fine. Service could have been nicer. We were looking for our waitress the entire time and kind of rude when we asked her to explain the charges. I got over charged for my beer too. Since when does $5 glass of Stella equal $11 on a check?
(2)Tim T.
Probably my favorite dive bar in the city. It's usually not crowded, so the servers can stay pretty attentive. The typical bar food is pretty good, and they make the martinis strong. Very good place to meet friends after work if you're not trying to impress anyone.
(4)Melanie B.
My boyfriend and I ended up here before catching a show downtown because we were looking for a pub and happened to walk by. The atmosphere isn't bad... A basement pub. Comfy enough. However, we stood by the door for a while waiting to see if anyone would greet us.. it took us wandering in a bit for someone to approach us. The menu is rather small, which is to be expected, I guess... but I would've at least expected a better drink selection. Our waitress knew nothing about the beers available whatsoever. The nachos were mediocre at best, and my boyfriend's chicken fingers were just ok, really. It took a while to get our check, and once we did get it we needed to hurry and pay to catch our show. My boyfriend tried to pay the bartender the bill and was rudely told to go sit down... so, we had to chase down the waitress to pay. The waitress was nice, but a little clueless. We won't be going back.
(1)Justin G.
Just went to Cordozos after work with a buddy for the first time. Great if you want a beer and some bar food in an underground tavern that doesn't care about being cool. Oddly enough, the wait staff was fairly awesome, which, for a place like that, was a surprise. Mixed bag of gents in there for sure, lots of laughs. Bartendress gave us both free drinks because we said we were new to the area. Don't bring your girlfriend here to impress her with Chicago's fine dining. Bring your buddy here if you want to duck in to a corky place with a good vibe.
(5)Derrick T.
A little bar/restaurant hidden with steps taking you straight underground to a more expansive area. It's like your suburb family diner + bar, but in the city and tucked away. Bread service to start. Thoughts? Roasted chicken plate: A sizable chicken breast pounded even that's roasted. Fairly dry and overcooked, came with a side salad of fresh veggies, a very healthy portion of cottage cheese, and half a canned peach. Verdict: Honestly, the quality of the food is just okay. The price tag of the place is affordable ($8-13) considering they serve a bread basket, sides, etc. and the selection has something for everyone. Price and service give it that extra star to bump it to three, as the waitress was constantly checking up on us and "trying" her best to handle a large table. I probably wouldn't come back though...
(3)Chrysa L.
I love me a divey, laid back kind of bar. My friends and I call Cardozo's "Grandpa's Basement," because that is what it feels like. The outdated paneling. The steep stairs to get down there. The mirrors on the walls. The fluorescent beer signs. However, the checks are vague. A few of the servers have attitudes - as in, your mere presence is bothersome. The beer selection is limited. The bathrooms are very small. The food is pretty meh. I think the chicken fingers are OK because it's kind of hard to screw up something like that. I think there are other dives (even downtown) that I would prefer to go to over Cardozo's, but there is something cozy about it that I enjoy and I will go back from time to time. However, it is never my first choice destination.
(2)Mathew H.
This place is one step up from prison food. I got a Reuben; the corned beef was cut too thick and was chewy. A pop is $2 with $1 refills also tiny,wtf! I give it 2 stars only because our server was nice and quick! Don't waste your time, there are plenty of great places to eat in the loop.
(2)Christine S.
Do you want to feel like you're drinking in your Parent's basement? Do you want to feel like you're 19 again? Ok...come here. This is exactly what Cardozo's is like, drinking in your parents basement. Dive(y) bars aren't as easy to find in The Loop as you would think... So if you like dives, come here, you'll be happy. Stiff pours. Nice staff. Inexpenisive(ish). Diveeeee on in.
(4)Kison P.
Very Chicago! From the decor, to staff, and food.. all screams Chicago, I love it! Great place for lunch and after work drinks. I highly recommend smoked chicken ravioli, maybe save half for later.
(5)Neil R.
Pretty average place from the drinks to the food. The service is decent but overall did not jump out. If you are in the loop it could be a quick place to grab a beer and watch some TV. I had some chicken tenders here and they were average as well.
(3)anthony n.
If the dictionary had a picture for hole-in-wall, this place would be it. We used to drink here all the time, but recently their drink prices (which seem to change every order) have skyrocket'd. Used to be worth it, but if I'm paying standard Chicago prices I'd rather go some place that doesn't have a mildew aroma.
(2)Cathy Y.
Horrible. Just plain bad. I went in with my daughter today and I guess because I wasn't a businessman, we weren't important enough. We ordered a Sprite which we never got. We were given bread but no plates to eat it on. Our meal was supposed to come with a salad but was never mentioned by the waitress or given to us. I guess whatever was on her cell phone was more important because that's what she stared at the whole time. So unprofessional. I know this is a comfy looking place, like a grandma's old basement like one other poster mentioned, but come on. The very nice bus boy had to get her attention so we could even get our check. I used to be a server for many years so I don't feel like I am being over critical, there is just a certain level you should expect. I used to love this place when I worked downtown a few years back but it has fallen apart. Too bad.
(1)Bobby O.
I have been going to this place for a long time having worked in the area and always enjoyed eating here. I never really ventured from the bacon cheeseburger or reuben sandwich part of the menu but friends have and said it was good. This place is mainly geared for the down town work/after work crowd.
(4)Daniel R.
Don't let the look of this place fool you. I was there at 1 on a Friday afternoon and there was hardly a place to sit. Great food and you could tell there were a lot of regulars that frequent here.
(5)Damian B.
Nice spot but, no Old Style......did I take a wrong train out of Chicago? I only had one beer and left. Bartender was nice. Had a good "feel" to it but hey, they close at 9:30, what Pub doesn't have Old Style and closes at 9:30?
(2)Shain C.
I was told this place was "divey", but in a good way. It's not quite a beer and a shot kinda place, but it is quite cozy. This place is perfect for when it's just about the drinkin' and not about being seen, loud music, TVs, or crowds...
(4)JAMES M.
Ok we wound up here before a Sox game.....and wow what a little hidden gem this is! Cheap booze, Free appetizers (Nothing fancy but filling) Kinda hidden Yeap I can definitely see myself going in here and getting ripped! SHake & bake seal of approval.
(4)Little D.
Tonight was a nightmare experience! I ordered a burger and at the end of the night, after I paid my tab, the owner had the nerve to ask me why I like my burgers raw?? (I ordered my burger rare not RAW - he explained that he didn't know the difference). He was extremely rude and judgmental. He also asked me why I thought it's ok to trust his cook supplier of meat with my health since I like raw meat! I am NEVER coming back to pay $60 to a place where I can't trust their meat product and also a place where I will be judged by the owner for my preferences! We found out from a bartender after the owner had left that he likes his meat well done and often judges people who prefer anything else. YIKES!!!!! This used to be our happy hour spot, but after meeting the crabby, opinionated, curmudgeonly owner, we will NEVER be back!
(1)Magen R.
I stopped in here after work for a few beers with some of my co-workers this past week. I liked the relaxed vibe of the place. No frills - just drinks and food. The beer was good and reasonably priced for the loop. We also ordered barbecue wings and buffalo chicken fingers. I was not in love with either but they were fine. All in all this is a good place to go after work for a couple of drinks.
(3)Johnny F.
This place has two big pluses: 1) It's right across the street from my office downtown and 2) It's part of the AA Dining Advantage (so I can get miles for travel from dining). I haven't been here for anything but lunch, but their daily specials are reasonable and the waitress was prompt, which is important for the lunch hour. I'd like to come by here sometime after work and check the vibe at the bar.
(4)Frankie J.
You're in a time machine, you're traveling in a different dimension, its the 1970s and Steve Dahl is destroying disco records at Comisky Park... and you land in Cardozo's Pub. This place has not changed since the 1970s. I would not be surprised if the ghosts of Irv Kupcinet, Mike Royko, John Belushi and hizzonahdahmayyah Senior was in da joint. If da Blues Brothers decided not to save the orphanage, they could hang out here and watch Chicago sports teams and drink Old Style or Miller High Life until it closed - which I am not sure it does. One of the last of the underground bars in Chicago, which is funny.
(3)Laura C.
If you're downtown and suddenly feel the urge to have a beer in your grandma's basement, step into Cardoza's to be immediately transported back to 1970. The dimly lit interior with wood paneling and "family restaurant" booths a la Omega in Downer's Grove give this place a frozen in time feeling. If a cold beer is what you're looking for, it's not a bad place to stop and have a drink. It was pretty empty on a Thursday around 5, so you won't have to wait long for your order.
(3)Jennifer L.
Good food, God awful service. My waitress made faces at my drink choice, then took twenty minutes to give me my bill and another fifteen to use my groupon and settle. Then I got the wrong change back. Busy or not, that was ridiculous.
(2)Jonathan E.
I actually really love dives, and this place was a contender. Spartan, aged, not a dollar invested since 1972, and pretty cheesy, but who cares? With cute barkeeps and cheap drinks, it doesn't matter. The food isn't "good" as it's obviously mostly pre-fab. I had a burger that was a perfectly rounded puck of meat - something made by a machine but finally cooked by a human and delivered in 10 minutes. That said, it wasn't bad. So it qualifies as "pre-made food" done decently. Don't go there for a chow epiphany. But here's why it only gets 2 stars from me: last call at 9 pm. Huh? It wasn't a Sunday, holiday or special day. Just a weekday. Here's what happens when a dive bar has early closing hours: It's populated by the post-work crowd, which is mostly biz/finance people in downtown Chicago. And by closing at 9, it isn't frequented by the long haul characters who only come out at night. It just doesn't work. If a divey breakfast/lunch place closes up at 2 pm, that's understandable. But a good dive bar stays open past 9. That should be a rule.
(2)Jonathan W.
This basement bar is a decent place to have a few after work. Bring friends since you probably won't make any here. Also, watch your head - the low ceilings and menagerie of random pipes make you feel like you're in some weird eastern European submarine.
(2)Karl N.
