The Boiler Room
2210 N California Ave, Chicago, IL, 60647
The Boiler Room Menu
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Address :
2210 N California Ave
Chicago, IL, 60647 - Phone (773) 276-5625
- Website https://www.boilerroomlogansquare.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :2:00 pm - 2:00pm
- Mon : 2:00 pm - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Hipster
Noise Level : Loud
Music : Background
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
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Shannyn A.
Desserts here are above the top good. The veggie pizzas or any pizzas for the PBJ (pizza, beer, jameson) combos are really delicious too. I haven't had bad pizza here, and perhaps I've tried! The drunken doughnuts are a crowd favorite and seriously, I dream about these when I sleep. Also, the bathroom is fashioned after the L train, sound effects and all. The whole restaurant is a chicago/train theme and all in all, it's a classy, classy dive. We love bringing out of town visitors here because it's just that good and there isn't the horrendous wait that Revolution around the corner brings.
(4)Tony W.
nothing special here, just good food at great prices. The service is good, and the staff is so damn friendly. I used to get of the train at California blue line instead of logan square just to stop and get a quick shot of Jameson and a PBR with a slice, or some chicken, either is very good.
(4)Smunsky T.
I was pretty impressed with the service even though it was a super busy night. I absolutely did not like that I had to eat in a tent outside mid-March in Chicago. We had a slice of pizza and an order of cheeseballs. Both me and my girl threw up all night long. I haven't been able to eat anything today I've been so sick, and I just threw up again. Needless to say I will absolutely never eat there again. Besides the pizza is under cooked. Maybe that's the way they do it there. I have no idea but the crust is soft. Absolutely nasty and disgusting restaurant.
(1)Cham S.
come for the pizza; the purist is a delectable artisan option for y'all of the meatless variety. def avoid the Jameson on tap as it's watered down and stale. I'm pretty sure it had me bed ridden for a night, and not like in the boozy sorta way. also should mention, this spot is better enjoyed in a booth as the bar squatters tend to be super super super fucking lame here. aIso I saw a dude pee in the hand sink, which made my night. big ups for all y'all adventurous pee-ers out there doing your thing...I think it's catching on. -cs
(3)Crystal C.
I have been to this location once with a group and the second time on a date. The waitress the first time was nice. The waitress the second time was terrible. You had to chase her down for things. Which on a crowded Saturday night is terrible. The pizza is good, and if your looking for a hipster type of vibe then this is the location for you. They give you Jamerson shots for just about everything. Which is a plus who doesn't love free shots.
(4)Erin E.
It's a little different than NY style pizza, but that's what they call it. Nevertheless, it's the best NY style pizza I've ever had. As I always say, you can get the best of any cuisine in Chicago. Each time I roam, I am more and more convinced of this. You get "The Boiler Room" slice with your PB&J. That's what you get.
(4)Summer S.
Wow! Chicago has a lot of bars with character, but this one was among the top of my list. They were playing Star Trek at the bar during my visit, which was a million times better than the scandalous awkward junk I find at many other bars. Our bartender was sweet and friendly- he took great care of my friends and me. This is a cash only bar, but if you give the bartender your ATM receipt, you get a free shot of Jameson. Nice :) The bathrooms are even worth mentioning. They were clean, fun and upon opening the door, it plays an announcement from the train! The outdoor patio was also lovely. There really isn't a bad seat in the house.
(5)Denny D.
I like this place for its atmosphere. I enjoy the decor, the bathrooms, the dim lighting, and the kick ass music. The food... Can def be improved. The pizza is a little below average, taste like the ones you buy at Walgreens and pop in the oven for 15 mins. Still, it's edible. I always try bloody Mary's wherever I go and the ones served here can really be improved. It's nothing but watered down tomato juice with a celery stick. This place can do better. Will prob be back tbh to check out the rest of the menu.
(3)Lexie G.
Came here on a Saturday night while visiting friends in the city. Pizza was fine. Which isn't necessarily something you like to read about in regards to a pizza place. I wasn't digging the cash-only quality (though I hear it is common in this neighborhood), it was super crowded and loud, and our wait staff took forever to show up. However. If you want pizza, a beer, and a shot of jame-o for less than $10 in Chicago, then by all means, step on up. Ive got other places to check out. Thanks though. Pass.
(3)Keenan B.
Pretty decent spot. Obviously, you go in for the PB&J, which is an awesome, and the Jameson tastes AMAZING, because it's straight out of a cask. I just sip it. I just sit there and sip on it. It is delicious. And all of their standard slices are great, especially The Boiler, which is loaded beyond belief. Service is alright, depending a little bit on who you get. They're all very attractive people, but the best servers are, coincidentally, the ones who also describe a particular slice as being "effin' dope." So that's nice. Atmosphere is also nice. It's dark, like a bar, without feeling filthy. Decor is modern, even though the theme is inspired by the CTA. Be sure to check out the Men's Room, with its 'Wall of Butts.'
(4)joe b.
Good pizza slices, cheap beer and whisky. Nice staff. What else do you need to know?
(5)Cooper R.
Ended up here after visiting Revolution Brew. It's a large space with decent pizza. Not great, but better than most places offering pizza by the slice. The service is fast and friendly. The bathrooms are replicas of a metra and public transit station including all the bells and whistles. Fun atmosphere. The downside, they only take cash!!! There is an ATM outside the door, but who wants to wait in the cold for that!?
(4)Maribel C.
The only good thing about this bar is their pbj special, service could be better...
(2)Nina J.
I've been here quite a few times and plan to keep coming back. The music is great (bowie, hendrix and the likes) the staff is super friendly, AND it's affordable! you really can't beat the PB&J special---slice of pizza, PBR tall boy, and shot of Jameson!!! It's only 8.50 (was 7.50 earlier this year but who cares!) on any day of the week. The slice of pizza you get is not just some generic bs it is actually better than the cheap pizza you can get around the corner.
(5)Danie R.
Jameson whiskey on DRAFT? Great beers!? PIZZA!? I love this place. Yes, it's full of hipsters, but it's also amazing. It's also not too pricey either. It's busy, the service isn't great, but that's part of the charm.
(5)Jacqueline M.
I have been here a few times, but after the last time NEVER AGAIN. The pizza here is good, and you can't beat the PB&J deal (slice of pizza, PBR, and a shot of Jameson). But I was treated so poorly, I will not be returning. My husband and came here after a funeral, so we had on nice clothes. The hostess was very cold, and told us there was a short wait. Not a problem, until she started seating her hipster friends who arrived long after us. I complained and we were seated after waiting for 45 mins. Then we sat at the table for 20 mins with no service! We walked out at that time. I don't want to think we were treated differently because of how we were dressed, but I spoken to other friends that have had very similar experiences. I will also say that I never had a problem when I showed up in jeans and a t-shirt.
(1)Steve G.
If there was a pizza place in the movie Blade Runner - it would look like this. Good food, decent beer selection, well-chosen music, friendly service. The ONLY thing keeping this from 5 stars is that the pizza is fold-able. Don't get me wrong, it's delicious, it's just that...c'mon this is Chicago. You don't have to go stuffed but how about one thicker variety?
(4)P M.
Um, YES. YES. YES. YES. YES. YES. F--K A DEEP DISH! Boiler Room is ALWAYS delicious. ALWAYS Cheap, too! My one and only qualm is the host station: Seriously, you're paid to seat me and make sure my overall experience is great. Stop constantly being inconvenienced by the fact that I walked in...
(4)Omar G.
This place is comfortable, feels like it can become my regular joint, which it kind of is cause since moving to Logan Square I've gone to this place more than any other and it's the place I take people to when I'm burdened with the task of showing a good time. Boiler Room is about the quality food (always impressive pizza!), the solid beer menu and also about the company you're with; the audio/visual entertainment is toned down to background level. Pros: Pizza! Jameo Ice Cream! Con: Cash Only (though if you use their ATM you get to trade the receipt for a shot of Jameo)
(5)Amy T.
Stacey the server? Terrible service. It was very close to closing time but my friend and I walked in about 30 minutes prior to closing. We ordered quickly and were not trying to have a long stretched out dinner but weren't trying to swallow our pizzas whole either. Anyways, home girl was definitely giving us the "get the eft out I want to go home vibe." She grabbed our plates, some pizza still on, and we had to grab em back. Sorry boo, I know closing down sucks, but I'm also a customer who is damn hungry. Let me eat my pizza, please. In general she was just inattentive and didn't come to the table besides taking the order and then trying to take it away. Now, if you think I was one of those people, who decide to "hang out" when the lights are up and people are sweeping the floor, nope. Restaurant was not even closed yet. So that was a huge turn off. Was the food good? Yep. Beer and free Jameson shot a good deal? Hells yeah.
(3)Lupe G.
So I didn't get to try their awesome pizza but I went for drinks and their booze-infuzed ice cream. I like the hipster Vibe; reminds me of a Seattle scene. It's also right across from the L-station so that rocks moreso! I'm definitely going back to try their pizza.
(3)Alissa R.
A good spot in Logan and has good pizza. Not the best in the world, but it's cheap enough. The door chick is always bitchy but who cares.
(4)Michael G.
The Irish say if you can remember a "Chicago wake" (leaving Chicago for somewhere else), it wasn't much a wake. And since I don't remember much of my going away party here due to too many PB&Js, in that fine Irish tradition, I compose the following celebration of beer and whiskey: If you hate your job and you've had a bad day, Three letters will take the pain away...PB&J! If you're out with a girl and you don't know what to say, Three letters will make the words from your mouth stray...PB&J! If you can't go to sleep and you just want to lay, Three letters will knock you out right away...PB&J! If you're from Logan Square and homesickness holds sway, Writing a review of this place's best invention will make you go yay...PB&J! While it's not a secret anymore and packed even more than Revolution Brewery on most nights, The Boiler Room is still pure Logan Square. The reason is that locals keep going there for the pizza and the magic it makes as part of the PB&J. Pizza, Blue (Ribbon), and Jameson! A $7 value "meal" and magic express ticket to a good buzz without being sick! Multiples should be consumed at the patron's own risk unless prescribed by a doctor (probably a psychiatrist). They might cause memory loss. And extreme "blurtiness" and "inappropritude" in certain patients. Maybe me. I don't remember. As far as the pizza goes, it's a mini-New York Style (which keeps with the general subway theme of the bar) slice, and greasy as heck. But tasty and saucy at the same time. While the flavors try to be gourmet, it maintains a certain Logan Square edge with slightly stiff cheese and slightly gloppy tomato sauce. I wouldn't call it my favorite cheese pizza in the world, but it takes the edge off of a shot of Jameson very nicely. Now the place is crowded and the waitstaff seems consistently overwhelmed so service can be poor. But that's a small price to pay to enjoy a PB&J! At least from what I can remember.
(4)Daniel M.
This place makes an unusual type of pizza that I'm not sure how to describe. It's thin-crust and square, but that doesn't really get the idea across; you just have to try it, which I recommend. They try to do a lot of weird stuff that has nothing to do with why they're good (they serve house cocktails for some reason, and they make "whiskey ice-cream" which just tastes like someone poured Jameson on top of soft serve.) The wise diner will simply ignore these side-shows and get a slice of pizza and a beer (and a shot of Jameson, which they push as though they own the distillery or something, if you must). Note: CASH ONLY. Their ATM takes a hefty fee but apparently they'll "reimburse" this fee with a free shot of Jameson if you keep your receipt.
(4)Kelsey P.
Oh the Boiler Room. I love everything about you. Your patio. Your cheap PBR. Your pizza. Your Salads. Never change.
(4)Audre L.
PB&J: 1 can of PBR, 1 slice of Pizza, and 1 shot of Jameson. Now how fun is that? Also, the boozy soft serve is actually really good. I had some of the Butterscotch flavor, it was tasty. Not sure what the Jameson soft serve would taste like. The salad (Spinach, Radicchio, Fennel with Orange Vinagerette) was really good, and perfect size to leave room for a slice of Pizza. Try the Purist - the balsamic on the pizza is quite tasty.
(5)Megan G.
Two girlfriends and I landed here after being unwilling to wait 40 minutes to be seated at Revolution (and having to scream at each other all night...man, RevBrew is loud as heck!) We were seated pretty quickly on the back patio which is an awesome space. It's big and open with lots of seating and I couldn't help but be charmed by the giant industrial tote light sculptures. The inside of the restaurant is a little weird....they're going for some kind of theme, but I can't quite tell what it is. And they were playing IT on the porthole tv's behind the bar. We experienced none of the service problems others have complained of - our server was really nice and plenty attentive. I was disappointed to see Boiler Room doesn't offer individual or small pizzas - you only choice is to order a giant one or order from the very limited slice menu. Since my two friends were vegetarians there wasn't much available to them on the main menu so we opted for slices and salads. We also ordered Left Hand Nitro Stout (on tap, so awesome!) Our salads came first and I will say we all agreed these were excellent. Again, I wish there were a little more variety in the salads offered, but they're well priced and quite large. However when our slices arrived (as it turned out, we all ordered the special veggie slice of the evening) none of us were impressed. I love pizza and I extra love NY style pizza...these were fine, but nothing to write home about. When it came time to pay the bill we realized Boiler Room is cash only. Cash only restaurants irritate me on principle - and yes, I realize if you bring them your ATM receipt you get a free Jameson shot. Unfortunately on this evening, their ATM was broken so my friends had to wander off into the neighborhood in search of cash. Overall Boiler Room was fine. The beer garden is fantastic and if I lived in the area I could see meeting up with friends here all the time. However their cash only policy is annoying and the food is "meh", so I won't be making it a point to return.
(3)Kali S.
Awful service. We went in after work. I was still dressed for my big kid job when we got there. They told us we were next on the list to get a table... after an hour of watching everyone else get seated (large groups, small groups, our size groups) I decided to say something. They still refused to seat us and kept saying we were "next" while seating others. The pizza was pre-made and nothing special. If you must go here, bring thick rimmed glasses and hipster boots. Don't go inside looking like you do something besides barista.
(1)Jesse B.
Wait??? I was at the Boiler Room? I must have stopped in while buzzed for some delicious pepperoni pizza by the slice and a shot of Jameson. Sounds about right.
(4)Megan T.
What to say about our experience with Boiler Room? I like their beer list and that if you got money out of their ATM (because they're cash only), you get a free shot of Jameson. I liked the crust of the pizza but wasn't crazy about the toppings - our buffalo chicken pizza tasted like it had been drenched in Franks hot sauce. I didn't love that the waitstaff passed our hold for 45 minutes or that the waitress then missed our table for another 15 minutes. Or that the guy cleaning the tables spilled my beer and refilled a soda with water. All and all it was a super mediocre experience so thank goodness we were with good company. I don't know if I would go back but I know people that only come to Logan Square to go to the Boiler Room.
(3)Al D.
It's a shame I gotta give this place 2-stars, but that's what Boiler Room truly deserves. Hype about the interior aside (it's going to be dated and laughable in about 1.5 years anyway), the service here is unacceptable. If you're ok with attitudes that might correspond with the fact you're in scenester territory, then you'd love the mediocre pizza and their "PB&J" combo. Otherwise, what happened to us might make you re-evaluate why you'd spend your hard-earned cash here. A member of our group ordered shots of Malort. Nobody except for him had had it before. Our tatooed, faux-hipster (fauxster?) waiter jumped down our throats with "WHAT?!?! You've never had Malort? Where are you FROM!?!" "Born in Cicero..." He abashedly looked away and took our order. Our pizzas came soon, and we had to wait another 10 minutes for the last one. One of us reminded him politely that we didn't get the last pizza yet. He tersely said through clenched teeth that it's on the way, and followed up with a sarcastic and condescending "You guys are cool" and ran off. We were stunned. We were further put off when he literally threw down the plate on the table in front of the girl who ordered it, like she was a farm animal. Service like this can't be justified just because you're at a cool restaurant in a trendy location. I spent years at several service-based jobs in different fields and I know some days can suck, but if a simple question warranted behavior like what we saw that night, then certain employees would be well-advised to find another profession. Maybe as a narrator for audiobooks or something.
(2)Ericka A.
I got to devour yummy pizza and drink beer, but I also had to say goodbye to Michael G. He's leaving us for DC, so my trip to The Boiler Room was bittersweet. Luckily, he planned a nice little going away get-together here and about a dozen of us were able to gather around a large table and give him a proper farewell. I really enjoy the atmosphere of the place. They play XRT type music and there is a whole lot going on. People are friendly and there is a constant lively chatter. It's pretty loud, but you can still hear your dining companions. The modern decor of the restaurant also gave me good vibes. It kind of has shades of Chipotle, but without as much of the Tin Man feel. The food and drinks? They're alright. Nothing really wrong with it, but just not much "wow" factor. I ate it. It was greasy and yummy. I paid WAY too much for it. If I remember correctly, a PBR and two slices of pizza were about $20. That's ridiculous. They do have one good deal. It's called the PB&J (P - Pizza, B - Beer & J - Jameson). It's a slice of pizza, a PBR and a shot of Jameson. I would have gone for that if Jameson and I hadn't had a falling out many years ago. I also saw they have some burger pizza that's $23. It better come with 5 strips of thick-cut bacon on each slice and do my laundry at that price.
(3)Gene X.
This place is pretty sweet. My friend Rebecca took me here after a few cocktails and bone marrow at Longman & Eagle and it was a nice change. The subway(?) motif is fun and it's got a pretty laid back vibe. We were there around midnight on a weeknight so it wasn't too crowded. They have a decent beer selection and since it was late enough, I had a hankering for something to nom on and so we ordered slices. The pizza here is really good! I got a sausage slice and it was huge, cheap and tasty! Definitely my favorite thin crust in Chicago (only been to a few other places so far - Coalfire, most recently). Definitely will be back next time I'm in the hood!
(4)Amanita M.
Very disappointing, considering the positive reviews on yelp. After ordering a whole pizza pie, the dirty bird, and the mozzarella balls: Considering the price: five buck for ten tiny mozzarella balls, we were disappointed that they tasted like old chicken grease. Nasty. The chicken wings w/ bbq sauce were horrible, tasted like they were soaked in grease and fried in lard. The overall opinion was that they were not fresh. The pizza: pepperoni with sliced tomato: the house sauce was tangy and tasty, the pepperoni was alright, but there was virtually no cheese and there was so much corn meal that it ruined the texture and altered the flavor. Final verdict: avoid everything fried, they recycle their oil too much, and everything fried tastes absolutely terrible. The pizza is alright, 7 out of 10, if you like new york style, ultra thin crust with minimal cheese. The house sauce has good flavor, and the pepperoni is decent, but for the price.... I would go somewhere else.
(1)Kayleigh M.
Jameson Ice Cream. This may be the only real reason I go. The pizza is pretty lame and the beer selection is on par with most places in the area. I live so close to this place I think I only frequent it because it's convenient. Atmosphere is definitely relaxed. One time I showed up with a few friends on a Friday night to be told it was a 45 minute wait. I literally laughed in the door guy's face so I feel I should apologize. It wasn't you, you were great, but anyone willing to wait 45 minutes for TBR is insane.
(3)Kathleen C.
I was talked into visiting the Boiler Room, so as you can imagine, I was quite skeptical....Promised that it was "just off of the blue line", I grudgingly went along with this. Wow, I was surprised. First of all, it was directly across from the blue line (I was sure that was a fib...). Secondly, it wasn't so overly crowded that we couldn't snag a table. We had to share with two really drunk guys...but it is a bar, so I'll let it slide. The atmosphere is cute - very unique..and who doesn't love a good viewing of National Lampoon's (random vacation...) in mirror images above the bar? Atmosphere is a 4. I had a glass of wine (I know, don't judge...) which was surprisingly good. We shared three slices...classic, sausage and the boiler room. I was shocked that I liked the boiler room pizza as I don't like giardiniera, but it was really delicious. The crust was pretty good and the pizza was tasty, though I'd like a little more done-ness on the bottom of the crust. However, food was a 4. Service was slow, but it was a bit busy. They were really friendly as well, so I won't knock the timing quite so much. Service is a 3. Value...seriously...$7 for a beer, shot of whiskey AND a slice of pizza? I can't even get a slice of pizza for that. The wine was reasonable as well and the individual pizza slices were cheap as well. A solid 5 for value. As to the bathrooms...they ROCKED...who doesn't love going to use the bathroom in an el? Well, you don't have to guess what that's like anymore...albeit, much cleaner! 5 for bathrooms! So, I guess I'll have to come back since I liked it so much...ok, I lose...I shouldn't have been such a baby about going....
(4)Johnny T.
From the other reviews, it appears as though I got very lucky with my Boiler Room experience. Wow! After wanting to try it for months, I finally found the right time to meet up with a long-lost buddy and get some booze and pizza and catch up. The location right under the California stop is crazy-convenient. You don't have to deal with late buses or street parking to get a (responsible) drink on. I dig it. The interior is dark but really well-designed. I think I would enjoy walking around and checking out the details. My buddy arrived before I did and he had a seat at the bar. I joined him. Turns out, that was a wise decision. Had we had table service, this might be a different review. But, it's not. We sat at the bar, ordered the PB & J (and another slice of pizza, each), did the shot, folded the pie and started catching up. Yeah, the bartender wasn't particularly friendly, but we didn't need him to be. He wasn't a waiter. He was a bartender. He got our orders to us quickly and left us alone. Good show. The pizza reminded me of Santullo's and that's a good thing. The slices were wide and thin. The sauce is the slightest bit tangy, the crust is chewy and the sausage is crumbly. These are all pluses to me. I'm not much of a barfly (I tend to enjoy my drinking curled in the fetal position in a corner), but the seats were comfortable enough that my a$$ wasn't hurting after sitting on a stool for such a long time. Another win. For $7.50 (before that second slice of pizza), you could do far worse than a shot, a beer and some pizza. Sit at the bar and enjoy some good conversation with a friend. (judging from other reviews) Don't come here with a group and sit at a table. You might 'enjoy' a completely different experience. Keep it simple: one friend, one shot, one beer, two slices.
(4)Rachel H.
PBJ is the thing here, I know. In fact, I came in assuming this is how the night would go down. I oddly enough even ate a real PBJ sandwich for lunch today, yet that's not what I got. I was lured by better beers and I didn't really need a shot. Boiler Room does indeed have a respectable beer list, and a respectable pizza list, even for slices. The sausage slice absolutely hit the spot. The boyfriend super enjoyed his veggie slice which changes up frequently, and this evening's slice choice involved veg. bacon. Blasphemy to myself, an angels' choir to him. We also grabbed a couple salads which were very fresh and were a good complement to the pizza. The patio also seems pretty appealing, especially since it was a little warm inside what with all the pizza baking going on. Maybe the service was slower than I'd hoped for in a slice and brew spot, but that slice was damn good, and we were able to ascertain the lowdown of the horrible action movie being played throughout. It was called "The Last Sentinel" and was purchased in a box set at Strack & Van Til for like $4 if you're interested. Or you could just watch it over a delicious slice at The Boiler Room. Cash only, homies
(4)Angie M.
Just a few things to note. 1. The back patio is where it's at. It's pretty spacious and the best part is you can smoke back there. Huzzah! I'm confused by the staircases leading nowhere, but I'll let it pass. 2. They're out of a lot of things on Sunday. While I appreciate our server telling us that they're out of polenta, I'm also not loving that he told me that they get their food deliveries on Monday so most of the stuff you're getting by Sunday is old. Weak, yo. Don't make me feel like my chicken satay appetizer is sub par.
(3)Shannon L.
I like this place...like the atmosphere...like the feel...like the specials...plus the ladies room handi-man stall had my name written all over it so I felt very at home. We had great service, I liked the crowd. I'll be back. Plus the PB&J special is pretty amazing. I didn't love the pizza. I liked a lot about the pizza but it just wasn't flavorful enough for me...I first ordered the Boiler Room Slice which had PBR meatballs and giardinara. It was light on the meatballs (I only spotted on on the big slice) and the giardinara is served cold on top. However, our waitress happily told me that she would heat it up for me (in fact she brought me a whole new slice with warm giardiniera) and apologized for not telling me this is an option when I ordered. With the newly warmed giardinara, the slice was pretty good. The 2nd slice I ordered was pepperoni and sausage...and it just had no flavor...neither the sauce or the meat. It was a little confusing. It looked amazing (love the thin crust)...it just needed a little more flavor. Anyway, like I said before. I'll be back and I'll order the pizza again (this time with warm giandinara).
(4)Robin W.
How can you not love this place?! Especially during the summer! The outdoor patio is great! It's a great place to just chill with a group and have some drinks. The beer list is decent and the specialty drinks are good and STRONG. I had great, friendly service the couple of times I have been here. It's super easy to get to, right off the blue line and with multiple bus lines just down the street. And the pizza! I love a quick slice of New York style pizza every once in awhile! I know that might be blasphemy in Chicago, but I'm getting old and my metabolism can't handle the super thick, super fatty Chicago-style pizza very often anymore! After a beer (or four), a thin, crispy slice of NY pizza is just what you need. There are plenty of veg options too, and even... ew... seitan toppings. Also who would pass up the PB&J special??? Not peanut butter and jelly, but pizza, beer and jameson!! For $7.50. Love :)
(5)Minjee Y.
This place has a good vibe. Nice ambiance. I love the videos the play. Happy Gilmore is on. Hell yeah. $7.50 for a super large pizza. A big PBR. AND A shot. That's a deal....... I love it here. It's nice. I will be coming back. The pizza here is great. Get the purist one. It's the best!!!
(4)David S.
Ok, this is some damn good pizza, damn good! I'm not usually a fan of thin crust "New York Style" (and this was physics-bendingly thin shit) pizza but the vegan options (daiya cheese, variety of seitan), cornmeal crust and fresh ingredients won me over. I ordered the "F**k New York" cocktail to balance things out and it was stiff and tasty. Service was a bit spotty but friendly. The bathrooms made me feel at home too cuz peeing in the corner of a train is how I usually do it anyways. This place is a no-brainer. Fucking go already.
(4)J M.
Stopped in for a quick round with a friend, en route to going home one weekend night. Couldn't believe how rude the staff was, they act like big babysitters to their patrons. I left laughing at the level of unprofessionalism. but maybe that is what happens working at a four a.m. bar. maybe they should just like their jobs better......
(1)Piedad M.
I've been here three times. I really hate going to places like this because its gentrifying the neighborhood my family had once made their home. The first time I waited over fifteen minutes for a undercooked joke of a slice. Second time it was OK. Third time, I didn't even get served. I just waited and waited and waited If I wanted to be ignored I'd hang out with my boyfriend. At least its endearing when he does it. The cook finally noticed me and he told me I had to order with the bartender. I waited for him but rain man was still trying to figure out what a couple beers adds up to. I couldn't believe he was struggling to wrap his head around basic math to close his checks. The music here is also bad. It's like their taste in music has not progressed since they started skateboarding in 7th grade. A better location for this business would be in the basement of The Alley. The Boiler room does nothing to diversify the Logan Square neighborhood. It's generic at best. I really hope this place doesn't last through the winter. P.S. I don't give a sh*t about Jameson being on tap.
(1)Michael F.
Amongst the 50 new bars and restaurants that have opened in Logan Square in the past two weeks, Boiler Room is one of my favorites. The pizza is good, and the selection has vastly improved since they first opened. Previously, a customer could not choose their own ingredients, but had to make a selection of a few types of pizza the Boiler Room decided on; I thought Mussolini was dead! Things have changed, though. Now democracy rules, and the options are plentiful. You can pick your cheese, your sauce, and, wait for it, even the ingredients. I especially like that they offer seitan versions of meat options such as sausage, meatballs, and gorilla. Boiler Room also has an excellent rotating beer selection, and Jameson on tap if you can't wait that extra two seconds it would take for them to find the bottle. Also, visit the bathroom, even if you don't have to vomit. It is designed like an el car right down to a recording of the sounds. It's similar to another restroom designed like an el car called the Red Line.
(4)Brook E.
This place makes my kind of pizza. The crust is perfect--think thin chewy crust, not too crispy or flopsy. So far I've just gotten the purist, because I haven't been in a big enough group just to get a pizza--but it is soooo good--not to much cheese, you can taste the tomato and balsamic reduction. Waitstaff here is hit or miss, some of the waiters can be a bit stand-offish. However, at least everything is prompt, and they come around often enough. One waiter spilled a little bit of spinach/artichoke on my jeans when clearing, and he gave us a free shots of whiskey for the trouble. So take away one star for stand-offishness, but add one star for throwing money at a problem. Back to five stars! Kind of weird that they don't accept credit cards, but the prices are low enough that it's acceptable. Final word of advice: do not skip ordering a cone of the whiskey soft-serve ice cream for dessert. It may make you a little tipsy because it's that strong, but oh so creamy and good.
(5)Theresa C.
I always pass this place on my way to Logan Bar and wish I were coming here instead, but alas, trivia is still at Logan... Anyhoo, The Boiler Room. It's a nice place. The bathroom is a little kitch, but it's clean and it works, so win. We sat at the bar, so I can't really comment on servers, and it was pretty empty on a Sunday afternoon, so everything was quick and easy. The bar itself is kind of small, but because it wasn't crowded we sat and watched a football game while we ate. We ordered pizza, we got the Boiler Room pizza, which comes with sausage and giardiniera. It was really fantastic. Some other people have complained about the plainness of the simple pizzas (and it is important to do a good plain cheese or one topping pizza), but the specialty stuff is where it's at with this place. I also like a really thin pizza, so I liked this a lot. You just have to get a little adventurous, try something new and exciting and delicious. The beers on tap are excellent and they have specials for during games and special events and the like. Overall the meal was delicious, the atmosphere was pleasant and the drinks were awesome. I would come here WAY more often if I lived closer and weren't so committed to that Logan Bar Trivia.
(4)Marissa K.
After not having been here for a while (but ordering takeout a few times), I gave it another chance, and they seemed to have stepped up their game. While the crowd is generally not for me, that's not something they can control. Service was satisfactory, even on a busy night. Chicken satay and fried mozzarella balls were excellent. The salads are a little overpriced for what you're getting, I would recommend adding meat to them to give them some substance. The purist pizza was absolutely delicious, and while they still have some strange pizza concoctions, they seem to get the basics right. Cash only is still pretty obnoxious, especially in this day and age, and the wine is SEVERELY lacking. I would avoid at all costs and go with the safe choice of a craft brew instead. I'm not sure if it's their choice in wine or the way it's kept/stored, but I had a glass of Pinot Noir and a Cabernet that both tasted sour and almost spoiled. Overall, a place I like for takeout more than dining in, but still solid. Oh yeah, and please, please, please Boiler Room, when someone orders takeout, DO NOT PUT COLD FOODS UNDER THE HEAT LAMP!!! I do NOT want my salad getting warm and gross if I'm not there to pick it up the second it's ready. It can't be that difficult to let your staff know this!
(3)marc r.
This place is quite simply the best place for pizza in Chicago. Just get the PB&J with whatever slice suits you best - Pepperoni and Purist are the best. That is all.
(5)Sarah N.
Vegan Pizza! At first the whole pizza seem pricey, but believe me, they are huge, and its nice to not be charged extra for making the pizza vegan. The crust was awesome, super thin, and cooked perfectly. Our server was good, and the pizza came out pretty quickly. Yes, it's cash only, that's annoying, but I can deal.
(4)Patrick H.
Great for drinks and food. They only take cash but will give you a shot to cover the atm fee. The atmosphere is great and very unique. They also have jamison on tap which is pretty fricken awesome.
(4)Celia G.
We went back there a couple of months later hoping that this place might have improved. It's really close by my place and of course I wanted it to do well. However, it was again a very disappointing experience. Cash only just blows. They try to make up for it by giving you a jameson shot with the ATM receipt. They tell you that $2.5 ATM fee for a $3 shot, but don't forget your bank charge you too. So, you pay at least $5 to get cash and you only get one $3 shot... Furthermore, the bartender not only asked you to show him the ATM receipt to get a Jameson shot, he wanted to keep it too. This is EXTREMELY invasive because the receipt shows the amount of money you have in your checking account. This time, the hotestess was not very bright. Even if you put your name down, she would not remember your name or face or bother to call out your name. She literally and simply gives the seat to whoever she thinks is the right person. The food is still average and you can get WAY better pizza at Revolution Brew just down the street. Two thumbs down. .
(1)Rafael H.
You gotta get the PB&J. It's a slice of pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson. This place has Jameson on tap. Great atmosphere. I've had better pizza but this place is good nonetheless. The bathrooms are really cool. When you walk in, you hear the voice of the CTA man who calls the Logan Square stop and you even get the ding from the bell ... as if you were in the blue line. They have a really good selection of beer. BTW, it's cash only. They have an ATM inside. If you have to use it though, they will give you a free shot of Jameson. I will be coming here again!
(4)Mark K.
So apparently there isn't much boiled food going on at Boiler Room. Oh the deceit! Luckily, they bake some really solid pizza pies! Combine that with shockingly affordable Jameson, The Warriors playing at the bar, and you'll have a fuzzy good time. The crust is as close to perfection as any non-buttered variety can achieve: crispy on the ends with the right amount of chew in the center. The Boiler Room slice is decked out with a mild julienned giardiniera and PBR meatballs. Now that's how you win my heart. And there are some unique beer options on tap including a pear cider and raspberry ale. Oh and $3 Jameson shots? Don't mind if I do. Boiler Room never seemed crowded on the Friday night I went despite the dining area seemluing at capacity. It appears a little claustrophobic from the outside, but once you're seated there is a great sense of space around you. For such a popular and well patronized restaurant, I never felt rushed or packed in. It was as laid back as a slice of pizza and a beer could be.
(4)Ed P.
Me and my girlfriend are from the east coast and both agree this is the best thin crust pizza you're gonna get in Chicago. we've never been treated poorly , although service has been a little slow on a couple of occasions. Usually just get slices. You can't best the purist. The special slices are always pretty good and different. The whole pies are a bit pricy but you will need some friends to help you eat one anyway. The beer selection is good. While the decor is overdone, it still has a good neighborhood atmosphere. Gets very busy on Friday and Saturday nights; expect to wait a while.
(4)Egan V.
Boiler Room offers vegan pizza options!
(5)Jean C.
For some reason, I am on a pizza craze. I just can't get enough of it. Which makes the hubs happy since he could eat it more often than not. Our neighbors have many good things to say about this place that we decided to come here after selecting our Blackhawks games. We were seated immediately at a long communal table. This communal table is so different than other places because you aren't sitting on top of the people next to you at all. It's spacious and the benches are oddly comfortable. We weren't too hungry so ordering a whole pie was out. I got the Purist and the hubs got the Boiler Room slice. This is New York style pizza folks. You have to fold that bad boy if you want to eat it with your hands. And the pizza was delicious. We ended up splitting a slice of pepperoni as well. And it came split for two so we didn't have to deal with the mess. For $3-$4 a slice depending on what you get, it is a great deal. I can't wait to come back with a group of people. I have my eye on the New Haven. And I won't be satisfied until I try it.
(5)Dawn K.
Let's get to the point- the spinach + artichoke dip and the Purist Pizza is the way to go. The mozzarella on that pizza isn't the best, but not bad- great cheese should stretch! The service is pretty awesome, and it was amazingly cheap. All 4 of us got drinks, shared a pie and an appetizer. $60 including tip, and all of us were pretty damn full. They also have booze soft serve- Jameson is on there regularly and they usually have a special (it was orange creamsicle when I got mine) for $3. ONLY get it if you love both booze and ice cream. I sadly, only love one (ice cream is greater than booze. message me if you'd like to duel it out). Alcohol was strong and the texture was as normal as a soft serve could be. This place is cash only, but if you use their ATM during the weekends, they give you a shot. Not bad, right? Also, a special tip to light-weight drinkers: go for the Mouse in a House! Super light, fizzy, and taste of real ginger! i die.
(4)kat m.
MMmmmm PIZZA First things first: -Have your ID ready -You may have to share a huge table with another party - Get a % off on Thursdays if you dress to theme - Great special every day of the week P.B.J. $7.50 (Pizza, Beer *Blue Ribbon, Shot of Jameson ) This a Neighborhood spot for me. Don't be confused, your are on the North Side and No this is not Simones. They do share the same owners I believe. The pizza is very good , crispy crust and big pie cut slices. If you order the P.B.J. make sure to order it together if you order in any other combination they will charge you separate. Aside from the service I love the Boiler room but still Every time I go I am faced with a server with little time and way too many tables. All criticisms aside I still go back, so that must say something. Just wish the service was better. (PS check out the Restrooms before you leave)
(3)Katie R.
finally i made my way to the boiler room and i'm glad i did! we were starving, so had chips n' dip for an appetizer - i was most impressed by the yucca chips more than anything. i mean, they were really amazing. the dip, not so much, but overall very good due to the chips alone. we had the lombardi. the combination of flavors was perfect, they put on the perfect amount of sauce (can't stand dry pizza) and the crust was sooo delicious. thin, partially crispy but partially not - i can't even explain, but the ingredients alone made it so yummy. also, the pizza was hugggeee! loved it! our waitress was really sweet but service was a little slow - not a problem for me, but i know it can be for others. also, the beer was good and prices were comparable.
(4)Pete H.
I'll spare you the review foreplay this time and get right down to business. You want to order the PBJ. For $7.50 you get: P - Pizza: a damn tasty slice (I recommend the Boiler Room--meat balls & giardinara... tastebuds 1, butthole 0). B - Beer: a delicious, icy cold tall boy of PBR. J - Jameson: Jameson. After two PBJ's, I'm king of the mountain. I love it, my friends love it, grandmas love it, kids love it. Go love it.
(5)Michael T.
For those who worship the thin crust (or people who want to convert), check this place out! Ignore the fact that this place has been architectured for the hippster and try their pizza. Each pie is floated in the oven on a bed of cornmeal. The often overlooked technique has armed The Boiler Room with a crust that is thin with a crispy skin but once you bit into it, it has a soft chewy core. For the people looking to be converted to thin crust - this is the place to go. Your complaints of a cracker like crust will not be experienced here. Do not try the "by the slice" on your first go. The reheating process takes away from the oven-fresh crust. For the hippsters: * Hippster style decor * "Slumming it" beer selection (like PBR) * $7.50 PB&J special - PBR, Jameson, & Pizza Slice * Bathroom is styled (and sounded) like a CTA train car * Other sauce options (cause tomato is too main-stream) Not for the hippsters on a trust fund: * CASH ONLY * The tomato sauce is the best
(4)Erika C.
I'm so glad I live around the corner from this place. Every time I go, we order at least two pies. Each time, one of the pies has been "meh" while the other has been excellent. My two favorites so far are the Castro and the Purist. The Lombardi and Russ' Greek Diner are just OK. The former is too bland while the latter has an overwhelming amount of feta cheese. You can't go wrong with a slice of sausage. This place has an excellent beer list. Cash only. There's an ATM inside. Show your receipt to the bartender and they'll give you a shot of Jameson (to compensate for the ATM transaction fee).
(4)Kimberly N.
Mmm, pizza. We all know I love pizza, or at least NOW we all know I love pizza. And I think I love The Boiler Room. I LIKE the pizza, but I'm not totally in love. It is more like a huge crush, like I'll think about it a lot, but I'm not making any commitments here. It is all about hangin' out, drinking beer (they only have good beer, and, of course, PBR), eating pizza, and watching the erotic vampire flicks on the mirrored TV at the bar. Also, the decor is awesome reclaimed stuffs. It is the kind of atmosphere you want to hang around with friends at, not take a first date to, unless she likes punk rock, horror, and whiskey (hey, I like this new girl!). It reminds me of a dive bar, but it isn't one. Does this make sense? Oh, and the balsamic glaze on the purist is heaven. I want to eat that stuff on ice cream.
(4)Nicole S.
Love this place! I love the vibe, the pizza is amazing and they serve Original Sin Cider which is one of my favorites! We had a difficult time deciding what pizza to try because they have some really interesting options, but we settled on the BBQ pizza with shredded pork and chicken (half and half) and carolina slaw. The crust was nice and thin and cooked perfectly, and the topping flavors really complemented one another. I wasnt sure about the slaw at first , but it was peppery and seemed to give it a nice extra "bite". Now I'm definately going to have to return to try some of the others. For a Tuesday night the place was packed and we had really great service so no complaints here!
(5)Mackenzie R.
Okay, spoiler alert: I'm not a hipster. However, I am pretty sure this does not preclude me from getting good service. I mean, I don't think so, but I'm not really up on the rules, so I could be wrong. I went to Boiler Room with a bunch a friends a few weeks ago and they could not have been more rude to us. We shouldn't have to ask again and again for basic things like water and napkins, right? It was especially frusterating because they were not even particularly busy, it just appeared that they legitimately did not care about our experience. Maybe I'm wrong, again, I don't have the hispster rulebook.
(1)Meghan K.
Boiler Room. What's the deal? It make me sad that I can't give you 5 stars, cause the PBJ is a 5 star commodity. But, as of late..... your staff... from rude hostesses to waiters who show up once, I just don't get it. I'm always ready and willing to spend plenty o' cash on pizza, beer and Jameson, but if you don't come back to my table, I simply cannot spend it. Because I can't order. And I really do LOVE this pizza, it's delicious. But I just don't appreciate the hostess rolling her eyes at my group when we ask for a table, even though no one else is waiting.
(2)Phil F.
Probably wont be going back to this place anytime soon, unless it is just for beer. Even then, there are a lot better places. First of all, the fact that it is only cash is lame. I think cash only works at places with crappy beer and cheap food. This place is def on the expensive side of things. Also, you cannot split a pizza.....you have to get a whole pizza with only one selection of toppings. Double lame. And the pizza was not that good, underseasoned and not what we were execting. Its weird that the experience was so different from the first but whatever....overall, it pails in comparison to Piece on North Ave. ;(
(2)Meredith O.
As a Chicagoan, I feel it's safe to say that I know good pizza. The Boiler Room, though different from traditional Chicago style pizza, is unique and equally delicious. Haven't had a bad pie there, but will say that the Cuban is my favorite - garlic oil, cheese, pulled pork, ham, bacon, spicy mustard and home-made pickles. They have a great beer selection and love the fact that all of the booths, decorations and even the bathrooms are made from recycled pieces. The location is perfect, literally steps from the California blue line stop. Just remember cash! They don't accept credit/debit cards.
(5)Jessica G.
I was super excited to check out our new neighborhood pizza place and grab a Friday evening drink. Unfortunately, I will not be returning. I am gonna stick to my $4.50 sol del sur burrito instead. And if I feel the need to spend a bigger wad of cash I will walk over to lula. The Pizza: I appreciate their use of thin crust, but the crust flavor was a bit lacking and too flimsy for my liking. I tried the basic cheese and the purist. Both were minimal and delicate, which I liked. But the flavor on both was flat. Not enough punch in their house cheese blend. And the purist was nothing special--I was expecting much more from the balsamic glaze. Their red sauce was completely unmemorable. The Drinks: Cider, PBR tall boys, and Gin/Tonics were had by our group. Decent prices on their beer. But $6 for a small well drink (with bad limes) is pushing it. The Music: Completely distracting. Think 2002 Oz Fest. No thank you. The Service: Slow.
(2)Julie A.
The Purist slice was delicious, the beet salad was just ok and the chips and dip were - well, the chips were good. But they had a nice beer list and the pizza is why I will be coming back often. And the have the coolest bathroom in Chicago. (for ladies).
(4)Angie M.
Shooting whiskey is not on my " to do" list these days. But The Whiskey Gods got a hold of me at The Boiler Room and I gave in to the whole "it's chilled on tap" novelty. Ten minutes after we sat down, I was shooting whiskey. Next I ordered a Golden Monkey beer. This beer is solid. Let's just say the conversation quickly turned from BP's evil doings to types of men and women's underwear... On to the pizza. I've been here five times and have tried a decent number of their pizzas. The Purist (mozzarella, balsamic, basil) wins my vote for their best. The cheese is pretty tasty too. The Logan (pulled pork, mole, chihauhau, onion, cheese) needed more mole...or cheese...or something. It was a bit bland. I didn't really like the Egg pizza (pancetta, egg, pesto, arugula) either. I'm now a firm believer that eggs do not belong on pizza. What can I say, I'm a Purist. The service here is not bad. Or good. They take a nonchalant attitude, which is not bad. Or good. I'm not a fan of the Cash Only rule. Yeah, they have an ATM inside, but that ATM charges me $3 to take out cash. Bah. I would understand if it's a dive bar ran by some old Grandpa, but that's not the case here. It's the 00's, who carries cash anymore?
(4)Mike U.
the boiler room pizza is so satisfying: sausage and onions...wash it down with a nice Alpha King...so good! mozzarella balls and mac and cheese were also nice surprises As noted this place is cash only, but the free shot of Jameson for using their ATM is a nice gesture!
(4)Elizabeth S.
I can't stop thinking about the Purist pizza. Fresh mozzarella. Basil. Balsamic reduction. Thin crust. Giant slices. So simple. SO AMAZING. Paired with a Young's Double Chocolate Stout - best meal ever. It's cash only, but if you use their ATM & give them your receipt, they'll give you a free shot of Jameson.
(5)John W.
So, yeah, the PB&J (Pizza, pbr Beer and Jameson) is a little too hipster-iffic, but damn if it doesn't taste great on a warm night. And this is Logan Square, so it's done with a wink and a nod, not a pair of skinny jeans and cowboy boots. I could talk about the decor, but you know that. Let's talk about how amazing our server was. She was dressed up like Alice (Wonderland, not Cooper), and sweeter than we had any right to expect on a busy Friday night. When you leave a place drunk, stuffed, and in the throes of a new crush...isn't that pretty much perfect?
(5)Jamie J.
It's good I don't live a 2-minute walk from here, as I did a few years ago. I finally checked it out and definitely enjoyed myself. The Cuban pizza was excellent and the house-made pickles were my second favorite part after the ham. The bacon and roast pork just made it better. We had the mozzarella ball special for an app and the pesto it comes with hit the spot. Our server was friendly and attentive. Yeah, the crowd runs toward the hipsterish. Hipsters gotta eat too, but I don't get the PBR thing. Fortunately they have a beer list with several area breweries well represented. And, obviously, Jameson on tap. The L train bathroom I didn't care for. I've already got too many mental connections between the CTA and toilets.
(4)Steve R.
Stopped in on the way home from another outing, just out of curiosity over the new joint in the 'hood. Decor - kinda interesting, was surprisingly empty when I went in. Perplexingly so. Beer - selection of taps was nice. Nothing jaw-droppingly unusual but I was perfectly happy. Service: Fine. I only dealt with the bartender. She was as fast and friendly as I need a bartender to be. Pizza: Purty darn good. Grabbed a slice for the road, which they put into an absurdly oversized box. That's gonna make 'em go broke, I could have sent that thing to Uganda as-is via international mail and it would have made it there intact. Just tried the cheese. Didn't blow me away and I was fairly buzzed, but it fit the bill at the time. Music: top notch.Old Stooges, Johnny Thunders and the like. Pretty tailored to the rock tastes of the modern hairy guy. OVerall it was decent. I can see it improving over time, I will return to check it out again. I don't get the 5 star reviews, but maybe I caught 'em on an off nite. The cash-only thing is weak.
(3)Jim D.
Yeah. The pizza is that awesome. Dripping with deliciousness. $7.50 for a PBR tall boy, Jameson and slice of pizza. Can't beat that. It looks cool at first inside, and the bathroom makes you feel like a homeless guy going on a subway car, because it's themed like a subway car, which is cool. It's not really the place to watch a sporting event at all. But, it's a neat place to go with friends. I really liked it.
(4)Colin B.
I gotta admit, i had pretty low hopes /expectations for this joint. I was thinking - great, another psuedo yuppie bar in my neighborhood is the last freaking thing i wanted - at least it's by the train.... however, i went last night for the first time and was pleasantly surprised. The decor is interesting - salvaged items and a bathroom that was modeled after the el. it was just a shade below kitsch - perhaps the bathroom was a bit over the top, and usually my tolerance for bull sh*ttery like that is pretty low (it could have been altered by the 7 beers and 2 shots i'd had already). To say i wasn't annoyed, and even enjoyed the decor is refreshing. You'll just have to see it for yourself. As others have mentioned, the PB&J is the deal to get. It's not a real shot, it's probably a half shot, but still- that's a good deal. the pizza I got is great. I forgot the name of it, but there was basil / balsamic reduction / fresh mozzarella on it. In fact, i ordered another PB&J because it was so good. Their vegetarian options were somewhat lacking if i remember correctly,m but i'm not too picky when it comes to pizza. the crust was interesting - none of this chicago deep dish crap, but rather thin, flour-y crust. i kinda liked it. Service was great and attentive although someone we were with knew here so that kind of skews it a bit i'm sure. Either way, i'm glad to say i'm excited to have this place in the hood and will probably be going there a fair amount for drinks, food, or both in the future.
(4)Erica R.
The Boiler Room has become a regular hang out for us when we're in Logan Square. I'm not the biggest fan of hipster hangouts, but despite the plaid shirts & endless cans of PBR this place is pretty cool. I like their beer selection as well as a few of their creative cocktails (can't remember the name, but one taste like milk and comes with Cinnamon Toast Crunch on the side). Their pizza has been a lifesaver when I needed something to eat after a show at the Congress. And while I'm usually slightly intoxicated by the time we stop here, I'm sure I wouldn't be opposed to a sober afternoon bite to eat (especially on their lovely patio out back). Oh yeah, check out the women's restroom... definitely one of the coolest in Chicago.
(3)Rhea B.
I"m excited that this is here. It's nice to have non ghost town places to visit within walking distance from my house. My biggest downside? The amount of doucheyness this place is already attracting. I liked how separate my neighborhood was from Lakeview/Lincoln park/Wrigleyville but now it's turning that way. I hate to sound like yet another hipster whining about gentrification but I guess I just am. Also, I'm sure many people are sick of vegans bitching about not having food options but seriously, all I could really get was fries. Be inventive! Do you know how many vegans there are in this side of town? Apparently not, because if you had even on vegan option, you'd be even more packed. Maybe that's just not the clientele you're looking for?
(3)Carrie S.
For months and months, I waited for this fabled pizza place to open since it's insanely close to our abode. Last night, we finally came in for our weekly pizza night. Boiler Room's great on first impressions with their well thought out decor and stylish digs. However, their door staff is a little lazy and forgot to card us as we nearly entered the restaurant only to be stopped at the threshold. Also, being carded at 6:30p.m. on a Thursday is really lame. Our server was pretty attentive at first with getting us menus and explaining the pizza offerings. We went with some beers and a Boiler Room pizza from the sparse menu. Despite the restaurant filling with up for the dinner hour, our pizza arrived pretty quickly. The Boiler Room pizza's alright, nothing special. I wasn't fond of the sausage itself. It tasted way too much like hamburger instead of a sausage. I wasn't wowed by their pizza or its extremely thin crust. Their thin crust tried way too hard to be thin crust, but failed in its execution. It lacked the crisp crunch of a sturdy, yet robust thin crust. The pizza disappointed me so much. I wanted an awesome, artisanal pizza that's so memorable, I want to stop in weekly to experience it. Instead, Boiler Room's pizza made me less likely to return because it wasn't exciting, tasty, or filling. After we finished, it took awhile to get the check and change since it's cash only for now. All in all, Boiler Room's just alright. I hoped for a really great and creative pizza joint in the Logan Square I can show off to my out of town friends and say "look awesome it is that we have a great pizza joint nearby." It didn't deliver on that. Instead, it seems that they're much more focused on their great beer selection and decor while stand-out, memorable food is secondary.
(2)Ela G.
Hell yeah! This pizza crust is amazing - slightly crispy yet soft and chewy at the same time...bringing me back to New York, those streets'll make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you.......oohhh..... Although their menu is kinda small, they have the classics, including classic pepperoni and margarita, both with great fresh ingredients, as well as some more out of the box pizzas that will keep you happy and intrigued. They also have a great beer selection and thanks GM, for sending over the jameson shots, that's hard core, but I like it!!! They also make their own giardinara for the meatball pizza in house and it's tasty and perfect on the pizza, although I gotta say I wasn't a fan of the meatball...would've been better spicy or salted or something. They have a great outdoor patio and the women's ladies room even TALKS to you when you open the door, wow they really thought of EVERYTHING, that has so been lacking in my restroom experiences at other restaurants.
(5)Lauren S.
Things I like about Boiler room: tasty cocktails, tasty pizza and very cool environment. Things that make me stay away: crap service due to long wait times. Only ever seen two servers for the entire place which means you sit around waiting for...
(3)Monica L.
My husband and I love this place. We're new to Chicago and are often sticker-shocked by the price of a drink at some places...but at the Boiler Room, we can get a shot of Jameson for $3 every night of the week! (it helps that Jameson is our favorite shot anyway) We found our new place to be. The pizza's pretty good too. Thanks for putting up with us!!!
(5)Sarah S.
Great! The pizza was awesome - the purist pizza with balsamic was great, and the crust was perfect. Excellent beer list. I usually only give four stars even to places I really like, but the 5th star comes from the appetizer we got, which was a special, I think - polenta with tomatoes and pickled onion and other lovely things. It was so so good. Ambiance is trying a little too hard, but cute - it's got a sort of hipster faux-industrial thing going on, and the CTA decor in the bathrooms made me chuckle. Service was fabulous, and gave lots of recommendations. Check it out, definitely!
(5)Tanya M.
I wouldn't go out of my way for this place but it is conveniently located across the street from the california blue line stop. The menu is very small. The pizza is good for $3 a slice but nothing special, the beer selection is ok and they have whiskey on tap if you like whiskey. Our waitress was awful. She seemed very flustered even though it really wasn't terribly busy and wasn't very attentive. She mixed up our beer orders and we had to flag her down for enrything, The decor is cool. Seats made out of seat belts and old subway doors for bathroom doors. Plus instead of music in the bathroom its L stop announcements. They also have a tv in the back that shows you the solar panel (which is on their roof) data. I feel this place is more novelty then anything else
(3)Matty O.
Checked out the Boiler Room last Thursday while some friends were visiting from the Old Pueblo (Tucson). I heard this bar was setup by the same guys that designed Simone's (a bar I'm a big fan of). We ordered the hummus for starters. Excellent. They make they're own home fries to dip in it. Not a bad way to start off the meal. I enjoyed the fact you could get a slice, tall boy PBR, and a shot of Jamo for 7 bones. Not bad little hipster special. We decided to share the Fu Manchu. Definitely enjoyable, loved the sauce, could of used a bit more sauce in my opinion, good nevertheless. Not a bad Logan joint (though, should not be compared to Simone's besides on decor merit). Definitely, somewhere to pop in if you're in the neighborhood. Decor is cool, music was good, service was great, and the bathrooms resemble CTA cars (because who hasn't had the desire to take a whiz in a CTA car at some point, haha).
(4)Saverio T.
Cool space but the pizza is forgettable. I'm thin crust ONLY guy and found this pizza too thin (transparent even) and crust lacking substance. Prices are high for such a lightweight pizza. I prefer Piece in Wicker Park, hands down. Also don't be fooled by the free shot of kegged Jamison for using their ATM. It's a $3 fee plus your own bank's fee. They're not building a great rapport with me.
(2)Lissa C.
OMIGOD this pizza is amazing! I am so excited I discovered this place. The decor is super edgy and cool, the staff was nice, and the pizza was definitely in my top 5 best ever (this is taking some pretty serious authentic NY and Italian pizza into account, so that's saying something). My friend and I split the 'Purist' and next time I really want to try the buffalo chicken pizza. The one draw back is cash only, but it's a small downer compared to the great food, great bar selection, and unique atmosphere.
(5)Meghan B.
3.5 stars The overall atmosphere and decor of the Boiler Room is pretty sweet, and it was very laid-back on a Sunday night. I ordered a slice of pepperoni pizza, the Lost Coast white beer, and my friends and I split the polenta appetizer. Everything was good but I wasn't blown away. I'll probably come back sometime and try something more adventurous. Overall, I think the Boiler Room is a good addition to the neighborhood...the prices seem reasonable and the beer/drink list is pretty solid.
(3)Victor M.
It's Saturday night, 46 degrees in the month of April. Having some minor hunger pains from the previous ayce place, we decided to come here because it's chill and it wasn't really packed. Indeed it is chilled! As we engage into our conversations, couldn't help but to develop something to munch on. Fries and pizza. Fresh cut fries and crispy nyc pizza. On top of it all, $3 shots of Jameson. One of the best deals I can find when I'm out drinking.
(5)Colleen R.
"Like, there's this boiler room, in the basement by the north exit, where only certain people go. For only one reason...." When I think of "boiler room," I think of "My-So Called Life," for reasons obvious to fans of the show. So I'm already inclined to like a restaurant by that name. Fortunately, the yummy food makes it even easier to like it. A recent visit on a Saturday afternoon at lunchtime found the place nearly empty. Our waitress had a touch of an attitude, but thanks to the emptiness, service was fast so we didn't mind a bit of snippiness. The green salad we ordered was generously portioned, so we split it, and since we weren't in the mood to bring home leftovers, we each opted for a slice of pizza. The slices, topped with better-than-expected PBR meatballs, were more than enough food, and only $3 each. I'd be remiss if I failed to mention the ladies' room. The CTA kitsch that is infused in the restaurant's found industrial decor (including the large, raised communal tables) is kicked into overdrive, with train doors for the stalls and a recording playing the CTA"s "Now approaching: California" message on a loop. It's the kind of thing that's amusing once, but will it still be around in a year? Who knows. I'd be up for returning to the Boiler Room to watch a football game sometime, but from what I recall, the large screens by the bar were showing old movies instead of TV. So perhaps another quiet Saturday lunch is in order sometime soon.
(4)Dustin R.
This is a great place to go and hang out with friends, get some cheap pizza and drinking in before going out for the night. I love their alcohol flavored ice creams and the fries are surprisingly good as well. The ONLY problem with this place is some of the hosts and waiters, waitresses are rude and the service is lacking. Sometimes they will leave before even taking everyones orders. Considering I go here on an almost weekly basis and I bring in 10+ friends (customers for them) with me you would think we would get better service. So go prepared, if you have a large party you will have to wait.
(4)Katrina S.
As for the ambience: This I like. It has a cool industrial/rock/hipster vibe. They use a lot of reclaimed materials which is orignal and fits right in with today's eco-trends. The bar stools are made out of what seems to be seatbelts & reclaimed wood. They have a great patio too. As for the pie: the slices are huge but every time I've been here they are entirely inconsistent - not enough cheese, too much sauce, over cooked, under cooked, super floppy, not floppy, etc. Out of the 5 times I've been here I think it was once that I really enjoyed the pizza and it may have been because I'd had a "few" drinks. They do have some creative and delicious cocktails. As for the service: The staff are too cool for school - ala Kuma's or a few other hipster type joints I can think of. They seem very unenthusiastic about being there - seems they could give a shit if customers are there either. Having been in the service industry I don't need my ass kissed and will wait a while before I try to get the attention of a bartender or waiter. If you're like me and willing to wait until they get around to you - you could be waiting... and waiting.... I walked in recently and said, "Hi" to the guys making pizza (which is at the entrance). I thought it was the polite thing to do because there was eye contact. Totally snubbed. I went for pick up once and when the bartender finally got around to noticing me (with four people at a small bar) I gave him my name, paid and waited. I could see a few orders sitting a foot away from me for about 10 minutes so finally I asked, "Are one of those mine?" "oh, yeah." he said and with no eye contact he hands it to me and walks away. "Ummmm, thanks...?" I tipped him... For this?? I've heard the service is similar at Dante's and that the pie is the same style but superior so I think next time I am craving this type of pie I will give them a shot instead.. Summary: Cool atmosphere, inconsistent pie, not so much on the service... Cash only..
(3)Chris H.
Pizza is pretty good, beer selection is pretty good, the only thing holding this place back from a five star rating is the consistently poor service. The service at this place deserves one star, if that.
(4)Rebecca G.
Great big pizza slices and also my type of music. Super cool interior. From their most extreme pizza like the Cuban or maybe the Boiler Room it's all been tasty. Even their regular pizza that you can make yourself comes out delicious. Actually my favorite is the Purist (fresh basil, moz and a balsamic vinegar drizzle that is so good) Sometimes the crust can be burned but not usually. Wait staff has been cool. And are always nice to suggest what beer to have. The interior is made from recycled parts of transportation vehicles, I think from like "L" cars and maybe buses or trucks too? Just another cool feature. They also usually have a good movie playing on the mirrored screens behind the bar. Also I've tried their alcohol soft serve. It is alright but something about the frozen alcohol hurts your tongue. So you might want to try it, but I'll just drink my Jameson thank you.
(4)Michelle Z.
I love this freaking pizza. Thin and crisp and flavorful sauce and the toppings are plentiful. My favorite it sausage with mushrooms and arugula. ($22) I always get a whole pie when a slice would be more than enough but who doesn't love a slice of cold pizza? I'm not crazy about the grilled Cesar salad. Kinda bland. Seating is really uncomfortable but the pizza is so good here that I would sit on the sidewalk in the cold and eat it if I had to.
(5)Kaitlyn P.
We went to this place after a disastrous - let me repeat, disastrous - concert at the Congress Theater. So, we were looking for something to save the night. This place definitely did. I ordered the buffalo chicken and was warned by our waitress that it was large. She wasn't kidding; two full wings and two drumsticks later, I was stuffed and more than a little embarrassed by the mass of bones on the table next to me. But the chicken was crispy and well-seasoned, and the buffalo sauce hot, so I couldn't complain. The PB&J combo was too tempting to pass up, even if I felt like a hipster ordering it. The pizza that came with it was nothing fancy, but had a great thin crust. The subway theme didn't immediately jump out at me, but looking around after we had ordered our food, I liked its quirkiness. This theme carried over the the bathrooms, and actually made me laugh when I walked in. A nice bar to keep in mind for the next time a night needs saving.
(4)Clif P.
Don't waste your time and money here. Drinks are not cheap. The service wasn't great. Pizza is decent, but I've had better elsewhere. Cash only, not taking credit cards is rediculous. I can't possibly support an estiblishment that does this. I never carry I had high hopes for this place when I attended their grand opening (free pizza, cheap drinks). It's been very downhill the twice I've been since.
(1)Trevor H.
My partner and I are looking for apartments, and I seriously considered one solely on the basis that it was near The Boiler Room. I love this bar. Where else can you get drunk on ice cream during a hot day? The customers at the bar tend to be friendly and talkative, and a PBJ always hits the spot. Please don't ever change.
(5)Jeanette S.
Went here for a birthday dinner with a few friends. LOVED the pizza. The special was a cuban sandwich style pizza, a bitter's end drink and of course, a whiskey shot. The only problem I have is the slow service. The place wasn't crowded and I wasn't exactly expecting to wait around for the check! But other than that, it was really a surprising hit!
(4)KT P.
Loved it! You can't beat the PB&J(a choice of a slice, a PBR and a shot of Jameson on tap) for 7.50! The service was great. Our server brought one wrong slice so they gave us a free one! The purist is amazing. It is a great place for groups and I found the Metra themed restrooms amusing!
(4)Courtney C.
I rarely want pizza, but when I have a craving, I always go to the Boiler Room. Their pizzas are really thin crust, which I prefer, and the slices are huge. The Purist is my favorite: mozzarella, basil, balsamic vinaigrette. Their salads are tasty, too. Their draft beers are a rotation of seasonal crafts, but this is the best part: they have Jameson on draft! Jameson and I have had a long-standing relationship, and it took the Boiler Room to show me how much more I like Jameson when it is cold and slightly carbonated. I would say this was a life-changing discovery, but that makes me sound like more of a lush than I actually am. The decor at the the Boiler Room is fun: reconstituted wood, metal, and industrial fibers. And the restroom audibly makes the sound of the el stops (you know the guy who tells you which stop you're approaching.) I enjoy a restroom that will entertain me. About once a month they host PBR bingo, which is fun. You can win PBR-related prizes like shirts, socks, hats, and even free shots, free beers, or PBR soft-serve ice cream (which I thought I might hate, but actually wasn't that bad.)
(5)Arthur M.
Weird inside, in a good way. The TVs over the bar make up the viewfinder of a massive pair of binoculars.
(5)Sandra S.
I love this place. It gets crowded at night so get there early for a seat. Or it's perfect for gray, rainy day drinking (which is all we've had lately) with a big group too. Or if you want to get cozy they have smaller booths too. The pizza is delicious and I was pleasantly surprised at how good the [admittedly mundane choice of] grilled chicken salad was as well. So many places just use grilled chicken that came out of a bag. I could tell the kitchen had actually grilled a piece of real chicken on site. It's sad that now sets a place apart. But I digress...... I've had the same server every time I've been and he is A-1 top notch fantastic! I even enjoy the train announcements in the bathroom. If summer ever happens, I'll check out their patio too.
(4)jim w.
I must start with the fact that I am not a fan of the NY slice style of pizza, however this has nothing to do with the letdown this place was. Canned mushrooms guys? Really? I got a 26 dollar pizza and they couldn't splurge to use fresh? Sure, this is a big nit for me but I know it is from others as well, so you should know. Maybe at 12 bucks I would give this pizza a better rating but no way. I give it two stars because from what I saw inside the place, it looks like a cool room.
(2)Ryan H.
The pizza is not very good. The crust is too flimsy and covered in corn meal, the sauce was not very flavorful and the sausage and pepperoni weren't very good. My theory is the oven they use, which I believe is a roto-flex, allows them to cook more pizzas simultaneously than the traditional steel slab pizza ovens but results in a softer, less flavorful crust.
(2)naila t.
I like to call myself pizzagirl87, and this pizza rules! The crust and sauce is delicious and the cheese on the pizza has killer FLAVOR. Overall, you can't go wrong with the PB& J deal, $7.50! You can wait a while for a table on a friday night, but slices are always warm and fresh. GO PIZZA!!!!!
(4)Eric B.
Huzzah! Pizza slices have arrived in Logan Square. Our long national nightmare is ended. Its hard to believe I've lived in the hood for nigh 10 years yet have not been able to get a decent slice of pizza until a month ago. (Don't talk to me about Tony's!) This is the one area where Chicago has never been able to match New York City, where you can't throw a rock without hitting a pizza joint with a slice ready for your consumption. The pizza slices aspire to NYC style, and come close to meeting that high standard. However, het Boiler Room's fare is not quite prime time -- the base of the crust is a bit too flimsy to be proper NYC pizza. Despite that, the cheese and the pepperoni and the basil combine for a tasty slice that properly rolls up and can be eaten one hand, New York style. For patrons of a certain age, one slice will satisfy, but the twenties version of yours truly will need two or three slices to achieve satisfaction. Its good stuff, shortcomings notwithstanding. The location is great, as well, steps off the California Blue Line stop, perfect for a slice and a beer after work. The beer list is extensive, but they need to iron out supplies - I wanted a Lion Lager, yet they were out on my visit. Disappointing, but other appealing options were available. While I did not exhaustively inventory the bourbon collection, my boozer friends will be pleased to know that Buffalo Trace is available, which is likely indicative of other small batch selections, as well. The decor has a funky industrial vibe, and I mean industrial as in metal shop class, not Ministry. Its pretty cool, but practically speaking the bathrooms should have a higher capacity. I'd hate to see the line at 11 PM on a Friday. The bar has oval video screens installed behind it, which were broadcasting The Outsiders when I visited, at 7 PM on a Monday evening. Here's hoping that the double bill is Blue Velvet and Lost Highway on Friday nights. Heineken? F*ck that shit. Pabst Blue Ribbon! The clientele will LOVE it.
(3)Ashley R.
Went here the other day with a girlfriend. It was pretty slow when we got there which was nice. Our waitress was sweet and super cute. We both got the PB&J which was the best deal. Pizza, PBR and a shot of Jamo for $7? I'm sold. I also enjoyed the music and the Wes Anderson filmography playing at the bar. Will be going back ASAP.
(5)Angie C.
What can get better than a special which includes a piece of pizza, a tall boy, and a shot of Jameson straight off tap? I just moved into the Logan Square area and this is an amazing addition to the neighborhood. Like it's sister, Simone's in Pilsen, it has a great edgy, and hip decor and feel. The patio is a great place to hang out and enjoy drinks (just bundle up with the new nighttime lows). They have great tasting pizza, with eclectic and classic toppings. I've tried the purist (delicious), and the boiler room, and can't wait to come back and try the bbq chicken and buffalo chicken pizzas. They also have very interesting drinks which I really would like to try in the coming months. This is most definitely going to become a staple in my repertoire of Logan Square hangouts and I highly recommend you at least try it out. Their prices are just in my ballpark (most drinks are not over $8) and you get an amazing amount of food for your buck.
(4)Megan L.
I checked out Boiler Room last weekend - I'm always a bit hesitant to try places right after they open, but decided what the heck. The decor is cool - very industrial. Also very dark. Like, could be challenging for some people to read the menus dark. I like it, but I can see other people having issues. Also, I am obsessed with the painting that was behind my friend. Very cool art in this place. But you want to know about the food, right? It was solid. We only went for slices - my friend had the pepperoni and I had the Purist, which is fresh mozz, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic. Yum! The rest of the pizzas on the menu sounded good too, so we're looking forward to trying them. I was also pretty pleased with the food prices. I'm dinging a star for two reasons. One, they're cash only. I'm hoping they're planning taking credit cards and just don't have everything set up yet, because cash only places annoy me (I'm talking about you, Big Star). Second, the beer list was kind of limited. They had some really nice beers, for sure, but I know a lot of people who just want a Bud Light - and that's not an option. Nonetheless, Boiler Room is a very welcome addition to Logan Square!
(3)Shelden E.