Finally bought the groupon for this place after seeing it on the menu for a couple weeks. Perfect if you're like me and only have about 45 minutes for lunch. I got the Burger which was the Monday special ($5.95), nice thick patty with a fresh, tasty bun. Huge cut fries and obviously fresh cut veggies. Service was great (sat at the bar). Definitely not your average fly by night pub where everything tastes the same. My friend got the reuben. The beef was thick cut and while unaware it came with chips, the bartender was quick to both offer and replace them with fries without question. Great service, great food, in and out in 45 minutes.
(4)Erin B.
I wish I could give this place 10 stars. I come with a group of friends and family for happy hour, religiously, once a week. Granted, our "regulars" status with the bartenders may be artificially inflating my views of the place, but Cardozo's is great. The staff is super nice, the drinks are good, and it lacks the pretentious crowd of most of the Loop bars. Make no mistake, it's definitely in the "dive" category, but if that's what you're going for, Cardozo's is the place to be.
(5)Lars Z.
Great inexpensive place to grab a beer and a burger in the Loop - their wings are tasty, too. They have daily drink specials with tequila Tuesdays ranking as my personal favorite. The wait staff is personable and does a good job. The ambiance is well, er um not the most modern of places but it is comfortable with lots of booth space and its air conditioned. Oh and there's free WIFI.
(4)Philip J.
Where do i start... the fact that im 6'3 and the ceilings there are about the same, the bathroom here is, well umm rather interesting, i think the ceiling in the bathroom was lower. at anyrate, there is no lock on the door, nor does the stall lock work. not to get to detailed but the toilet didnt flush to well... but this is a dive right? The food was good, i got the Turkey Club on dark rye, a little dry but still fresh and tasty. The wait staff is why after the bathroom happenings i gave it a three, nowhere that i have been is a waitress honest with you when you ask what is good here, they are supposed to say what is good, but usually they dont say I DONT LIKE (blank) but here not the case. her advice is to stay away from the Pita, it sucks. (I'm paraphrasing ofcouse) So if you're taller than me, and dont have to use the restroom id say GO FOR IT... cuz you might just not get the honset waitress/waiter that we did. The Grid Project
(3)Amanda Z.
You know that part in the Wedding Singer when Adam Sandler is all depressed, yet still singing at the wedding? Well, after my visit to Cardozo's on a rainy Friday happy hour, my version rings like this: "I drink in my grandpaaaaa's baaaaaasemeeeent..." Cuz that's where I felt like I was. You walk down the stairs where there are paneled wood walls and sleeping older men. (Just one tucked away in the corner, sorry buddy, I busted you.) So, my grandpa likes to take a nap in his easy chair in the basement. He has a bar down there. The only thing missing was my grandpa's lava lamp (from the 60s, yo!) So yeah, I felt like I was drinking in my grandpa's basement. The beer is cheap ($2.50 Miller Lites on special....love it!) and the service is no-nonsense. Can't complain, after we decided to vacate Stocks and Blondes due to crowding issues, we got seats and cold drinks very quickly here. Hooray for grandpa-style, after-work drinking!
(3)Joseluis A.
i was in downtown a bit hungry and thirsty.. but i was afraid i was going to walk into a fancy fartsy downtown spot and that i was going to get charged $50 for a burger and a guinness. i was lucky to spot cardozos tiny sign and i decided to check it out immediately. its a little basement. theres tvs all over. seems like a place for people who work in the area but i was there during lunch time and there wasnt that much movement. better for me cause service was pretty fast. i got a burger and a guinness (of course, what else?) and paid about 11 bucks without tip. pretty nice for a big juicy burger and and delicious and nutritious guinness stout. dont ya think?
(4)Ben E.
The other day I was craving old-style Italian food along the lines of Italian Village, and happened across Cardozo's Pub. The service was desultory at best, and the food was...well...awful. I figured I couldn't go too far wrong by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and Italian sausage, but I was thoroughly mistaken. I already assumed that 'al dente' wouldn't be a term that applied to this place, but I figured 'flavor' might. No such luck. And, quite frankly, the Italian sausage tasted like dog food. I was disgusted and will never be back. Perhaps other items on the menu are better, but I certainly will never find out for myself. I've never had worse pasta in my life.
(1)Amanda G.
After avoiding this place for a long time because basement bars seem creepy, I visited with some coworkers. And I discovered that Cardoza's is pretty awesome. There is a really diverse group here. Obviously, officey types there for after-work drinks. But I think there were some illicit affairs going on around us (in a basement bar in the loop! NO WAY!). Old(er) men sitting at the bar. And at the booth behind us, there was this middle aged lady in a Minnie Mouse sweatshirt that must have been from 1985. Adults in old clothing featuring Disney characters always fascinate me. Overall, she wasn't out of place; the bar had a very 1985 feel, or what I'd imagine is a "bar in 1985" feel (I was 5 then, and I know I was taken to a few bars -- yes, I grew up borderline white trash -- but I don't remember their ambience very well). It's kind of like if Fast Times at Ridgemont High was about a bunch of 20somethings who worked in a generic office -- this would be their after-work spot. So there's a certain sense of recent nostalgia that I find appealing Don't expect an amazing beverage menu (the beer selection was kind of sparse). And the food menu seemed to rely heavily on the fryer (frier?). However, we had a really good time.
(4)Jeff L.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in the loop. It has a much slower atmosphere than everything else around it. The bar is underground so it has some character. Most importantly it has some of the cheapest beer around, including Green Line! It's the perfect place to hang out with friends and talk.
(4)Alison O.
Cardoza's is basically the closest bar to my building for drinks and food after work, so my coworkers and I will go there occasionally. This is a DIVE bar if I have ever seen one. When you walk in, you feel like you are walking down the stairs to your friends basement in high school. Once you are in the bar, their are no windows and the chairs and booths look like another era. I would recommend not going there for the food. We had Nachos and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The nachos were ok but they had green olives on them which I think made them a little too salty. And the tender were just meh. All in all good place to stop and have a beer after work, but that's about it.
(3)Tara M.
Ah, it's nice to have some place to go for lunch that's the same today as it was when I was a kid. I didn't go there as a kid, that I can remember, but it has the same feel as all the places my mom took me for lunch when I was a little girl and my parents had an office in the south loop. Cardozo's is comfortable and the food is good, the service isn't too shabby either. It's nice to go somewhere and order a sandwich, get it, have the waitress come by and refill your drinks, the bus person clear off the table and get the check in an hour. I'm so glad I can rely on having a place like this at lunch time! It's never too crowded and the food is always good.
(5)Jonathan T.
I had a steak salad that was marginal at best. Nothing very creative on the menu and I think the food was precooked. I have been here before but used Groupon this time. I like the throw back, simple cafe environment, but watching a blasted version of some reality show isn't my idea of kicking back. Friendly service thought and reasonable prices. It is in a basement afterall so prices should be good. They close way too early.
(2)Bob R.
Good food, friendly, kind service and good drinks. Plus a total deal. This place is a best kept secret I hate to share but I want them to thrive. Check them out. Love the avocado blt and even their fish is good. Food also comes out fast for busy lunches.
(4)Lindsay B.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in The Loop. I'm always able to get in and out in just over a half hour during lunch rush, 12-1. The patty melt is to die for, our server always remembers us and our specific order. The soda is kind of bar-like... so you're better off getting a drink-drink or water. Prices are great. It's nice to get out of the rush of The Loop into a homey-like pub.
(5)Erika G.
Standard issue pub, and surprisingly expensive for how non-stylish and basic it is. I was surprised at what a large tab we ran up. Apparently the bartenders don't know that time honored tradition of slinging a free drink for every oh, 4 or 5 purchased. I thought that was sort of weird. It smells kind of weird too. The drinks are small. The food is average. You don't notice it at street level, as it's just a door with stairs behind. Come to think of it, this place is not that great. I doubt I'd go back, given the plethora of joints to hang out at in this area.
(2)Natalia K.
The fact that I came here is a clear example of the fact that I'll try anything once- especially if there's a groupon deal for it. My friend and I hesitantly walked down the steps to the basement and it smelled like a stale grandparent basement. They apparently updated their look, but you wouldn't know it. We sat down and perused their small menu and decided on a steak sandwich and buffalo chicken salad. My friend ordered the salad and it came with a pitcher of dressing- they don't do the ramekin thing here, oh no, it was a full gravy pitcher of dressing. I almost wanted to ask for extra dressing, because she clearly didn't have enough. My steak sandwich was pretty meh, but what did I expect from a dive bar, right? the garlic bread it was on was pretty soggy and the steak was nothing to get excited about, though I will credit the chef for having cooked it to my order. The fries were pretty bland and made for a lower calorie situation because I didn't bother to eat them. I'm glad I tried this pub because I walk by here all the time and it has been a curiosity to me, but I will be steering clear with so many other great options for food and drink around the city.
(2)Thomas W.
Excellent place for lunch its a small restaurant/dive bar very nice people the other lady idk manager owner off the boat Itallian woman very hospitable and friendly great food great service highly recommend this place if you are in the area
(5)Richard B.
Cardozo's Pub is one of these places that you don't notice when you are walking down the street. You only see a doorway and a flight of stairs leading down to some strange subterranean grotto beneath the busy streets of the Loop. Let's go back a few months so I can tell you my story; and as my readers know, my stories are often weird... Last fall, Mrs B and I decided to go into the Loop on "Black Friday," to take in an opera and do a little holiday shopping. I, as always, wanted to find a discount, so I found a Groupon deal for Cardozo's. It said they were open on weekdays during the day and evening - so it would be a convenient stop for us. So, we get there, and the place is closed - even though the sign on the door clearly states that they should be open. I take out my cellphone and try to call them, but nobody answers. So, we found another place for lunch and - gasp! - had to pay full price: a near-mortal sin. During that lunch, I phoned Groupon to gripe, and I got a message that my call would be promptly answered in 45 minutes. Fie! I called Groupon a few days later, and their "customer service" people had to research the issue. They got back with me and told me that Cardozo decided to close for the day, but I could use my Groupon for its full value until some day in December, or use the original $10 I paid afterwards. Not too groovy. The Groupon languished under a magnet on our refrigerator for several weeks, until I found that I had to go downtown on some personal business. So, I was able to use the $10 that I sent Groupon. On to the subject of Cardozo. Others are spot on that this is really a bar that offers a limited menu of sandwiches and simple entrees. I was not particularly hungry, so I just ordered a hangerber and a soda. The place is a warren of small rooms with no uniform theme nor architectural creativity. There are framed photos of show business personalities attached to the wall and a few miscellaneous posters. They still had their Xmas lights strewn on the ceiling. Frankly, you would expect this in any typical dive bar. Although the place was pretty empty, service was slow, and the waitress seemed to have disappeared for most of my tenure there. They did give me a basket which contained one slice of day-old bread and some crackers that must have been on the Mayflower (stale). The burger was OK, it was served with the obligatory slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce with a serving of French fries, Neither was greasy, thank you. Although they served me an 8 ounce glass of ice with a little bit of pop in it, they charged extra for refills. As Rocky would say, "Smoley Hokes!" So, I was a little disappointed with my experience there, and I have to assign Cardozo's a below-average rating.