I dig it. I'll admit right now I have to back. I went for the main reason it grabs attention: PB&J. And yeah, it's a deal. Tall can of PBR, shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza for $7. Also, Jameson on tap. I only had the pepperoni pizza slice, but it was still good. It was a good thin slice with the crust that was light and yet not soggy. It was somewhat flexible but still had it's crispy, crunch to it. And the end of the crust was nice, hollow, and thin. It wasn't that thick, greasy, bread filled Pizza Hut style. This is sort of gourmet style with seasonings thrown on after it's out of the oven with, and with nice cheeses. It's good because most Logan Square pizza sucks. But yeah, I'll have to go back and try other pizza types. Decoration was kind of cool there. Had the "Doors Closing" CTA voice when you go into the men's room. The part that sucked was that they didn't take credit card. CASH ONLY, even though they hand you the check in a credit card bill, book. Weird...
(4)megan s.
I love me some Boiler Room. Especially when the patio is open and I can enjoy a PBJ (Purist slice... yummm) and get some fresh air. I'll have to agree that the waitstaff here is consistently slow and sometimes not the friendliest. I'm usually able to overlook this, because whenever I come here I'm not in a hurry and am with friendly company. But, one instance when I was with a friend less patient then myself who complained about the wait, we were very politely apologized to (maybe by the manager?), comped an appetizer, and given a free round of shots. All is forgiven. All I'm saying is, at least from my experience - don't expect the most expedited service. Bring good company, have some drinks, eat some pizza.
(4)Nick B.
I've been wrestling with what I thought about The Boiler Room for two days now. I went on Friday night with a friend who came in from LA to visit. The place just opened, I've been feeling Logan Square lately, so I decided to check it out. We arrived at about 7PM and the place was already pretty packed. We found a spot in between two groups of people. The Boiler Room has a "communal seating" system, so you'll have to get used to eating with other people right up on you. At first, this was a little frustrating as the group next to us had way too many people and were standing around and blocking the walkway. No big deal. I went ahead and ordered vodka rocks and my friend got a vodka tonic. I'm not big into weird pizzas, so we ordered a regular cheese pizza and honestly...this was probably one of the best pizzas I've had in a long time. AWESOME. A full pizza cost $15 and was more than enough for two people. Loved it. My only other complaint was the service was a little off. Our server seemed a little stressed by all the commotion going on. I was bothered by the fact that it was a "cash only" place. Really? In this day and age? I got over it, but come on! With that said, I loved The Boiler Room. Food was great. 4 drinks and a full pizza and we only spent $20 each. Not bad at all! Plus, it was very nice to have, I believe the owner, offer a friendly good bye and tell us to come back soon. And yes, the bathrooms are CTA theme, and yes, it's pretty cool. Check it.
(4)John M.
Made a return visit here with a friend following Lollapalooza. We were both hungry and he recently became a vegetarian, so cheese pizza was the natural compromise. As we ordered a whole pizza, it was piping hot when we got it. As thin as they are, we easily managed to finish the whole thing by ourselves. The service was quick and helpful. Even the regular cheese has a bit of basil on it, so I feel it's worth saving $3 to go for that instead of ordering the Purist with balsamic, which I previously found a bit sweet. I'm upgrading a star because I didn't have water dripping on me, the server was helpful, and the pizza was great.
(3)Becky M.
The food here is awesome. Anything I have ever ordered: pizza, salad, appetizer, etc. has been incredible. Also, try the soft serve with booze - it's awesome stuff. The everyday special of the PB&J for $7.50 is a hot deal; it's a PBR, shot of Jameson (it's on tap) and a slice of delicious pizza. Typically, it's fairly easy to find parking in the area. They have some outdoor seating, as well. It's not too expensive, but if you're trying to keep it cheap you should go with the PB&J.
(4)Kaitlin D.
If you can get over the scene (lookalike hipsters everywhere), I'd recommend Boiler Room to anyone looking for a good pizza and a great deal. $7 for a PBJ (shot of Jameson, PBR and a slice)?! Such a good deal! Plus they have Jameson flavored soft serve, how does it get any better than whiskey and iced cream combined?? Trick question, it doesn't.
(4)Jason P.
Pizza is by far my favorite food and while I am partial to the deep dish variety, I can still appreciate a nice thin crust from time to time. With apologies to Vito and Nick's which I have not yet been able to try, I feel like Boiler Room might have the best ny style pizza I have had in the city. The first thing you notice is that on the door they have a sign that says in just about every language you can think of that this place is cash only. The only thing that could make it more clear would be if they would link the clip below to play every time the door opened. youtube.com/watch?v=07G2… Now that you all want the last 30s of your lives back, I will get on with it. I had heard that this place had this place had the $7.50 PB&J special and had been intrigued. That quickly went away when I realized that first off, I didn't feel like a shot of Jameson, PBR only sounds good if that is the only beverage on the menu, and I needed a whole lot more than a slice of pizza to satisfy my hunger. The drink menu is actually pretty awesome, so it really boggles the mind why these hipsters wouldn't spend the extra dollar and get out from under the PBR cloud. Lets get to the food. Our party of 5 people housed 4 whole pizzas. I was probably the heaviest of the group too at a stout 160lbs so needless to say the shocked look on our waiter's face when we had downed all that pizza was priceless. The purist is really the way to go. It is simple with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a splash of balsamic that gives it a little bit of a bite. The ambiance is also interesting. The bathrooms are like L train cars, so you can get the experience of being homeless and pissing on the train.
(4)Sarah Z.
This place haunts me! Every time I get off the California Blueline stop I have to physically force myself not to grab a slice of delicious pizza. They have fresh ingredients with combinations I would never have thought of- not to mention the yucca chips! I love the yucca chips. There is an amazing selection of craft beers and specialty drinks. Every time that I have been to the Boiler Room I have had excellent service. The wait staff is not only attentive but good looking. I think some reviewers had some beer goggles on when rating- Joe H. it sounds like the waiter made an honest mistake. I enjoy the cash only- who needs the all the plastic anyway? With deals like PB&J you won't need more than $10! Bottom line- if you want good thin crust East coast style pizza come to the Boiler Room.
(5)Marie M.
Great selection of beer. They have Great White on draft! Perfect beer. Pizza was good, but do not come here if you are hungry, great late night snack though! Great location right of the California Blue Line.
(4)Rene P.
I never eat pepperoni pizza. Pepperoni is greasy and gross to me on pizza. However, the pepperoni here is so good, I dream about it. The slices are huge and it's so delicious. We also had their version of the Margherita and it was deelish too, but man, that pepperoni is so. darn. good. I also had a drink called the 1988 that came with a Cinnamon Toast Crunch side car. You won't be disappointed.
(4)Tiffany K.
I heard about this place through some friends and I was super excited to try the pizza here. I ordered a slice of pepperoni. The pizza itself tasted great, but I unfortunately got a really burnt slice of pizza so that was kind of a bummer. I also split some fries with friends, and the fries were seasoned perfectly and tasted great. They came out overflowing from a tiny silver bowl - maybe they should upgrade and use a platter or maybe a bigger bowl? I guess there might be no use in muttering away about what vessel the french fries come in, but it would be more sense. Our waitress was pretty nice, but she was a bit slow getting to our table and fulfilling out requests. It was a Saturday night but it wasn't crazy busy, so maybe she just didn't like us enough or something. Who knows. The decor is pretty cool, and it's a cozy place. I really love that you can get a "free" shot of Jameson if you use the ATM. The PBJ deal (Pizza, Beer, Jameson) is also pretty genius. I'll definitely come back here again and maybe order a full pizza for a full taste.
(4)Adri S.
There is mainly one reason this bar is amazing: the PB and J Special 1 slice of Pizza (a big slice and its delicious) 1 shot of Jamesson 1 can of PBR all for $7.00 The times I have been the service was great, it wasn't too crowded and the decor is kitschy. When you enter the bathroom, the door has a bell resembling the train, and it says You have reached the California Stop. Brilliant! This place is no Longman and Eagle but if you want a beer and a slice of pizza for a really great deal, this is the place to be! Definitely a hipster bar, not recommended for yuppies but they probably just go to Sluggers.....
(5)N N.
First all, this place just looks and feels awesome. I love the CTA decor! Apparently everything in there is recycled. So it's pretty cool looking. This is definitely a hipster place, which typically isn't my thing but "eh" - whatever. It's appropriate for the location. Second, the pizza. I really really love the pizza. They have amazing combinations that I was a little wary about at first (carnitas?) but upon tasting were really awesome. I love the crust, which is super thin and crispy. I have to say, even with all the fancy pizzas, a simple pepperoni is still the best, IMHO. The beer selection is pretty good too. And they have Jameson's on tap. I also like that - because it's a cash only place - if you need to use their ATM, you get a free shot of the Jameson's if you give them your ATM receipt. Makes paying that ATM fee just a little less painful. Just remember to tell the ATM you want the receipt - my husband always forgets! Service is good too. The barstaff seems very friendly and energetic. And they're on top of things. The servers are also very attentive. I guess the only things that didn't make me give it 5 stars are 1) it's a pretty small place so if you don't get there early, be prepared to wait... a while. And 2) the bar area is tiny, with only about 7 or so seats - which makes it difficult to have a drink while you wait for a table to open up. You can stand in front of the bar, but will have to continually step aside to let servers or other patrons through. If you do score some seats at the bar though, I recommend just eating there. Those bar chairs are really comfy! I'll continue going, the pizza just keeps bringing me back.
(4)Will C.
We went here the day after it opened and it was fabulous. The bar has a fantastic array of beers on tap as well as bottled. Their cocktail list is impressive as well; I tried the Ginger Snap and my wife tried the Toy Gun, both of which were great. The pizza was also great; we tried the Egg. The whole pizzas are huge; one was more than our group of three could handle. We will definitely be coming back here, and often!
(5)Christina M.
I was so upset about my last experience that I waited over a month to update my review. So what made me so upset? Well since was the only vegan at the table, I obviously have to order my own pizza (no big deal). When I received the pizza and bit into it, I noticed that the potato on my pizza was very undercooked (they were more like raw sliced potatoes). When we informed the waiter he just took my pizza back to the kitchen, so we thought they were fixing it -- and everyone else waited to eat their pizza so as not to be rude to me since I couldn't eat their pizza. After 10 minutes we asked him when the pizza was coming back and he said that it wasn't because he threw it away -- now perhaps I could have eaten the pizza and pulled the potatoes off (while they remove the charge from the bill) or perhaps he could have offered a new one... He sent the manager over, who did in fact solve the problem, but he quickly made it worse again. To give him credit, he had my pizza remade and removed the charge for a round of drinks. But my bf blurted out that I write Yelp reviews (which I was not happy about) and then the manager lectured us about how horrible he thought Yelp was and about how reviews by Yelpers weren't credible. I was so embarrassed that I informed by bf that he'd be lucky if he can get me to go back at all. And given the mistreatment (by both the waiter and the manager) I'm certainly not recommending Boiler Room to any of my friends.
(2)D W.
Was there yesterday late afternoon after having a nice salad at The Logan next door. The Logan was warm, sunny, and comfortable, and Boiler Room was the opposite. Without a doubt the design and use of industrial materials was quite impressive, and unique. Liked the chairs at the bar which is where we sat. Though I was impressed, and would return, I was not impressed enough to come back too quickly. We had some glasses of wine, whisky, and a couple slices of pizza. The pizza slice was reasonably priced at 3 dollars, though I thought it was a bit cold, and somewhat greasy. The fact that you cannot use a credit card I found to be somewhat strange and not convenient. Dont know what they are trying to "prove" with this, other than that it prevented me from ordering more from the menu or bar. Though my check was around 22 dollars, and I put down 40 dollars, the bartender asked me "if i wanted change"... Thought he was joking, or simply arrogant. Afterward we went to Lula cafe for a couple drinks at their bar. What a contrast...
(3)Ben P.
Let's get right down to the most important info: The pizza is rad. Good beer is on tap. The space is comfortable. The first few times I came here it was OK, but nothing special. I have since been back many times and they have fully found their bearing. The pizza's crust is awesome. It's a little chewy towards the middle, but the cornmeal adds a great texture and the edges are so light and crispy. Their sauce is flavorful and toppings are excellent - always very fresh tasting. The interior is clever without being obnoxious. The only problem that I have is with the tables along the north wall - they're repurposed school desks and I have a hard time getting my legs underneath. But the booths are comfy, as are the large tables in the middle. I've never had a problem with the service - sure it gets slower as the place fills up, but that's not a problem specific to this place. All the servers that I've dealt with have been friendly and attentive. Big ups, Boiler Room, I'm glad to have you in the 'hood.
(5)Lisa F.
Decent beer selection, although unfortunately with prices to match. Pretty friendly servers, actually, which was nice. The Purist pizza is quite tasty; that balsamic drizzle really makes it. The house special pizza (The Boiler Room) is pretty good too. But fair warning: eat that shit up fast, like competitive eating fast, because the second it's not piping hot, it's kinda gross. Also, this makes me sad because I was excited a pizza place had finally opened up so close to my home, only to find that bringing it home is not recommended, and ordering for pickup results in standing around awkwardly at the bar for a long time while the kitchen gets around to putting a slice in a box. The music, oh the music. It hurts. All the skater boys from my high school would've loved this place. Cash only. The "free" shot of Jameson you get from using their ATM covers up the fact that you've just paid their ATM fee and your bank's--and don't forget to keep the receipt or you won't get the shot.
(3)Claire L.
Confession - I'm not a hipster and this truly was my first time dining anywhere west of Southport after nearly 6 years in Chicago. I know, pathetic. Anyways, a friend dragged me here for dinner last week and I reluctantly agreed to leave my bubble and check it out. First things first, cash only. ATMs everywhere with a hefty fee attached. The pizza was just ok, We spilt the buffalo chicken pizza which was average at best and not good enough for either of us to bother taking it home. Our waitress was terrible, very uninterested in us and barely stopped by twice during the meal. The place was rowdy for a Tuesday night and no one seemed to mind that the place literally smelled of sweat, smoke and something else I just can't identify. Finally, left a 100 bill on a 76 meal. Our waitress never returned with the change and apparently just decided to leave herself a nice 33% tip. Of course we had no intention of shorting her at all, however I do think we should have been given a chance to leave the tip we preferred. You should have seen the look on her face when I was her walk by and I asked for our change, ice cold glare. Needless to say, this place is out my bubble but I wouldn't return even if it was next door. Not my scene, not my crowd and so many better options that let you charge your meal!
(2)Josephine J.
5 stars for pizza. 2 stars for service. Pricey for what it is. So averaged to 3.5. Went around 630 on a Friday night. It was ok busy. Group of 3 was seated immediately on the patio. Waitress was nice but we asked for more water and she never brought anymore despite the muggy August heat. Instead we saw her promptly getting beers and shots for several other tables. Luckily the guy bringing pizza was much more prompt so our thirst was quenched when he put down a whole pitcher of iced water. The pizza crust was amazing. The slices are big so kinda worth the $5.50 slice price for the meat special. I think it was worth more like $4 then $1 for a tip would be more appropriate. We also tried their monthly pear lemon ice cream. It was pretty boozy and served in a double shot definitely added to the flair. Worth $3-4, not $5. Maybe if the portion was bigger. Atmosphere was cute with graffiti art on the fence. Music was a little loud + train noise = yelling at times. Some misting fans would've been awesome in August.
(3)Leticia N.
I have given the Boiler Room three chances and I have been disappointed each time. The bar tender completely ignored our presence on one occasion. The pizza is not the best and I have had many sour encounters that I don't think i'll be giving it another try. For great pizza try Pequod's or Piece.
(1)Kendall K.
First I must say that I love Boiler room. but what the @#$% are they thinking leaving the winter tent up for summer. that back patio was awesome. but now there is no sun, and it smells like plastic until the air system in the back kicks on and it breaths sewer/alley smell into the space. Lame. Food is always good, good selection of craft beers. good cocktail, great booze ice-cream. service is hit or miss. some servers are awesome some are kinda rude and annoyed that you might expect them to help you. I should be giving a 4-5 star review. someone please take that tent down!
(2)Kat L.
I want to love this spot, but it left a few sour tastes in my mouth. Great vibe. Happening. Easy parking. Pretty interior with repurposed-like wood seating. Long benches good for groups. Good music. Limited TV's. PB & J is the special to get, $8 including a pizza slice of choice, shot of Jamo, and a PBR. It seems like pizza is the main food feature, and I wasn't disappointed. Sans the special, a typical slice is $4-5. (appetizers range from $5-10.) The pizza is pretty flat, thin-crusted, but flavorful. The daily special I had included BBQ sauce, pork, and mushrooms. I feel the price is justified, for as thinly sliced the ingredients are. You'll get a taste, but not hearty bites. Here's my meh-factors. Cash only. ATM on-site. They give you a shot of Jamo for every ATM withdrawal if you keep the receipt... but really, I'd rather have a shot of my choosing, and may not want a shot to soothe the pain of a double ATM withdrawal fee. To add insult to injury, although it is cash only, they will NOT split your bill within your group. So if someone has to leave early, you've gotta ask a little extra for them to cover tip. This put a damper on our experience, for sure, trying to keep tabs on different people's orders for food, who ended up having to leave. Service was largely inattentive. It seemed our waitress was the only one in the bar. Don't know if someone called in sick, or that's how it usually fares. BUT we also noticed multiple discrepancies on our bill. An additional charge for a pizza slice, an added soda, and an added daily special pizza slice. It makes for an uncomfortable argument. Our waitress took of the additional items we were incorrectly charged for, but she had to do this based on trust. We were still met with frustration by the waitress. However, if she wrote out separate orders to "split the check," a paper copy would have been a beautiful trail for cross-checking our order to our bill. Last thoughts: come with a small group. bring cash on hand to bypass the entire atm withdrawal for a shot of jamo "deal." and watch your bill.
(3)Jungle D.
The pizza and vibe are good, it's always an issue getting drink refills though. Pro tip, don't let your pizza get too one sided. It will show off onto the floor.
(3)Lucie M.
It really pains me to say this, but I think I have to quit Boiler Room. At least until their service improves. I didn't come to this decision lightly since I love this place for many reasons. My experience this past Saturday night (8/8) was the last straw after a few "meh" experiences recently. From the two girls that were at the hostess stand to the spotty service from our waitress when we finally did get a table (mind you the place was half empty early Saturday evening), service was a nightmare. It's really a bummer because I love the PBJ deal, appetizers & that Jamo soft serve. I guess if you want a hostess to be mad at you for wanting a table at a half empty establishment and your server to take half an hour to bring you the check, you might still enjoy this place.
(1)Coleen K.
The Boiler Room is actually pretty great! I phrase it this way because my initial expectations were quite low. I always pictured it as a pretty run down sort of dive bar, with cheap Home Run Inn quality pizza. This was absolutely wrong. Boiler Room has a nice casual atmosphere, friendly hostess to greet you when you come in, and a bomb back patio. We took two seats at the indoor bar and they were playing old black and white films. A fun touch. Our bartender was super friendly and helped us go through the cocktail menu. In the end, my boyfriend and I both ended up ordering the Shake Weight-- their version of an old fashioned. This drink is amazing, everything I ever want out of an old fashioned and more. Perfect balance between sweet, boozy, and orange flavored. All that for only $8, to boot. Although we didn't try the pizza or the PBR special this time, I was pleasantly surprised by their variety of pizza offerings and that these pizzas are made at the front of the house in an open kitchen. They looked super fresh, and I would definitely come back to try a pie. All in all, this is a cool and unique spot for cocktails, beers and pizza right off the blue line stop.
(5)Patrick D.
Great pizza, service... is meh. The place is cash only, but has two ATMs where you can take cash out, and get a receipt that's worth a free Jameson shot (the ATM fee is $2.75). Not a bad deal. As for the pizza- it's probably 4/5 or 5/5 stars. Depends on the day, but always a fan of the pizza. Lots of cheese, lots of options. The service can be hit or miss. Some of the servers seem to have a bit of an attitude in regards to simple requests (can you bring back a few more knifes or napkins). Additionally, I ripped the balance off my ATM receipt (intentionally, I'm a private person) and the server said that I couldn't get the free shot anymore. What? I don't want you seeing my balances, ripped that tiny part off, and its no good? I'll keep coming back here- their cocktails are strong and great. If coming on a weekend night, after around 9pm, it gets packed, so if you want to eat, I'd arrive no later than 7:30pm.
(3)Adriaan T.
Nice set up, cool place. But the food is pretty mediocre. The only thing they are missing is good food. But considering this is a restaurant, is kind of an important thing to miss. I had the pepperoni pizza which was greasy. The veggie was ok. The wings were pretty bad (the buffalo sauce was pretty odd) Don't think I'll be coming back
(3)Karly V.
My bf and I were tempted to leave this place without paying the bill, but we left cash under my salad bowl. The entire experience was seriously underwhelming, from the angry doorman to the negligent waitress who forgot to bring us water and dropped the plates on the wrong side of the table without giving a f*ck. We won't be back here anytime soon.
(1)Daniel H.
Fun spot to grab a slice right next to the California blue line stop. Thin crust, big slices. The 'boiler room' (PBR meatball and giardenera) is good. The 'purist' (basil, mozz, balsamic) is also good. The PB&J special is a must. There is all kind of CTA type stuff around, check out the bathrooms... Overall, probably the best place for a slice and a beer in the neighborhood.
(4)Michael P.
If you just wanna get drunk and you wanna do so with very little style and you like Jameson, this might be one of the better places around. It's been said before, and it'll be said again, but PB&J. $8.50. Big slice of great-pizza-if-you're-drunk-or-o.k.-pizza-if-you'Âre-not, beer (PBR tallboy) & Jameson. That's about all I've ever done there, and I've had much more fun doing it outside than inside. Inside it's hard to forget that you're surrounded by pseudo hipsters and guys taking their Tinder dates there to show that they're not a bro. The staff is so-so. Some are pretty col, others have that "I'm going to show you that I'm better than this by doing a shitty job of it" attitude. Try the Jameson soft serve. I don't know why I'm even saying that. If you're at Boiler Room, it's probably because you like Jameson, and if you like Jameson, how in the hell would you not try the soft serve if for no other reason than morbid curiosity? Oh, and just as a reminder, your ATM transaction fee gets you a free shot of...wait for it...Jameson. I would not bring a first date here. I would not come here for dinner. I would come here to sit with a few friends and shoot the shit for awhile, with instructions to the server to keep 'em comin'.
(3)Shane E.
Pizza - thin crust, just alright in my opinion. It works well accompanying aggressive amounts of alcohol. Speaking of which... PBJ deal - You get a big slice of pizza, a PBR, and a shot of Jameson for $8.50 Atmosphere - they actually have a lot of space, and it's not too difficult to get a table here. They have a patio in the back with a decent amount of tables as well - awesome in the summer time. Service - I've had some strange servers, but never to the extent that it hurt the experience. Overall - a good option in Logan Square.
(3)Ariella V.
I forget how much I love this place until I go back. I almost always go with with the daily or veggie special slice.Thin crust, fresh ingredients, fresh out the oven, delicious. The fries are on point too. While I love their za, Boiler Room is more of a bar than restaurant. So if you're expecting super attentive and eager servers, this isn't the place, but they'll always make sure your drink is full. Other important things to note: cash only, but ATM inside and you can exchange your receipt for a shot. Awesome patio seating (if summer comes). PBR bingo the first Monday of every month, free to play, fun prizes. Finally, they have Jame0 ice cream and have it on draft. Enough said.
(5)Johnny R.
I'm torn on this place because as much as I love their food, I've found repetitive awful service. I realize it's a cash only place under the blue line in logan that has a shot and slice special but if they brought their service level up to match the pizza it could be a much better restaurant and not just a "man I guess we can go there."
(3)Matt K.
Get a PB&J Great pizza, wings, and fries. Lousy service. Use the ATM (for a fee) and get a free shot of Jameson.
(4)Stephen M.
I tried this place a few more times since my last review. I like it. Late food menu is convenient. Good prices and drink & food combo specials. Spinach artichoke dip is awesome.
(4)Tamara P.
Really love this place, especially late night. From the vibe to the decor, it's an awesome fit in the neighborhood. The outdoor space rocks & late nights here are awesome. The PB & J special is fabulous - day or late night. A slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy & a shot of Jameson out of the cask... you just can't go wrong for $ 8.50... what a deal! And the boozy ice cream!?!? If only there were more places with cold, creamy treats like this! I crave their Jamo vanilla soft serve, but they also have other fab flavors. One option this afternoon was vodka strawberry shortcake. How much more refreshing than that can you get? Aside from the pizza, I've also had their Caesar & Cobb Salads and both were fresh, crisp & big. Did I mention the boozy ice cream? Ok, maybe I did, but I'd be remiss if I didn't share insight into their drunkin donuts...also a hit!! Deep fried goodness served with - you guessed it - their Jamo soft serve. Seriously, this is for real! In my humble opinion, the Boiler Room is great day or night, but I love capping off a night of fun and telling myself I'm helping prevent a massive hangover by having a PB&J and some soft serve at the end of a night out. Yes, boozy ice cream with a PBR & shot of Jamo I really didn't need, but I also fit pizza in there! Hey, a girl can dream it's a magic cure, right? ONE LAST TIP - I almost forgot, CASH ONLY!!
(5)Ricky M.
Came here for their boozy ice cream. LOVED the atmosphere! Great place to go for a slice of pizza or dessert on a night out with friends. Ask for the outdoor seating which are wooden benches covered with outdoor lighting and an awning. Great place.
(4)Laura N.
Located steps from the California stop on the Blue Line, The Boiler Room is a fun spot to hit up for a casual, trendy evening in Chicago with delicious pizza & drinks. I've only been here a couple times (both for my sister's birthday, two years in a row), but enjoyed each experience. The pizza is fantastic, the drinks are decent, and the atmosphere is great for hanging out and people-watching. It's also fun to watch the workers make pizza through the window. Some of the seating options are odd and unique -- booths enclosed in glass doors and long tables with tall stools. I personally prefer the patio, which is gorgeous with benches, lights, and plants, but usually full. Good luck finding a place to sit there (I think you can put your name on a list)! In addition to beer and pizza (and other foods on the menu), they have whiskey ice cream! I was a bit hesitant to try it, but it's a tasty, creamy alcoholic treat on a cone. Get the full experience with the PB&J special: huge slice of pizza, a PBR (ha!), and a shot of Jameson for $7.50..... the perfect special for twenty-somethings. Hehe. Oh, and the bathrooms look like 'L' trains. It's sort of fitting because the 'L' itself kind of seems like a bathroom sometimes with all the dirt and urine smells. While the Boiler Room isn't exactly my scene, it's cool. I dig it. YUM.
(4)Collin C.
Maybe I've been living in LA for too long, but the pizza here is dope! It's, really, really good. The corn meal crust is exactly what you would hope for, a good foundation with taste. There's plenty of options to choose from, they mix and match for you, do halves etc. The staff is friendly, although I notice they always sit down to take your order. I don't know if that's what they tell them to do to make people comfortable or are their feet sore? Whatever, I'll buy it, have a seat, I'll be here for a while. When the weather is accommodating they open up their patio. Be sure to take a leak, their bathrooms are pretty novel. Again most importantly they get the pizza right here. It's cash only here, BUT, if you use their ATM they give you a shot. Deal.
(4)Marie B.
Great selection for pizza by the slice! The pizzas here are flavorful and hearty! Big slices, not just great for the intoxicated crowd but for the sober ones too! I've been hanging out in the area for years and just discovered this place in the spring....glad I found it! Try the specials or the classic menu items..they won't disappoint!
(4)Kevin H.
Great cash bar with pizza known for their PB&J: slice of Pizza, tall boy Beer, and shot of Jameson. The highest compliment I can give this place is that I've been here about 30 times and have never had bad service from the staff. Big patio in the back during the summer. Dark lighting throughout the restaurant with an 80s movie going silently on a big screen behind the bar. No TVs besides the big screen behind the bar. Bathroom has a goofy CTA train theme to it. I heard s rumor that the tables were refurbished from the wood from old CPS desks.
(5)Dorey G.
The boozy soft serve is delicious!!! We got the donut and ice cream appetizer (small plate?) and the soft serve is seriously amazing!! It is rather boozy so if you don't like Jameson, not really for you, but otherwise you need get it! The donuts were also very good, similar to beignets, highly recommended. My chef friend said the pizza he got (the boiler room) was the best New York style pizza he'd had in the city. The atmosphere is awesome too, especially the patio!! So, add this to your ever growing list of places to eat in Logan square!
(5)Mellissa K.
This place has a really awesome vibe to it. The bar setting & atmosphere is pretty cool with a nice selection of drinks. A nice go to place in Logan Square. They have pizza by the slice which is rather mediocre per se since its paper thin (New York style pizza), decent taste, but not so much in value. I am a pizza lover, so I can be extremely critical, but nevertheless it can be a good, cheap night choice. The menu is creative with so many options. They have Jameson infused soft serve and "drunken donuts" which I did not try because it was so late and calories, but will undoubtedly try next time for sure!! Didn't try much of the menu this night since it was a random stop, but I will definitely be coming back here soon to try more because the atmosphere and service was great. It is cash only so be aware, although they do have an ATM within for convenience. Awesome place to try out!.
(4)Lynsy M.
Tips and Tricks: 1. Jameson infused soft serve + 4 "drunken donuts" = only $5! The doughnuts are made in-house and are delightfully delicious -- the perfect compliment to their Jameson ice cream. 2. The PBJ Special: One pizza slice + a 16oz PBR + a shot of Jameson = only $8.50! This deal alone is reason to give The Boiler Room a try. Though the daily pizza specials are hit or miss, the pepperoni and cheese slices are consistently solid. Large, wide yet foldable pizza slices with a thin, crispy crust is their specialty. You won't find any deep dish here. 3. CASH ONLY. But no complaints here. If you forgot to stop by the ATM on the way, you're in luck. There is an ATM on site. Withdrawal money from the ATM and get a FREE shot of Jameson! Just give your waiter your receipt... and make sure to use the ATM INSIDE The Boiler Room. 4. Have I mentioned the bathrooms, yet? Oh, well, I should. Inspired by the one and only "L" train, it is quite a novelty. Enjoy a nice sit on the toilet while the CTA recording announces your arrival to the Logan Square Blue Line Stop. *insert public transit piss joke here* 5. Cult films silently play on a projector behind the bar... ya know, films like Top Secret!, the highly underrated film by comedy writer/director duo Jim Abrahams and David Zucker -- the same guys that brought you the more recognizable film Airplane!. 6. Bring ear plugs. My only complaint is the extremely loud music playing on the back patio. It's a shame. Their playlist was on point, but the speakers kept interrupting my enjoyable dining experience. I know the trend is to order food then pull out the phone, but I still enjoy a nice conversation over a beer or two.
(4)Carolina N.
This place has the potential to be way cooler than it is. I lived down the block from Boiler Room for 3 years and trust me, I tried to like this place but no. The pizza is not very good, the service sucks, and did I mention the pizza is not good? It's too mealy, floppy, greasy, and bland. You need more than one slice to fill up, and ordering a whole pizza is expensive....not worth it. The only cool thing about this place is the back patio area.
(2)Michael S.
I have been here twice now and was impressed both times with the food, drinks, and service. I also think the décor of the bar is pretty cool. I have had multiple cocktails that were all delicious and reasonably priced at $8. I think this place is most well known for its pizza; $4 per slice and the slices are huge and delicious. You can also get a PBJ deal which is a slice, a 16 oz PBR beer, and a shot of Jameson for $8. Another menu item worth noting are the donuts. Freshly made powdered donuts with a bowl of whiskey infused vanilla ice cream for only $6 is quite the treat. If you are looking for a cool bar with a unique, tasty menu, this is your place.
(5)Peggah G.
This place didn't live up to the hype. The waiter was friendly when we first sat down, but then seemed to be blatantly ignoring us after food was delivered and I needed a refill. I strained my neck looking around for him. The food was nothing special, and cash only is pretty annoying. I don't want a shot of alcohol for using the atm, I want you to accept credit cards. I'm sure I'll be back here sometime soon and actually try their pizza. I got their cheese ball things and some fries. Both were okay, though the cheese balls were less gooey by the time I got a refill and my preferred sauce.
(2)Pari P.
Say goodbye to mediocre late night Mexican food. The answer to all of your drunken cravings lies at Boiler Room. At Boiler Room, you can get a delicious hand-made giant slice of pizza till 3am on Saturdays. It's not Chicago style deep dish, New Haven, or New York style pizza. It's simply a thin crust pizza done really well where you taste all of the ingredients and the crust is a little crispy and chewy. The Purist is my slice of choice with buffalo mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. If you didn't have enough alcohol in your system, top off your meal with a serving of Jameson soft serve - it's adult ice cream at its best. There's enough alcohol in it to where you can't bring it outside. Beware of hordes of hipsters. It's common to see 40 florescent colored bicycles parked outside of Boiler Room. Don't worry, they don't bite - just don't stare at them directly in the eyes for too long.
(5)Hyerim P.
The food was pretty good but the service was awful. I came here with my best friend Mike who comes here often. We were thinking of spending the evening/night here drinking and eating pizza but we cut our time here short after a beer and a slice of pizza. It took over 90 minutes for us to even get this food, as our blonde waitress paid no attention and spent her time on her phone/standing in a corner. Mike tried flagging her down a couple of times with her either remaining in the corner or completely ignoring us and walking by. We even had to ask one of the people cleaning off the tables if we could get our check. Neither of us will be back anytime soon, if not ever again. Reading these other reviews, it sounds like this is a common issue.
(2)Mark Y.
Great location, food, drinks, environment, culture, decor, bathrooms, MENU!!.. But man could your waitresses be any ruder? Woulda given u 5stars if ur peeps weren't consistently neglectful and unfriendly :/. Maybe I'm just not used to bars thought it was a restaurant
(3)Daniel H.
One of my go-to places for great food & drinks. Can't go wrong when there's Jameson on tap! Two slices of pizza and some beer and I'm a happy dude. The drunkin' donuts are an absolute necessity for dessert.
(5)Emily J.
The Boiler Room is probably one of my new go-to's. I went on Friday for a social/work meeting and this was the perfect place to do so. I had a rough week at work! I got to the bar about 10 minutes early. To be able to easily grab a seat at the bar with immediate service and one of my favorite cult movies playing (Dumb & Dumber) - was perfect and exactly what I needed. I wasn't impressed with the table service, but I guess we sat down during the change in shift? Once our waitress finally figured out we were there, she was very attentive. None-the-less, it's not a huge deal breaker. PS: This place is cash only. As someone who works for a non-profit and rarely carries cash - thankfully, they have an ATM. You will pay a $2.75 surcharge for your withdrawal.
(4)Thomas S.