(2)Bobby O.
I have been going to this place for a long time having worked in the area and always enjoyed eating here. I never really ventured from the bacon cheeseburger or reuben sandwich part of the menu but friends have and said it was good. This place is mainly geared for the down town work/after work crowd.
(4)Daniel R.
Don't let the look of this place fool you. I was there at 1 on a Friday afternoon and there was hardly a place to sit. Great food and you could tell there were a lot of regulars that frequent here.
(5)Damian B.
Nice spot but, no Old Style......did I take a wrong train out of Chicago? I only had one beer and left. Bartender was nice. Had a good "feel" to it but hey, they close at 9:30, what Pub doesn't have Old Style and closes at 9:30?
(2)Shain C.
I was told this place was "divey", but in a good way. It's not quite a beer and a shot kinda place, but it is quite cozy. This place is perfect for when it's just about the drinkin' and not about being seen, loud music, TVs, or crowds...
(4)JAMES M.
Ok we wound up here before a Sox game.....and wow what a little hidden gem this is! Cheap booze, Free appetizers (Nothing fancy but filling) Kinda hidden Yeap I can definitely see myself going in here and getting ripped! SHake & bake seal of approval.
(4)Little D.
Tonight was a nightmare experience! I ordered a burger and at the end of the night, after I paid my tab, the owner had the nerve to ask me why I like my burgers raw?? (I ordered my burger rare not RAW - he explained that he didn't know the difference). He was extremely rude and judgmental. He also asked me why I thought it's ok to trust his cook supplier of meat with my health since I like raw meat! I am NEVER coming back to pay $60 to a place where I can't trust their meat product and also a place where I will be judged by the owner for my preferences! We found out from a bartender after the owner had left that he likes his meat well done and often judges people who prefer anything else. YIKES!!!!! This used to be our happy hour spot, but after meeting the crabby, opinionated, curmudgeonly owner, we will NEVER be back!
(1)Magen R.
I stopped in here after work for a few beers with some of my co-workers this past week. I liked the relaxed vibe of the place. No frills - just drinks and food. The beer was good and reasonably priced for the loop. We also ordered barbecue wings and buffalo chicken fingers. I was not in love with either but they were fine. All in all this is a good place to go after work for a couple of drinks.
(3)Johnny F.
This place has two big pluses: 1) It's right across the street from my office downtown and 2) It's part of the AA Dining Advantage (so I can get miles for travel from dining). I haven't been here for anything but lunch, but their daily specials are reasonable and the waitress was prompt, which is important for the lunch hour. I'd like to come by here sometime after work and check the vibe at the bar.
(4)Frankie J.
You're in a time machine, you're traveling in a different dimension, its the 1970s and Steve Dahl is destroying disco records at Comisky Park... and you land in Cardozo's Pub. This place has not changed since the 1970s. I would not be surprised if the ghosts of Irv Kupcinet, Mike Royko, John Belushi and hizzonahdahmayyah Senior was in da joint. If da Blues Brothers decided not to save the orphanage, they could hang out here and watch Chicago sports teams and drink Old Style or Miller High Life until it closed - which I am not sure it does. One of the last of the underground bars in Chicago, which is funny.
(3)Laura C.
If you're downtown and suddenly feel the urge to have a beer in your grandma's basement, step into Cardoza's to be immediately transported back to 1970. The dimly lit interior with wood paneling and "family restaurant" booths a la Omega in Downer's Grove give this place a frozen in time feeling. If a cold beer is what you're looking for, it's not a bad place to stop and have a drink. It was pretty empty on a Thursday around 5, so you won't have to wait long for your order.
(3)Jennifer L.
Good food, God awful service. My waitress made faces at my drink choice, then took twenty minutes to give me my bill and another fifteen to use my groupon and settle. Then I got the wrong change back. Busy or not, that was ridiculous.
(2)Jonathan E.
I actually really love dives, and this place was a contender. Spartan, aged, not a dollar invested since 1972, and pretty cheesy, but who cares? With cute barkeeps and cheap drinks, it doesn't matter. The food isn't "good" as it's obviously mostly pre-fab. I had a burger that was a perfectly rounded puck of meat - something made by a machine but finally cooked by a human and delivered in 10 minutes. That said, it wasn't bad. So it qualifies as "pre-made food" done decently. Don't go there for a chow epiphany. But here's why it only gets 2 stars from me: last call at 9 pm. Huh? It wasn't a Sunday, holiday or special day. Just a weekday. Here's what happens when a dive bar has early closing hours: It's populated by the post-work crowd, which is mostly biz/finance people in downtown Chicago. And by closing at 9, it isn't frequented by the long haul characters who only come out at night. It just doesn't work. If a divey breakfast/lunch place closes up at 2 pm, that's understandable. But a good dive bar stays open past 9. That should be a rule.
(2)Jonathan W.
This basement bar is a decent place to have a few after work. Bring friends since you probably won't make any here. Also, watch your head - the low ceilings and menagerie of random pipes make you feel like you're in some weird eastern European submarine.
(2)Karl N.
Finally bought the groupon for this place after seeing it on the menu for a couple weeks. Perfect if you're like me and only have about 45 minutes for lunch. I got the Burger which was the Monday special ($5.95), nice thick patty with a fresh, tasty bun. Huge cut fries and obviously fresh cut veggies. Service was great (sat at the bar). Definitely not your average fly by night pub where everything tastes the same. My friend got the reuben. The beef was thick cut and while unaware it came with chips, the bartender was quick to both offer and replace them with fries without question. Great service, great food, in and out in 45 minutes.
(4)Erin B.
I wish I could give this place 10 stars. I come with a group of friends and family for happy hour, religiously, once a week. Granted, our "regulars" status with the bartenders may be artificially inflating my views of the place, but Cardozo's is great. The staff is super nice, the drinks are good, and it lacks the pretentious crowd of most of the Loop bars. Make no mistake, it's definitely in the "dive" category, but if that's what you're going for, Cardozo's is the place to be.
(5)Lars Z.
Great inexpensive place to grab a beer and a burger in the Loop - their wings are tasty, too. They have daily drink specials with tequila Tuesdays ranking as my personal favorite. The wait staff is personable and does a good job. The ambiance is well, er um not the most modern of places but it is comfortable with lots of booth space and its air conditioned. Oh and there's free WIFI.
(4)Philip J.
Where do i start... the fact that im 6'3 and the ceilings there are about the same, the bathroom here is, well umm rather interesting, i think the ceiling in the bathroom was lower. at anyrate, there is no lock on the door, nor does the stall lock work. not to get to detailed but the toilet didnt flush to well... but this is a dive right? The food was good, i got the Turkey Club on dark rye, a little dry but still fresh and tasty. The wait staff is why after the bathroom happenings i gave it a three, nowhere that i have been is a waitress honest with you when you ask what is good here, they are supposed to say what is good, but usually they dont say I DONT LIKE (blank) but here not the case. her advice is to stay away from the Pita, it sucks. (I'm paraphrasing ofcouse) So if you're taller than me, and dont have to use the restroom id say GO FOR IT... cuz you might just not get the honset waitress/waiter that we did. The Grid Project
(3)Amanda Z.
You know that part in the Wedding Singer when Adam Sandler is all depressed, yet still singing at the wedding? Well, after my visit to Cardozo's on a rainy Friday happy hour, my version rings like this: "I drink in my grandpaaaaa's baaaaaasemeeeent..." Cuz that's where I felt like I was. You walk down the stairs where there are paneled wood walls and sleeping older men. (Just one tucked away in the corner, sorry buddy, I busted you.) So, my grandpa likes to take a nap in his easy chair in the basement. He has a bar down there. The only thing missing was my grandpa's lava lamp (from the 60s, yo!) So yeah, I felt like I was drinking in my grandpa's basement. The beer is cheap ($2.50 Miller Lites on special....love it!) and the service is no-nonsense. Can't complain, after we decided to vacate Stocks and Blondes due to crowding issues, we got seats and cold drinks very quickly here. Hooray for grandpa-style, after-work drinking!
(3)Joseluis A.
i was in downtown a bit hungry and thirsty.. but i was afraid i was going to walk into a fancy fartsy downtown spot and that i was going to get charged $50 for a burger and a guinness. i was lucky to spot cardozos tiny sign and i decided to check it out immediately. its a little basement. theres tvs all over. seems like a place for people who work in the area but i was there during lunch time and there wasnt that much movement. better for me cause service was pretty fast. i got a burger and a guinness (of course, what else?) and paid about 11 bucks without tip. pretty nice for a big juicy burger and and delicious and nutritious guinness stout. dont ya think?
(4)Ben E.
The other day I was craving old-style Italian food along the lines of Italian Village, and happened across Cardozo's Pub. The service was desultory at best, and the food was...well...awful. I figured I couldn't go too far wrong by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and Italian sausage, but I was thoroughly mistaken. I already assumed that 'al dente' wouldn't be a term that applied to this place, but I figured 'flavor' might. No such luck. And, quite frankly, the Italian sausage tasted like dog food. I was disgusted and will never be back. Perhaps other items on the menu are better, but I certainly will never find out for myself. I've never had worse pasta in my life.
(1)Amanda G.
After avoiding this place for a long time because basement bars seem creepy, I visited with some coworkers. And I discovered that Cardoza's is pretty awesome. There is a really diverse group here. Obviously, officey types there for after-work drinks. But I think there were some illicit affairs going on around us (in a basement bar in the loop! NO WAY!). Old(er) men sitting at the bar. And at the booth behind us, there was this middle aged lady in a Minnie Mouse sweatshirt that must have been from 1985. Adults in old clothing featuring Disney characters always fascinate me. Overall, she wasn't out of place; the bar had a very 1985 feel, or what I'd imagine is a "bar in 1985" feel (I was 5 then, and I know I was taken to a few bars -- yes, I grew up borderline white trash -- but I don't remember their ambience very well). It's kind of like if Fast Times at Ridgemont High was about a bunch of 20somethings who worked in a generic office -- this would be their after-work spot. So there's a certain sense of recent nostalgia that I find appealing Don't expect an amazing beverage menu (the beer selection was kind of sparse). And the food menu seemed to rely heavily on the fryer (frier?). However, we had a really good time.
(4)Jeff L.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in the loop. It has a much slower atmosphere than everything else around it. The bar is underground so it has some character. Most importantly it has some of the cheapest beer around, including Green Line! It's the perfect place to hang out with friends and talk.
(4)Alison O.
Cardoza's is basically the closest bar to my building for drinks and food after work, so my coworkers and I will go there occasionally. This is a DIVE bar if I have ever seen one. When you walk in, you feel like you are walking down the stairs to your friends basement in high school. Once you are in the bar, their are no windows and the chairs and booths look like another era. I would recommend not going there for the food. We had Nachos and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The nachos were ok but they had green olives on them which I think made them a little too salty. And the tender were just meh. All in all good place to stop and have a beer after work, but that's about it.
(3)Tara M.
Ah, it's nice to have some place to go for lunch that's the same today as it was when I was a kid. I didn't go there as a kid, that I can remember, but it has the same feel as all the places my mom took me for lunch when I was a little girl and my parents had an office in the south loop. Cardozo's is comfortable and the food is good, the service isn't too shabby either. It's nice to go somewhere and order a sandwich, get it, have the waitress come by and refill your drinks, the bus person clear off the table and get the check in an hour. I'm so glad I can rely on having a place like this at lunch time! It's never too crowded and the food is always good.
(5)Jonathan T.
I had a steak salad that was marginal at best. Nothing very creative on the menu and I think the food was precooked. I have been here before but used Groupon this time. I like the throw back, simple cafe environment, but watching a blasted version of some reality show isn't my idea of kicking back. Friendly service thought and reasonable prices. It is in a basement afterall so prices should be good. They close way too early.
(2)Bob R.
Good food, friendly, kind service and good drinks. Plus a total deal. This place is a best kept secret I hate to share but I want them to thrive. Check them out. Love the avocado blt and even their fish is good. Food also comes out fast for busy lunches.
(4)Wendy K.
Eww...met my friend here. I don't even know how people find this place. Downstairs to a dungeon feel. Dark inside. Mostly locals, as in everyone's grandpa. She got a living social deal that did not mention alcohol was not included. They refused to accept it and after so many transactions and confusions, we still have no idea what we paid for. All I know is that my little white Russian cost $9. Are you kidding me? You do realize where you are right? In a dark creepy basement where ex offenders may feel comfy in. I think I can still smell the despair.
(1)Emily K.
This is a good after-work drinks place if your idea of after-work drinks is Stocks and Blondes or Coogan's (which mine is- but I realize there are a few different types of "after-work drinks" places...). Yeah, it's in a basement and it's always CROWDED even though it's fairly large. And they are severely understaffed. It took 1.5 hours to get 2 burgers and our drinks and check one night. But you get what you pay for. Food is cheap (or free- pizza buffet and chilli during happy hour) and there are some decent beer specials ($2 pints of Miller). I don't think you can go wrong here as long as you know what you're getting into. Definitely stars off for the service and it's a bit grimy.
(3)meg g.
The current signs on the door sums up Cardozo's pretty well, I'd say: One says "Smoking is Allowed", and the smaller sign underneath it says, "non smoking areas now available."
(4)Sam E.
Awesome basement lunch hideout. No cell phone coverage, no strollers, no bad food. Everything on the menu is good. Great bar.
(5)Edward P.
I come here for an after work drink on occasion. It is definitely old-school, which is part of the charm. The crowd is very mixed, which is also nice. It's a nice place to grab a drink and head home (or back to the office).
(3)Aaron S.
F__kit, I am the biggest Smoking Ban Fan around but they need to create exceptions or grandfather clauses or something for places like this--as it is, the smoke of all the years past is almost visible in the air, like a ghost! Also, with all due respect to Ms. H., a pint of Guinness is $4.50 here--I don't have a Hermes bag or whatever the male equivalent is but I can certainly swing that.
(5)Kraig K.
Cardozo's Pub is a dive but it has lots of flavor. Drinks are reasonably priced and as far as Chicago basement bars go, it's solid. Just don't order Jagermeister, as they serve it warm.
(4)Jen K.
This is probably the closest bar to my office so I end up here occasionally. Not really my first choice though. Fridays they have free food during happy hour. Really though the smart thing would be to avoid the food. Especially if you actually order off the menu and pay for it. I think the drinks are a bit pricey for what the place is. It's a little freaky to go down into the basement only to emerge several hours later a little drunk and realize its pitch black and raining.
(3)Nancy H.
I came here for happy hour and immediately felt depressed upon entering. It just has such a lousy look and feel; dimly lit basement, heavily treaded on carpeting, and ceilings that were too low. Even the tables and chairs felt dirty as if they've never been wiped down since 1970. The only bonus was free food on Fridays - sitting under warming lamps.
(1)molly c.
great lunch option in the loop. HUGE portions quick service and nice people. and let me tell you a secret...shhhhh...they have a smoking section. HELLZ TO THE YEAH!!
(4)Justin L.
Basement dining where you can have a quiet lunch and conversation with people. Not your typical crowded downtown lunch establishment. The food is above average but the service is slow and nothing really impresses here. Cordoza's is a place to go to have a insiders meeting where you dont want people to overhear your conversations. It is not quite cloak and dagger stuff but you feel like you are semi incognito. Every time I visit Cordoza's I always go with the chicken and bacon sandwich. Generous serving of juicy chicken breast topped with crisp bacon strips makes for a satisfying lunch sammy. For downtown it is not a place I would go often because there are so many other places to people watch and dine al fresco. This is literally a basement and it is intended for quiet pow wows. It may feel borderline dingy and overall is not aesthetically pleasing. But it has its purpose among all the over priced and over hyped trendy spots that most suits go to for lunch downtown.
(3)Erin J.
Indeed, "divey!" I liked it. It looks like the rec room in someone's parents' basement, complete with fake ivy and Christmas lights. Definitely not a high-brow place, this pub is VERY laid back. The food was probably frozen at one (or more) point(s), but the alcohol is plentiful, relatively cheap and STRONG! Service is spotty, but I expect that in a place like this. Some questionable characters reside towards the back, perfectly set up with the view of the bathroom door, which was a touch creepy. Overall, it was exactly as I thought it would be, no more, no less. Good place for a couple drinks after work, but I wouldn't get lit up there.
(3)Geoff H.
Eh. Nothing really 'wrong' with it, but food, service and prices are about what you'd expect. As with most day-drinker spots in the Loop, lotsa regulars, maybe I felt a little out-of-place. Still, if I'm gonna sit in a basement bar and drink at lunch, I'd probably go to the Marquette over on Madison instead, or maybe Beef 'n' Brandy on State.
(3)Katie H.
Happy Hour has always eluded me as I've never in my life worked a 9-5. So I was pleased to have the evening off this past Friday so I could partake in some early evening boozing at Cardozo's. My all-growns-up loop worker boyfriend had me primed to expect Grandma's rec room circa 1981... so I left my Hermes bag and Manolos at home (seriously... faaack anyone who goes to an underground Loop bar expecting it to be cheery. Go back to Rush St.). We really did have a grand ole time. I'm giving Cardozo's 4 stars even factoring in the pricey pints, the questionable hot food display and the gaggle of drunk suburb moms (poofy bangs, dark turtleneck layered with Chicago team sweatshirt) at the table next to me all squawking about their Blackberries and kids. Service was good. Booths were comfy. There was a gaping bass mounted behind the bar. Everyone was... happy. I'd probably avoid the food and stick to liquid dinner. Does anyone find wandering around the Loop at night whilst drunk really odd?
(4)Dee W.
Nice little nook for some happy hour after work - this basement location may lack in light but the personality and atmosphere make up for that. On Fridays, they offer a little free buffet of some burgers and hot dogs and chips to go with the beer that you're washing down from a long week at work
(4)Ren H.
This is a nice chill place...sometimes they have drink specials that come with a free tshirt! its an older crowd a lot but that just makes it more fun!
(4)Amanda L.
Great for after work people watching. Divey. They make really strong drinks too. Very interesting crowd to observe.
(3)Joseph M.
I love Cardozo's!!! I always get their pub burger, its a big @$$ cheeseburger with fries on the side, I get it cooked medium with mozarella, cheddar cheese and bacon, OMG its so juicy and delicious. If its at lunch I order to go and get in in like 10 to 15 minutes, and if its after work, ill go in and have a beer or two and it only comes out to about 20 bucks which is perfect. I love this place and will continue to go here. I also love that its underground, its an older place, kinda divey, but I feel like I fit in there and im not worried about people watching me eat like a pig lol!!!!
(5)Andy M.
Was in town for the weekend and saw the Groupon. Great I thought. Check Yelp for hours, open until 10 on Friday. Still great. Bought the Groupon, showed up at 6:40, the place is locked up tight. Not so great. Groupon for Chicago restaurant in Indy - worthless.
(1)Joe B.
A fine spot to relax and grab a drink and some bar food. You'll completely forget that you're in the middle of the Loop, and that can be a good thing if you need to park it and stretch out for a minute. I've been here a few times and I'd be back. It's a great alternative to the fancier and pricier bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
(3)Kevin B.
Had a Groupon and went here for lunch. Nice little dive bar located on Washington (you walk in, go downstairs). Seems like a place where regulars frequent. Service was okay, nothing spectacular. Corned Beef sandwich I had was really good. Seems to be one of their most popular sandwiches. Ive also had a chicken sandwich which was a little overcooked and dry. Overall its a quick lunch spot and I wouldn't expect much else more. And if you get the Groupon its well worth the price.