Loved the pizza! It is probably my best pizza find all year. Excellent crust and creative topping combinations, in addition to select-your-own topping options. Our pick eater of the group gave the pizza a resounding thumbs-up. Service was attentive but not pushy. Parking can be a bust, but it is literally steps away from the California Blue Line station, so that is the way to go. Beer selection is well-curated, as is the funky cool artwork on the wall. The music was loud and rockin' while we were there (a good thing for us). The retro industrial vibe sealed the deal. Heads up: Cash only. Double heads-up: In a hurry, want a snack or need a quick fix -- try the PBJ -- a PBR, shot of Jameson and a slice-that-is-bigger-than-your-head pizza for $8.50. We'll be back.
(5)Nicole M.
This place is one of the neighborhood's best spots. If you have a small party of two, you'll rarely have to wait. The pizza is awesome, as are the salads. Their special pizzas of the day are usually great, but only every once in a while are they "just ok." In my opinion, there are only two catches to this place. First, it's cash only. So either get cash before going to the restaurant, or use the ATM inside and save your receipt for a free shot of Jameson. Secondly, there's usually a strange, disturbing movie showing above the bar, which is viewable in most areas of the restaurant. I've had to switch seats with my dining partner before because it was distracting me from my meal, not in a good way. Otherwise, I highly recommend this casual, but very stylish and affordable spot!
(4)Joel S.
I went here during a nice warm day for brunch with my family. Their special is the PB&J for $8.50. So in case your thinking peanut butter and jelly. Get you heads out of the clouds. This is a new twist on those 3 magical letters. It stand for the following: 1 Can of Pabst Blue Ribbon and a shot of Jameson. Oh yeah, they include a nice sized slice of their Boiler Room pizza as a chaser. My wife had the brunch special pizza. It came with eggs, beans, cheese. It was an omelette in a pie and mine was the Boiler Room. I was happy to see that they catered to children. My daughter was one of like 5 kids there and they all had these massive slices of pizza that they couldn't put down. The staff was friendly and the prices were better than most other places in the area. I liked it there. It might not be the place for kids at night or on a Saturday night, but definitely a cool spot that I will go back to again. It also helps that its about 5 blocks from my house.
(4)Lindsay G.
Good pizza. Couldn't figure out if I wanted one slice or two. One and a half would have been perfect. Service was pretty awful, but luckily it wasn't crowded.
(4)Alex G.
Great pizza, can't beat the PBJ special. Getting the check and cashing out takes longer that it should, but the hassle is worth it.
(4)Jessica G.
Delicious pizza AND fries!!! Mainly a 4 because of the food. Beer selection is alright. They only accept cash so that's a meh for me. Service is alright. They play good music and the atmosphere is super cool.
(4)Julie Y.
Cool place to go. Came on a Friday night so there was a bit of a wait but had a blast.. Probably cause my company but the atmosphere was cool too. First drink I ordered was whiskey mixed with a couple other things called lions dick or something like that.. Love my whiskey but that was way too sweet for me. When you look outside there were probably over 50 bicycles parked in front which was pretty cool. Jalapeños poppers were a disappointment cause they didn't have a lot of flavor and it wasn't event hot at all (temperature warm, flavor not). If you must order make sure you ask for different sauce on the side cause it comes with jelly.-weird. Ordered pizza by the slice. Can't remember what I ordered but it was good. I would defiantly come here again because I liked the vibe. Also it's cash only if you use their ATM they give you a free shot of jamo!
(3)Kelly K.
I LOVE THIS PLACE! We have been coming here for about a year now and each time i love coming back. Cash only, but they offer you a free shot of Jameson when you use their ATM. Great pizza, and they have a pretty large menu. PBJ is the way to go. Ive had a few other cocktails here, mixed ones on their menu, they weren't the best but not a deal breaker as i go there fir the pizza and great atmosphere. Looking forward to my next visit, which will likely be this week sometime.
(5)Sarah G.
I will say, that their PB&J deal is pretty amazing. And that is clearly a strong contributing factor as to why this place is so popular. And no, I do not mean a sandwich when I say PB&J...It is a PBR and a shot of Jameson and a slice of their pizza for about $8. It is a steal, and a great deal name for sure. We actually were not that cool, and went with splitting their salad which was good, but not quite enough toppings or dressing, but it made us feel healthier at least watching everyone around us with their PBRs and Jameson shots ha ha Then we each got a piece of their pizza too--a reuben pizza special which was pretty good, and their daily veggie special which honestly was kind of like a frozen piece of pizza you cook in the oven. The toppings were just plain and the reuben pizza definitely seemed to have tastier cheese on it. But there is a great beer selection to wash it all down with, and an even more awesome patio area that is covered that is a perfect spot to hang out on a warm day. Definitely a fun spot to grab a drink in and hang out.
(3)Rahul G.
Some really lame reviews for this place, wow. This place is one of the best in Logan Square. Not many great pizza places and this is the one. Cash only. Great prices IMO. The pepperoni pizza is delicious. I like the salads as well. The cheese blast and purist are also cool. The Boiler Room is different, I like the giardiniera of course. I love sitting outside when the weather is nice. The service is great. We went one time when it was super busy and food was taking a while. Server felt bad and brought us some of the soft serve, which has whiskey in. Very good! This is one of the places I keep coming back to and love taking friends too. Ignore the bad reviews. Easily.
(5)Jackie M.
New York inspired pizza - translation: big, thin and floppy slices with a variety of toppings. Thai Serrano - the sweet chili sauce that is drizzled is nice. Not a lot of toppings, could use more carrots and chicken. All pizza appears to come in one size and cut into 6 slices. Good for a simple gathering and boozing up with your buddies, but not the best pizza around if you want something more substantial and filling. Given the variety, the great back patio, and industrial art gallery appeal, I boosted my experience to 4 stars cause I wouldn't mind coming back. The service was on the slow side considering it not busy - Sundays around 3pm. Can't imagine how it is when it is busy. The only thing is, not knowing it was ***cash only***, so we didn't indulge as much as we would have liked, plus it's to be a pricey for what you get. It's not a small mom and pop shop, it's aimed at yuppies and hipsters who probably have Google Wallet installed on their phones. Really, I can't pull out my Jay-Z black card?
(4)Varun S.
Had really high expectations of this place as we walked it. The decor and ambience were perfect for pizza and beer, and we got seated in a really cool booth. The layout of the restaurant is really good and can accommodate small and large groups. However after walking in things went downhill. Service was super slow even though it was really empty for a sunday evening. We ordered some drinks and then the boiler room pizza. We actually asked the server how long it normally takes for the pizza to come out because we were starving... she said 15 minutes. Our pizza came out in 3 minutes and even before our drinks!! Pizza was obviously cold and had been sitting out for who knows how long, since they sell that pizza by the slice. We told the server that the pizza is cold, she was so kind to reheat it for us rather then make us a fresh one because the staff was overwhelmed by the 10 people in the place. The pizza came back warm but now burnt, but it definitely was better then cold pizza. Good thing we were all starving so we ate and left. What it BOILS down to is, we won't be back, and wouldn't recommend.
(2)Kara S.
Cash only, but they have ATMs, and if you pull money, they'll give you a free shot of Jameson. Just make sure to mention it to your server. Excellent neighborhood bar/pizza joint. Crowded, loud, sort of a scene, but in a good way. Crazy silent movie on the TVs by the bar. Entertaining to watch and kill time. Good conversation piece. Tasty, fresh pizza - you can watch them make it. Good beers. They have the PB&J special, which is a slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy, and a shot of Jameson for $8.50 all day, everyday. What a steal! I didn't know about that when I stopped by, but I'll for sure get that next time. We came on a Saturday night, and there was a wait, but nothing too long. Just enough to enjoy a drink at the bar. Our hostess found us about 20 minutes after we came by, and brought us to our table. We got two slices (cheese and a special) and a side of chicken wings. I'd probably pass on the wings next time. They tasted good, but I think it was $7 something for 4 pieces. It's a little more than I like to pay for wings, but we had a craving. Our server was super nice, which I'm starting to think is maybe a Chicago thing. Very friendly and super cute. Whatever it is, I dig it. It's a refreshing change from what I'm used to. All in all, it was a good meal and I was happy to try it. It'll probably be on my list of go to spots where I bring visiting guests, and a solid spot to grab a slice after work when I'm too lazy to cook.
(4)Charlie G.
My god I have not met more Fuc$&$ rude people in my life then in this embarrassment of an establishment . The hostess literally walked away from me as I asked if I can still order a slice . Are you kidding me ?? Another employee saw this and very nicely told me I can order from the bar, of course I'm standing at the bar like a jackass while bartenders , yes bartenders ( as in 2 ) don't ask if I needed anything. Again I say, are you kidding me ? Either you guys are really trying to be that cool or you forgot to train the staff customer service 101. Besides the door guy being sympathetic I couldn't believe the disgusting customer service . Sorry I wanted pizza at 1:15 am boiler room . They can care less but I will NEVER step foot in that trash of a place . I'll gladly go to Peace pizza .
(1)Elisabeth C.
The beer garden is fantastic, although service can definitely be slow.
(4)Coleman B.
The best part of the Boiler Room is its design and ambiance. Very cool almost Sci Fi vibe and worth a trip to see it (go see the bathrooms too!). My biggest issue is that its a pizzeria with really sub par pizza. Just not anything to right home about. Super thin and floppy without much sass. I asked the host man what the special of the day was and he had no idea. Great job, he's really going places, that one. The apps are good but a little pricey for the punch. The best deal is the PB and J which is a pizza slice, PBR can and a shot of Jameson for 8 bucks. However the shot of Jameson is noticeably watered down (they also give you one for using their ATM). So, fun experience regardless, just not my go to.
(3)Chris T.
Living right around the corner and a pizza fanatic in general, Boiler Room has become my go-to late night spot...especially after a night out on the town. The fried cheese balls and mac & cheese are my fav apps and the bbq pizza is probaably my fav specialty pie. The Purest is also quite tasty as are most of their pies. Cool vibe with matching tunes - obvously - nothing less will sufffice for Logan Square. Beer selection is also decent. Cash only, but of course the ATM fee is comped with a shot a Jameson on the house.
(4)Nat Z.
I really waffle on this place (unfortunately, they do not sell waffles). It's a great location, it's always kind of fun and kind of weird, and the pizza really isn't bad. Salad was decent. I've met up here for drinks, dinner, late night, early evening, and it's really a pretty decent place. They also have a nice patio in those rare summer months. Minus one star for being cash only AND not cheap-- if you're going to do the first one, please do the second one, too.
(3)CB L.
Being from the northeast living in Chicago, there are few decent thin crust places worth mentioning, the Boiler Room is one. It will never be confused for a north east slice, but it is still a good pizza. It is a cash only establishment, however if you need cash, they have an ATM on site and will give you a shot of Jameson's for your troubles. I like to ordered the fried mozzarella and pepperoni pizza. The pizza is always good, but like most Chicago places, it is still $20 a pie, which is still nuts to think about compared to the quality of and size of pizza one could get in NY or New England for half the price, but that appears to be a Chicago price target for some reason, so it is not their fault. The staff is always friendly and quick to refill beverages. It definitely attracts the hipster crowd, which while I do not fit that mold, I am okay with. I usually see one or two friends each time I am there, which is an added bonus. If you are looking for a quality thin slice of pie, this is a top five spot for me in this city.
(4)K N.
Boiler Room, ohhh Boiler Room. I was never a fan of NY style pizza and I've spent quite a bit of time out east but Boiler Room nailed it! I had carried out on several occasions so I was eager to take advantage of my free Jamo shot (and I hate Jamo) but something about "free" made it taste better. My friend and I went on a Friday night, got there around 7:30 and it was pretty empty but I was also pretty early. We ordered a couple apps, the fried cheese balls and the wings. Unfortunately, the wings aren't their specialty but that's excused when they're crankin out tasty pies. Our server who rocked his daisy duke shorts was a bit on the "I wanna socialize more than serve" tip so we found ourselves flagging him down more often than not. A pint glass should never sit empty on a table for more than 5 minute without being replaced by a frosty new brew, especially when you're server has just two other tables. Again, it was excused because we were having a great time being the goofballs that we are and we knew what was coming....PIZZA! I wish I could eat more than one slice, I'm actually a bit heartbroken that my tummy can't fit more than one. The sausage pizza is perfection. I can't tell you how many Boiler Room virgins I've corrupted and brought over to the scrumptious side (No kids, Jets pizza is not real pizza. Time to grow up and eat like an adult.) I have to keep my indulging ways to once or twice a month so I don't become a pizza fatty but I could easily eat here a few times a week. One of which will take place this Friday as I'm bringing a couple suburban folks over so I can open their eyes to the goodness that is Boiler Room. Keep up the good work, guys. Tis a favorite!
(4)Jessica C.
I loved the way the bar is set up. From the outside, it's almost questionable, but the inside doesn't reflect that at all. The beer was well priced except for some of the nicer craft beers were around $7. If you go, please do yourself a favor and order a pb&j and I'm not talking about a sandwich. Pizza, beer, and a shot of Jameson, what could be better?! You can have all that for $8.50. Make sure you bring cash since this a cash only bar. In case you forgot and need to use an atm, they will buy you a shot! Definitely a great place to go on a date or with some friends.
(5)Sarah S.
I absolutely loved The Boiler Room! You can usually gauge how passionate I am about a place by my excessive use of exclamation marks. I get excited over the smallest things and go crazy. Warning: The exclamation marks are coming with a vengeance for this review!!! Quick Tip: Cash only. The Boiler Room has one of the best deals in town - their PB&J Special. You get a huge slice of super thin pizza, a beer in the form of a PBR Tall Boy and a shot of Jameson all for just $7.50. Ha! PB&J! I went in expecting nothing more than a good deal but was surprised at how much I truly loved the place. First off, the food was bueno. I really liked the slice of pizza I got and was surprised at the options we got to pick from for our slice of pie. I'm not big on pizza but really enjoyed theirs. It was more than enough to fill me up! Our waitress was just as sweet as pie inside and when we transitioned outside our cutie mustached waiter was cool, too. The atmosphere is chill. Inside is nice & has cool decor but their patio sure is the bomb. When I went with my homegirls, we sat inside until a table was available outside. It gets packed out there! But it's fun and open until at least 2am each day. Coolest bathroom ever! It's made to be like you're on the L. You walk on and the overhead speaker announces your stop. I thought the whole look to the bathroom was creative in a grimy kind of cool way. I want more PB&J and I want it now!!! And yea, I might expand to trying more things on their menu. ^_^
(5)Bailey Q.
The pizza is pretty good. I usually like more sauce on my pizza than what they put on thiers. But its still good. Ive only had the pepperoni pizza. The waitress told me that the mac n cheese is really good. Plus you can add any pizza toppings to it . Might try that next time.
(4)Chyanne C.
Great pizza. Slow, unattentive service. 20 mins after seated someone came to take our drink and pizza order.. The busser and food runner was more helpful than our waitress. Cash only! On a $50 order, 1 pizza + 2 drinks. I bet that policy has led to some awkward date discussions.
(3)Joe L.
The ambiance in the Boiler Room is modern, fun, dark, and very lively. This is a cool place to hang out with friends or groups. The pizza is good, and comes in huge slices. The best deal here is the PB&J, which includes a PBR, a shot of Jameson, and a slice of any kind of pizza. Since this place is cash only, be sure to bring money or use their ATM- and show that ATM receipt for a free Jamo shot! The service was a little spotty, but everything else made up for it.
(4)Christiana T.
Stopped by here before a show in the area and was thoroughly impressed. We were seated on the patio and even though it was October during our visit, they had space warmers everywhere. It was a very comfortable setting. The decoration was cool, filled with art and murals. The bathroom itself was CTA themed. I ordered one of their vegan options. I was impressed at that, although I am vegetarian I will get vegan whenever the opportunity arises. After, my boyfriend had the JAMESON ICE CREAM! That was delicious. They also have a PBR infused ice cream. I have to try that on my next visit here!
(5)Ryan C.
How many hipsters can you fit in a pizza place? Go to the Boiler Room and you'll find out that it's quite a bit. Boiler Room has done a great job at taking a pizza menu and marketing it towards a niche crowd. I like the environment, the décor set up and the crowd is not obnoxious. The music at the bar provided a good blend of music and with two projection screens behind the bar playing movies, it sets the tone of the atmosphere. If you go on a Saturday night, expect it to be crowded with a small wait. Hunger? Want a drink while you wait? No problem...the PBR, Jamo shot and slice of pizza will hold you over until you get a spot to sit. For $8.50, not bad. I was with a group of 4 with a 5th that showed up later. We ordered 2 pizzas; one sausage and one Thai Serrano pizza (sweet chili oil, Thai cream cheese sauce, house blend of mozzarella and provolone, Serrano peppers and pulled Amish natural chicken topped with cilantro and carrots). The pizzas are rather large and close to a NY style thin...almost. For an appetizer, we shared a spinach dip bread bowl, which was really good and I do recommend. With the amount of food, we found it to be a perfect amount for the small party. The staff was quick with the orders and friendly. No complaints. I enjoyed the place and will go back. Would I take my grandma or parents there? No. But, if you are looking for a cool place with friends for some pizza and beer, it's a great places. My Yelp PSA: If you get pizza and beer, enjoy it. Please stop taking pictures of your pizza slices and beer and posting them. They already have 100s of each. No need to take more.
(4)Dustin H.
Prefer to carry cash over credit cards, and love the delicious taste of Jameson? You're in luck! Sure, there is a $2.75 service fee at the ATM in the back, but show your receipt to the bartender and the shot's on the house! Awesome.
(3)Trae B.
Upon arriving I checked out the menu and was super excited, I love food. I arrived to a note at the hostess stand, sit anywhere, ok cool. I sat and sat and sat. After 20 minutes I got up, walked out and still no one noticed me. I won't recommend it, I won't go back. I will never try their food all because of the terrible customer service. BTW, the table that walked in before me, wasn't greeted either.
(1)Jared O.
This is a great place to go before a night on the town. The PB&J special is a good value and the wait staff is quick/friendly enough. This place is cash only, but if you get a receipt from the ATM, they will give you a shot of Jameson. My only real complaint is how hard it is to order from the bar. In my experiences here the bar is often short-staffed with all seats being full. This is great for them, but it makes picking-up food unnecessarily time consuming. My suggestion would be to have a small section for pick-up orders somewhere in the bar instead of having the bartender take care of it. Otherwise definitely recommend this spot as a "pregamer/diner" to a night out.
(3)Alexander W.
The best dairy-free pizza you can get in Chicago. Hands down. I've probably told over a hundred people to try it over the years, and used to be a regular here. That said... for God's sake get it carry-out, 'cuz the service is still so consistently awful. Here's how tonight's visit went: We ordered a pizza with Daiya cheese. When it arrives the food runner throws it on the very edge of that weird little elevated stand they have on the table for pizza. As soon as one of us takes a piece, the weight of the other size causes the entire pan to immediately topple over onto the floor (shouldn't the stand be in the middle of the table anyway?). Bus boy sees it, tells us he'll get another one started because that's clearly not our fault as WE NEVER TOUCHED THE PAN. If I lift a French fry off my plate and the plate flips over onto the floor, something is clearly amiss. That was the case here. Fast forward thirty minutes. The bus boy completely vanished, but the waiter finally reappears with the check (no pizza) and a small dish of ice cream because he "heard that we dropped the pizza." Uh, no, we didn't drop anything you worthless absent ass, but that aside: We ordered a dairy free pizza. Paid $26 for it. And the consolation prize is... bowl of dairy. Specifically one dish of dairy for three people. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. Hypothetically, let's say I DID somehow flail my arms and knock an entire pizza off the table (I didn't). Really can't imagine any other restaurant or bar just shrugging its shoulders and handing me the bill, especially when we're talking about something as cheap to produce as a damn PIZZA. Even if you don't want to give me anything--God forbid!--how about asking if I want to buy a replacement? At least the OPTION would be some kind of service, plus it would mean I would spend more money on booze while waiting for it. Instead I got the one thing the waiter knows we can't eat AND left the place hungry because, you know, our pizza was on the ground. (Since I was charged for the whole thing, shouldn't I get the "floor pizza" in a box? Or at least have the opportunity? Granted I probably would've just thrown it at their windows once I got outside, but still.) In conclusion: If you're going for the $9 PB&J special you should expect service comparable to that price point. Keep those expectations low, my friends. Or save yourself a bad time and just get the, again, VERY GOOD pizza to go.
(1)Stephanie L.
Went here for a din din with Kris R. Its a mello chillaxed place that I could see people LOVING at like 2AM. Cheap, thin pizza that is just OK. Also, Jame-o ICE CREAM?!?!?! YUMMmmmmm! Started off with the hummus. That shit is GOOD! I was slightly surprised. Also the mixed green salad. Next up, the purist pizza. I found it to be kind of flavorless...although I loved the thinness of the pizza. Tables are small and the servers are mediocre. I mean, what do you expect? It was a little awkward because the tables are teeny and the food was all out at once. CASH ONLY! I could see this being a late night cheap spot to go, but not full on din din which is what we did. Also, maybe a different pizza with some more flavs for me.
(3)Dylan V.
The pizza is friggin great. The patio is awesome. But this place has kind of gone down hill in the past couple years.
(3)Alexandria T.
I met a friend for a drink at another local establishment, but the weather was so nice, we decided to go to Boiler Room, so we could sit outside. I didn't order any food, but I am in love with the place! We requested a table outside, and one hostess told us to go on back, once back there, we were sent back to the hostess to be seated--a little bit of miscommunication, but it didn't ruin my night. They have an awesome back patio for summer dining. Once seated, I began to pour over the menu, I had started off the night drinking wine, and wanted to transition to beer. #whitegirlproblems Our server gave a recommendation of trying a sour beer, which in the past I have not been a fan of. She brought over a taste of Monk's Flemish Ale, I was skeptical, but it turns out to be the perfect transition beer. I liked it so much, I stuck with it the rest of the night. My friend ordered a slice of pizza, and it came out quickly. Late night, their PB & J special--a slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy, and a shot Jameson for $7.50, all day very day--seems like a great choice. They also have beer ice cream on the menu that is also tempting. They definitely win second place for coolest women's restroom after The Signature Room for its views. The restroom is set up like an El station and is pretty awesome experience. Bottom line, the space, service, and menu is great. One last thing, keep in mind, it's cash only.
(5)Erin C.
I've been to Boiler Room before and always enjoy it - different kind of place with great pizza, apps, and atmosphere. Today I went to lunch with my parents and my aunt around 12:30pm. The place didn't have too many people in it, but the music was super loud (per the normal atmosphere). I asked our waiter if it would be possible to turn it down, because I really wanted my parents and aunt to enjoy our lunch and he adjusted it and even asked if it was low enough. I always appreciate a business willing to accommodate, especially when the request isn't exactly serving their normal clientele! Also, HIGHLY recommend the breakfast pizza if it's available when you're there, absolutely delicious.
(5)K D.
I end up going here way more often than I mean to- but it's hard to pass up. 1. It smells soooo good 2. Good New York style pizza 3. Decent beer prices 4. Comfortable backyard area There are lots of other restaurants I keep meaning to try, but I know I'll end up here again soon.
(4)Eric F.
Hey boiler room! How are you? How have you been? Have you raised your prices lately? We've been hanging out now for the last 2 years and I called you one lonely night and find your purist is now $3 more after I arrive at your place. "What's the big deal" you say? Well you're charging me $27 for a pizza with sauce, balsamic vinegar and a couple slices of lukewarm mozzarella? I'm breaking up with you forever. Peace.
(2)Shilpy S.
The PBJ deal is awesome: PBR + a shot of Jameson + a slice of pizza for $7.50! Service was great, veggie pizza tasted soo good, outdoor seating/ lighting was great & the music they played was SO great. Loved it. It is cash only... but they're great in that they give you a free Jameson shot if you show that you used their ATM machine... pretty cool in my opinion. Also, the seating and even the bathrooms were designed well - the bathroom looks like the inside of a subway and scribbling on the walls is encouraged. :)
(5)Leah W.
The pizza at Boiler Room is in my top 5 pizza places in the city - it's sort of New York / Chicago style meld, with cornmeal crumbs, thin crust, and big slices. The pepperoni is really good and so is the namesake pizza (Boiler Room), which has in-house giardiniera and PBR marinated meatballs. Yum. They do sell pizza by the slice and it's very affordable ($3-$4 per slice, which are pretty large). They also have a daily vegan option. There are good daily specials (slice of pizza, beer, and a shot for $10 bucks!) and though it's cash only, which is annoying, there is an ATM in the bar, and if you present that precious receipt to the bartender, you get a free shot of whiskey. Pay back my ATM fees in liquor? I'm in! The bar has a fun Chicago design, my fave part being the "el platform" bathrooms, with the standard Chicago outdoor heating lamps and the conductor announcing that your train is leaving the entire time you're peeing. Other notable items on the menu are a beet salad with gorgonzola, bacon and pickled red onions. The pickled onions are sort of weird actually, so I always get the salad without it, and the salad is a overpriced for the small size, but, I still order it because it's delicious! Also, my absolute favorite thing in the place is the Jameson ice cream cone. Drunky frozen goodness. The only negative things might be considered positive by others - the place is usually packed with bike-ridin' hipsters, especially on weekends, and it's often difficult to get a parking spot outside because of all the bikes. It is a bit annoying if you just want to pick-up food, which I often do. And of course, not being able to use your credit card. Other than that, a fun place with above average food and great prices. Also a pretty awesome place to bring an out-of-town friend, because the bar really embraces the Chicago bar-hopping beer-loving pizza-facestuffing vibe!
(4)Christine S.
Went in here on a Sunday evening and got seated right away. The place is crowded but not overly crowded. There's a good vibe here. I dig it. We had an AWESOME server. Seriously, this chick was awesome. Very attentive but not annoying. We had a deck of cards and she taught us to play Spades with only two people. On to the food. We ended up ordering a Boiler Room pizza, which is homemade sauce, house blend of mozzarella and provolone, pbr meatballs w/ homemade giardinara. If you order a whole pizza and you'd like to finish it, I'd recommend having at least 3 or 4 people there. The pizza is cut NY style and a little hard to pick up when there are gigantic meatballs on there, but it's not really a problem at all! This pizza has good flavor and has some kick. Next time, I'll order it with extra giardinara to get the kick in the ass that I like when I order something spicy. The Boiler Room has a pretty good selection of beer and they LOVE PBR and Jamo at this joint.
(4)Flash F.
I liked the boiler room because it was close, convenient, and well... because I love pizza. But, the pizza itself was not that special, and the service was pretty poor. I even tried to politely joke around with the staff a little bit to get them to lighten up, but no... they are a little stiff for my taste in a local pizza joint.
(2)Tony T.
Great place to eat pizza. Spinach artichoke dip was excellent! Yum! Beer garden was great too. Going there again to have some more drinks and try some more of there food.
(5)William W.
The Boiler Room! I was in Chicago for a few days and a few friends recommended this place so I hopped on the blue and went to Logan's Square. The atmosphere of this place is awesome, it's themed after (you guessed it) an 1800s boiler room. They have a badass rotating pizza oven, so it's interesting to watch how their pizzas are done! The big special they have is the Pb&j. For around 9 bucks you get a pbr tall boy, a shot of Jameson and a generous slice of whatever you pizza you want. Not bad at all! The bar only accepts cash, which would normally be a downer, but this place has an atm in the building. The atm will charge you $2.50, but if you keep the receipt from the atm, you can exchange it for a shot of Jameson. There was a good amount of hipsters there when I was there, so of that's not your thing, maybe this isn't the place for you. I loved the place!
(5)Kyle W.
It's the perfect logan square bar and pizza joint. Cool, laid back, kind of funky atmosphere with quick service and good prices. The thin crust pizza is nothing to go crazy about, but it's damn good. Plenty of vegetarian options and vegan pizza available too! Good beer list and cheap cocktails. It's rightfully a neighborhood staple, but don't expect the food to blow you away.
(3)Nia F.
I really really wish the owners would read these reviews and do something about the service, it would completely change my view of this place. Awkward, slow, inconsistent, and often completely incorrect. They have far too much staff that's always socializing rather than working. Some guy comes out to the area, stares at all the tables with pizza in hand for at least a minute, walks back to the kitchen, and then delivers it. Does he think the answer is going to magically pop in his head as the pizza gets cold? This happens every time I'm there. For the love of god, FIX THE SERVICE and I would enjoy coming here. The outdoor seating in the winter was described as "cozy," but it's an actual igloo. No. Get rid of it. It made for an absolutely awful experience. I could rant for a while about them being cash only, but adding credit cards would probably only add to the horrible service experience. We stuff some cash under the clip and run out after waiting far too long for dinner. I've often seen people leave because no one comes to their table to take an order.
(2)Laurie S.
Cool decor and atmosphere but bland pizza. The four cheese tasted like crust and that's it. Even after adding oregano and red pepper it was still rather tasteless. Very disappointing. I also requested a spicy pizza and was recommended the Thai pizza. This was better than the 4 cheese but still rather bland and not spicy at all. The jalapeños had zero kick. It was weird that they were flavorless. The pizza had no complexity. The crusts were the best part of the pizza although they appeared under cooked. The one good menu item we received was the fried cheese. Very good and the green sauce did actually have flavor. I don't see all the hype in this place and probably will never return or recommend it. Chicago has WAY better places to spend your time.
(2)Max T.
For starters, I can say that I do not like or even try to frequent many cash only establishments. And in this hipster era sometimes it's hard to tip toe around them. The Boiler Room is one of only a hand full of places I will come to knowing their setup. The place is accessible, clean and decorated well. Even the bathroom though that weird to say but you have to see it for yourself. It's novelty. Then as for the menu they have good beer selections on draft and in bottle. The pizza is interesting when you select the specialites but don't overlook even the purist slice. A really cool practice that they've adopted alongside the cash only rule is that if you use the in house ATM you can keep your receipt and they will give you a shot of Jameson. At least its something. Because though the ATM fees aren't much they are such an inconvenience. The atmosphere in this place has always given off good vibes and the outdoor patio in back is one of the nicer I've seen around. I suggest as point of entry just stop in and grab a PB&J which is a slice, a PBR tallboy and a shot of Jameson. From there get a little more adventurous and stop in the bathroom. Creep.
(4)Jim J.
Decent pizza, slow service. Sometimes very slow. One time recently we had to leave and the last slice was taking an absurd amount of time, so we canceled the order. They still tried to charge us for it. The manager eventually took it off the check, but it's absurd that they even tried to charge us for it in the first place.
(3)Caitlin W.
The pizza here is phenomenal. It's not Chicago deep dish and it's not Chicago square cut. The thin, enormous slices of pizza from Boiler Room are more reminiscent of NY style pizza. It's thin, foldable and not messy--how do they do it? The service has ALWAYS been great and I've been here over 10 times. The drinks are also worth trying. My boyfriend orders old fashioneds at every bar we go to and he reports that "The Shake Weight" is on point. QUICK TIP: Just want a quick slice of pizza and don't want to sit down? You can ask the hostess and your order will be up in 5-10 minutes depending on what you've ordered. Cash only, but there's an ATM and you get a free shot of Jameson when you use Boiler Room's ATM.
(5)Whitney B.
Oh, Boiler Room. How I miss/love/loathe thee. You introduced me to some of the best vegan pizza in Chicago, AND THEN YOU TOOK IT AWAY! I miss the days when Boiler Room had two crusts to choose from. A vegan, and non. Unfortunately when they switched to one, it was no longer vegan. Some may question me saying it's not vegan, especially since they have a vegan pizza night. There is honey in the crust, and for some, including myself, I don't consider honey vegan. That's not to say that I don't support them, or their decision to offer a selection of vegan "meats" and "cheeses." I think it's great that they try to cater to such a wide selection of eaters. That being said, I miss eating here so bad, and hope one day they can offer a crust without honey again. Honestly some of the best pizza I've ever had was from Boiler Room and I MISS IT. I was also introduced to one of my favorite drinks in the world here: Gosling's Ginger Beer (non-alcoholic). WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE with your delicious gingery taste and cute little seal on the can. I love the atmosphere here, especially sitting on the back patio when it's nice out. Great place to come with friends and hang out over a pizza or drinks. Super convenient location under the California Blue Line stop. Just make sure to bring cash!!
(4)Lamar S.
This place is awesome! Me and my cousin came here for out #SundayFunday adventure (we go to different restaurants every week and check out the drinks and food in various neighborhoods of Chicago. It helps both of us east coast transplants get to know our new city better). We were greeted by a friendly staff and helpful information. *tip: this is a cash only place. If you get cash from their ATM and show it to the bartender, you get a shot of Jameson.* They have a great special right now call the PBJ - a shot of Jameson, a 16oz pbr and a slice of pizza for $8.50! Can't beat it. Overall, this was a great experience. They have outside seating that seats about 50 people and the food is cheap but good. We are def coming back here with our friends and out of town guest!
(5)Brookley C.
Gah Boiler Room - I really want to like you. While the food and drink have been consistently good - the service is downright awkward. Last night went for a drink after work around 5:30. The place was nearly empty, and the bartender was clearly bothered by my beverage request. Understood - your phone and bartender friend/patron clearly take priority. My husband and I celebrated a promotion here a while back, had a great pie, and excellent cocktails. The PBJ deal - killer. Just expect it with a side of 'tude and you'll be fine.
(2)Rachel M.
This place, hands down, has the best pizza I have ever eaten in my life. No joke. If you are a fan of thin crust, this is the place for you. My favorite was the Eat Your Veggies pizza, but it seems they've tragically removed it from the menu (big mistake). The buffalo, thai serrano and purist pizzas were also good. I highly recommend the jalapeño poppers as an app, which were also the best I've had since I can remember. Ambience-wise, the place has a dark and industrial feel to it. They show classic films in the bar area, visible from multiple vantage points in the restaurant and perfect for lulls in conversation when you're stuffing your face with Jameson soft serve ice cream. It's a great place to take someone on a date, or enjoy with friends. I recommend!
(4)Draenna J.
I wish I could give this place more stars, because I love coming here. I love the Jameson ice cream, and putting it in a Milk Stout float is OH MY GOD good. But I can no longer recommend the pizza. A friend and I got sick after stopping in on a Sunday night. We had different types of pizza and everything. Both slices were room temperature when we got them. I didn't think much of it at the time. That same night, we were both up at 3 in the morning, pissing out of our butts. When we mentioned this to others, we got more than a few "Oh, that's happened to me, too"s. Get the ice cream. Skip the pizza.
(3)Alex G.
This was the first place we went when we first moved to the neighborhood, and it did not disappoint! Things to note: The pizzas are huge. We ordered two for eight people and had half a (very large) pizza leftover. The Castro pizza is excellent. It has some unique ingredients (as do all of their pizzas), and they are an amazing blend. The Jameson infused ice cream, with AND without the donuts, is spectacular. Save room for this if you can, or swing by after dinner another night just for this. Their beer selection is pretty wonderful, as well! Overall, we love this place and can't wait to come back!
(5)Paige W.