(4)Leang E.
I bought a Groupon here, because I knew one day I would not have time to bring myself lunch to work and might to step out of the office and take a lunch elsewhere. It was perfect for a place to grab food prior to a trip. They have a pretty decent sized menu. I sat at the bar and got the Chopped Southwest Salad Bowl and got the Avocado Tuna Salad special to go, and that was pretty filling for my plane ride. It was decent, but what bumps this up to 4 stars was the service. The server was great with the recommendation and was very easy going and didn't even complain when the wrong order came out. She quickly got it changed and had a great attitude about it. My water was always quickly refilled. This would be a great spot for a happy hour and to just chill.
(4)Clements J.
Last week I had the misguided idea of using a Groupon to visit Cardozo's. The waitress was lovely, but that is where the charm of this place ends. The food is expensive and bland. I ordered a Rueben and it was served on the smallest pieces of rye bread you can imagine. These were from sort of mini loaf - not the standard wide rye most people are used to. The atmosphere was rather depressing. It kinda makes you want to examine your life choices up to this point, because something has clearly gone wrong. The ceilings are low - not recommended if you have any sort of dislike of small enclosed spaces. The bathrooms probably haven't been inspected in ages. The manager has all the charm of a bag of scorpions. The establishment itself is about as Italian as a Digiorno pizza. I will never go back to Cardozo's - even if there were free drinks all night long. There are no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
(1)Chris C.
Good food, fast service. Nothing too fancy about this place but it's a good stop when you're tired of shopping in the loop. My wife and I went on a Tuesday and had the buffalo burger special with fries and we were seated and served within 20 minutes. Waitress was great and didn't bat an eye when we told her that we had a groupon like previous reviews.
(4)Justin B.
Dropped by for lunch today, to use up my $20 Groupon. Sometimes, I find deals on Groupon and I'm introduced to places that I eventually visit regularly. Cardozo's Pub is not that place. The fish and chips special was my first mistake. The chips were actually pretty good and Cardozo's certainly gives you plenty of them. But the fish was pretty bland. Even the tartar sauce on the side was pretty bland. Because I showed up alone, I ordered a second entree to help use up the $20. I got a turkey club to go...and I should have walked away when I was told that they were out of all sliced bread (I'm not kidding--no wheat, no white, no rye). The options were a French loaf, or a hamburger bun. Laughing, I went with the loaf; I just finished the sandwich and it was pretty bad. Yes, it had turkey, lettuce, bacon, mayo...but, the turkey was bad, the bread wasn't great, and even with the mayo, it was all pretty dry. Not only was my meal poor, but Cardozo's doesn't serve dessert. I have a major sweet tooth, and this is America, so I don't know how you don't serve dessert at a sit-down restaurant in this country. I won't be back!
(2)Lily Z.
I felt like I was a closet drinker when I came here last week. It's dark with no windows and creepy older men are hitting on the girls at the bar. I didn't order any food but the drinks were fine. Service could have been nicer. We were looking for our waitress the entire time and kind of rude when we asked her to explain the charges. I got over charged for my beer too. Since when does $5 glass of Stella equal $11 on a check?
(2)Tim T.
Probably my favorite dive bar in the city. It's usually not crowded, so the servers can stay pretty attentive. The typical bar food is pretty good, and they make the martinis strong. Very good place to meet friends after work if you're not trying to impress anyone.
(4)Melanie B.
My boyfriend and I ended up here before catching a show downtown because we were looking for a pub and happened to walk by. The atmosphere isn't bad... A basement pub. Comfy enough. However, we stood by the door for a while waiting to see if anyone would greet us.. it took us wandering in a bit for someone to approach us. The menu is rather small, which is to be expected, I guess... but I would've at least expected a better drink selection. Our waitress knew nothing about the beers available whatsoever. The nachos were mediocre at best, and my boyfriend's chicken fingers were just ok, really. It took a while to get our check, and once we did get it we needed to hurry and pay to catch our show. My boyfriend tried to pay the bartender the bill and was rudely told to go sit down... so, we had to chase down the waitress to pay. The waitress was nice, but a little clueless. We won't be going back.
(1)Tj P.
Great place for a quick bite to eat or drink, basement bar. Staff was really friendly.
(4)Justin G.
Just went to Cordozos after work with a buddy for the first time. Great if you want a beer and some bar food in an underground tavern that doesn't care about being cool. Oddly enough, the wait staff was fairly awesome, which, for a place like that, was a surprise. Mixed bag of gents in there for sure, lots of laughs. Bartendress gave us both free drinks because we said we were new to the area. Don't bring your girlfriend here to impress her with Chicago's fine dining. Bring your buddy here if you want to duck in to a corky place with a good vibe.
(5)Kevin K.
Just take a look under the ice machine to the right of the bar. Last time I was in there around 9 pm at night, I saw either a rat or a large mouse scurrying between the kitchen and ice machine. Owner is a old fart boozepig that sits directly next to the machine. This place would be better off burning down.
(1)Derrick T.
A little bar/restaurant hidden with steps taking you straight underground to a more expansive area. It's like your suburb family diner + bar, but in the city and tucked away. Bread service to start. Thoughts? Roasted chicken plate: A sizable chicken breast pounded even that's roasted. Fairly dry and overcooked, came with a side salad of fresh veggies, a very healthy portion of cottage cheese, and half a canned peach. Verdict: Honestly, the quality of the food is just okay. The price tag of the place is affordable ($8-13) considering they serve a bread basket, sides, etc. and the selection has something for everyone. Price and service give it that extra star to bump it to three, as the waitress was constantly checking up on us and "trying" her best to handle a large table. I probably wouldn't come back though...
(3)Chrysa L.
I love me a divey, laid back kind of bar. My friends and I call Cardozo's "Grandpa's Basement," because that is what it feels like. The outdated paneling. The steep stairs to get down there. The mirrors on the walls. The fluorescent beer signs. However, the checks are vague. A few of the servers have attitudes - as in, your mere presence is bothersome. The beer selection is limited. The bathrooms are very small. The food is pretty meh. I think the chicken fingers are OK because it's kind of hard to screw up something like that. I think there are other dives (even downtown) that I would prefer to go to over Cardozo's, but there is something cozy about it that I enjoy and I will go back from time to time. However, it is never my first choice destination.
(2)Mathew H.
This place is one step up from prison food. I got a Reuben; the corned beef was cut too thick and was chewy. A pop is $2 with $1 refills also tiny,wtf! I give it 2 stars only because our server was nice and quick! Don't waste your time, there are plenty of great places to eat in the loop.
(2)Christine S.
Do you want to feel like you're drinking in your Parent's basement? Do you want to feel like you're 19 again? Ok...come here. This is exactly what Cardozo's is like, drinking in your parents basement. Dive(y) bars aren't as easy to find in The Loop as you would think... So if you like dives, come here, you'll be happy. Stiff pours. Nice staff. Inexpenisive(ish). Diveeeee on in.
(4)Kison P.
Very Chicago! From the decor, to staff, and food.. all screams Chicago, I love it! Great place for lunch and after work drinks. I highly recommend smoked chicken ravioli, maybe save half for later.
(5)Neil R.
Pretty average place from the drinks to the food. The service is decent but overall did not jump out. If you are in the loop it could be a quick place to grab a beer and watch some TV. I had some chicken tenders here and they were average as well.
(3)anthony n.
If the dictionary had a picture for hole-in-wall, this place would be it. We used to drink here all the time, but recently their drink prices (which seem to change every order) have skyrocket'd. Used to be worth it, but if I'm paying standard Chicago prices I'd rather go some place that doesn't have a mildew aroma.
(2)Cathy Y.
Horrible. Just plain bad. I went in with my daughter today and I guess because I wasn't a businessman, we weren't important enough. We ordered a Sprite which we never got. We were given bread but no plates to eat it on. Our meal was supposed to come with a salad but was never mentioned by the waitress or given to us. I guess whatever was on her cell phone was more important because that's what she stared at the whole time. So unprofessional. I know this is a comfy looking place, like a grandma's old basement like one other poster mentioned, but come on. The very nice bus boy had to get her attention so we could even get our check. I used to be a server for many years so I don't feel like I am being over critical, there is just a certain level you should expect. I used to love this place when I worked downtown a few years back but it has fallen apart. Too bad.
(1)Jeff L.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in the loop. It has a much slower atmosphere than everything else around it. The bar is underground so it has some character. Most importantly it has some of the cheapest beer around, including Green Line! It's the perfect place to hang out with friends and talk.
(4)Alison O.
Cardoza's is basically the closest bar to my building for drinks and food after work, so my coworkers and I will go there occasionally. This is a DIVE bar if I have ever seen one. When you walk in, you feel like you are walking down the stairs to your friends basement in high school. Once you are in the bar, their are no windows and the chairs and booths look like another era. I would recommend not going there for the food. We had Nachos and Buffalo Chicken Tenders. The nachos were ok but they had green olives on them which I think made them a little too salty. And the tender were just meh. All in all good place to stop and have a beer after work, but that's about it.
(3)Tara M.
Ah, it's nice to have some place to go for lunch that's the same today as it was when I was a kid. I didn't go there as a kid, that I can remember, but it has the same feel as all the places my mom took me for lunch when I was a little girl and my parents had an office in the south loop. Cardozo's is comfortable and the food is good, the service isn't too shabby either. It's nice to go somewhere and order a sandwich, get it, have the waitress come by and refill your drinks, the bus person clear off the table and get the check in an hour. I'm so glad I can rely on having a place like this at lunch time! It's never too crowded and the food is always good.
(5)Jonathan T.
I had a steak salad that was marginal at best. Nothing very creative on the menu and I think the food was precooked. I have been here before but used Groupon this time. I like the throw back, simple cafe environment, but watching a blasted version of some reality show isn't my idea of kicking back. Friendly service thought and reasonable prices. It is in a basement afterall so prices should be good. They close way too early.
(2)Shain C.
I was told this place was "divey", but in a good way. It's not quite a beer and a shot kinda place, but it is quite cozy. This place is perfect for when it's just about the drinkin' and not about being seen, loud music, TVs, or crowds...
(4)JAMES M.
Ok we wound up here before a Sox game.....and wow what a little hidden gem this is! Cheap booze, Free appetizers (Nothing fancy but filling) Kinda hidden Yeap I can definitely see myself going in here and getting ripped! SHake & bake seal of approval.
(4)Bob R.
Good food, friendly, kind service and good drinks. Plus a total deal. This place is a best kept secret I hate to share but I want them to thrive. Check them out. Love the avocado blt and even their fish is good. Food also comes out fast for busy lunches.
(4)Emily K.
This is a good after-work drinks place if your idea of after-work drinks is Stocks and Blondes or Coogan's (which mine is- but I realize there are a few different types of "after-work drinks" places...). Yeah, it's in a basement and it's always CROWDED even though it's fairly large. And they are severely understaffed. It took 1.5 hours to get 2 burgers and our drinks and check one night. But you get what you pay for. Food is cheap (or free- pizza buffet and chilli during happy hour) and there are some decent beer specials ($2 pints of Miller). I don't think you can go wrong here as long as you know what you're getting into. Definitely stars off for the service and it's a bit grimy.
(3)Sam E.
Awesome basement lunch hideout. No cell phone coverage, no strollers, no bad food. Everything on the menu is good. Great bar.
(5)Edward P.
I come here for an after work drink on occasion. It is definitely old-school, which is part of the charm. The crowd is very mixed, which is also nice. It's a nice place to grab a drink and head home (or back to the office).
(3)Aaron S.
F__kit, I am the biggest Smoking Ban Fan around but they need to create exceptions or grandfather clauses or something for places like this--as it is, the smoke of all the years past is almost visible in the air, like a ghost! Also, with all due respect to Ms. H., a pint of Guinness is $4.50 here--I don't have a Hermes bag or whatever the male equivalent is but I can certainly swing that.
(5)Kraig K.
Cardozo's Pub is a dive but it has lots of flavor. Drinks are reasonably priced and as far as Chicago basement bars go, it's solid. Just don't order Jagermeister, as they serve it warm.
(4)Jen K.
This is probably the closest bar to my office so I end up here occasionally. Not really my first choice though. Fridays they have free food during happy hour. Really though the smart thing would be to avoid the food. Especially if you actually order off the menu and pay for it. I think the drinks are a bit pricey for what the place is. It's a little freaky to go down into the basement only to emerge several hours later a little drunk and realize its pitch black and raining.
(3)Nancy H.
I came here for happy hour and immediately felt depressed upon entering. It just has such a lousy look and feel; dimly lit basement, heavily treaded on carpeting, and ceilings that were too low. Even the tables and chairs felt dirty as if they've never been wiped down since 1970. The only bonus was free food on Fridays - sitting under warming lamps.
(1)molly c.
great lunch option in the loop. HUGE portions quick service and nice people. and let me tell you a secret...shhhhh...they have a smoking section. HELLZ TO THE YEAH!!
(4)Ren H.
This is a nice chill place...sometimes they have drink specials that come with a free tshirt! its an older crowd a lot but that just makes it more fun!
(4)Amanda L.
Great for after work people watching. Divey. They make really strong drinks too. Very interesting crowd to observe.
(3)Lindsay B.
Cardozo's is a hidden gem in The Loop. I'm always able to get in and out in just over a half hour during lunch rush, 12-1. The patty melt is to die for, our server always remembers us and our specific order. The soda is kind of bar-like... so you're better off getting a drink-drink or water. Prices are great. It's nice to get out of the rush of The Loop into a homey-like pub.
(5)Justin L.
Basement dining where you can have a quiet lunch and conversation with people. Not your typical crowded downtown lunch establishment. The food is above average but the service is slow and nothing really impresses here. Cordoza's is a place to go to have a insiders meeting where you dont want people to overhear your conversations. It is not quite cloak and dagger stuff but you feel like you are semi incognito. Every time I visit Cordoza's I always go with the chicken and bacon sandwich. Generous serving of juicy chicken breast topped with crisp bacon strips makes for a satisfying lunch sammy. For downtown it is not a place I would go often because there are so many other places to people watch and dine al fresco. This is literally a basement and it is intended for quiet pow wows. It may feel borderline dingy and overall is not aesthetically pleasing. But it has its purpose among all the over priced and over hyped trendy spots that most suits go to for lunch downtown.
(3)Erin J.
Indeed, "divey!" I liked it. It looks like the rec room in someone's parents' basement, complete with fake ivy and Christmas lights. Definitely not a high-brow place, this pub is VERY laid back. The food was probably frozen at one (or more) point(s), but the alcohol is plentiful, relatively cheap and STRONG! Service is spotty, but I expect that in a place like this. Some questionable characters reside towards the back, perfectly set up with the view of the bathroom door, which was a touch creepy. Overall, it was exactly as I thought it would be, no more, no less. Good place for a couple drinks after work, but I wouldn't get lit up there.
(3)Tj P.
Great place for a quick bite to eat or drink, basement bar. Staff was really friendly.
(4)Amanda G.
After avoiding this place for a long time because basement bars seem creepy, I visited with some coworkers. And I discovered that Cardoza's is pretty awesome. There is a really diverse group here. Obviously, officey types there for after-work drinks. But I think there were some illicit affairs going on around us (in a basement bar in the loop! NO WAY!). Old(er) men sitting at the bar. And at the booth behind us, there was this middle aged lady in a Minnie Mouse sweatshirt that must have been from 1985. Adults in old clothing featuring Disney characters always fascinate me. Overall, she wasn't out of place; the bar had a very 1985 feel, or what I'd imagine is a "bar in 1985" feel (I was 5 then, and I know I was taken to a few bars -- yes, I grew up borderline white trash -- but I don't remember their ambience very well). It's kind of like if Fast Times at Ridgemont High was about a bunch of 20somethings who worked in a generic office -- this would be their after-work spot. So there's a certain sense of recent nostalgia that I find appealing Don't expect an amazing beverage menu (the beer selection was kind of sparse). And the food menu seemed to rely heavily on the fryer (frier?). However, we had a really good time.
(4)Leang E.
I bought a Groupon here, because I knew one day I would not have time to bring myself lunch to work and might to step out of the office and take a lunch elsewhere. It was perfect for a place to grab food prior to a trip. They have a pretty decent sized menu. I sat at the bar and got the Chopped Southwest Salad Bowl and got the Avocado Tuna Salad special to go, and that was pretty filling for my plane ride. It was decent, but what bumps this up to 4 stars was the service. The server was great with the recommendation and was very easy going and didn't even complain when the wrong order came out. She quickly got it changed and had a great attitude about it. My water was always quickly refilled. This would be a great spot for a happy hour and to just chill.
(4)Clements J.
Last week I had the misguided idea of using a Groupon to visit Cardozo's. The waitress was lovely, but that is where the charm of this place ends. The food is expensive and bland. I ordered a Rueben and it was served on the smallest pieces of rye bread you can imagine. These were from sort of mini loaf - not the standard wide rye most people are used to. The atmosphere was rather depressing. It kinda makes you want to examine your life choices up to this point, because something has clearly gone wrong. The ceilings are low - not recommended if you have any sort of dislike of small enclosed spaces. The bathrooms probably haven't been inspected in ages. The manager has all the charm of a bag of scorpions. The establishment itself is about as Italian as a Digiorno pizza. I will never go back to Cardozo's - even if there were free drinks all night long. There are no redeeming qualities whatsoever.
(1)Chris C.
Good food, fast service. Nothing too fancy about this place but it's a good stop when you're tired of shopping in the loop. My wife and I went on a Tuesday and had the buffalo burger special with fries and we were seated and served within 20 minutes. Waitress was great and didn't bat an eye when we told her that we had a groupon like previous reviews.
(4)Joe B.
A fine spot to relax and grab a drink and some bar food. You'll completely forget that you're in the middle of the Loop, and that can be a good thing if you need to park it and stretch out for a minute. I've been here a few times and I'd be back. It's a great alternative to the fancier and pricier bars and restaurants in the neighborhood.
(3)Joseph M.
I love Cardozo's!!! I always get their pub burger, its a big @$$ cheeseburger with fries on the side, I get it cooked medium with mozarella, cheddar cheese and bacon, OMG its so juicy and delicious. If its at lunch I order to go and get in in like 10 to 15 minutes, and if its after work, ill go in and have a beer or two and it only comes out to about 20 bucks which is perfect. I love this place and will continue to go here. I also love that its underground, its an older place, kinda divey, but I feel like I fit in there and im not worried about people watching me eat like a pig lol!!!!
(5)Justin B.
Dropped by for lunch today, to use up my $20 Groupon. Sometimes, I find deals on Groupon and I'm introduced to places that I eventually visit regularly. Cardozo's Pub is not that place. The fish and chips special was my first mistake. The chips were actually pretty good and Cardozo's certainly gives you plenty of them. But the fish was pretty bland. Even the tartar sauce on the side was pretty bland. Because I showed up alone, I ordered a second entree to help use up the $20. I got a turkey club to go...and I should have walked away when I was told that they were out of all sliced bread (I'm not kidding--no wheat, no white, no rye). The options were a French loaf, or a hamburger bun. Laughing, I went with the loaf; I just finished the sandwich and it was pretty bad. Yes, it had turkey, lettuce, bacon, mayo...but, the turkey was bad, the bread wasn't great, and even with the mayo, it was all pretty dry. Not only was my meal poor, but Cardozo's doesn't serve dessert. I have a major sweet tooth, and this is America, so I don't know how you don't serve dessert at a sit-down restaurant in this country. I won't be back!
(2)Lily Z.
I felt like I was a closet drinker when I came here last week. It's dark with no windows and creepy older men are hitting on the girls at the bar. I didn't order any food but the drinks were fine. Service could have been nicer. We were looking for our waitress the entire time and kind of rude when we asked her to explain the charges. I got over charged for my beer too. Since when does $5 glass of Stella equal $11 on a check?
(2)Tim T.
Probably my favorite dive bar in the city. It's usually not crowded, so the servers can stay pretty attentive. The typical bar food is pretty good, and they make the martinis strong. Very good place to meet friends after work if you're not trying to impress anyone.