I need to stop letting pseudo hipster blind dates from ok Cupid pick spots to meet. Yeah, I said it, I've been going on lots of blind dates. With guys off ok Cupid. Whatevs. This place might (might!) have been cool if I was super drunk, or if my date had been super hot. Neither were the case. I ordered two appetizers- the cheesy fried balls and the Jameson meat balls. Both came out luke warm, which really sealed the deal on this place. Maybe they would have been better if they were hot?? Well they weren't, and neither was my date, so the whole experience was a major bummer Maybe they were hot when they were originally ready. But our server was too busy chatting up one of the tables to bring them out when they were actually ready. He was a total dud too. Maybe if I was down with doing Jameson shots all night (they're 3 dollars), I'd come back. But I'm not into that. So I will never ever come back.
(2)Matthew M.
The Boiler Room is the perfect spot in Logan Square for a slice and a drink. Their PB&J special includes a generous slice of pizza, a can of PBR, and a shot of Jameson, all for under $9. The pizza is delicious and the service and quick and courteous. Their cash-only policy may seem like a hassle to some, but they have an ATM in-house with a low service fee, and you can trade the receipt from it for a free shot of Jameson if you need to take out some cash. Five stars, A+, perfect.
(5)Caitlyn D.
This is my favorite little pizza place in my neighborhood! I usually get the specialty slices since they are always top notch. They have a great special called the PB&J, a PBR, a shot of Jameson and a slice of pizza for $8.50. They are open until 2am most nights (even Sundays!) which is awesome for me considering I'm out late most Sunday nights and am usually looking for something quick on the way home. It's right off the California stop on the blue line, easily accessible. Keep in mind they are cash only; however, they do have an ATM and if you take money out they give you a free shot of Jameson! Yay free shots!
(4)Megan M.
The place is great but the reason I'm leaving 5 stars is because of the excellent service I received from Jordan. I was in town on vacation from Los Angeles and Jordan made my experience so enjoyable that I came back a second time. I'll make sure this place is a MUST next time I'm in town and hope hope hope I get Jordan again. A+ for hospitality!! Jordan if you are reading this, if you are ever in La, we will make room in our restaurant for you! ;)
(5)Tom S.
Went here for daughter's 21 st birthday. Wanted something fun and low key. Loved the outside back patio. Perfect night. Ordered the Castro and BBQ chicken pizzas. Personally I did not like the BBQ chicken with pineapple and hot peppers. Castro good. Must be their take on a Cuban sandwich. Liked the hip vibe overall. Service was generally slow but not bad enough to keep me away. Will go back. Also not too crazy about the cash only policy. I find that annoying especially with a large group you are paying for. Have to plan to bring big bags of cash and hope you have enough.
(4)Mark G.
Boiler Room threw me off. First, I walk into the men's room to find it's modeled after the "L" train. It's pertinent because the L smells like urine. Secondly, the pizza smelled and looked amazing. I suggested we grab one to take back to the crib. There I learned the pizza was awful. Some of that can be attributed to my drunk friend ordering random and strange ingredients, but mostly because it was just bad. Maybe it's good when it's eaten fresh, right out of the oven. But guess what? GOOD pizza should still taste good even after it's become a little soft and soggy. But it didn't. It tasted like unicorn sh*t. The last surprise was ice cream. That's right. Mothafu*ka said ice cream, yo. I don't even care for ice cream, because I'm not 5 years old. But to my amazement, Boiler Room has great ice cream. I tried ice cream that was flavored with Jameson whiskey (strong) and this other with Rice Crispies. Sh*t was bomb. Especially when I put some in my pint glass of Nitro Milk Stout. Definitely unique and full of surprises. Some good, some not so good. But worth checking out.
(3)Edgar A.
Was out on a date and couldn't have picked a better spot for pizza and crafty beer. Everything from the service to the ambiance was awesome. we had the meatball appetizer and it was great starter, good taste. We ordered the Buffalo chicken pizza and it was amazing. The ingredients were fresh, the size of the pizza was huge and the flavor was amazing. Great place to eat, very trendy. Love the cta features they have in place. Really speaks chicago! Highly recommend.
(5)Karry L.
In the words of noted philosopher and Chicago native Robert Sylvester Kelly: "It's the freakin' weekend, baby I'm about to have me some fun." It seems churlish to turn down such sage advice, and in that vein, Boiler Room is usually my first stop out of the office on those impossibly beautiful summer evenings. The inside has a steampunk Pinterest vibe going on, what with the plexiglass booths, arbitrarily-placed red police tape, and exposed metal everything. Random movies play on projection screens shaped like extra-large portholes. I'm actually a fan of the décor, but for the less nautically-inclined, there's a fairly large outdoor seating area with the standard rustic-chic wooden tables, incongruously large speakers, and underemployed hipster girls in Ray-Bans and floral dresses sashaying about. It's a perfect location to observe the Humans of Logan Square, knock back a few cold ones, and commiserate with your friends about where it all went wrong for you personally and professionally. All before 4:30 on a Friday. And speaking of which, you'll probably want to start with the PB&J special: a slice of pizza, a PBR tallboy, and a shot of Jameson, all for the intern-friendly price of $8.50. The pizza is surprisingly decent, with a good ratio of non-rubbery cheese to tomato sauce, and miles better than the dreck that passes for thin-crust in this town (the less said about deep-dish the better). Keep the buzz going with a couple of the craft brews, which range from $5-7. Cocktails hover around $8, but are a bit on the sweet side for my taste. What's that? You've asked for the check and someone just told you that it's cash only? Luckily, there is an ATM conveniently located within the very bar, and if you show the receipt to the bartender you can close out with a free shot of Jamo for your troubles. Recommend if: your checking account reimburses you for ATM fees.
(5)Amanda G.
We live in the area, and I can't believe we hadn't heard of this place before. They are known for their large-sliced pizza, beer selection, $3 Jamo shots, and Jamo-infused ice cream. I loved the menu selections at this place, but my husband pointed out they offer only pizza, apps, and salads. The pizzas all sounded good and different. We got the Purist, which has balsamic reduction on it, which I wasn't crazy about but grew on me. The pizza was pretty good, seemed fresh, and I like the thin, cornmeal-crunchy crust. The handcut fries looked amazing, and I plan to get some next time. The Duffy Asian Salad with Peanut Sauce and Sweet Chilli Sauce was also very good. It is a bar/pizzeria type of place, but they don't really have TVs. This could be a pro or a con, depending on why you are going. The beer selection was pretty extensive - yay! But they don't describe their draft beers or give the ABV on the menu, which I to like. The server was a funny guy, but in that "I am a hipster and I hate you" kind of way. We will go back I am sure.
(4)Rhonda P.
Im really digging this place, the music, the food, the movies playing on the projection screen and last but not least the PBJ special. It's a very chill spot with a great patio and some interesting people watching.
(4)Andre W.
Cash only!!! Just wanted to make sure you all know that They have an ATM there that charges you around $2 and some change in which I am not a fan of. Aside from that, this place is really cool. It comes off as very dark & hipster-ish as Nick M mentioned, but it is very cool. Beer selection is pretty stellar. Music is pumping loud and they seem to have movies playing on the TVs they have hanging. They were playing some Jean Claude Van Dam movie which had a scene with some woman's exposed breast....I wasn't upset by this @ all. When you walk in the door, the scent of pizza hits you right in the nose. They have what my friend referred to as "spicy ass pizza" which was really some sort of thai pizza which was really good. We got a half thai/half buffalo chicken pizza. We did the damn thang on it as a group of 5. Definitely enjoyed my time here and will def be back when I am in Logan Square
(4)Julee W.
This place has gotten better! The pizza and the service were killer the last two times I went! So great to see
(4)Smart C.
I'm surprised at what a really bad experience we just had here, given the previously adequate times we've had here before. Maybe it started with putting us in the corner... anyway, drinks were tiny and watery. ($8 for a watery 2 shot martini?) one pizza slice was cold in spots and watery. 2nd drink order was not what we ordered. appetizer came after the food. i asked for an upsell to the PBJ, was told no, but was not offered a beer to buy, either. I'm tempted to call the Ageism card on this one. We had plenty of cash and would have spent it, if we had felt like they cared for our business. I even did laser-eyes on what I am pretty sure was the floor manager, but the corner made us invisible. I am sad. We had such fun here before.
(1)Erin S.
As an update, I emailed the Boiler Room with no response to the issue. These guys totally lost my and all my friends' business!
(1)Daniel G.
This place was dooooooope. Perfect place to eat after leaving a bar or club. The music they play there is amazing! Nothing but jams. I got the PB&J deal which is a daily special they have that includes a PBR, shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza for like $8 and some change. That is one of the greatest deals I've ever seen! Got the veggie pizza which wasn't the best pizza I've had in Chicago but it was good especially after a night of drinking. They also have alcohol infused ice creams that I didn't try but sounded amazing. The staff was amazing. Everyone was really nice and service was extremely fast. This is a great place to eat anytime of day and day of the week. Really good place to keep the party going and munch out.
(4)Vaidehi T.
Two and a half stars. Was out with friends on a Fri night. Its obviously popular because it was crowded. We were seated at the back, which is basically a tarp over the roof. We were right next to a speaker, so we had to yell the whole time to get heard. The pizzas were not worth it... two of the 3 that we ordered were very mediocre. I dont know why the purist and the chicken pizza were downright sweet. The only good one was the veggie pizza. The service was bad. One of us in the group wanted some water. There were no servers around, so she went up to the front and asked one of the servers. We were told they ran out of glasses - so we couldn't get any water. It is a strange place.
(3)Rebecca O.
I used to love this place. The PB&J was a great deal... until they upped the price. Now it's way cheaper to just share a pizza, order PBR tall boys, and get a free shot for using the ATM. (btw I love that they give you a free shot for using the ATM). I came here with my friends a few weeks ago. They sat us in the back where there's basically a tarp over the patio with some heaters. It was freezing!! We wore our coats the whole meal. Also we were sitting right under a speaker. I was enjoying their music selection, but it was so loud we couldn't even hear each other talk. Our pizza was lukewarm, and the crust was thin but floppy. It was really not good, nor was it cheap. Also, the service was abysmal. We were ready for our check for at least 30 minutes before we were able to flag down the server. This place has changed a lot, and not for the better. I'm pretty disappointed.
(2)Kait G.
This place has some of the better thin crust pizza in Chicago. They have a PB+J special, slice of pizza, PBR tall boy, and a jameson shot for $8.50. Pretty sweet deal but I usually go with the largest pizza with toppings of sausage and the amAzZzZing giardiniera. Seriously, the giardiniera is a MUST. The salads and jalepeno poppers are also tasty and they have a decent beer menu. The service is hit or miss but always friendly and it is CASH ONLY. No worries, an ATM is provided including a free shot of jameson if used. The ambiance is laid back, enjoy the classic films and CTA themed bathrooms!
(4)Meagan T.
While the food was good, the service of this place was horrible. They don't take cash. Don't come in here with a large party because the waitress won't even be kind enough to split the check. So prepare for 30+ minutes of your party trying to manually split the check, get the appropriate change, etc. My evening and buzz was ruined by the service. Not worth it.
(2)April M.
WORST SERVICE I HAVE EVER HAD! I went here for the first time on a busier evening to meet some friends for pizza and drinks. The hostess and door man were very friendly, so good start. Then we sat there for over 20 minutes waiting for someone to greet us. Finally, our server, Katie appears looking frazzled and apologized for the delay. No big deal.. it was busy. She takes our order and my drink actually got there pretty quickly. She says she will bring us shots for the length of time it took her to greet us. Meanwhile, my friends are still waiting on their drinks. Mind you, one friend ordered the same drink as me (which took 15 minutes) and my other friend ordered a beer (30 minutes at least). Katie came back and asked me if I'd like to order a drink. I replied that she had just brought me my drink and that my friends were still waiting for their drinks. Every time the server came to check on us, we'd remind her that we were still waiting on a beer and we also had to remind her what kind of beer it was. Seriously? Look, I was a server for over 4 years and I get that people have bad days, but this was just comically terrible. She kept saying, 'Oh, I'll bring you guys some shots' and then she'd disappear and reappear asking how we were doing. She kept forgetting to bring us the shots....or maybe she thought we'd forget. But that doesn't matter because I don't take shots of Jameson anyway. It became absurdly ridiculous and we concluded that she must be drinking them herself. It started as a joke, but then it did appear to us that she was actually drunk, especially when she hiccuped as she dropped off the box for our leftover pizza. For a while there, I thought I was on Candid Camera. Nope, couldn't be so lucky. She brought the bill. Wrong one. This was not a huge surprise to us. Everything that could go wrong, did - with the exception of the food being exactly what we ordered. It's a miracle she got that right. I asked to speak with a manager and spoke with Bobbie who agreed with me that Katie should go home and she said 'She is going through some stuff right now. She's not usually like this. I put another server on. I'm so sorry.' Then we were offered shots for the fifth time and this time they brought them... five of them (there were four of us). Katie dropped off the bill and we noticed a gratuity was added. Again, there were four of us. I went back to the manager and she promptly took the gratuity off of the bill. Then, Katie appeared again 'I'm so sorry, I never add gratuity to checks, it was a mistake.' And I told her okay, whatever and I hope she resolves whatever issue that she has. She walked away. I left the worst tip I've ever left anyone which was 5%. And she didn't even deserve that. Mind you, I NEVER do this. The manager told me to leave my number so that she could give me a discount next time I came in. I agreed to that until I realized I would most likely never be coming back. There are far better places in Chicago to eat and drink with much better service.
(1)Max H.
Pizza wasnt not great at all and they only take cash. I hate places that only take cash makes me think its all a big scam so they dont have to buy taxes.
(1)Brandon S.
I live right near this place, so it's hard to avoid. They generally have good beer on tap, and if you can score a seat at the bar then you can have a decent evening. There are several problems though. One is that the service in the dining area is downright awful. I've had various waitresses completely avoid me and my party, walking around oblivious to the fact that we are out of drinks and/or want to pay the bill. Secondly, the music is terrible and unbearably loud. This place is a restaurant first, a bar second, and a dance club never. No one comes there to hear the top 40 indie Spotify playlist they've subscribed to. Thirdly, and this is probably the most important since they are a pizza place, is that the pizza is soggy and usually pretty gross. The crust is translucent half the time, and trying to pick up your slice usually results in your fingers finding their way into molten hot pizza sauce instead of a nice crispy crust. They really wish they were making New York style pizza, so maybe they should send one of the employees to New York to see how it's actually done.
(2)Michael R.
THIS PLACE IS CASH ONLY! They serve pizza by the slice!!! Slices are pretty big, one is certainly enough for one person. Pizza was great and the staff was great! The one deal breaker is that they only take cash as payment. There is an ATM inside and they give you a free shot if Jameson if you use it. I really see no excuse for not taking credit cards in 2014 though.
(4)Kat D.
Boiler room is one of the best places in Logan square to have a solid piece of pie. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here but if you're in the area you def need to check this place out. They have a pretty good beer selection and if you like Jameson and PBR then take advantage of their PB&J!
(5)Aditi P.
OMG PIZZA LOVE! I wish I knew this place when I lived in the city, I'd get the Castro pizza here everyday. Maybe it is a good thing I didn't. Super hipster and too cool for school crowd (we were the only ones in business casual work clothes and felt lame, but that's okay). We got the thai pizza (had to try it duh), and the Castro (the BEST)..and both were amazing. The pizza slices are ginormous and we ate it the next day too. The beignets with the jamo soft serve will hit the spot!
(4)Luvleen K.
Who lets a full table order the PB&J (pizza, beer and a shot of jamo) at 1:30 and then proceed to turn on the lights ten minutes later followed by kicking everyone out before closing time. Not to mention we were waiting for service for a while. The dining experience prior to this was fine but a warning would have been nice. We all felt like we just gave them money to not finish our food and drinks. Thanks for the horrible ending to the night boiler room.
(1)Mark C.
Overall it was a good experience. They wouldn't let my iguana in however, nor would they let me let my 12 year old mail order bride in. Drinks were good, but full of alcohol. We sat on the patio, I could feel the wind and I'm really upset they didn't do something to stop it: however I had an enjoyable experience and it all worked out because my 12 year old bride was able to get some quality time in with my iguana on the sidewalk. Try the red pepper flakes.
(5)Vanessa G.
This is not what you think of when you think of Chicago and pizza -- no deep dish here. This is thin crust, perfectly chewy but yet soft with a slight crunch from the intense oven heat and addition of cornmeal. My favorite is the Purist pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil and a balsamic reduction drizzle. You can order a whole pie or by the slice and there's also a nifty daily special called the PB & J which is slice of pizza, a PBR and a shot of Jameson all for $8.50. Oh and an absolute must try is their Jameson soft serve vanilla ice cream. Simply amazing, seriously. So smooth and creamy with just a hint of Jameson flavor. You can also get it with freshly made warm mini cinnamon flavored donuts! Aside from food, there's a full bar with an interestingly quirky cocktail menu. It's cash only, but you get a free shot with your ATM receipt. The vibe here is definitely hipster/cool, maybe with a smidge of divey-ness. Check out the bathroom's interesting decor for some Instagram material. But don't let that put you off. There's a great beer garden area out back, which is always welcoming and a nice place for larger groups to hang out, especially in the summers. Also this place is located right off the Blue Line which makes it easy to get to. Also open late, especially nice on weekends when you're looking for some late night eats. Highly recommend, try this place out.
(5)James L.
Once in awhile the service is lacking, the pizza is a little off, and sometimes the music is way too loud, but most of the time Boiler Room is perfect! The PBJ is the easy option and it seem to always satisfy me- I'm too old to be a hipster, so don't judge! I very highly recommend the drunkin' doughnuts! It's the most affordable and original dessert available in the area and possibly in Chicago. It's a great option if you want something less formal and more fun after dinner at a fancier place nearby.
(4)Kelly K.
Cool bar concept and nice/fast staff. Pizza choices/ toppings are great but the actual pizza crust its self is just mehhh. Beer meatballs were pretty dry. Stick to the alcohol and you're golden lol Very hipster-ish (duh! it's logan sq) Cash only BUT you do get a free shot of jamo if you show them your ATM receipt lol
(3)Jessica D.
Love the PBJ deal, and the pizza slice (I tried the veggie) was absolutely delicious! It's in a great location, too. However, whoever our server was, ugh!! Total B. We get that it is cash only, and that's fine. But if we're telling you we are not associated with the table next to us, don't f***ing add everyone's total together anyway! Actually listen to what the customers are saying. Not really interested in going back based on poor service.
(3)Kate G.
quality food and great drinks - but too many restrictions. Cash only, no modifications to drink menu and majority of their pizzas can only be ordered in one size. And you have to show ID before you can even speak to a host/hostess on wait time. This place is packed all the time and can only assume makes a killing - why so restrictive??? The food and drinks are memorable, but you have to be willing to put up with all the quirks
(3)Jonathan P.
In any discussion of Boiler Room, the PB&J is pretty much the alpha and the omega. The acronym--though a bit of a stretch in designating "Pizza, Blue-Ribbon, & Jameson"--represents a confluence of items that's a lot more savory (and a lot less nutty) than it initially sounds. In fact, compared to peanut-butter and jelly, it's straight-up wholesome: one wide, thin slice that you select from amongst their assortment of pies (and, in my experience, they don't even up-charge if you opt for one of the more-expensive-on-their-own daily-special slices), accompanied by a sixteen-ounce Pabst and a shot of Jameson Irish Whiskey. It really is a five-star innovention--and I say that not even being much of a fan of Jameson, on its own merits. Sadly, the cost has recently risen to $8.50 (from the halcyon price-point of $7.50). Nonetheless, I don't find this a deal-breaker. It's still an entirely solid deal--especially if you regard Boiler Room as I do: a great bar to be waylaid, amongst other designs and destinations, but not necessarily an independent justification for a trip up north. Situated immediately under the California stop, the location also provides a great excuse to duck in when you're making the old periplus around blue-line-adjacent places, whether you'd like a swift, unsophisticated late lunch or need a night-cap, with a slice built into the price to soak-up the work of previous bars. And if I lived in the area, I'd probably drop through a lot more regularly for lazy-day lunches or dinners. The cocktails, in terms of both price and quality, are much closer to two-star offerings, so I wouldn't really visit Boiler Room intending to drink any spirit other than Jameson. While, beyond the borders of the Blue-Ribbon, the draught-list is solid, if minimally over-priced. The remainder of the food offerings--outside the seasoned fries, which are excellent--fall solidly around the three-star vicinity. But you shouldn't be going to Boiler Room for any of those things. You *should* be going to Boiler Room because it's conveniently positioned right under an absolutely-arterial corridor of Chicago; because it's a very comfortable, somewhat hearth-some space, nice for wiling away of an afternoon hour or two; because its soft-, thin-, doughy-crusted pizzas are good--particularly The Purist--but are also filling without leaving you overly-full. And of course there's that PBJ thing: a perfectly-portioned little unit you can purchase by plopping down a ten-spot.
(4)Daina T.
This place is dangerous for a multitude of reasons. One - it's right across the street from the Blue Line stop, so it's far too easy to slip in for a (quick) drink and a slice of delicious pizza after work. It's quickly becoming a habit. Two - Jameson. On. Tap. It somehow tastes better this way. What else is there to say? Three - Great staff, great music, strong cocktails. Four - Cash only, but the ATM is convenient. Thanks for making me feel welcome in the neighborhood, Boiler Room.
(4)Alex T.
Pros -Free Jameson shot when you use their ATM -Pizza crust is great -Decent on-tap beer selection -Smells great Cons -Ordered buffalo chicken pizza-usually one of my favorites. It was pretty much shredded chicken with hot sauce dumped on top--not awesome -Mac N' Cheese app left a lot to be desired. Mix between homemade and Kraft -Cash only -Had a little trouble with service spilling drinks. I think I want to give this place one more shot because the crust was good, maybe the buffalo chicken just isn't their forte. Can't say I'll be excited to go back for a second time.
(3)Kyle H.
Previously I've only been to the Boiler Room for a drink while my friends ate- went back for dinner and fell in love with it! Got there before my guest and had the pleasure of enjoying a drink at the bar, and watching a goofy movie on their two big screens. The bartender was pleasant, and she even took time to answer my questions about their specialty drinks. They do some nice mixed drinks here- think Whistler. Many people bellied up to the bar were enjoying the PB&J Special- a Pizza slice, Beer (PBR) & shot of Jameson. I'll definitely stop in for that special some time after a long day of work. The decor here is full of reclaimed subway materials- and it's funky and unique. The crowd is lively and kinda loud, and it gets busy. But staff was nothing but friendly and helpful all night! The salad menu looked really good! For another time, perhaps. We ordered the Hawaiian Pizza with chunk ham, pineapple, and bacon. The pizza was huge! Enough for 3-4 people. The pizza was alright, neither of us was a big fan of the chunk ham- would probably do better with the traditional Canadian Bacon. Still, the crust and sauce were good. A simple pizza will run you about $18, but can get as high as $30. I look forward to trying the Purist, with mozzarella, basil and a balsamic drizzle. Looking forward to the next visit.
(4)Marcus A.
Amazing environment! Amazing food! Amazing prices! We did the PB&J deal which is a shot of Jameson, a slice of pizza and a 16oz PBR! Absolutely loved it and will be returning!
(5)Lisa F.
Just moved to Logan, had to check this place out. Love it! PB&J, or just a slice of pizza and a great drink (try the lions dick!), or both! either way, I've been in a couple times and every time it is great. Love the free shot if you have to use the ATM, pretty awesome.
(5)Kandace L.
I don't come here anymore on the weekends. It is best to come on an off night. (depends on the atmosphere I guess) I like the movies on the bar and the ambiance inside. Food and mixed drinks are really something different. For thin crust pizza this is my all time favorite.
(5)Frank B.
Came for the $8.50 PBJ special which is 1 slice of pizza, 1 PBR and 1 shot of Jameson. Great deal for quality pizza. Its very doughy, soft and near gooey. It almost taste undercooked but its pure magic. Sorcery I say! Really want to come back and try a whole pizza but for $20 and up?! Me thinks I will reconsider before making the trek to Logan. *CASH ONLY
(4)Katie K.
PBJ. Pizza, beer, jameson--who's to complain? It's only 7 bucks too. I love this place. I think the pizza is tasty and the slices are huge!! It's really great. I also have had their mac and cheese fried pops--they were quite yummy. I have tried their salads too, always fresh and delicious. In the summer, their outdoor patio is really awesome. The service is stellar, the ambiance is great, really no complaints from me! PS. It's cash only.
(5)Brooke O.
I really used to love this place. The chefs used to pick up produce from me at the Logan Market for their veggie pizzas, the inside is unique, and I love that if you have to use the ATM, you can save your receipt for a shot on the house. Unfortunately, it has become too sketchy for me to return. This review is not a reflection of the kitchen or wait staff, but rather of the staff watching the front door and the kinds of folks hanging around there. My boyfriend and I stopped in on Sunday night for a couple PBJs after a long day. We locked up our frames outside of the bar (huge mistake in the first place, we always lock up our wheels), in clear sight for the door guy to see and even people sitting at the window. On our way out, my boyfriend's wheel was gone. To make a long story very short, it was clear that the people working the front door saw the wheel get taken and refused to help. After reviewing security footage from around the area and the POLICE STATION next door, it became even more obvious that it is a neighbor taking parts of off bikes and everyone is turning a blind eye. While I would never expect the doorman to double as the security guard, I can't give business to a place whose staff "blindly" allow these kinds of things to happen at its front door and in our neighborhood.
(2)Jelena Z.
What? I've been here four times since they've opened and I'm just now penning a review. Oh, Bolier Room... how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. // The PB & J Special: A slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. All day, every day! // 8 innovative cocktails for $8 a piece. My pick? The 1988, with rum chata, Van Gogh espresso vodka and Absolut vanilla. The proverbial icing: it's served up with a side of Cinnamon Toast Crunch! Yes, as in the cereal. Hilarious yet heavenly at the same time. // Hot, bestubbled hipster boys open to dishing on their Jameson soft serve (yes, they have it) and cevapcici (well, they don't have them). // One of the coolest, cleanest washrooms in the world! Created from retired CTA train parts + real audio taken straight from the Blue Line (now approaching: California!), the facilities are worth taking a leak in twice. // The patio in back was made for soaking up the sun and throwing back a cold one. Yessss. // The name: Awesome, just like the movie. // A handsome beer list including about two dozen craft brews. // Jameson on draft. I repeat: Jameson on draft! // The pizza! It's not 100% loyal to NY-style but I'd definitely tout it as NY-inspired. The pies are baked on a bed of cornmeal, creating a crispy, unevenly charred crust with a chewy core. Try a slice of The Purist with fresh mozzarella, basil and a balsamic reduction. While you're at it, order two - you'll want it. *Cash only.
(5)Rebekah S.
I fall in The Boiler Room fan camp for sure. Every time I go I love their pizza more and more, salads aren't bad either. In a city of deep dish this is a great thin crust spot. Sure, service isn't stellar and it's cash only, but there's enough charm and good pizza to overcome this. Plus, the stuff they play on TV is entertaining in and of itself. My favorite? The 80s toy commercials.
(5)Luke T.
Boiler Room is obsessed with Jameson, which just so happens to be my whiskey of choice. This could be an issue. They have a special called a PB and J...Guess what that is! Pizza, Beer and Jameson! You get a slice of pizza, a beer, and a shot of jameson for, I think, around $7? Craziness. My friend Matt and I were on our best behavior because we were couchsurfing with people, so we used all of our strength to resist indulging in the everflowing Jameson. The $3 price tag (all day uryday) made this feat extremely difficult. We did have beers though, and the selection is decent. Nothing like Hopjack's 150 drafts down in Pcola, but not too shabby either. The pizza was decent. It wasn't great, but it was above average. They had nice options for their specialty pies, and there were at least two vegetarian ones as I recall. As far as decor, the only thing that really stood out was the bathrooms, which are designed to look like the El train, and feature a recording of the El stop message and everything. Very cool.
(3)Chris L.
Shitty greasy cheap ass pizza.!!! Hipsters everrrrrrywhere, waitress was rude and seemed like a bitch towards me and my friends i don't know why. Never will go back to this shitty place agaIn. Really don't know how people actually like there pizza, im not a picky person but damn that pizza was greasy N tasted cheap!!!
(1)Faith L.
Wonderful PBJ special (pizza, tallboy of pbr, and a jameson shot). The specialties are super on point, with options of a vegetarian and meat special. However, the service is TERRIBLE and the music is extremely loud. Cash only as well, but the plus side is that your ATM receipt gets you a free jamo shot. If you're willing to wait and yell over loud music, your'e at least guaranteed good food and (okay) beer.
(4)Shradha A.
Their Thai curry pizza was really good. The atmosphere is unique and yes, you do have to go check out the restrooms. The soft serve machine was broken so we didn't get to try that. They allow half-n-half but only when the sauce is the same - so we did Purist and Lombardi. First was fresh but regular and second was interesting because different. CASH ONLY!
(4)Aaron Jae M.
The PBJ special is awesome. $7.50 for a slice of pizza, tall boy of PBR, and a shot of jameson. They are cash only which usually is somewhat of a hassle BUT if you go to the ATM, you can trade in your receipt for a shot of jameson which is a good deal since shots usually cost more than ATM fees. Their pizza is not chicago style but it is done pretty well. Has good flavor and the slices are pretty well sized. The slices are flimsy but they taste good enough for me to overlook that fact.
(4)Alex K.
I love the pizza here. You get a huge slice. I think Tuesdays are vegan which is great for my girlfriend. Beer selection never makes me extremely happy--I ask for suggestions and am never super pleased. However, I usually order 2-3 beers, maybe because I go here on weekends. The famous PBJ deal went up a dollar a few months ago and I've gone less. The service didn't get any better, so that was a disappointment. Who wants pbr anyway? Oh wait, I'm in Logan Square :)
(3)Roseanne S.
This weekend was my first trip to Logan Square. Being a South suburban girl my whole life, the whole hipster thing isn't really my scene. However, this place was actually chill enough that I didn't feel completely out of place. I actually liked it here. It was a pretty busy Friday night. My boyfriend, a friend, and I came here looking for a quick bite and some beer before a show at the Ultra Lounge. We put our name down for a table, but weren't given an estimated time for seating. That's fine, we'll just have some beers. They have a daily special of PBR, a slice of pizza, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. I would never get this because 1) PBR=piss water and 2) I had a bad night with Jameson once. I now shudder at the name. Instead, we got some beers and they do have a great selection, both on tap and in bottles. I had an IPA that was pretty good as well as Three Floyds Pride and Joy. Since it was pretty packed inside, we went to the outside patio. It was a little cold, but nothing a Chicagoan can't handle. As I drank my delicious craft beer, I looked around and every single person was drinking a PBR. You could attribute this to the Boiler Room's deal, but I think there's a rule that if you live in Logan Square, you can't be caught dead without a PBR in your hand. Clearly, I wasn't from these parts but I don't care. Someone's gotta drink the good stuff and I'm up to the task. After a beer, we decided to go inside and figure out when we were going to be seated. As I was about to get some more beer, I heard someone order a slice of pizza at the bar. What? You can do that? Maybe you can only do it if you get the piss water deal? Either way, I was thinking, "Well why the hell am I waiting for a table if you can just order pizza from the bar?" That's all we really wanted. Just as I was about to ask about this, we were seated. I guess I'll never know. We were seated in the outdoor tent. I know what you're thinking. It's winter. Are you crazy? Have no fear. The tent has heaters at each table which is nice, except that one half of your face feels like it's going to get sunburn. But at least it allows you to eat outside. We ordered our slices and drank our beer. The pizza is New York style as in it's very thin and it's a very big piece but in a setting like this, it works. It was very good. Just the right amount of grease and it hit the spot. I got pepperoni, my boyfriend got the Purist, which is basil and fresh motzarella; and his friend got the Boiler Room slice, which has meatballs dipped in PBR (obviously) and some giardinara. Every slice looked delicious and they were. You should know that this place is cash only so make sure you come with some in hand. Also, the bathroom is really cool. It's like a CTA stop. When you open the door, the CTA man's voice comes and announces a blue line stop. The stall is made using a CTA car door. Pretty neat. If I'm back in Logan Square, I'll be back here.
(4)Elieke D.
Get the PBR pizza shot for $7.50, such a great deal!! and don't forget to check out the bathrooms...the CTA theme is very well done. I need to go back because I was later told that the soft serve is to die for, I will update this within the next few weeks once I have the chance to go back. It is ideally located right off the blue-line..perfect for those who commute like myself to hop off and back on.
(4)B M.
I go to the Boiler Room often because it's conveniently located near me, cheap, and easy to get in on any night. Plus the patio is a bonus. I wouldn't say that I ever thought the pizza was stellar, but it's not bad and I I enjoy the cocktails. I will never go back, as many have communicated due to the service. Not of the waitress, but the manager. Last night I was there with a friend, who suddenly felt very sick, not from drinking, but low blood sugar or something to that effect. Her husband escorted her away from the table to sit down because she didn't want to vomit at the table in front of other customers or faint if either was the case. She sat down near the bathrooms with her husband. Meanwhile, our server was great, she came over, offered more water, said she communicated to the manager that my friend wasn't drunk or anything, sympathized with my friend's sudden wooziness/nausea, etc. as she had witnessed it. Apparently, another server was sent to my sick friend by the manager Eric and abruptly told by the server that she was really sorry but the manager said she would have to leave immediately if she didn't call an ambulance due to liability. My friend asked if she could just have two minutes to collect herself because you know that feeling when nausea will pass, and the server told her she had to leave now per the manager. My friend returned to the table, told us this and we were allowed to stay long enough to pay our bill. My friend asked to speak with this cowardly manager on her way out as she was feeling better and the nausea had passed. He coldly communicated liability, said he had heard she had fallen on the floor (not what our waitress had said to him) and did not apologize. Apparently he was so concerned with liability, he sent someone else over to communicate this and never actually offered to call an ambulance (the message was if she did not call an ambulance, she would have to leave). He had no concern with how my friend was feeling, whether it had to do with anything she ate there, etc. He was incredibly rude and cold and repeated the words liability. In sum, if you're even feeling slightly ill, are having nausea from pregnancy, might be getting the flu, are diabetic, have low blood sugar, don't eat here because they are so worried about liability, they would prefer for you to pass out in front of the building. I'm assuming this policy also applies to Part and Labor and Scofflaw as I'm pretty sure they're all the same owners and this is how they're training their managers. I used to go to those frequently too but will be sure to tell everyone in the Logan Square neighborhood this story.
(1)Christopher J.
Stopped in for dinner before a night out in Bucktown...make sure to stop at the ATM on the way, spot is CASH ONLY! The pizza is good, nice selections of toppings and styles....I went with the "boiler room" (meatballs and giardinara, goods!), it's NYC style thin slices that you'll likely fold over...I prefer a crispy Chicago style pizza, but its not bad for a change of pace...they have jameson infused ice cream we saw tons of people ordering, didn't try but seems to be a hot comoddity....good beer selection and overall a cheap spot to grab a dinner with friends
(4)Nicolas C.
The atmosphere is the best part about this place. When I went, they were playing underground hip-hop and showing a movie on the big screen behind the bar. Definitely a great place to go with friends to get the night started. I'll be coming back here for sure.
(4)Lisa G.
Just recently moved into the area and this is a short walk down the street.. did I luck out or what?! PB&Js a couple times a week!!! Slice of pizza, PBR, and shot of Jameson for $7.50. Doesn't get any better than that. $8.50 if you want a slice of specialty pizza. I got a specialty pizza with banana pepper cream, sweet and spicy banana peppers... and some other stuff I don't remember. Way too spicy for me!! But that's not saying much. I still thought it was good before my mouth went numb. Now I stick with cheese. The bathroom is like a train station, complete with sounds. Awesome. The patio is pretty at night with lights all around and they were playing Motown the last time I was there.. Set a nice mood for date night! They play classics like Austin Powers and Ninja Turtles on the screens at the bar. I've tried out a couple other places in the area but overall I think this is going to the hangout based on atmosphere, food and price! Total package.
(5)Ted C.
Has all the trappings of a good pizza but they put way too much cornmeal on that shit. Who needs a crunch in every bite? Also I'm not sure if their website is out of date but it says $21 for pizza and they charged me $23 when I got there.
(2)Tracy B.
PB&J!!! Pizza, tall boy of PBR and a shot! I love you, boiler room. I make a stop here every time I enter Chicago. Conveniently located underneath the California blueline stop so that when you finish all your Whiskey and beer, you are able to hop the train and head home. Cash only. If you happen to use the ATM, save your receipt and they will give you a free shot of Jameson. I forgot to mention the Whiskey Infused Ice Cream! Mint chocolate chip or Vanilla. They have Jameson on tap. Holla.
(5)Emma G.
Although I was only here for drinks and a few side dishes the fun atmosphere along with the great setup for both individual patrons and groups makes it awesome. I look forward to going back and trying some of the well known food items and rotating boozey ice cream flavors.
(4)Jimbo B.
On multiple occasions I have experience GREAT service from very friendly staff. Love the vibe at this place. Hip but not too trendy or over the top. I have only had the pizza and it was great every single time. There's so many things on the menu I want to try but the PB&J special is too good to pass up! However, friends recommend the salads and mac n cheese. 5 stars= cheap, great service, great food, great atmosphere
(5)Pamela M.
Nice Cargo Straps! Made for comfy seats. The place is cool I'll give them that. Make sure to use the rest room while there. Server was emotionless and my Lombardi pizza was good (what else do you expect from a cheesehead Packer fan ;) crust nice and thin, but $30 a pizza is quite a stretch for me. And $8 for a teenie glass of wine (limited selections) Cool place to try at least once.
(3)Antonio B.
Came here with some friends for some drinks and some appetizers. On one hand the drinks were out of this world both in price and taste, I didn't care to much for the food. at best it was just average bar food minus the fresh out of the fryer feel. If it wasn't for the cheap prices I'm not sure if id come back for round two.
(3)Kristin M.
We were headed to Revolution, but decided to try Boiler Room instead. If you don't feel like pizza, you'll be pressed to find something here. If you have a hankering for some pie, though, you're in luck! It's delicious. Intrigued by the carbonara pizza, we had to order it. The ham and chicken were smokey and delicious and the cream sauce was a tasty treat. The cocktails are delicious and only $8! (WHAT?!) The best thing had to be the WHISKEY SOFT SERVE! I think it's only available on Thursdays, but it's seriously worth a return trip. I'm not a whiskey lover but, though it was strong, the sweetness of the cream balanced it perfectly. Oh, and the bathrooms are as cool as everyone says...
(4)Caroline M.
Believe all the positive reviews. The bathrooms rock!!! Oh, and the pizza is pretty good, too. And I love the PB&J idea. More places need a classy deal like that :)
(4)Alex M.
I came here with a friend because she lived around the corner and told me about this PB&J special. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better deal in the pizza world of Chicago. I have the veggie slice which was New York-style (sorry Chicago, I love deep-dish but New York will always win my heart) and totally delish. I mean, it helps when you have a shot of smooth whiskey and a PBR. I plan on hitting this place up whenever I'm in the hood. Oh! Also the decor is great. Their backyard is damn nice and I wish I'd been here during the summer to enjoy it. Also, the dudes who go here are really fascinated by butt sex. Or at least that's what I gleaned from the bathroom. I usually like to keep my sex life private but y'know, whatever floats your boat. OHHH! CASH ONLY.
(4)Kim G.
Really good thin crust, good drink, good decore. Service can be slow but that won't keep me from going back.
(4)Dan N.
Bold flavor city USA. Take down some jamo and a great slice. Call it a good start to a night.
(5)Daniela V.
The area is cool and the Mediterranean salad is really good and the fries are awesome. I've had the cheese pizza probably about 6 times... It's always undercooked and kinda tastes like soap. I think it's got good potential but its nothing to write home about. But the location is so good so it's cool to go get a beer now and again. I just think they gotta cook their pizza longer.
(2)Ross H.
This bar has a solid design and customer base. The tenders and waitstaff were pleasant and helpful and the food (pepperoni pizza with mushrooms) was tasty and didn't take too long. The bathrooms are interestingly designed in the style of a cta subway car, complete with the smell of shit and urine (just kidding it was very clean). It was a fine place with little to nothing that made it stand out in a negative or mind blowing way. So it's toward the high end of middle for me.
(3)Erika G.
Yeah, yeah, Logan Square is getting gentrified, cry me a fucking river, hipster, these are DEAF EARS. I will go on record as not liking it when the Subways, Bed, Bath and Beyonds and tanning salon chains arrive, but places like this? Bring it! It's not a particularly imaginative concept. Pizza, food, beer and booze. Open kitchen with lots of busy people running around and noisy. Noisy okay - if I want quiet, I'll stay home. We buzzed thru the lively, loud dining room anyway, and made a beeline for the outdoor patio out back. But this place is great! Our needs were simple on that night. 3 cans of Pabst, and an array of $3 pizza slices. DELICIOUS, and budget friendly! I got a slice of sausage, New York Style. It was seriously a quarter of a pie, quelle value. The outdoor area as lively and fun, with the L train overlooking it. This is my kind of urban space, with a garden in the middle. It's also possible to smoke freely out back, and who doesn't indulge in a social smoke now and then. Oh, stop, really. Everything in moderation, including moderation! The bathrooms were really fun. With L train doors, modeled after a train, complete with recorded announcements. I have to admit, it was a bit disconcerting to pee while hearing "Blue Line . . . Logan Square. . . is next" as those two activities have NEVER coincided in all my years in Chicago. And I hope to not develop a Pavlovian fixation now that I have been conditioned, as I've never mixed it up before this day. Though, on the Red Line, sadly, some do. I'd go back if in the area. This place is going to hop in summer.
(3)Kerri H.
Ah, Boiler Room. Boiler Room, I just can't quit you. I don't want to keep going back but there are just things about you that are so good! Personality wise - not great. Just like most of my ex-boyfriends. The pizza is great and I love the specials. The ice cream - awesome when you want to splurge. The service, however, is comically bad. My roommate and I count the number of eye rolls we get per visit. Sitting at the bar is your best bet for good service. If you want to count the amount of times your server forgets your order then comes back and asks, "ummm, like was I getting something for you?" then grab a table anywhere. The turnover of staff there is pretty alarming. The food (specifically alongside the PB&J deal) along with the proximity to my apartment will keep me going back. I don't want to, but I just can't stop myself. I want to give this place 5 stars but the shitty service brings it down to 4.
(4)Kimmi M.
PBR Meatballs. Oh my science. I laughed because there was graffiti in the bathroom that said "Next stop, California" and I was headed to Los Angeles in a few hours. Really great service, nice selection of beers, including Delirium for the low price of $10. Bleu cheese salad was really amazing, the chicken was blackened a lot, but once smothered in bleu cheese, I couldn't really tell. Great stop for a quick bite and so close to the El, you will never miss your train. Also, Shaun of the Dead was playing as I walked in, which to me is a sign that I was bound to have a good time, or perhaps spill pizza sauce on myself. You've got red on you.
(4)Lucy L.
First off, can we all PLEASE agree to stop using the word "hipster" in our Yelp reviews? Especially when we're reviewing a neighborhood bar/restaurant in LOGAN SQUARE? You're not providing us with any new information, buddy, and you're just making yourself look ignorant. Ignorant and old. Excuse the rant, guys. Truth is that I just really love going to Boiler Room, and they've never once let me down. Their pizza is my favorite in the city--thin crust that's soft and doughy instead of crispy, creatively topped with ample use of sauces and veggies. I try to branch out sometimes and get their daily special pizza, but I just love the Purist (marinara, mozzarella, basil & sweet balsamic vinegar) so much that I usually get lured back into that one. The PBJ special is such an amazing deal that it's my dinner more nights a week than I would care to admit. The Jameson ice cream is delicious; one night I came in and literally just got drunk off eating ice cream. It ruled. Every interaction I've had here has just been lovely. Their staff is attentive and friendly, even on crazy weekend nights when the place is slammed. Being a neighborhood bar, Boiler Room promotes the notion of community to the very end: they put out a free air hose and ample bike parking for cyclists, source ingredients locally when possible, and have a steady stream of locals who come in regularly (HIPSTERS, perhaps?). I'm really happy to call myself one of those locals, even if it does make me a f*cking h*pster.
(5)Eric Z.
Great pizza, paper thin with perfect dough and cheese ratio. I had to subtract 2 stars for value and service. If you pay close to $30 for a large pizza for 2 people you would expect to be full. Other than that, our server who claimed to work there for several years could not tell us the size of the pizza slices or the one size pizza that they offer. Cool bathrooms, built to replicate the L-train with sounds and all, the drawback here that it reeked just like it too.
(3)Michael R.
Nothing like getting off the blue line and grabbing a slice and staying for way too many beers. Then stumbling your way home. Oh, and they have Jameson on tap. I feel at home at the Boiler Room.
(4)Lisa M.
Have lived a block from the Boiler Room for 2 months and finally visited on Friday for the first time. We arrived around 7:30 and the place was packed. We opted to sit outside instead of waiting for 30 min for a table inside. It was a little chilly, but we were able to get a table with a heater so we were cozy. We both had a "Boiler Room" slice and PBR's. It's NY style pizza and is super yummy. The staff was friendly and attentive. Definitely a good experience. Will add the Boiler Room to our regular rotation. Two thumbs up!
(4)Lauren A.
I really love this place. Their pizza is delicious, their beer list is great, and the drunken donut dessert is delicious. There is always good music playing, too. I have heard Blackalicious playing more than once in this place which is amazing because I thought I was the only one who still loves them. Lastly, the bathrooms are sweet. Really, there is nothing wrong with this place. The only thing is that you need to arrive semi-early on a Friday or Saturday if you want to get a table and not be standing around tormented by the smell of yummy pizza. 5 Stars!
(5)Genefe D.
I came to Boiler Room with 2 of my Chicago friends. This was before I moved here. Forgive me because I'm writing this review 3 months late so the details are a little fuzzy... I'm a pizza lover and this was definitely a good place. I will mention up front this is on of those Chicago places that only takes cash! There's an ATM there if you forget to get it before you come. The theme of this place is pretty cool. It's near one of the CTA EL stops so they have old train cars and parts of it as decor. Of course there's also the Boiler Room aspect of it that runs throughout the restaurant. The restroom is made from an old train car and it has the CTA announcements on loop and train sounds while you are in there. I thought that was kinda cute. There were so many choices but I finally settled on 2 different slices of pizzas. Everyone wanted different kinds of pizzas so this was the easiest way to go. My first slice was the Boiler Room. It had PBR meatballs and house made Giardinara. This was my first time eating Giardinara and holy cow where has this been all my life. I love different kinds of relishes especially when they are the pickle type. This is a great combination. A little meat, some hot and spicy pickley goodness on a nice thin but crusty crust. How can you not love that?! My second slice was a simple sausage. Simple but tasty. There's all kinds of delicious things on the menu as well as different specials. They have a PB & J special which is a slice of pizza, beer (PBR of course) and a shot of Jameson. They also make Jameson ice cream in house. If that doesn't bring you to this place then why go. I didn't get to part take in the ice cream because I was full but I definitely need to go back just for that.
(4)Dustin G.
This is a great place for a cheap night out. I came here with some coworkers after work one day. We each got the PBJ. That's a big slice of NY Style pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson. It's all only $7! The atmosphere is really lively and the wait staff is nice and superfast especially considering how crowded it gets. I can definitely see the Boiler Room becoming a regular after work drink spot for me. The prices alone guarantee that. However, the food is also amazing. The pizza is delicious. I tried the sausage pizza and it was delicious and fresh. They make their own sausage in house! Go and try a slice.
(5)Gunner H.
Of all the places I've had pizza, or all the bars I've ever frequented, this one gets the most right for what it's worth. No frills, no expectations. The 2 years I lived near the Boiler Room are in the top 10 two-year time periods of my life. Since moved to D.C. - miss this place and all it stood for, hipster douchbags and all. Hell, I can't even find a place that serves anything close to the PB&J I came to expect in this one-horse town. I miss you Boiler Room. Miss you like dammit.
(5)Jay S.
So I wanted some pizza last night and I saw the boiler room had some decent reviews. I dont know why. Me and my girlfriend ordered a pizza that was half cooked and almost got sick from the coleslaw dump mixture they try to pass off as giardiniera. It looked like I was eating my own puke. Not to mention the stoned frat boy who took my order. Fine dining at its worst. Never again.
(1)Ashley B.
One of my favorite bars hands down. You walk in and the place immediately looks awesome. The bar looks like a plane fuselage of some sort, it's all very urban. Even the bathrooms have tracks of the dudes voice from the L. Not to mention, they are always playing some awesomely random movies on their flip screen behind the bar. All is nice and lovely, but then you hear about the PBJ deal. Good lord. It's not a traditional PBJ, it's $7, and it gets you a shot of Jameson, a Blue Ribbon tallboy, and a pretty hefty slice of pizza. I prefer the spicy Boiler Room pizza, with sausage and jardiniere, but the purist is also good too. Also, a word to the wise, it's cash only, but then again if you use their ATM you get a free Jameson shot. I mean hey, at least you're getting something for that $2.50 fee right? Overall I think this place is definitely worth trying out if you've never been!
(5)J. Chuck K.
Minus one star right off the bat for being cash only. Luckily I knew this before coming, but they should really accommodate their guests and take a damn credit card. Even the 1970's dive bar in my hometown has started taking credit cards. Our actual experience was pretty good, and we were seated sooner than originally told. A manager saw us at the table looking around for our waitress for about 5-6 and finally got her. Unlike previous (and frequent) complaints, our waitress was pretty solid. The fried mozzarella balls were fine, but nothing worth ordering again. Even though the pizza slices were nothing incredible, they still made the PBJ the best deal in the city. The bar itself is a cool space with creative decor, and a good beer list. The PBJ is a good enough reason alone to return. As I said, this would be a 4 star review if they accepted credit cards.
(3)Derek B.
I really want to like this place more.. The pizza is really good and comes with a variety of good toppings, they have a decent selection of beer, a great patio, and a uniquely pleasant, bohemian atmosphere. Only downsides, to me; The only thing worth ordering is the pizza, their cocktails are nothing to write home about, and the staff seems a little on the apathetic side. Overall: Great for an in-and-out slice, shot 'n beer, or a pre-bar night with a large group. That's about it. *** UPDATE *** The service here seems to have got better. Hosts are always friendly, the waitstaff is more attentive and eager to share the menu with you. The pizza always comes out fast. Keep up the good work!
(5)Paul C.
Think of the Boiler Room as Piece for the budget crowd. It's got the same hipster vibe of piece, people with arms full of tattoos, men sporting facial that hasn't been popular since the 19th Century, and PBR cans being consumed by the caseload. Like Piece, Boiler also specializes in pizza, but unlike Piece the pizza is only so-so. I tried the signature Boiler Room pizza with PBR meatballs and homemade giardiniara and it was surprisingly bland. The pepperoni was also nothing to write home over. I liked the beer selection, they do offer drinkable beers for those who no longer find drinking PBR a suitable method for going about getting trashed and of course the Jameson on tap is definitely a plus. The place is also CASH ONLY which is obnoxious. I wish I had been able to try the Jameson ice cream because it looked pretty good. I would normally deduct a star for being a cash only business. However, if you use the ATM at Boiler and give your waitress the ATM receipt you will be rewarded with a free shot of Jameson which sort of makes up for the ATM fees and I guess the price of giving out Jameson shots is more than made up for by the cash only under the table tax dodging shadiness. I would come back to The Boiler Room for drinks and maybe even try the pizza again if I'm looking for something cheap, but the pizza just isn't good enough to make me a likely return customer. Come with low expectations and a healthy love for cheap beer and a young, hip environment and I think you'll enjoy it. If you want awesome pizza, do try somewhere else. A very weak 3 stars for The Boiler Room.
(3)Maria O.
a unique place with interesting interior and funny menu, lots of cool specials everyday! Situated right next to the subway it is a very convenient and cozy place. Despite everyone drinking PBR, don't be afraid to try every single lot on the menu, especially drunken donuts,they are pretty epic. And of course everyday specials include beer shot of liquor and pizza! You just can not miss it!
(5)Chris D.
Nice Place inside. Love the Pizza. It's the one place I can get a sausage pizza with giardinara and not have it overcooked. I like chewy and soft crust pizzas. Great beer selection. Good service. Hey, what's not to like.
(4)Sarah C.
This is a long overdue review, as I am a regular here. The pizza is great, New York style, they have a bunch of delicious options including vegetarian and vegan friendly. Drunken donuts are delicious and so is the chicken satay. To anyone who has had a "rude" service experience here it is most likely you as a diner, not the service. I cannot tell you how many times I have been here in the last year and have had many many different servers and have NEVER had a bad experience. This is a trendy joint, so if you're running your server around and being rude yourself they will throw it right back at you, which I love, these people are your servers, not servants. So all in all great service, great food, great beer! Enjoy.
(5)Noy And Alan T.
Being raised in the northeast, we don't have many chill places like this. The outdoor patio seating with some pretty good hip hop music is awesome to me. I wish Boston had places like this. The bathroom is cool with their CTA theme. The projector for movies/games is nice. The pizza is good for the price. The boyfriend goes for the pb&j. $7.50 for a pbr, slice of pizza and shot of jameson...you really can't go wrong. $3 for a shot of jameson yells cheap! You can't get that price in new england. My favorite from there is the jameson soft serve! Yummm! It has the perfect sweetness to it and you can definitely taste the jameson. Although the last time we went, the soft serve tasted a lot stronger than usual. The only bad side is that the place is cash only. But if you show them a receipt with your ATM fee, they give you a free shot of jameson! We've had a lot of visitors and so far everyone we have brought here, has also loved it. The staff is nice. The food is good.
(4)Sabby H.
Boiler Room was a nice surprise. A group of us came out to have dinner and drinks here after a Friday night practice and were seated in the cool outdoor area. Pizza's are flatbread - I had the meatball slice with gardinera - very tastey. There's a running P-B-J special that is a slice of pizza, a PBR and Shot of Jameson for $7.50 - great deal! They only take cash, so be awares. There is an ATM in the restaurant. Great casual dinning. check it out whe you're in the mood for some thin slice!
(3)Susie I.
I'm sorry, but I have to say No Way to the Boiler Room. My first time there, I was trying to hook up with some friends on election night. We couldn't make it happen, and it was raining, and i just wanted some dinner, so I grabbed a slice and went home to listen on NPR. I got home, I took a bite, and Boom. Crazy disappointment. I know, it was just a slice of cheese, but it was flavorless. Boring. My second time there, I was with my boyfriend. We had to go around the corner to the bank to get cash, which was just a bummer cuz it was cold. (I hear now they have a show-yer-atm-receipt-get-a-shot deal, but no one told us then.) The cool thing was they were showing the movie Elf, which we'd been wanting to see since Xmastime. So we both sat on the same side of the table like silly-heads and watched Elf while we enjoyed our PBR/Jameson/Slice dinner. This time I ordered more than just a slice of cheese. I got a slice of the "Purist". And.....BAM! Disappointed! Bland, no flavor, No good. My boyfriend got the special, which that day was something spicy....spicy which he described as being "too spicy for the regular Joe", but he could handle it. It took him a while. (And I have to say, he handles spicy pretty dang well.) That night I decided not to go back. And whenever we're getting off the Blue Line at California we joke "The Boiler Room is burning pizza again."
(2)Claire H.
Yes, this establishment is cash only... but if you use their ATM, they reward you with a free shot of Jameson. This is the most novel, bad-I-mean-excellent idea I've ever heard of since the combination Jagermeister fountain and nacho cheese fountain party I attended, back in '09. Virtually everyone here was cool as hell. "Where're you from? Visiting from Los Angeles? Oh, that's great. Let me buy ya a drink." "That's a great shirt. You've been to Mary's in Portland? Let me buy you a drink, we're buddies now." If I wasn't so busy being a whiskey-induced social butterfly, I would have gotten down with some of those damn good looking pizza slices. Holy hell. The Boiler Room has a "PB&J Special:" A slice of pizza, a beer, and a Jameson shot. They were playing Fast Times at Ridgemont High on one of the evenings I was drinking here, and all their staff were attentive, fun, and easy on the eyes.
(5)Beatriz T.
Boiler Room is quickly becoming my most favorite bar in the neighborhood!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have lived in Logan Square all my life and I remember when the Boiler Room used to be a skanky laundromat. :) I like it much better now! Pizza is pretty good (Purist is my fave). I like a couple of the specialty drinks..one has the word Peru in it...white whiskey and egg whites...pretty strong. Good selection of beer and you can't beat the PB&J special. Jameson Soft Serve. I love the decor, very good music playing every time I have been in there and always something interesting on the TV's. CASH ONLY....sometimes it's annoying...but oh well. If you use the ATM in the back and keep your receipt you get a free shot of Jameson so all is well in my world.
(4)Matt M.
A haiku: If you leave this place Without getting free Jameo You fucked up somehow
(4)Devon C.
Sitting by myself at the bar waiting for my friend, the bartender at The Boiler Room was super friendly and made what could have been a boring and lonely hour and a half, actually fun! They only take cash but I was pleasantly surprised that if you use their ATM and bring the receipt to the bar, you get a free shot of Jameson. BEST. The pizza was gigantic and my friend and I ate so much we could barely walk. Great beer selection and the servers are very knowledgable and helpful with selection. If you love Jameson, try the Jameson ice cream, it was soooooo good. Fun place, will definitely be back!
(4)Kristina K.
Boiler Room is one of those neighborhood treasures. So many great things including as many yelpers before me mentioned, the pb&j is the best. $7.50 for a shot of Jameson, PBR and a slice of pizza (great veggie options including seitan). The one warning that comes with the pizza is if you get a custom slice, I would get extra cheese. The sauce can be a little overwhelming. Make sure to try the whiskey soft serve too!
(4)Josh G.
Great Pizza, Jameson on tap, and good beer selection (although you only want to drink PBR when your there!). Fun place to start an evening of heavy drinking. Always easy on the wallet.
(4)Joe M.
This place rules! Always a great selection of draft and bottled beer and the pizza great. If you want a fun casual atmosphere, go to Boiler Room and sit on the back patio. Don't even think about not ordering the booze soft serve ice cream!
(5)Nikki A.
The food is traditional bar food. I think the quality of the food are way yummier than other bars, but it's not the best. Their booze and craft beer selection is top notch. They have decent specials on weekdays. Coolest bathroom ever. Cult films play on a projector at the bar. Oh, and it's a cash place. If you use their ATM, *keep your receipt*! You get a free shot of Jamo. Oh, and speaking of Jameson..... they have real booze whiskey ice cream. Not flavored ice cream, but soft served goodness that you can totally get tipsy off of. That's the reason why I keep coming back.
(4)Jose C.
Welcome to Logan Square Hipster paradise... and that's not a bad thing. With Revolution Brewery around the corner and Township next door, the corner of Milwaukee and California has become a mecca for skinny men with beards and the women who love them, but I digress. The Boiler room is an awesome bar and pizza joint, great for a meal and happy hour. The back patio has seating for about 40 and is great for enjoying a PBR, slice of pizza and shot of Jameson (their everyday $7.50 special) on a summer evening. Their pizza is New York style that they serve also with vegan options (not my thing, but my vegan friends swears by it). Last time I was there I had a pepperoni, bacon, chives Bar-b-q slice that was outstanding. But what you have to try is their Jameson infused soft-serve ice cream, this stuff is amazing! I don't think I need to explain why. So let me just repeat myself- JAMESON SOFT-SERVE ICE CREAM! Throw on a classic Smiths album in the background and yes, this is hipster paradise.
(4)Greg M.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PLACE! PBJ-pabst, jameson, and a piece of pizza for 7.50! You can't go wrong! (well, unless you overdo this special-pace yourself!) This place has an overall friendly feel, and it's actually ok that it's a cash only bar. When you take money out of the atm machine there and present it to the waiter you get a free shot of whiskey. I honestly used to hate whiskey, or thought I did until I came here ( I wasn't going to not drink it!) The pizzas that they offer are also really yummy, it's not just your standard slice. They are open late, and conveniently off the blue line if you don't live in the area.
(5)Sarah F.
Amazing bar in Logan Square right off the California blue line stop. Very cool atmosphere, great drinks, bathrooms that sounds like you are on the El, and hands down the best place for a vegan to feel normal and get a pizza. The pizza is just amazing for all eaters, but its nice to have vegan options here too. The crust is thin but crunchy and chewy, the sauces are great, and topping list is fantastic as well. A shout out for them having daiya and seitan meats! Pizzas are also large. Great place to hang out!
(5)Kris R.
where the eff has this place been all my life?! i just chalked it up to being another divey bar (don't get me wrong, i love dive bars). but this is a legit pizza/beer place. i noticed the decor looked quite similar to ruxbin's, so i googled that shit so quick and i was right. i love it - recycled what-have-yous all over the place. seriously genius. i waited for my friend at the bar and ordered an amber ale. yum. i was seated within 10 min on a saturday night at 8p without my friend needing to be there. she eventually found me, we chatted. we waited. and waited. we were able to snag someone in the first 15min to find our server, but nothing. we asked again and finally... we were showered with apologies and love. good thing we didnt care at all and he had made it up to us. since we were just two lil' ol' ladies, we ordered single pizza slices. i got the boiler room (because i'm the less dainty one) and she ordered the purist. both wonderful. the homemade gardineira was tasty. although we did not technically order the PBJ, we did get a shot of jame-o each, since the delay was great. our server was super sweet, fun and cute. what more can you ask for? we ended the meal with the ice cream with all the booze in it. SO good. and overall, the meal was SO CHEAP! you know i'll be back. heart this place so hard. cash only, but cash only with a shot of J once again, with your ATM receipt. BR, you are genius and i love you.
(4)Nikkie H.
I have no idea why, but I thought Boiler Room was a dive bar. Nopers. Met a big group of friends there last night before going to see a show at Revolution Brewing and I am now a huge fan. Cool interior, tasty pizza, and perhaps the coolest bathroom I've ever been in. I stuffed my face with pizza, enjoyed a cool brew and walked out only paying $20. For Chicago that's not half bad.
(4)Patricia R.
This place is a great hangout in Logan Square. They have delicious pizza at a great price both by the slice and a whole pie. My favorite is the purist - fresh mozzarella, basil, balsamic reduction. I love their pizza because it's thin and crispy. Their salads and apps are pretty good, too. The dip, which is spinach artichoke dip with roasted garlic and parmesan in a homemade bread bowl is fantastic. It comes out warm and perfect. And have I mentioned the PBJ special? You can get a slice of pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson for just $7! I'm not a Jamo fan, so I just pass off my shot to someone else at my table. Still a great deal! If you're looking for a great bar to have some food and drinks at with friends, this is the place. It's not ridiculously loud, the atmosphere is good and they have a decently sized patio with plenty of tables and space. I especially love coming here during the warm weather months to take advantage of the patio out back. Great space! Note: it is cash only, but there is an ATM in the bar AND if you use it, you get a free shot of Jameson. Pretty neat! Thumbs up!
(4)Kat k.
Pb&j (pizza beer and Jameson shot) is worth the trip! ATM receipt earns you a free shot of jameson, which is free if you use a bank that reimburses ATM fees!!
(5)Amy M.
Sooo good! They have amazing and unique pizza that you won't find anywhere else! They also have a great night crowd and strong delicious cocktails! Check it out!
(5)Kristiana A.
I only had the Jameson Ice Cream but that alone is worth coming back for! You get the taste and the alcohol content of a shot of Jameson without feeling the burn. Amazing idea and I wish I could have bought a pint to bring home with me to San Diego :(
(4)Jennifer K.
Sorry guys, but the pizza is not that great. What is great is the Jameson soft serve, the super cheap PBJ deal and the bonus you get for using the ATM since it's cash only. I'm also a fan of the decor and the friendly wait staff (we know how cool it's become to act as if you're doing customers a favor by bringing their food to their tables *see restaurant next door*). Although I prefer pizza from other places, you really can't lose with Boiler Room as a pregame/postgame stop.
(4)Melissa S.
This is a great bar to pass some hours. I've always had good service. All the food is tasty, simple fair for good prices. Jameson on tap is always a win for me, and getting a free shot really takes the sting out of having to use the ATM and pay fees. The bathroom decoration is fun. Boiler Room gets 4 stars for being a nice, solid place that I would recommend to friends.
(4)Meryl M.
*CASH ONLY* Free shot of Jameson with receipt if you use their ATM though (shot is $3 and ATM fee is $2.50). Been here a few times since moving back to Chicago in the fall. Though some of the pizzas can be pricey, you can't beat the PB&J Special. A slice of delicious thin crust pizza (lots of options), shot of Jameson, and a tallboy PBR for $8.50. It's usually busy but I've never waited more than 10 minutes and rarely have had trouble hearing the other people with me, which is usually what I look for in restaurants and bars. And there is a vegan pizza option too (downside being that you can only order a whole pizza, not just a slice).
(5)Isabel M.
Good beer, good pizza, and an awesome concept. For $7, you can get the PB&J, which is a slice of pizza, a PBR, and a shot of Jameson. That's a great deal!! I was here in the early evening on a Sunday, and had the place mostly to myself, so I didn't deal with the crowds mentioned on other reviews. Don't miss a memorable trip to the loo while you're here! Their bathrooms look like public transit trains!!! Seriously, the bathrooms are really fun, with train doors, and automated speakers declaring "Next Stop, Logan Square. Doors Closing." So much fun!
(5)cassie r.
I can't say I've often left a restaurant utterly offended by the service, but this was exactly the situation I found myself in after my evening at Boiler Room last night. The night started out okay - we put our name in and stood near the bar while we waited for our table. My friend ordered a six pack of PBR for our group, and was handed six cans with the plastic ring still on it to take back with us. We sat about 10 minutes later, and our waitress came up a while after that to take our order. We weren't sure what we wanted, so we put in for some apps (hummus and fries) and continued to discuss the plan for pizza. A few minutes after that, the waitress spilled about half a dozen beers right behind our table, spraying two of us with the fallout. We did receive an apology, so mmkay, fine. Shit happens. Then about 5 minutes later, a manager came up to our table and asked where we got our beer and whether we actually bought it at their restaurant. She was essentially accusing us of BYOBing in a bar that definitely was not BYOB. My friend said he bought it at the bar, and she left without another word. So, let me stop for a minute, and say that If you're going to accuse a group of people of something pretty egregious, wouldn't you FIRST ask the waiter/waitress and bartender if they had served said beer, before accusing customers of smuggling it in? Apparently, common sense did not prevail in this situation, because alas, the manager then asked the bartender, and of course, the bartender confirmed our story. About 20 minutes later (probably because the waitress heard me lamenting the lack of apology), Ms. Manager came back and gave a pretty pathetic "sorry about that..." Was there a discount on our bill? No. Was there an offer for maybe a free drink or app for my friend? No. Nothing. While the food was good, the service was so terrible it's pretty tough to have anything but a negative memory of this place.
(2)Tony W.
Pizza here is great, drinks are cheap service is good, but stop at the atm they do not accept plastic
(3)Kelsey K.
Any place that shows Snatch and Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels back to back (in addition to playing whatever music they want) is a place I will frequent. I'm just SUPER glad that now there's a place that I can hit up if I want to stay on the train for one more stop in the dead of winter and then pop in to warm up again! Honestly though, it comes off as a place where the staff doesn't care and is just too cool, but they really are equally as genuine as those with whom they're speaking. If you're a douche, they're a douche right back at ya... if you're cool and friendly, they are too. So don't be a bullshitter and you'll be good. Oh yeah, don't forget cash though because they don't take cards and their ATM isn't one of the super cheap ones.
(5)Diana R.
2 hip 2 quit. This is the only pizza I've experienced so far that MUST be eaten with a fork and knife. It's incredibly thin! (Both I've tried have been scrumptious: some "special" chicken pizza and pepperoni.) Cash only spot, but if you use their ATM and show a receipt, you get a shot in return. Lots of cool kids. 4 stars because it's a good slice of pizza and I might have it if I'm in the neighborhood, but I don't go out of my way for it. (It's about a 45 minute train ride or 25 minute drive from my home.) Cash only can be annoying.
(4)Eileen Z.
When it comes to pizza, there's sauce people and cheese people. I'm a sauce person. Tart, with a little tang, with a minor cut of salt and seasoning and that's all I'd ever need. The sauce is money. I'd give 5-stars just for that alone even if I hated everything else on the menu. Which I don't. But just sayin'. I can also be the 92382461209593th person to mention the PBJ (off-menu). Because dude, 1. PIZZA 2. A TALL PBR 3. A SHOT OF JAMO. Dude. Not for beer and whiskey snobs but it'll get you thru the night for cheap. We can save snobbishness for another day and another place. Other highlights: Outdoor patio and the bathroom. Not joking. And not being sarcastic. See for yourself! Cash only but there's an in-house ATM if needed.
(5)Anna H.
This place is dangerously close to my house. I love the pb&j and their veggie slices. Warning- it's cash only, but if you present the receipt from the ATM, you get a free shot of Jameson. The service isn't always great, sadly. It's usually really hard to get a glass of water. But it's cheap and delicious and I can't stay away.
(4)ashley d.
Pretty cool digs. Super hipster Logan Square spot. Furnished and decorated with recycled cta el materials. Great beer and shot selections. Tons of different types of pizza to order whole or by the slice. There are vegan options, including pizza, but it has to be ordered as a whole za... No single slice option, unless it happens to be one of their daily, special, not "special," pizzas. Cash only, so bring yo green....however there is an ATM... and fee is made up for with a free shot of Jameson...just show receipt to bartender or server. Like I said, very hipster-esque, so come with your cool jeans, quirkey/ironic outfit, and funky haircut. Or just come as you are, they'll still serve you.