(4)Melanie B.
My boyfriend and I ended up here before catching a show downtown because we were looking for a pub and happened to walk by. The atmosphere isn't bad... A basement pub. Comfy enough. However, we stood by the door for a while waiting to see if anyone would greet us.. it took us wandering in a bit for someone to approach us. The menu is rather small, which is to be expected, I guess... but I would've at least expected a better drink selection. Our waitress knew nothing about the beers available whatsoever. The nachos were mediocre at best, and my boyfriend's chicken fingers were just ok, really. It took a while to get our check, and once we did get it we needed to hurry and pay to catch our show. My boyfriend tried to pay the bartender the bill and was rudely told to go sit down... so, we had to chase down the waitress to pay. The waitress was nice, but a little clueless. We won't be going back.
(1)Justin G.
Just went to Cordozos after work with a buddy for the first time. Great if you want a beer and some bar food in an underground tavern that doesn't care about being cool. Oddly enough, the wait staff was fairly awesome, which, for a place like that, was a surprise. Mixed bag of gents in there for sure, lots of laughs. Bartendress gave us both free drinks because we said we were new to the area. Don't bring your girlfriend here to impress her with Chicago's fine dining. Bring your buddy here if you want to duck in to a corky place with a good vibe.
(5)Kevin K.
Just take a look under the ice machine to the right of the bar. Last time I was in there around 9 pm at night, I saw either a rat or a large mouse scurrying between the kitchen and ice machine. Owner is a old fart boozepig that sits directly next to the machine. This place would be better off burning down.
(1)Derrick T.
A little bar/restaurant hidden with steps taking you straight underground to a more expansive area. It's like your suburb family diner + bar, but in the city and tucked away. Bread service to start. Thoughts? Roasted chicken plate: A sizable chicken breast pounded even that's roasted. Fairly dry and overcooked, came with a side salad of fresh veggies, a very healthy portion of cottage cheese, and half a canned peach. Verdict: Honestly, the quality of the food is just okay. The price tag of the place is affordable ($8-13) considering they serve a bread basket, sides, etc. and the selection has something for everyone. Price and service give it that extra star to bump it to three, as the waitress was constantly checking up on us and "trying" her best to handle a large table. I probably wouldn't come back though...
(3)Chrysa L.
I love me a divey, laid back kind of bar. My friends and I call Cardozo's "Grandpa's Basement," because that is what it feels like. The outdated paneling. The steep stairs to get down there. The mirrors on the walls. The fluorescent beer signs. However, the checks are vague. A few of the servers have attitudes - as in, your mere presence is bothersome. The beer selection is limited. The bathrooms are very small. The food is pretty meh. I think the chicken fingers are OK because it's kind of hard to screw up something like that. I think there are other dives (even downtown) that I would prefer to go to over Cardozo's, but there is something cozy about it that I enjoy and I will go back from time to time. However, it is never my first choice destination.
(2)Mathew H.
This place is one step up from prison food. I got a Reuben; the corned beef was cut too thick and was chewy. A pop is $2 with $1 refills also tiny,wtf! I give it 2 stars only because our server was nice and quick! Don't waste your time, there are plenty of great places to eat in the loop.
(2)Christine S.
Do you want to feel like you're drinking in your Parent's basement? Do you want to feel like you're 19 again? Ok...come here. This is exactly what Cardozo's is like, drinking in your parents basement. Dive(y) bars aren't as easy to find in The Loop as you would think... So if you like dives, come here, you'll be happy. Stiff pours. Nice staff. Inexpenisive(ish). Diveeeee on in.
(4)Kison P.
Very Chicago! From the decor, to staff, and food.. all screams Chicago, I love it! Great place for lunch and after work drinks. I highly recommend smoked chicken ravioli, maybe save half for later.
(5)Neil R.
Pretty average place from the drinks to the food. The service is decent but overall did not jump out. If you are in the loop it could be a quick place to grab a beer and watch some TV. I had some chicken tenders here and they were average as well.
(3)anthony n.
If the dictionary had a picture for hole-in-wall, this place would be it. We used to drink here all the time, but recently their drink prices (which seem to change every order) have skyrocket'd. Used to be worth it, but if I'm paying standard Chicago prices I'd rather go some place that doesn't have a mildew aroma.
(2)Cathy Y.
Horrible. Just plain bad. I went in with my daughter today and I guess because I wasn't a businessman, we weren't important enough. We ordered a Sprite which we never got. We were given bread but no plates to eat it on. Our meal was supposed to come with a salad but was never mentioned by the waitress or given to us. I guess whatever was on her cell phone was more important because that's what she stared at the whole time. So unprofessional. I know this is a comfy looking place, like a grandma's old basement like one other poster mentioned, but come on. The very nice bus boy had to get her attention so we could even get our check. I used to be a server for many years so I don't feel like I am being over critical, there is just a certain level you should expect. I used to love this place when I worked downtown a few years back but it has fallen apart. Too bad.
(1)Bobby O.
I have been going to this place for a long time having worked in the area and always enjoyed eating here. I never really ventured from the bacon cheeseburger or reuben sandwich part of the menu but friends have and said it was good. This place is mainly geared for the down town work/after work crowd.
(4)Daniel R.
Don't let the look of this place fool you. I was there at 1 on a Friday afternoon and there was hardly a place to sit. Great food and you could tell there were a lot of regulars that frequent here.
(5)Damian B.
Nice spot but, no Old Style......did I take a wrong train out of Chicago? I only had one beer and left. Bartender was nice. Had a good "feel" to it but hey, they close at 9:30, what Pub doesn't have Old Style and closes at 9:30?
(2)Little D.
Tonight was a nightmare experience! I ordered a burger and at the end of the night, after I paid my tab, the owner had the nerve to ask me why I like my burgers raw?? (I ordered my burger rare not RAW - he explained that he didn't know the difference). He was extremely rude and judgmental. He also asked me why I thought it's ok to trust his cook supplier of meat with my health since I like raw meat! I am NEVER coming back to pay $60 to a place where I can't trust their meat product and also a place where I will be judged by the owner for my preferences! We found out from a bartender after the owner had left that he likes his meat well done and often judges people who prefer anything else. YIKES!!!!! This used to be our happy hour spot, but after meeting the crabby, opinionated, curmudgeonly owner, we will NEVER be back!
(1)Magen R.
I stopped in here after work for a few beers with some of my co-workers this past week. I liked the relaxed vibe of the place. No frills - just drinks and food. The beer was good and reasonably priced for the loop. We also ordered barbecue wings and buffalo chicken fingers. I was not in love with either but they were fine. All in all this is a good place to go after work for a couple of drinks.
(3)Johnny F.
This place has two big pluses: 1) It's right across the street from my office downtown and 2) It's part of the AA Dining Advantage (so I can get miles for travel from dining). I haven't been here for anything but lunch, but their daily specials are reasonable and the waitress was prompt, which is important for the lunch hour. I'd like to come by here sometime after work and check the vibe at the bar.
(4)Frankie J.
You're in a time machine, you're traveling in a different dimension, its the 1970s and Steve Dahl is destroying disco records at Comisky Park... and you land in Cardozo's Pub. This place has not changed since the 1970s. I would not be surprised if the ghosts of Irv Kupcinet, Mike Royko, John Belushi and hizzonahdahmayyah Senior was in da joint. If da Blues Brothers decided not to save the orphanage, they could hang out here and watch Chicago sports teams and drink Old Style or Miller High Life until it closed - which I am not sure it does. One of the last of the underground bars in Chicago, which is funny.
(3)Laura C.
If you're downtown and suddenly feel the urge to have a beer in your grandma's basement, step into Cardoza's to be immediately transported back to 1970. The dimly lit interior with wood paneling and "family restaurant" booths a la Omega in Downer's Grove give this place a frozen in time feeling. If a cold beer is what you're looking for, it's not a bad place to stop and have a drink. It was pretty empty on a Thursday around 5, so you won't have to wait long for your order.
(3)Jennifer L.
Good food, God awful service. My waitress made faces at my drink choice, then took twenty minutes to give me my bill and another fifteen to use my groupon and settle. Then I got the wrong change back. Busy or not, that was ridiculous.
(2)Jonathan E.
I actually really love dives, and this place was a contender. Spartan, aged, not a dollar invested since 1972, and pretty cheesy, but who cares? With cute barkeeps and cheap drinks, it doesn't matter. The food isn't "good" as it's obviously mostly pre-fab. I had a burger that was a perfectly rounded puck of meat - something made by a machine but finally cooked by a human and delivered in 10 minutes. That said, it wasn't bad. So it qualifies as "pre-made food" done decently. Don't go there for a chow epiphany. But here's why it only gets 2 stars from me: last call at 9 pm. Huh? It wasn't a Sunday, holiday or special day. Just a weekday. Here's what happens when a dive bar has early closing hours: It's populated by the post-work crowd, which is mostly biz/finance people in downtown Chicago. And by closing at 9, it isn't frequented by the long haul characters who only come out at night. It just doesn't work. If a divey breakfast/lunch place closes up at 2 pm, that's understandable. But a good dive bar stays open past 9. That should be a rule.
(2)Jonathan W.
This basement bar is a decent place to have a few after work. Bring friends since you probably won't make any here. Also, watch your head - the low ceilings and menagerie of random pipes make you feel like you're in some weird eastern European submarine.
(2)Karl N.
Finally bought the groupon for this place after seeing it on the menu for a couple weeks. Perfect if you're like me and only have about 45 minutes for lunch. I got the Burger which was the Monday special ($5.95), nice thick patty with a fresh, tasty bun. Huge cut fries and obviously fresh cut veggies. Service was great (sat at the bar). Definitely not your average fly by night pub where everything tastes the same. My friend got the reuben. The beef was thick cut and while unaware it came with chips, the bartender was quick to both offer and replace them with fries without question. Great service, great food, in and out in 45 minutes.
(4)Erin B.
I wish I could give this place 10 stars. I come with a group of friends and family for happy hour, religiously, once a week. Granted, our "regulars" status with the bartenders may be artificially inflating my views of the place, but Cardozo's is great. The staff is super nice, the drinks are good, and it lacks the pretentious crowd of most of the Loop bars. Make no mistake, it's definitely in the "dive" category, but if that's what you're going for, Cardozo's is the place to be.