(4)Jocelyn P.
I love The Boiler Room! This is def one of my go-to spots in the neighborhood, and has been since their joyful opening some time ago. To me, the main attraction is the atmosphere. I love the repurposed/recycled furnishings, the fun old movies playing behind the bar (like, Empire Records, Blues Brothers, What About Bob, etc-- classic youth favorites), the playlists (this point must be emphasized: punk, 60s garage band, hip hop, and everything else that is considered to be good music by those who like music), and most of all the chill/relaxed vibe. The waitstaff are all very friendly and cool, and cute! There are always lots of young people here, and it's usually comfortably crowded. There's a good mix of the bar scene, group tables, and intimate tables for two. ;) OK now let's talk about the two MAIN highlights: 1.) The back patio. 2.) The PB&J. Summer is the best season for The Boiler Room with their spacious back patio where the goos vibes continue. It's so comfortable, I could go here every week. In fact, I come close!! And you must know by know about the pizza, beer, and Jameson for $7.50. A spectacular deal that is unbeatable. haha. Recommendations: get the PB&J with a purist slice of pizza, share some fries, and maybe try the super-potent Jameson ice cream!! :)
(5)Kelli A.
Three of us came here for an early dinner tonight. We got seated and served right away. Our waitress was good about coming over every once in awhile to check on us. We loved that they were playing the old Batman movie, then they played the old Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie behind the bar. We ordered the PBR meatballs as an appetizer. They were solid, but we'd prefer to try other appetizers before ordering this again. We settled on the carbonara pizza. The idea of peas on a pizza almost threw us off but I'm glad it didn't. There were peas, but you barely noticed them compared to the fresh green onions they threw on top and the delicious bacon, chicken and cheese. The crust was a great consistency and flavor. The pie was 6 giant slices and can feed 4 people easily with an appetizer or two thrown in. The Jameson soft serve was amazing. I highly recommend getting it, especially if you like Jameson or soft serve. They have a solid beer list with PBR tallboys and craft beer selections, and even have Lindeman's Frambroise and a few ciders. I'm glad we remembered they were cash only. Overall we had a great experience here and can't wait to go back.
(4)Chris M.
pluses & minuses. It's a great place for a beer & a slice. It's reasonably priced. My only issue is really the service. It can be hard to get a server's attention when you're ready to order or need a new drink. The servers seem that they're more interested in saying that they work at a cool hipster bar in Logan Square than actually working at a cool hipster bar in Logan Square. Lastly, the decor is pretty awesome. As I'm told, everything is reclaimed and repurposed. The bathrooms are very distinct.
(3)Cam M.
I've been coming here since it opened at least once every two weeks. The pizza is good, the movies are cool and the music choice is awesome. I will say this though, after the 4 years of great service I've received there I recently went in for my usual pizza and a shot to be met by a really nasty chick behind the bar that served me some serious unnecessary attitude from the minute I said hello. Yikes! I recognized her from serving the floor but never encountered her behind the bar and It was enough to double think even going in there again. I have high gratitude and respect for the bartenders that work there regularly, since they've consistently took great care of me. But after reading some of your reviews, I can tell this girl is only hurting your business. No one wants to be treated disrespectfully, period, but especially not while trying to unwind after a long shift - at a bar! (Yes. I'm in the industry, so I "get it" and also know when someone is being a see you next Tuesday) Anyway, this may or may not make a bit of a difference. But If mgmt reads this - she's got an annoying voice. Ha! Peace
(3)Armand K.
Come for the PB&J, come back for the awesome atmosphere. This place tends to be siloed by it's predominately hipster clientele, but hipster or not, they have something special here. The slices hold their own, add in a ridiculous deal, sweet seating arrangements, and good service and you have yourself a winner. My first experience was amidst late night snackers, and even at that hour they managed to keep the service prompt and the bathrooms clean. I recommend the boiler room slice, along with the rest of the PB&J special. Don't let the rumors of bad service scare you, this is a solid win.
(4)Ellen L.
I really want to like this place. It's close, the pizza's good, and yes, that PB&J deal is pretty much one of the best things ever. That said... the service is often obnoxiously slow and unfriendly. Add in the fact that our bill was wrong 2 of the last 4 times I was there, and I'm just not so smitten with this place. I'm not talking about just poor arithmetic, I'm talking about charging us for 4 PB&Js, and then charging us for an additional 4 pieces of pizza... or randomly throwing an extra 9 or 10 bucks on the bill. Last night, when I brought the error to the attention of the waitress, she snapped at me before I could even finish explaining the problem and then took forever to correct the bill, stopping by the table to say, "oh, didn't I bring it? I must have left it over there," and then disappearing for another 5 minutes.
(2)Tre P.
I wanted to give it at least 2 stars for the fantastic space, but everything else was not even mediocre. First the good: the space, the art on the walls, the outdoor patio are great. Kind of goofy, but I really liked the L-themed bathroom. For that I considered 2 stars. BUT, after seated it took about 10 minutes for anybody to acknowledge us, and it wasn't busy (not excessive, but not starting off on the right foot) . The pizza fell perfectly in even-bad-pizza-is-OK category, but Boiler Room was able to add an extra level of disappointment--please read on: They put on a big presentation up front with the pizza makers and pizza ovens to show off preparation of fresh pizzas, but our's came out luke-warm (shouldn't a pizza coming out of the oven have the blister-the-top-of-your-mouth heat to it?). And one piece looked different. It almost certainly was baked separately from the rest of the pizza (see picture 46) and slid in to replace a piece that was removed. They sell pizza by the slice, but ordering a whole pizza, you expect the whole pizza. So, as may be expected from the evidence, the pizza had a warmed over quality. It was like getting pizza from under a heat lamp at a mall. And the mushrooms had an off taste and looked like chips of really dark shoe leather. The pizza we ordered was not fresh out of the oven. Finally, it's 2013. I get the "tax advantages" of cash only, but start taking plastic. Sorry Boiler Room, I really wanted to like you, but after making me feel like you tried to pull one over on me, you deserve the lowest review possible.
(1)Bri A.
I stopped by Boiler Room on a Thursday night for a friend's birthday. I've heard good things about their pizza and was intrigued! I would have done the $7.50 PBR/Jameson shot/pizza slice deal but my friends had already ordered a large pepperoni pizza. While it wasn't the best pizza, it was pretty good. Jameson shots are $3 which is the cheapest I've ever seen them. Save your receipt from the ATM and you can get a free shot of it! Service was good, there's a decent beer selection on tap and the bar is pretty chill. I would come here often if I lived in the hood. I need to try the Jameson ice cream next time!
(4)Nick M.
Have I been bamboozled?! What I thought was a total hipster bar full of irritating people... is actually, a really cool bar... with a side of the hipster crowd and only SOME irritating people. One day I was hanging out watching some crazy-ass weird movie on the big screen that sits behind the bar. I was enjoying the atmosphere when all of a sudden I hear this scuffle at the door. Apparently, they wouldn't let this guy in because he didn't have his id. He kept screaming "Do you know who I am?! I created Groupon you idiots!! How do you not know who I am". He persisted to scream this over and over again but they still wouldn't let him in. When he finally left frustrated, there was laughter and high fives all around... True story!! Well maybe the last part was in my head but still it, could have happened. I love the design, I love the patio, I do and do not love the staff, I love peeing on the CTA (Bathrooms are made to look like you're on the El. I know crazy!!), I don't love the cash only, I love how their pizzas look (One of these days I'll try one), and I totally opposite of love the place for being way the feck in Logan Square and not up in super cool Andersonville where then I would be able to frequent more often. Good day!
(4)Jeremy H.
Excellent decor, food, and bathroom! Must visit the bathroom. Service was awesome, and you even get a free shot if you use their ATM. Just give your ATM receipt to your server.
(5)Bobby L.
I have been here a couple of times. The pizza is decent. However, my last visit will prolly be my last. It was a mere 3 weeks ago, i festered over whether to leave them what seems to be a much needed review. I ran my experience past a couple industry friends only to find my experience not a rare one. I went there very hungry. I asked to sit at the bar. The host informed me that it was full and that tables were available. She then gave me an odd warning, "it might be a little while till your server is with you". I said "okay", assuming that it was busy. I knew what i wanted to order. I sat and watched a female server chat up this guy sitting in front of my table. She then went and checked on a six top, got them another round and then went back to chatting up said guy. I sat there for a good 30 min, i feel like time is normally exaggerated in these reviews. I had checked the time stamp of the text i sent my wife to let her know i had stopped for dinner. I finally stopped a male server to ask him if he could take my order. He told me the lovely lady chatting up the guy was my server. I just left at that point. So sad that a decent place has to be ruined by bad staff. Good luck if you go here. Maybe they will get to ya. I was going to leave this as a comment on their facebook page with less detail, but they so kindly took it down. Now it's on yelp.
(1)Kaylie C.
Love this place. All the food is made from scratch and the taste reflects that. I have been coming here since it opened and my only complaint is that the host staff is often very rude/snobby. Kitchen and wait staff are generally very nice and the hosts tend to get fired/cycle out fairly frequently anyway. Decor is awesome and the bathrooms are super clean (always a plus). Recommended: The Purist slice, The Boiler Room slice, specialty cocktails, Jameson (or other booze-infused) soft serve. Remember to bring cash, but if you forget and use their ATM, show your receipt for a free shot of Jameson!
(4)Claudia S.
So maybe I jumped the gun on my last review, because I've been back several times and found my pizza was sometimes too thin for its ingredients or the topping wasn't quite what I was expecting. However, I feel like they've finally worked out the kinks. I'm not just saying this because they put my favorite *special slice* as a regular pizza (the cheeseburger!), but because their menu choices have expanded and the pizza is a lot more consistent now. I enjoy meat and typically don't enjoy cheese but their purist is one of my favorite slices, I'm convinced it's because of the balsamic drizzled on it...yet another thing I don't typically care for. Their chef is clearly doing something right. Pretty good beer selection (with fair prices), nice cocktail list and really friendly bartenders. They've officially won me over.
(5)Amy H.
You wanna know how to shake up the hen house? You bring in a new cock. The Boiler Room is the new cock in the hen house of Chicago pizza. On a Sunday afternoon, after throwing elbows at the most recent Vintage Bazaar, my friend and I tucked into an egg pizza and some drinks. The egg pizza was good, with big cubes of salty pancetta and fresh basil pesto. The beer list is great, but unfortunately I'm off the beer so I had the Ginger Snap Snap cocktail and then a cider. 'Twas good. We also shared the sausage appetizer, which was spicy. To be honest, nothing about the food really stood out or made this place 4-star worthy. It was decent and I liked it all, but nothing was spectacular about it. However, the service was stellar! Our waitress was an absolute doll! She was attentive and cheerful...and even gave us each a big bag of basil from the garden in back. And has anyone discussed the ladies room?! It's like peeing on the Blue Line. Very clever, Boiler Room! Also, most of the interior is recycled. Our table was once an elementary school desk. Oh, and they have cold Jamo on tap. I don't indulge in the J anymore, but whiskey on tap is a cool thing to see.
(4)Marc R.
This place is one of those well capitalized ventures that has invaded Logan Square of late and while I am very happy to see the place thriving, it is a different scene and this is reflected in the very diverse clientele. I sat at the bar waiting for friends solo and the nearby baseball hat wearing frat boys actually had the women in their group move away from me to create a wall of douchebaggery between me and the girls. Really? Who does that? I know I am the "Most interesting Man in the World" but come on. Then again she did talk to me! Well, male insecurities aside, the bar itself was very cool and I liked the way they incorporated the railroad name plates above the bar and this theme runs through the entire place from bar to bathroom! My friend arrived and we were off to a table in the back. The server was super friendly and this whole scene got much better. I think the jerky clients tend to come around dinner and it gets much more laid back between 9-11. We drank a few beers and a couple cocktails and these were all solid if not amazing, then we ordered slices. I really liked the veggie slice I ordered and wanted a second. My friends were less impressed with the pizza. I thought the whole pies looked amazing and the winning thing for me was the crust! Loved the crust. I wouldn't go in here when it is crazy busy with Big State U jerks and their flirtatious girlfriends, but when it gets mellow after the dinner rush or before I bet, I would definitely make this my pizza stop for a slice and a drink for $10 and under! It is a welcome addition to the area and a good match for Piece if you ask me. CASH ONLY
(4)Colleen C.
Headline: Yupster Pizza & Beer Strikes Logan Square Again! Subhead: 'Hood has "Officially" Arrived. --------------------------------------------------Â-- First off, I'm not a huge fan of the name "The Boiler Room." It's almost as bad as "Racine Plumbing" in Lincoln Park. Who wants to hang out in a place named after a room you wouldn't want to hang out in or...anything to do with...plumbing?! Beyond me, but I digress...the insides prove much worth a visit, and consequently I'm here to tell you about it. Do you like the decor at Simone's (Pilsen)? Then, you'll be right at home. The recycled, refinagled interior constructed of repurposed items makes this place unique (save Simone's, I suppose) and "boiling" over with character and ingenuity. Small booths carved out of whoknowswhat, etc. It's cool. Not so pre-fab "bar and grill" looking. But, if you are seeking that...just pop next door to Logan Bar and Grill. Ironically, its the same owner....smart man. With a group? Try to snag the long high-toppish tables in the middle...great for mingling and moving around. Otherwise, more intimate conversations/dates could certainly be held in the lower tops along the wall, the cozy booth, or bangin' bar. Crispy pizzas: We opted for a few slices ($4/each) of "The Purist" as we were running a bit late, and they did not disappoint. Piping hotmozzarella, tomato and basil. They arrived promptly and were devoured in the same fashion. A win. Salad: My selective salad-san and I split the green salad ($5) and it was certainly suitable. Beer! Allagash white in bottles? SOLD to the Boiler Room. Love. Two went down a bit too smoothly. ($6.50/each). Good lineup, most definitely. 9/10 beer snobs agree. Service: Surprisingly fantastic. Our server was quick despite it being a bit of a nuthouse on a Friday night, and fairly friendly. His mustache would have me thinking this might be a semi-surly cum apathetic dude, especially with all of the demands of a semi-new spot...but this guy really held his shit together and was overly accommodating and a good face for the business. Well done, indeed. Pizza. Beer. Logan Square. Upped a notch. It's a win, methinks. Forget the name, check out the guts. *Right across the street from California Blue Line *Easy walking distance to The Congress *Cash only.
(4)Grace N.
OH SO GOOD. We came here with a large group and satisfied a serious floppy-pizza fix with "the most creative toppings I've seen," (this from someone in the group). We ordered the: Boiler Room - ok Purist - subtly drool-worthy Cuban - awesome..crunchy pickles on a pizza? Bring it! Steak & Eggs - yum...especially liked the ranch or blue cheese dressing option They also had a decent beer selection, and maybe one of the best bloody maries I've ever had. It's great for groups since they have these large picnic tables and outdoor seating in the back.
(4)Todger ..
Chicago Pizza scene: you have a contender here for the top 5. First of all, the place is really cool, great industrial interior made me feel like I was on the deck of a Battlestar. What a cool cool place. Outdoor seating also superb space. Very nice job. But the Pizza oooooo the Pizza, you were delicious thin crust works of culinary art. The Purist was totally delish, the Thai was other worldly, the Pepper was very Chicaaaago-y. Beer and cocktails all well complementary. And the Guiness-icecream desert drink, yum. I am a fan and a bit in awe. I cannot wait to go back.
(4)Brett F.
Motion creates Emotion. youtube.com/watch?v=lofN… ... or so say Ben Affleck in one of my favorite scenes, from one of my favorite movies, The Boiler Room. What this has to do with pizza, beer, specialty cocktails or arugula salads, you ask? I have no effing clue. They share the same name and I couldn't help but think of the "always be closing" tirade the entire time I was attempting to peacefully mangia mangia on my slice 'o cheese zzah. Talk about distracting. This new Logan Square spot certainly isn't slick, swanky and glossy like those Boiler Roomers, nah, this is a pretty classic take on a pizza and beer joint gone recycled urban. Almost everything in the place has been derived from some cast-off, second-hand material or fixture (i.e. those insane CTA replica potties and a back patio illuminated by repurposed industrial shampoo containers)... yup, the vibe is most definitely 'casual quirky' and the menu follows suit. A small smattering of eats options means you have your choice of pizza by the slice, a whole pizza, a handful of apps like wings, hummus and sausage in a bowl (?) and three fresh salads for those looking to eat light. TBR keeps it simple and simplicity is nice. As for the pizza - their observable signature - it's good. Loved the wood fired taste and burny edges of my ubermelty cheese slice as well as the ultra intense heat that radiates from the house-made giardinera topped Boiler Room pizza. This is not a pie for pussies and will give you the most recognizable spicy nose runs ever. Not appropriate date food. A great beer selection (hellooooo Allagash White!) and tasty specialty cocktails (try the Tommy Hooligan - jameson, pimm's #1, blood orange bitters and angostura bitters with a sailor jerry wash - for good imbibing) make The Boiler Room a pretty sure fixture on the Square Scene. Its proximity to all things fabulous like The Whistler, Cole's, The Congress and Revo Brew Co. pretty much guarantee it. Just remember: bring cash and your CTA card, respectively, their servers and restrooms require both.
(4)Ali A.
Pizza and drinks and beers... lots of good beers and they play really awesome movies on the tv's. I didn't sit out there but there is a really nice patio outback. My favorite part about the place was the bathroom. It was like walking into a CTA train. It made for a nice potty experience. It's trendy and hipster like in here, reminds me of Kansas City.
(3)Matt L.
Reaffirmation of 5 star review. Despite all the emo kids at the bar post Korn show (I swear, I didn't go, I just saw them wandering aimlessly from Congress), the waiter still accommodated my North Shore No. 6 flip request. Ordering a drink with frothed egg whites on a Saturday night is a dick move in general, but I had to do it so these peeps wouldn't think Ryan and I were at the concert. It was delicious, and I don't even drink gin. Sorry, Boiler Shop bartenders!
(5)shamrock B.
Again the PBJ is awesome... Great food cheap booze.. Unpretentious crowd granted a hipster weird joint but love the rough vibe should be added to anyone regular spots . I go once a month...
(5)Jenna S.
I always felt I was a resident of Logan Square that kept up with community happenings like new restaurant openings and such. I hadn't even heard of The Boiler Room when it opened, so clearly I dropped the ball somewhere. I didn't really know what to expect when we decided to go here last week, but I was definitely impressed with the entire place. There restaurant is kind of small, dark and industrial. We walked in and people were bustling around the pizza ovens in the small kitchen near the door. The din of the entire restaurant was actually inviting, not annoying. There was a lot of noise, but not enough that you couldn't talk to your neighbor. Just a lot of pleasant overtones. The people taking names at the door don't really take your name - they just sort of remember you. We were obviously wary of this system, but we just told them our name, how many we were and went over to the bar. The bar was nice, though kind of small, but it had two people manning it. I like that kind of bar service - never a wait! I got a chair, but my two friends did not as there only seemed to be about eight total chairs at the bar. There looks to be a nice patio outside, but there's no drinking out there yet, so it was totally unoccupied on a Saturday night at 9 p.m. The beer list was nice and there were a lot of IPAs (current drink-of-the-moment for the Hipster crowd), so I chose one of those. Nice choice of cocktails, as well, though less appealing to me so I didn't browse long. The restaurant seating is nice and I feel like a lot of the furnishings are repurposed. If they aren't, I'll keep thinking they are because a lot of other things seemed environmentally friendly in this establishment. The tables were covered with aluminum or something (adding to the industrial feel) and the large booth seats were made like slatted benches with belts or something. Very cool and it seems as though these items were found somewhere else (I hope). We sat at one of the long benches in the middle, which I didn't like at first because I don't like being close to strangers, but there's slight separation between tables so it didn't seem that bad. People have raved about the bathrooms. Modeled to be like L train cars, there's an automated greeting when you enter the bathroom. "Logan Square is next. Doors open on the right at Logan Square." That familiar voice made me smile, so of course I thought the bathrooms were kitschy and cool. I was most impressed with the eco-friendly toilet flushers, though. Pull up for #1, push down for #2 (uses less and more water, respectively). What an easy thing for a lot of companies to install to save a ton of water - why don't more establishments do this?! Right outside of the bathroom, there was a TV monitor with the Boiler Room's Solar Panel usage statistics - very awesome. The food was pretty excellent. We tried the Peanut Chicken Pizza, which had a sweet and savory peanut/barbeque sauce on it. It was pretty good, but the sauce was actually too strong for me to enjoy more than one piece. I'll definitely get another pizza next time, but it was still yummy. The cold beer added a nice touch to all of the pizza and everything was nicely priced, so our bill wasn't horrible. Our service was sort of spotty (she was around a lot sometimes and then disappeared at other times), but maybe it was just our server. This place isn't really big enough to have all-around terrible service (at least I hope not). Great addition to the Square, for sure. I can see myself coming here often for a slice or with friends for an entire pizza and some delicious beer. Way to go for the nice, eco-friendly touches, too. Always appreciated by me. **Note: They do not take credit cards now, but there is an ATM in the restaurant (there's also an ATM at the Citibank one block up California).
(5)Rebecca S.
Popped in for a quick weeknight dinner not long ago. On the plus side, the pizza is really good. Mac & Cheese app was very tasty, too. And I really loved the interior of the place. Same designer as Simone's and Ombra maybe? But on the minus side, there are several things. First, cash only? Come on. When your pizzas range in price from $18 to $29, specialty drinks and wine are $8, and even beers are $5-6, the average tab is going to be something most people will want to pay for with plastic. And do not ask for ID's at the hostess stand. Especially from people who are clearly old enough to be your parents. I don't care if you "ID everyone because it's your policy." It's offputting and weird for the hostess to do it. This task is supposed to be handled by the server at the table and only in the event a patron orders an alcoholic drink. Which my friend and I did not. You are a restaurant, not a bar or a club. Asking for people to produce an ID just to get a table and order pizza is wrong. Anyway, nice concept and I wish them well, but overall there are better places in Logan Square/Bucktown/Wicker Park who are happy to take my money in whatever form I have in my wallet. And without asking for ID before serving me food.
(2)Lois A.
I'm in no hurry to rush back. After having drinks at Longman and Eagle we came here because we were starving and it was during the two hour period when L & E doesn't serve food. It's not fair to compare cocktails here with the heavenly ones we'd just had but it is fair to say that I didn't care for the drink I was served and only managed to have a few sips of it. I should have just ordered a beer. Walking in the first thing the hostess said (not hello) was that it was cash only. The place was pretty empty and we asked to sit outside in the shade because they have an awesome patio. She took us over to a sun drenched spot and we said...um, the shade please? It seemed to bother her that her idea of shade was so much different than ours. I want to say it took 10- 15 minutes to get our drinks and we'd ordered two slices of pizza and fries at the same time. It took a full 30 minutes after getting our drinks for that small amount of food to come out. It felt like forever. A group that came out on the patio about 5 minutes after we did were eating a lot sooner than we were. This would not have been so bad except that one of the guys in the group started telling this really long and involved story about the colonoscopy he'd just had. If anyone reading this is wondering if they should tell a similar story while dining with friends the only correct answer is Please God NO! This is the kind of story that you maybe shouldn't even tell your mom. If you love her, that is. The food finally came just as that guy started on a new topic. The fries were amazing. Pretty much perfect. The pizza was less impressive. There are so many other pizzas in town I would rather have had. I can hardly remember enough about it other than the slice was big and it tasted like a slice you could get anywhere. Our waitress was nice but it seemed like she maybe had the whole restaurant to tend to and never asked if we wanted anything else. My husband's beer was gone long before the food arrived and no one asked if he wanted a refill. I want to give two stars but I really loved those fries.
(3)Ryan L.
I had just listened to the awful and horrifying Mel Gibson phone calls the night before coming here, and what's playing on the big screen when we walk in? Mad Max! It was just too funny. There were quite a few hits and misses on my visit here, and while I wish it were better, the aggregate value of it all is the super-lame 3 star, or the "A-OK". Hoping that it gets better on future visits. The pizza smelled awesome upon entering, but maybe that served to heighten my expectations a little too much. I got the Boiler Room pizza with a big meatball and giardiniera for toppings. It kinda seemed like the toppings were just plopped on at the end. And for how large it seemed when the slice came out, it was pretty hollow and not fulfilling. I had to ask three different people for water. I wouldn't have cared if I didnt have hot, hot giardiniera on my pizza. Our server was attentive at first, then not so attentive afterwards. He also brought out the wrong appetizer to us- chicken wings instead of their chutney sausage. We got to keep both, which was nice of him. You can really taste the chutney! (if you get this reference, I will love you) The saving grace is the daily special, the PB&J. You get a slice of pizza, a can of PBR, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. Not only that but Jameson is on tap and $3 every damn day. That's quite a bargain, and I can see this as a place to stop by after work. Aside from the service issues, the specials and the kitchsy CTA-style bathroom were A-OK in my book.
(3)C W.
0/5 stars for management and the hostess: We got there at 7pm, and our party of seven was seated at 8:40pm. The hostess/management are either complete jerks, or fantastically stupid, maybe both. 5/5 stars for the food. Hawaiian pizza is a must. 5/5 stars for the bartenders: Friendly, fast, and efficient. I ordered an app at 7:45 so we'd survive the wait at the bar. Then at 8:15 we just ordered some pizzas. 5 minutes after the pizzas came, we were seated at 8:40. The bartenders are awesome, and agreed with us that management is not competent. Apparently, we weren't the first to complain about them, and we won't be the last. Bartenders saved the day. Moral of the story: Go straight to the bar with large groups, or get ready to wait for two hours.
(3)B G.
Pizza's not bad but it's expensive and overflowing with too cool for school hipsters. Obnoxious. Also, the service is terrible.
(2)Burt R.
The pizza is excellent, the decor is totally unique, and they play terrifically nostalgic movies behind the bar. Add to this Jameson on tap and REALLY good rotating draft picks... Well, I know where I end up at least a few times a week. But the best part of this place, you ask? The staff. They are funny, friendly and easy on the eyes -- and hey, that goes for you too, fellas. They are those rare bartenders/servers who know when it's time to chit-chat, and also know when to leave a man alone for some QT with his slice. Bravo. **NOTE TO YELPERS**: I saw commenters getting down on the place for being cash only. Here's an idea: GROW UP. You're an adult; leave the house with a $20 in your wallet. And if you don't have cash in your wallet, use their ATM... They'll give you a shot! Running credit cards 100s of times a night costs small businesses huge money in fees. By being cash only, they can continue offering you great value, like the unbeatable slice, shot, and tall boy for $7, any night of the week.
(5)Jacob J.
Many have said it and I will also, love the décor which is composed of parts coming from a subway but can't much understand the name paired with it. Cool look, busy most times with cool people. I have to special mention the Men's room which echoes a familiar message most subway riders would hear when getting ready to exit the train. The entire washroom is composed of train parts which I won't detail because it's a treat to view in person. Pizza is tasty and interesting. The pie named after the place has got in house made hot giardinera with pbr meatballs. It's a spicy treat on thin crust. Priced at a low $4 bucks per. I've only tried slices but desire more and to taste their variety. Meatballs mentioned is a large slice which is laid flat like pepperoni. A slice paired with one of their signature cocktails and you're headed for a great time. Tried the Ginger snap snap, yummy ginger liqueur shaken with dark rum and a splash of ginger ale. Yep just like the menu states. Cocktails are $8, but some like the Ginger tend to arrive in a smaller glass. Something to note is how awesome a cocktail can be when in this case, rum is shaken, the flavors seem to meld much better. Worth a try, so why not try, or invite me so we can share a pie.
(4)Daniel D.
Oh god, yes. It's the never-ending pizza party for adults! Boiler Room is famous for the PBJ deal. Yes, booze, Jameson, and a liberal slice of your choosing for seven dollars. Don't argue with me stupid, thats fucking awesome. It's right off the Western stop and impossible to miss (the heavenly smells from open windows are a red-carpet). It's comfortable enough, with plenty of seating, outdoor included which they add tents with heaters in the frigid Chicago months. It's usually packed, because, well, see the aforementioned. Cash only. So? They have an ATM. By the way, turn in the receipt and get a shot on the house, now thats customer appreciation. Bar and table service are pretty snappy as well: servers are flying by with PBR's and shots, so hail-hail, you're going to get stuffed and quick. The crowed is pretty eclectic too, mostly the typical Logan Square/Bucktown youngsters and such. Everybody seems to get along, and unlike a bar, everyone shares a common love of delicious pizza, so everyone gets along. Boiler Room: I'll probably have my funeral reception here (open casket).
(5)Laura S.
What's there to say beyond the PBJ (or my preference, PBJ&J, to include the Jameson soft serve)? I haven't experienced the service issues that others mention, and I thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere. Great music selection without being too loud. Even though it's a hike from my place, it's in my Top 3 Logan Square destinations.
(4)Jim L.
Very good pizza. Go for the boiler room pizza. It has awesome giardinara and meatballs. They don't deliver, but it is worth a trip.
(5)Nancy K.
The atmosphere is interesting however I can't quite tell what the theme is... or rather themes. There are clearly several competing with one other. One, the bathroom doors are reminiscent of the subway (with their silhouette of people standing in a subway car). Two, the bar has a submarine feel to it (the 'submarine windows' have TVs inserted in them). Three, the rest of the place is comprised of juxtaposed metals and woods. I'm not quite sure it totally had a 'boiler room' feel though. On the plus side, the tufted pattern made of wood on the table top is pretty neat. My friend and I only waited 15 minutes on a Wednesday night for a table for two, so that was good. And as soon as we were seated, our waitress came over to take our order but we hadn't even looked at the menu yet so we asked her to come back in a few minutes. When she returned, we each ordered a salad, a Purist pizza slice, and a glass of their Pinot Noir (it was one of the three red wines to choose from; it was good). From that point on, the service was horrendous! I cannot believe how long my friend and I waited for our salad! At one point I thought she forgot about us. When the waitress finally arrived with our salads (at least she split the order up into two for us so we each had our own bowl; that was nice of her), she just kinda dropped the bowls in front of us. And there was no apology for the long wait. At least the salad was good. We ordered the Boston Bibb salad. It included bacon, blue cheese, tomatoes and pickled red onions with blue cheese dressing. It was tasty and rich. I recommend it. Luckily, as we were wrapping up our salad, our individual slice of pizza arrived. We had the Purist pizza which included fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic reduction. But too bad it was cold! For the amount of time we waited for everything, you'd think it was because they were making a new patch of pizzas! It was really disappointing to go to a pizzeria only to experience pizza that wasn't fresh out of the oven. Although the pizza was good, it was hard to enjoy it because it was cold (also they could have gone a little bit easier on the balsamic). Perhaps one would have better luck getting a warm pizza if they ordered a made-to-order one?
(2)Meg r.
Went in after a small apt. dance party for a whole pizza to share with family at home. 17 for a whole pie. sausage or pepperoni, not a bad deal and it was only 4 minutes to wait for it to be done for a 1/2 saus., pep, and mushroom and 1/2 cheese. 6 pieces is all they cut it into, so, ask for more slices if you need to share it. Brought it home and the cornmeal was still giving a good crunch on the crust, and as I ate the slice of meaty goodness my mouth was lighting up with a hot spice that I LOVED! I like the place for carryout or just a slice until 1:30am and the easy on off the blue line California stop or Milwaukee bus. Probably the best big slice of pizza in Chicago I have ever had, hands down. Chill pizza makers and a bartender that was quick with the order made this late night stop for a fresh pizza worth it. I will return.
(5)Steve G.
This place is pretty interesting on the inside, wooden tables and benches, bar seats built out of car seat belts, and two eyeball tv's above the bar. The decor alone makes it worth a visit... Sadly I was pretty disappointed with the pizza. It wasn't horrible, it was just eh. I was with a big group, so we tried several of their specialty pizzas; BBQ, Thai, Lombardi, and the Hawaiian. The thing you should know about this place is the pizza is east coast style meaning the pizza is paper thing. Which, I don't necessarily have a problem with, but this just wasn't that impressive.. What was impressive other then the cool interior? Two things... you get a free shot of Jameson with you use the atm, and you can also buy a PBR, a shot of Jamo and a slice of pizza for 7.50. That makes this place ok in my book... just not great.
(3)Shakeia T.
I didn't have pizza, but I did have the fantastic Jameson ice cream! As a fan of both whiskey and ice cream, this was amazing way to cool off on a super hot day. I like the look of Boiler Room, the staff was quite nice! The CTA themed bathroom was very, very cool! I was a bit startled by the "doors closing" as I left. But I was so tickled, I went back in and came out so I could hear it again. I'm real mature, guys. I definitely look forward to checking this place out to get some pizza. It looked and smell quite delicious!
(4)Lindsay L.
The pizza is so good! Thin crust and with yummy topping choices. I have to say it's quite expensive if you'd like a whole pie or exotic toppings, but when I order a regular slice I am ever disappointed. The panzanella salad is really yummy as well, but I wish they had a half size of it, because at $7 it's essentially an entree, and I can't be the only one who wants a little salad and pizza. I really like their balsamic salad dressing, which I like to dip my cheese pizza into. Other than that, I wish it weren't cash only. The bathrooms are really cool, with the CTA transit car theme, and the outdoor garden is very nice for warmer evenings.
(3)Doro R.
They are moving down in stars due to the lack of Blueberry beer. It was the most impressing feature (to me) and they no longer have it. I love that beer. We ordered a whole pizza and 'some other beers' and a mixed drink. The soda for the mixed drink was flat but the liquor ratio was pretty good. The beer options weren't that great... different than other places sure, but NO Blueberry Sea Dog and a few too many IPA or other hoppy flavors for my liking. Whole pie was just as good as the slices. Fluffy crust- wonderful texture but still no yeasty smell/flavor that I crave. My quest for an optimal pizza/beer balance in Chicago continues...
(2)Shane B.
The Boiler Room is one of my go-to places when I want to meet my friends for drinks and a slice or two. The PBJ (PBR tall boy, shot of Jameson, and a slice) for $7.50 remains one of the best deals in the city. The inside can get a little crowded sometimes, but during the summer the amazing, huge patio really makes this the place to go. The pizza is damn good, they have a good beer selection and decent cocktails, and the outdoor seating is some of the most extensive in the area. To summarize: go there, get the PBJ, hang out with your friends, have a good night, guaranteed.
(4)Will V.