(5)Lars Z.
Great inexpensive place to grab a beer and a burger in the Loop - their wings are tasty, too. They have daily drink specials with tequila Tuesdays ranking as my personal favorite. The wait staff is personable and does a good job. The ambiance is well, er um not the most modern of places but it is comfortable with lots of booth space and its air conditioned. Oh and there's free WIFI.
(4)Philip J.
Where do i start... the fact that im 6'3 and the ceilings there are about the same, the bathroom here is, well umm rather interesting, i think the ceiling in the bathroom was lower. at anyrate, there is no lock on the door, nor does the stall lock work. not to get to detailed but the toilet didnt flush to well... but this is a dive right? The food was good, i got the Turkey Club on dark rye, a little dry but still fresh and tasty. The wait staff is why after the bathroom happenings i gave it a three, nowhere that i have been is a waitress honest with you when you ask what is good here, they are supposed to say what is good, but usually they dont say I DONT LIKE (blank) but here not the case. her advice is to stay away from the Pita, it sucks. (I'm paraphrasing ofcouse) So if you're taller than me, and dont have to use the restroom id say GO FOR IT... cuz you might just not get the honset waitress/waiter that we did. The Grid Project
(3)Amanda Z.
You know that part in the Wedding Singer when Adam Sandler is all depressed, yet still singing at the wedding? Well, after my visit to Cardozo's on a rainy Friday happy hour, my version rings like this: "I drink in my grandpaaaaa's baaaaaasemeeeent..." Cuz that's where I felt like I was. You walk down the stairs where there are paneled wood walls and sleeping older men. (Just one tucked away in the corner, sorry buddy, I busted you.) So, my grandpa likes to take a nap in his easy chair in the basement. He has a bar down there. The only thing missing was my grandpa's lava lamp (from the 60s, yo!) So yeah, I felt like I was drinking in my grandpa's basement. The beer is cheap ($2.50 Miller Lites on special....love it!) and the service is no-nonsense. Can't complain, after we decided to vacate Stocks and Blondes due to crowding issues, we got seats and cold drinks very quickly here. Hooray for grandpa-style, after-work drinking!
(3)Joseluis A.
i was in downtown a bit hungry and thirsty.. but i was afraid i was going to walk into a fancy fartsy downtown spot and that i was going to get charged $50 for a burger and a guinness. i was lucky to spot cardozos tiny sign and i decided to check it out immediately. its a little basement. theres tvs all over. seems like a place for people who work in the area but i was there during lunch time and there wasnt that much movement. better for me cause service was pretty fast. i got a burger and a guinness (of course, what else?) and paid about 11 bucks without tip. pretty nice for a big juicy burger and and delicious and nutritious guinness stout. dont ya think?
(4)Ben E.
The other day I was craving old-style Italian food along the lines of Italian Village, and happened across Cardozo's Pub. The service was desultory at best, and the food was...well...awful. I figured I couldn't go too far wrong by ordering spaghetti with meat sauce and Italian sausage, but I was thoroughly mistaken. I already assumed that 'al dente' wouldn't be a term that applied to this place, but I figured 'flavor' might. No such luck. And, quite frankly, the Italian sausage tasted like dog food. I was disgusted and will never be back. Perhaps other items on the menu are better, but I certainly will never find out for myself. I've never had worse pasta in my life.
(1)meg g.
The current signs on the door sums up Cardozo's pretty well, I'd say: One says "Smoking is Allowed", and the smaller sign underneath it says, "non smoking areas now available."
(4)Geoff H.
Eh. Nothing really 'wrong' with it, but food, service and prices are about what you'd expect. As with most day-drinker spots in the Loop, lotsa regulars, maybe I felt a little out-of-place. Still, if I'm gonna sit in a basement bar and drink at lunch, I'd probably go to the Marquette over on Madison instead, or maybe Beef 'n' Brandy on State.
(3)Katie H.
Happy Hour has always eluded me as I've never in my life worked a 9-5. So I was pleased to have the evening off this past Friday so I could partake in some early evening boozing at Cardozo's. My all-growns-up loop worker boyfriend had me primed to expect Grandma's rec room circa 1981... so I left my Hermes bag and Manolos at home (seriously... faaack anyone who goes to an underground Loop bar expecting it to be cheery. Go back to Rush St.). We really did have a grand ole time. I'm giving Cardozo's 4 stars even factoring in the pricey pints, the questionable hot food display and the gaggle of drunk suburb moms (poofy bangs, dark turtleneck layered with Chicago team sweatshirt) at the table next to me all squawking about their Blackberries and kids. Service was good. Booths were comfy. There was a gaping bass mounted behind the bar. Everyone was... happy. I'd probably avoid the food and stick to liquid dinner. Does anyone find wandering around the Loop at night whilst drunk really odd?
(4)Dee W.
Nice little nook for some happy hour after work - this basement location may lack in light but the personality and atmosphere make up for that. On Fridays, they offer a little free buffet of some burgers and hot dogs and chips to go with the beer that you're washing down from a long week at work
(4)Erika G.
Standard issue pub, and surprisingly expensive for how non-stylish and basic it is. I was surprised at what a large tab we ran up. Apparently the bartenders don't know that time honored tradition of slinging a free drink for every oh, 4 or 5 purchased. I thought that was sort of weird. It smells kind of weird too. The drinks are small. The food is average. You don't notice it at street level, as it's just a door with stairs behind. Come to think of it, this place is not that great. I doubt I'd go back, given the plethora of joints to hang out at in this area.
(2)Natalia K.
The fact that I came here is a clear example of the fact that I'll try anything once- especially if there's a groupon deal for it. My friend and I hesitantly walked down the steps to the basement and it smelled like a stale grandparent basement. They apparently updated their look, but you wouldn't know it. We sat down and perused their small menu and decided on a steak sandwich and buffalo chicken salad. My friend ordered the salad and it came with a pitcher of dressing- they don't do the ramekin thing here, oh no, it was a full gravy pitcher of dressing. I almost wanted to ask for extra dressing, because she clearly didn't have enough. My steak sandwich was pretty meh, but what did I expect from a dive bar, right? the garlic bread it was on was pretty soggy and the steak was nothing to get excited about, though I will credit the chef for having cooked it to my order. The fries were pretty bland and made for a lower calorie situation because I didn't bother to eat them. I'm glad I tried this pub because I walk by here all the time and it has been a curiosity to me, but I will be steering clear with so many other great options for food and drink around the city.
(2)Thomas W.
Excellent place for lunch its a small restaurant/dive bar very nice people the other lady idk manager owner off the boat Itallian woman very hospitable and friendly great food great service highly recommend this place if you are in the area
(5)Richard B.
Cardozo's Pub is one of these places that you don't notice when you are walking down the street. You only see a doorway and a flight of stairs leading down to some strange subterranean grotto beneath the busy streets of the Loop. Let's go back a few months so I can tell you my story; and as my readers know, my stories are often weird... Last fall, Mrs B and I decided to go into the Loop on "Black Friday," to take in an opera and do a little holiday shopping. I, as always, wanted to find a discount, so I found a Groupon deal for Cardozo's. It said they were open on weekdays during the day and evening - so it would be a convenient stop for us. So, we get there, and the place is closed - even though the sign on the door clearly states that they should be open. I take out my cellphone and try to call them, but nobody answers. So, we found another place for lunch and - gasp! - had to pay full price: a near-mortal sin. During that lunch, I phoned Groupon to gripe, and I got a message that my call would be promptly answered in 45 minutes. Fie! I called Groupon a few days later, and their "customer service" people had to research the issue. They got back with me and told me that Cardozo decided to close for the day, but I could use my Groupon for its full value until some day in December, or use the original $10 I paid afterwards. Not too groovy. The Groupon languished under a magnet on our refrigerator for several weeks, until I found that I had to go downtown on some personal business. So, I was able to use the $10 that I sent Groupon. On to the subject of Cardozo. Others are spot on that this is really a bar that offers a limited menu of sandwiches and simple entrees. I was not particularly hungry, so I just ordered a hangerber and a soda. The place is a warren of small rooms with no uniform theme nor architectural creativity. There are framed photos of show business personalities attached to the wall and a few miscellaneous posters. They still had their Xmas lights strewn on the ceiling. Frankly, you would expect this in any typical dive bar. Although the place was pretty empty, service was slow, and the waitress seemed to have disappeared for most of my tenure there. They did give me a basket which contained one slice of day-old bread and some crackers that must have been on the Mayflower (stale). The burger was OK, it was served with the obligatory slices of tomato, onion, and lettuce with a serving of French fries, Neither was greasy, thank you. Although they served me an 8 ounce glass of ice with a little bit of pop in it, they charged extra for refills. As Rocky would say, "Smoley Hokes!" So, I was a little disappointed with my experience there, and I have to assign Cardozo's a below-average rating.
(2)Andy M.
Was in town for the weekend and saw the Groupon. Great I thought. Check Yelp for hours, open until 10 on Friday. Still great. Bought the Groupon, showed up at 6:40, the place is locked up tight. Not so great. Groupon for Chicago restaurant in Indy - worthless.
(1)Kevin B.
Had a Groupon and went here for lunch. Nice little dive bar located on Washington (you walk in, go downstairs). Seems like a place where regulars frequent. Service was okay, nothing spectacular. Corned Beef sandwich I had was really good. Seems to be one of their most popular sandwiches. Ive also had a chicken sandwich which was a little overcooked and dry. Overall its a quick lunch spot and I wouldn't expect much else more. And if you get the Groupon its well worth the price.
(4)Wendy K.
Eww...met my friend here. I don't even know how people find this place. Downstairs to a dungeon feel. Dark inside. Mostly locals, as in everyone's grandpa. She got a living social deal that did not mention alcohol was not included. They refused to accept it and after so many transactions and confusions, we still have no idea what we paid for. All I know is that my little white Russian cost $9. Are you kidding me? You do realize where you are right? In a dark creepy basement where ex offenders may feel comfy in. I think I can still smell the despair.
(1)