I struggle whether to give this place two or three stars. We arrived here sometime after 11 pm on Saturday night, and I'm grateful the kitchen was still open, because we were starving. It was busy enough that our options were a group of open bar stools, or some seats at a big community high-top table in the middle of the dining room. We opted for the community table. The service was friendly, and good for a bar, but not great for a pizza joint in this price range. Wait, this is a pizza joint, right? Right. On to the food... For drunk pizza, this is pretty good stuff. But we weren't exactly drunk when we arrived, and didn't get any more intoxicated waiting for our pizza. The result? Disappointment. I tried a slice of the meatball and giardiniera, a slice of the Balsamic, and we ordered a whole pulled pork & mole sauce pizza. Of those, I like the Balsamic the best. The meatball and giardiniera, and the pulled pork and mole were both... bland. The crust on all three suffered from a sweetness that made me think of baby biscuits, not a good thing for serious pizza, although the consistency was good. The pulled pork & mole also suffered from a couple of the largest pizza dough bubbles I've ever seen in my life. That pizza should not have left the kitchen. I guess we were full anyway, but no one touched those pieces. In all fairness, the manager came over to our table after we were finished and asked us about our meal. We were brutally honest, and she seemed genuinely interested in what we were saying, and she indicated that discussions were underway to improve the menu and the food, and she would put our suggestions to use. I hope she does. It was nice to have such a frank discussion with a manager who seemed genuinely interested in what we thought of our meal. She also helped us with the bill, even though we ate most of our meal. A couple of other relatively minor quibbles here... not the bill, but the prices? Kind of high for the quality. I hope they work on the quality and the price and quality come to a nice meeting point, but for now, $20 for the pulled pork & mole pizza is too much. The slices were $4 each. Also, The Boiler Room is cash-only. Seriously? It's not like it's a small mom & pop struggling to survive that can't pay the 2% fee. So there you have it. I hope they improve. I'll try it again, I'm sure, but I won't be going back anytime soon.
(2)Emily W.
Something about the pizza bothers me. I think it's the combination of the sauce (a little bland) and the fact that the last 3 times I was here, the slice of pizza I got was undercooked and slightly doughy. I like my pizza to be crispy. Also, the jameson infused ice cream is the WORST thing I've ever tasted in my entire life. It burned my tongue and was just really really bad. Go ahead and try it, you will wish you hadn't. They really need to change the recipe or something.. I don't want this review to be all negative though because I enjoy the atmosphere and the food is pretty cheap. Their cocktail list is sophisticated and fun. Last time, I tried one called "Beetlegeuse" which consisted of spiced rum, cointreau, fresh mint and beets, orange wedge, and selzer water. Yum. And only $8. It's right across from the California Blue Line too, so it doesn't get much more convenient. There is an outdoor patio in the back for when it's nicer out too which rules.
(3)Frank D.
Oh, hey Boiler Room. My bad, I've been frequenting you for the past two years and have not yet changed my really shitty review. First time I came, yes, things were a little chaotic and the pizza was pretty soggy and gross. But hey, we all make mistakes. You got your act together, Boiler Room, and fast. No hard feelings? This place is awesome. Their pizza is pretty good, but I rarely come here for food only. More of a food + drink establishment, but with really good food. Open late, really pretty awesome to be able to stop by for a slice of pizza and another beer at 2am (it provides both another drinking establishment to enjoy and also an alternative to eating drunken mexican food). Cash only, but if you use the ATM *KEEP YOUR RECEIPT* if you want a free shot of whiskey (just give it to your waitress/bartender).
(4)Patrick S.
Hey guys, Pat S. here. So here's the thing. Like the Boiler Room is pretty cool, and they got good slices of za and the waitresses are all dope, but turn off those sounds in the bathroom!!
(4)Mark W.
I came here the day after they initially opened a few moths ago. I was terribly disappoitned. I wanted to love it, i really did. I mean, the pizza sounded amazing on the menu, my ceasar salad was superb, it was all going great, then the pizza came. I think, had it been cooked properly, it would have been amazing. Soggy around the edges, completely raw in the center. I mean, it was like the dough was not even cooked. I tried to eat it, but after the first slice, i just couldnt do it anymore. An hour or so after eating, i felt like i ate a brick and had a terrible stomach ache for the rest of the evening. Fast forward to december. They have now been open for several monthsand i keep reading reviews in the redeye ranting and raving about this new pizza joint in logan. I decieded to give it another shot. THANK YOU FOR GETTING YOUR SHIT TOGETHER, BOILER ROOM! Ive been abck a few times now, and im never disappointed. The pizza is cooked, yes COOKED!, to perfection. Just a really nice, flavorful, thin, crisp, yummy yum yum slice. The drink deals will keep you there for hours on end. It can get quite busy, as it is a trendy bar/pizzaria in trendy Logan Square. I mean, this place is sooo logan square. It just spits hipster at you when you walk in. In conclusion, if you want a slice, a pbr, maybe even a shot of jamo in an extremely convienent location, stop on in.
(4)Todd M.
Slices are a little over-priced but for some reason I can't stop going here, so they must've done something right.
(4)Alex C.
Love the Boiler Room. Mind the cash only policy, but if you use the ATM you get a free shot of Jamo! My go to is the PBJ with the Purist, but I highly recommend trying their slice of the day. Great interior. Neat bathroom. A good movie always playing. I forgot to mention, open late!!
(5)Zach Z.
THis place was cool. The design inside is just something you need to come and experience. They have good pizzas and lots of different beer (which i like) Just dont try the moose drool beer like I did :( This is a nice place to get food and do some day drinking. Check it out!
(4)Polly S.
Answer me this because I think I'm missing the obvious here: Why is the Boiler Room named what is it when it would be more apt as something like "Transit Station"? One (one=me) ponders. Went here yesterday on a Saturday night. It was crowded but luckily not claustrophobic. We had a 30 minute wait by the bar which was okay. Good beer selection. Once seated, service was thumbs up. We ordered the chips-n-dip for an appetizer. It wasn't my first choice for an app but it turned out to be surprisingly tasty. Highly recommend. We ordered a make your own pizza and appreciated that they accommodated us by only putting sausage on half the pie. We also added arugula and cherry tomatoes. You really can't beat grilled cherry tomatoes on a pizza. Crust was perfect. The atmosphere is cool and hip, if not a little kitschy. Conveniently located just outside the blue line California stop and right across the street from my friend's apartment. You can bet I'll be making this a regular pit stop every time I hang out with this friend. Important to note, cash only and vegan pie options available. I was told if you use their ATM to get cash, you get a free shot of Jameson. Nice policy.
(4)Renee E.
Boiler Room's decor definitely does resemble it's older sister, Simone's. This is not a bad thing. And the restrooms are pretty amusing, with their El announcements (however, that might get old after a while). We stopped in for a bite and a beer during the Milwaukee Ave. Arts Festival. We were only moderately hungry, so we opted for slices, instead of a full pie. My husband and I both got the purist. I have a high tolerance level for thin crust and sparse toppings, so I was fine. My husband would've liked a bit more cheese. We also split a nice sized salad that fortunately consisted of more than some dumb chunks of iceburg. The lemon dressing was light, just right. The beer menu had a lot to offer. The full pies seemed a little expensive and the pizza menu was a little on the light side, but if you're in the mood for a sit-down place to eat a slice and accompany that with a beer, Boiler Room will do.
(2)Donna P.
you're going to want to order the 4 cheese pizza. the plain cheese is ok too. love their pickled onions and their home made giardiniera. always make sure to leave room for their jameson soft serve ice cream. when you go, don't expect too much from some of their staff. i think they prefer to socialize than work. some may actually be stoned.
(3)Anne M.
I don't understand how you could give Boiler Room a bad review. Good pizza. Good beer. Good prices. Their cocktails, salads, and mac and cheese are also really good. Seriously, a $3 slice of pizza in Logan Square and you're mad?
(5)Sophia T.
Since giving up the cheese, I've had to stop eating pizza until I discovered that pizza could be cheeseless. Boiler Room understands my needs to have a delicious New York style crust (although not exact, but sort of close) with delicious sauce, delicious veggies, and seitan morsels. They make it to order and while I have my dairy free delight, my friend could have her mucus-forming fresh mozzarella. We were both happy, happy, happy. The slices are humungoid, I mean talk about folding the damn thing. this is a + cash only folks. The bathroom incidentally is a bit creepy b/c you feel like you are on the blue line and there is a recording of a conductor.
(4)James V.
I just got back from the grand opening of the boiler room. I really liked the place and I think I may find it to be my new default bar in the neighborhood, if the specials turn out to be good. Now first off, this is a review of the bar atmosphere, available drafts and the pizza. Anyone reviewing on service on opening day should be disregarded as a ninny. That said, my review is as follows: The Boiler Maker is a welcome addition to this area of Logan Square which has the Logan and Ronny's serving the immediate area. The pizza, which is pretty good for pub grub, is cheap enough at $3 a slice and $15 a pie. They have a backyard patio which is only open for food service, as their liquor license does not allow for outdoor alcohol service. They expect it to open up to everyone in the next few weeks. I got mixed reports, but they have a daily special which is a PBR tall boy, a shot of Jameson (on tap) and a slice of pizza for either $6.50 or $7.50. Not a bad deal, especially compared to the Flat Iron deal of $5 for a PBR and a shot of whiskey or the $5 beer that includes a free pizza at Crocodile. The atmosphere is pretty cool. With a turn of the century boiler as the centerpiece, I found the place to have a steampunk aesthetic. Lots of scrap metal and nixie lamps were scattered about the place. All in all, I will definitely be back on a slower night and I find it to be a welcome addition to the area.
(4)Jaime G.
They had me at the Youngs double chocolate stout on draft. Awesome. My favorite beer on daft plus other very good beer options. They even have jameson's Irish whisky on draft. Really? I did have some though. Didn't try the food but pizza and wings look excellent. Sell pizza by the slice for $3. Can't beat that for a bar. Atmosphere is def fun and interesting. Had a great time and would go back.
(4)Sarah C.
Next stop, California! At least that is what the woman's bathroom told me! The Broiler Room was the last stop on a recent bachelorette party tour. It could not have been a better place to end the night. Actually, that is a lie. The only improvement I would make would be to keep the patio open longer! Warm spring/summer nights in Chicago require patio access! We arrived around midnight on a Saturday night and the patio had just closed. Bummer fest. Thankfully, there were plenty of places to sit. And the decor was progressive and totally cool. Otherwise there was plenty of space to hang out and grab one of their signature $8 cocktails or beers. They also have $3 PBR if you really want to get down. I could not have been happier with all of the employees! They even got involved with our scavenger hunt for the bride making the night all around hilarious!
(5)Nick L.
Half the fun is watching pizza be made in their open-air kitchen. There are windows into facing the street as well if you have to wait outside. Food is fantastic. Drinks are cheap. But if there is a thin line between laid back service and unprofessional service, they tend to trip face first onto the latter side. Been here quite a few times, and the table service is persistently slow to the point of annoyance. Everyone working there is cool people and I'm rarely in a hurry to eat, but in a place that small, customers shouldn't have to get up and track waitstaff down as much as I've seen happen. If they can improve this just a bit, they'll have a special place in my heart forever. Because seriously. $3 shots of Jameson on the tap...
(4)Melanie V.
I hate pickles. (Unlike Snooki, ya know.) I also dislike mustard. That's why I've always strayed away from Cuban sandwiches. I mean, I've them a couple times, but never felt the need to eat it again. The over abundance of pickles and mustard just do not mesh well in my mouth. Blech. Enter the Cuban Pizza at the Boiler Room. At first, I cringed silently when my friends told me that's what we were ordering. I'm not really one to object, though, because I'm always open to trying new combos. (And, in the event I was completely disgusted, I would just order a slice of pepperoni. Easy!) To my delight, however, this pizza was realllllllly good. The mustard was spicy, so it blended well with the pickles. The pizza was topped with pulled pork, bacon and pepperoni, I think. Pork x 3 - amazing. I also have to stress that the crust was a high point for me - light, airy, not too dense. The other specialty pizzas sounded fascinating, with the bbq chicken pizza as my #1. You can get pizza by the slice for $3, but those are only cheese, sausage and pepperoni. The pizza we ordered was 6 (massive) slices for $26. Not bad! Plus, we came in around midnight and they were still fine with making a fresh pizza for us! Late night options, ftw. Our waiter was adorable. He even joined in our convo when my friend mentioned watching 'Beaches' earlier in the day. Note: Make a note of checking out the restrooms. My friends thought they were cheesy, but the 'el-esqueness' of it was a lil endearing to me.
(4)Brent W.
I'm feeling moody, baby, ahh yea, i'm feeling moody baby, ahh yea. Bring that atti and you're all good. Sat at the bar and the bartender who'd been there from day 1 was accommodating and congenial as ever, just what you want in a bartender. Good beer select and no need to mention the PBJ combo which is very hard to beat. Pizza. Solid. 4/5 easily if not a 5 spot.
(4)Angela S.
I crave the slices here. Great for pizza and the drink specials are decent too.
(3)Jose H.
PB&J with The Purist please
(5)Joshua J.
The thing about the Boiler Room is that the pizza is pretty decent, but it's not as decent as the price would suggest. Also, this place tends to be wall-to-wall packed on basically every day of the week, so unless you're looking to be seen grabbing a slice, I'd say go elsewhere if you're hungry. HOWEVER. The Boiler Room has Jameson whiskey soft serve ice cream. And that shit will fuck your world up on the walk home.
(3)Elyse H.
El train car for the bathroom? Okay! I always have a place in my heart for The Boiler Room. Even though the wait can be quite long on the weekends, I think it is worth it. The decor + food is awesome. Pizza slices are all unique and I love the foldable option. :) Summers are the best because you can eat outside. Wins all around.
(4)Neel S.
Great place to end the night. Decent selection of beer. Best part is the thin-crust pizza served until late. Comfy bar chairs and old-school movies projected behind the tap add to the quiet vibe. Bring a friend (and cash), come hungry and ready to talk.
(4)Keith A.
The crowd and staff here are just pure unadulterated logan square. Basically its very eclectic with people from all walks of life with varying degrees of ink on their bodied. And you know what, it's awesome. That really isn't the main reason that this place is a lot of fun, its just part of the full equation. You have some damn good pizza coupled with beer and all the jameson you can want which = a place that begs to be revisited. My friend and I dropped by here to chill after a pretty crappy work day for both of us. So, with a need for beer and pizza, it was a good chance to hit up the boiler room. Both of us ordered up slices and quickly I found out that it was cash only. Thankfully they had an atm and with an atm reciept you get a shot of jameson. Dangerous, you'd better believe it but it wouldn't be too much of a problem. The beer prices were just fine and the slices were extremely big. I got both sausage and pepperoni just to make sure that I'd grab some full on staples. The sausage was really good and the pepperoni was pretty good but fairly standard. What made the real difference was that the crust was real tasty and the slices were big to do some new york style folding on them. All in all the price wasn't all too bad as it cost me ~20 with two slices and three beers before tip. The service was always on point and easy to get a hold of even though we were there right at around 7 on a friday night
(4)Kyla S.
I wish I could say that I have experienced what I hear is their good pizza but I haven't. The host sat us and said a server will be right with us, apparently that was a joke. Me and my friend sat there for 20 minutes with not even a greeting or anything. I saw servers serve the people around us (who they seemed to know) who were sat after us. We finally gave up and left. I understand when its busy it can be rough to get to a table right away. However, we received not even a glance in our direction and it wasn't even that busy. I was looking forward to trying this place out, it looked very cool inside but I don't think I will ever go back if that is the way they treat customers.
(1)Tory w.
I love this place! Sure, it's too hipster for its own good, but the pizza is excellent so who cares. I came here by chance one night after finding out last minute that trivia at my beloved Logan was cancelled. I was hungry, had an out of town guest, and had always like the look (and smell) of the place. Apparently they are famous for their PB and J - pizza, PBR, and Jameson for $7.50. They also give you a free shot of Jameson for using their ATM. Our server explained that they have some connection to Jameson, I can't remember what. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is very trendy in that grungy, trying too hard not to be trendy way, but the pizza was delish. My first time here I had the buffalo chicken pizza and my second time, a sausage and onion. Fellow diners tried vegetarian style pizzas, and one that was called the classic or something. It doesn't matter that I can't remember the names, they were all really, really, good, and I am something of a pizza snob. The pizzas are thin crust but huge, one can easily feed two people with a slice leftover for lunch. Highly recommended.
(5)Regina C.
Great vegan options, really good beer list.
(4)A M.
I've been here a few times and I always leave dissatisfied with some aspect of the experience. The first time it was simply the service. Our server had absolutely no knowledge of the food or drink menu. Every question asked was quickly replied with, "I don't know." She may have been honest but her lack of enthusiasm was indicative of her service style: inattentive and lazy. I probably would have been more forgiving if the answer would have fallen under the lines of "I don't know, but let me find out." But, nope. We managed to figure it out on our own. Little did she know that sitting at the table were 3 veteran industry gals that probably would have tipped her well above the standard. Alas, we tipped the standard. On my second visit, my friend and I were sat outside at a table with another couple that were smoking. Neither of us smoke and we were never asked. Of course when we very politely asked to be moved to another table (even joking with the couple who were not offended in the least) we were treated with disdain and as a bother. We were on a tight schedule and decided to stay. Third times a charm? I think not. The food is okay...but what can I say? The service in this place is despicable. I was with my family this time and my niece and nephew are minors. I thought, pizza? Hip? Teens will dig this place. I called ahead and was told if we are in before 8 then no problems. Well, we arrived shortly before 8 but the hostess refused to seat us. There were 2 people at the bar (coincidentally one of whom was my roomie) and 4 tables. Definitely not busy and there was no one in line behind us. Yet, we were turned away just for the sake of being able to say NO. The smirk on the face as we were being told this confirmed my gut feelings. Overall, Boiler Room is just too cool for it's own good and the attitude is thick. Perhaps this can be said about many hipster joints but it's a bummer because this one happens to be in the neighborhood. But...so are plenty of other hip restaurants and many more are on their way...
(1)Aaron T.
Update: Went back here 2x more times and had a great waiter and the other time no waiter at all because we sat at a table for 20 minutes and left. This confirms my theory of having a 50/50 chance of having a good experience. This place has my favorite slices in the city and is one of my favorite places to hang in the city. I always come here for the PBJ special. Pizza wise, I usually get the boiler room (house meatballs and gardinara) or the purist (basil, fresh mozz, balsamic vinegar reduction). You can drink cheap (PBR and Jameson $3 each) or not cheap and order some tasty microbrews. The back patio is pretty nice and who couldn't appreciate the butt wall men's in the bathroom?! Why only 3 stars? For the same reason as this place has three stars overall. The service is awful here. Don't expect the royal treatment here or expect to be treated like a customer whatsoever. I would say the service here is been good 50% of the time, so if you go here, expect to get your panties all in a bunch. Hey boiler room wait staff F. U. Just remember that you don't make the pizza, beer or the whiskey. You just serve it. So get off your fucking high horse and appreciate that someone created food and drink good enough for me to spend money here and stop giving this place a bad reputation!
(2)Adam S.
The pizza is great. From crust to topping selection, to what they've dreamed up, solid stuff all around. And yes, as pretty much everyone else has said, the PB&J. Duh. You can't go wrong. The inside is also awesome, the layout, bar design, etc. Nice work. So, why two stars? 1. It's cash only. Grow up, guys. If you were just a bar that sold drinks and no food, OK, although in 2011 there's not really any legitimate excuse. But you serve food. That's just stupid. And no, the fact that you offer a shot of whiskey with ATM receipt is nice, but it does not get you off the hook for being cash only. It's 2011, grow up. 2. The slices are awesome, but dude, the whole pies? One size? $4 for meat? $3 FOR A VEGETABLE? Gimme a break. It's clear you only want to sell slices. Just sell slices. PROTIP: If you're going to get a whole pie, get a specialty pizza. 3. I have been here several times, and man, every single time, the service has been balls out terrible. Not rude servers persay, just servers who are really bad at their job. Your pizza and PB&J special are great, but man it's hard to ignore your shitty service. I want to like this place more, I really do. I am just unable to at this point. Hopefully I'll update it later.
(2)Patrick K.
A great joint in Logan Square. CASH ONLY, but it keeps prices down. Bring your ATM receipt to bar and get a free shot of Jamison. HOW SWEET IS THAT! I love the vibe of the place. The restrooms are CTA "L" themed and you feel like you are on the train. All in all, PBJ = SOLID DEAL ($7.50 for a PBR TALL BOY, SHOT of JAMO and A slice of PIZZA). Pizza was a little soggy, but the atmosphere, patio and prices were WORTH IT.
(4)Christina M.
Attention all Hipsters.... Attention all hipsters..... Boiler Room is like Simones on the North Side. Great Food. The server we had seemed like she wanted us to go. A brunette with a bob. We stopped in last night and were seated at the booth. The server seemed a little annoyed that not all of us were eating. But it was 10:30 at night. I did see her get excited when her tables started leaving so we thought she was off. i don't know it was kind of weird. I know everyone has they're off days but only four because it was strange.
(4)Molly A.
we just came here for a drink one night (though dan couldn't resist and ended up with the pb&j special - a decision he claims not to regret). the ambience is quite unique (the original teenage mutant ninja turtles movie was playing on a big screen behind the bar). excellent people watching and a very fun place to drop by for a drink on a weeknight. super close to the el stop (california blue line) so extra points for convenience.
(4)Tawanda W.
We went in at 1am. We sat down and immediately they took our order. We waited for 50 minutes and it finally came, then some guy comes, smacks his hand on the table and says we close in 5 minutes so hurry and eat your pizza. He literally came back every 2 minutes expecting my fiance and I to have eaten an entire pizza. I will never go back to this establishment again. The only reason I gave it 1 star is because the pizza was decent! Too bad we couldnt enjoy it!
(1)Kymberly J.
Yep, the Simone's folks have brought you another repurposed-ly decorated joint. I love the openness of this place and all the cool fixtures and decor - in no way is this place standard or generic. The coolest thing is the bathroom. The door to the bathroom and the stalls are old L doors. And! are you ready for it? When the main door opens you hear the L voice saying "this is a Blue Line train to O'Hare" OMG! How neat!!! So on to the pizza, it's pretty darn good. Thin crust and delicious. They even have slices available in the specialty pizzas. I was impressed by that since most places offer slices of sausage, peperoni or cheese only. Cash only, a fine selection of micro brews and of course PBR, what more could you ask for in a hip new pizza place?
(5)Aaron S.
Everything about my first visit was pretty darn awesome, from the free shot for using the ATM (best way to screw the credit card companies), to the perfect North Shore gin martini, to the salad with mint leaves in it, to the PBR meatball slice (YUM), to the Jameson soft serve ice cream. I'd actually opted for this place over another restaurant because I knew they had TVs so I thought they'd be showing the MLB playoffs, but NO! Kingpin and First Blood DVDs instead--works for me. Can't wait to go back with a bigger group to split a whole pie.
(5)Dj Nightwolf ..
The 200+ reviews before mine are all fluff. All you need to know about The Boiler Room is this: $7.50 Jameson shot + PBR tallboy + slice of pizza. - SAY WHAT!!! AND Jameson softserve ice cream! - THIS IS THE DESSERT OF THE GODS! A great deal followed by deliciousness that is infused with the nectar that causes blackouts will always get Mr Beautiful to show his beautiful face at this establishment. Holla!!!â„¢
(4)Josan K.
Pizza is really good, good specials! Pb+j! Can get crowded on fridays and saturdays...and the rest of the week is hipster central but it's always a great time!
(4)Food Junkie S.
They have a great PBJ special, but the staff could use some customer service skills. The pizza is very good. I'm not a deep dish fan, but Boiler Room makes NY style very well. They also have PBR tall boys and Jameson on tap! The best part is the Jameson soft serve ice cream!
(4)D L.
Under 21 years old? - well, you can't go in - not even to eat. Everyone in group has to be over 21 years.
(1)Joshua M.
What is there to say that hasn't already been said? They deal out so much Jameson here that they have it on a tap. They must go through three pallets of PBR in a night. And if there is another place in Chicago that serves a decent New York style slice, I haven't heard of it. To taste all three for seven dollars and fifty cents, ain't that the dream? And I'm not even asleep.... I like to sit at the bar and try to wrap my head around whatever film is silently playing on the wall. The house tunes never disappoint either. And as others have noted, the Jameson Ice Cream doesn't just taste like whiskey, it WILL get you loaded. Fair warning.
(4)Alana W.
Yummy pizza, awesome PB&J special (pizza slice, beer, and shot of Jameson for $7.50), and great bartenders who were quick to refill my drink whenever it went empty. If you don't drink, you can get a large slice by itself for only $3. The alcohol-flavored ice cream was also a nice touch. Don't go on a weekend night and expect to be seated quickly, that should be a given at almost any place that serves alcohol. I did find it odd though like another review mentioned that we were not given any kind of estimate as to how long the wait would be. I don't mind waiting for a seat, however, it is nice to know upfront approximately HOW long the wait will be. The only thing they lost a star for is that the place is cash only. In 2012 I find cash-only weird at any place that isn't a cheap hole-in-the-wall place. I also wish they would have better signage about it (we didn't find out about it until our check came as it was written on the check book). We also weren't informed about the free shot if you used the ATM outside and provided a receipt, and in my panic to find money for our bill quickly (while my boyfriend waited so they wouldn't think we were trying to ditch on our bill), I walked right past the ATM that is immediately outside the door; so, in the end, I'll have to pay around $5 in ATM fees for using an ATM not owned by my bank.
(4)Vic C.
Best deal in Chicago. If you've gone, you know what I'm talking about. If you haven't been.....FIND OUT. Thin crust pizza is excellent. I had a slice of the vegetarian special and a slice of the boiler room accompanied by a PBR. Their patio is also a great feature.
(5)Mike P.
If you like punk music, zombie movies, cheap beer, and tattoos, this is your place. I've been going to Boiler Room ever since the opening and I love it! It's definitely a place to check out if you're hungry or want a decent special (The PB&J is totally worth it, trust me!). The food isn't "amazing", but you get decent portions and I've never had a problem with it! The Purist, Dirty Bird, and Hummas are my favorite items to get. The atmosphere is different than most places and I like it a lot, but I suggest the back patio to first timers. It's cozy, comfortable, and there's robot paintings on the fences, come on! So rad! Anyone who calls this place a "hipster dive" is sort of right, I'm not going to deny that, but it's not a snobby, crowded bar as much as it is a place for people to eat, so you don't have to deal with anyone if you don't want to (and let's be honest, you're in Logan Square, if you're complaining about the existence of hipsters then you're sadly going to have to deal with it regardless where you go). You can easily just sit down, enjoy your food/drinks, and be on your way.
(5)Dawid P.
The beet salad could use a beet.
(3)Erin J.
Not docking stars for this because they're still relatively new, but it has to be said that the service has tapered off dramatically after we've gotten our pizza every time I have been there so far. We've been acknowledged fairly quickly and the lovely beverages come at a decent pace initially but after the pizza is delivered, good fuckin luck getting the server to come back to get you another drink or box up the last piece or bring you the check or anything. This has happened every time to a degree but the last time I was there, we sat for about 20 minutes after the last slice was boxed up, waiting for our check, staring at our empty glasses. And then once we got the check, I cursed myself for not having enough singles to just pay the bill and leave; I needed change. That took another 10 minutes. So, no docking stars as of yet because I realize that everything is wonky within the first few months of a new place. But this should be elementary in short order. Also to note: PARENTS: Do not bring your huge, clunky strollers with your screaming children into this bar. There is no place to put a stroller, so it would be sitting between the tables, which are hi-top communal benches. It clogs up the works and your kid will be about 3-4 feet below/to the side of you. So for safety, sanity and courtesy, please don't bring your very little ones to this bar.
(4)Erin P.
New obsession: Boiler Room pizza! Thin and tasty with just the right amount of corn meal on the bottom of the crust to give an extra crunch (is it weird that I like that?) Good service, great music and movies playing at all times. We usually stick to slices or the PBJ special and it tends to be pretty affordable. I have also picked up take out slices for cheap ($4). My boyfriend swears by the "Georgey" cocktail: Young's Double Chocolate Stout with Jameson soft serve. Does life get much better?
(5)Adam K.
PBJ = pizza, beer, jameson 7 bux, best deal in the hood. Freal. DOpe spot in the SUPER TRENDY 'hood called Logan Square? Have you guys heard of this place? They have REALLY cool light fixtures, that is kinda my thing. Lighting. Took Forever to get my pizza, and when I did get it, I wanted another J, see, thats how they get you. RIGHT ACROSS FROM THE BLUE LINE CALIFORNIA STOP! SO STOP DRIVING YOUR DRUNK ASS ACROSS TOWN. Oh yeah, almost forgot, Jameson Ice Cream. Yeah, I will be back.
(4)Brittany C.
Who knew there was a place in Chicago were you'd need to wait for a table at 10:30 PM on a Wednesday? Shock me, shock me. So-so pizza. Good bear list. Fine prices. Lotsa Hipster-love, enjoying PBR. I am not sure anything else needs to be said but.... Does it bother anyone else that the "EL Stop" in the bathroom is the Logan Square stop, even though it's across the street from the California stop? Probably not.
(3)Michele W.
I'm really mad at the Boiler Room right now. Why? Because I'm not there at this very moment and because they wouldn't put their Jameson ice cream in a 5 gallon bucket for me... Yes folks, take a deep breath. Jameson. Infused. Soft. Serve. Ice Cream. Sweet baby J. I'm going to have inappropriate dreams about that ice cream tonight. It was amazing. Great ice cream with this amazingly rich and surprisingly tasty flavor. Wow. Honestly, that's really all the Boiler Room needed to win a place in my heart forever. But, wait, there's more!! This bar has a great, laid back decor and cool beer garden. Oh yes, speaking of beer--great beer selection! And, just when I thought my little heart couldn't take anymore, my cup runneth over. They have pizza. GOOD PIZZA. I mean, real delicious looking pizza. I have to give myself a little timeout before I finish writing, I'm so overcome with emotion. Whew, ok -- better now. If you've read any of my other reviews, you'll know that a piece of my soul dies every time I have bad pizza here in Chicago (which happens often). Just looking at the myriad flavors of pizza deliciousness warmed my soul once again. And, if that wasn't enough... you'll also get -- Jameson on tap. Yes, whiskey on tap. It's too much, I can't.... I think I've said too much already...
(5)Big J.
I gave them another chance and they clearly turned it all around. I still wouldn't order the fancier pizzas, but the $7 PB&J special is a special delight, and the shot-for-your-receipt deal is great.
(4)Kynsley A.
This place wasn't as "divey" and hipster/trendy as is it looked on the outside. This place is just a restaurant not a bar, (like I originally thought), wait to be seated and you're good to go. The pizza was good and the waitress was nice. I didn't capitalize on the PBJ combo but all is well. Laid back place, awesome bathrooms. Complete sentences not necessary. ^_^
(3)Sonia B.
Seriously, whyyy do I even bother coming here? I came here the other night after catching The Ravonettes at Green Music Fest, and I told the waiter all I wanted was a slice of cheese and a water. He said fine, and never came back. The hostess brought out our slices fairly quickly, but I never got my glass of water. I think a $1 tip is generous enough for shitty service in a pretty empty restaurant. Get over yourselves, hipsters.
(1)Corinne M.
This is my new favorite place to grab a slice of pizza!!! Nothing beats the PB&J special: slice of pizza, PBR, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. That is a deal. I simply LOVE the decor. The chairs and benches made with luggage straps are awesome and along the lines of "crafty" that I enjoy. The bathrooms are done up like an el stop and even have the intercom/overhead sound you would hear on the train. The lighting is perfect, the TVs are set back, behind the bar, in a completely non-distracting tone. Tip: If you use their ATM and keep your receipt, you can get a free shot of Jameson. Much love for the delicious Irish whiskey!
(5)Josh G.
Boiler Room I just don't get you sometimes. I've been here many times and have had 5 star experiences and some 2 star experiences. When you first opened I preferred some of the pizzas to what you have now. I've had great service here and I have terrible service. When you first opened up I thought your service was great. For awhile I thought your service was terrible. Now it seems you've gotten better. Have you gotten in your "groove" yet? Let's hope so. Now for the pizza, I love you peperoni it has a nice spiciness to it, the sausage is in made in house and it's great. The Purist is great I love the balsamic and the fresh mozzarella. If you come here by yourself just get a few slices don't go with a whole pizza, from some reason it just doesn't reheat too well. As for the original menu you had a egg pizza that I really liked but you changed up the recipe on it. :( The newer recipe just didn't do it for me. (It may be gone I don't remember seeing available on my last visit.) The beer menu is decent not huge but it always has some tasty beer on tap. I don't drink much anymore but if I was just a little younger I would totally do the PBJ ( a slice of pizza, a PBR and a shot of Jameson) but seeing as I don't recover from hangovers like I used to I find myself not ordering it. In summary I think the Boiler Room was a solid 5 stars when it opened, there was about 2 months were you dipped to about 2.5 stars, but in the last few months I'd say you guys are getting better and I'll rate you a solid 3.5 and rounding that up since I do think you've finally found your winning formula. Plus it never hurts that I get off the train and bang there you are just waiting for me to grab a slice and a beer.
(4)angela p.
The pizza! THE PIZZA! Oh the pizza is incredible. I usually get The Purist slice (basil, fresh mozzarella, balsamic reduction) because I'm lactose intolerant and it's easy for me to pick off the cheese (woe is me). So I wind up with a big ol slice of cheeseless pizza covered in balsamic goodness and fresh basil. And it's still scrumptious. The service, meh. Don't misunderstand: the servers are all very friendly, but I don't think they staff very many waiters, so it's always a wait to get your order taken and the check. Nevertheless, I keep coming back for the pizza. THE PIZZA! Oh, and the place is cash only. But if you use their ATM inside and present them with your receipt, you get a free shot of Jameson.
(4)Aquarius E.
great place, pizza is so-so, service is so-so, gets packed in there on weekends around dinner time, patio is nice. The thing i love most about boiler room is: 1. the cute doorman, 2. The interior of the place the seat belt booths, I love that every table has an outlet, really helpful for people like me that have shitty phones that die all the time. the bathroom is awesome too inmates the L. and the best part of all 3. BOOZE SOFT SERVE! this place has Jameson flavored ice cream that has booze in it, one cone is equivalent to a shot! ps. cash only, but if you use their atm you get a free shot of jameson if you keep the receipt!
(4)Joe H.
I would give this place a much higher rating as they have a delicious buffalo pizza and and awesome interior, but I generally prefer my meals served without a side of fraud. I have gone here twice, but the second time I had an experience similar to that outlined by Audrey K. in her review of this restaurant. Tonight I had an excellent meal and received our bill for $60.40. We only had twenties on us and only wanted to leave a $10 tip. We explicitly asked the waiter for $10.00 in change and were surprised when we only received a $5 bill in change. Normally I wouldn't be a conspiracy theorist, but the waiter (dirty hipster type with a beard; isn't that why we go to Boiler Room? To judge the other hipsters?) was acting suspicious and it was pretty clear to me that he was hoping we would simply be too timid to call him out over $5. However, I'm not afraid to be a brash asshole and called him back over to the table and said "sorry, we asked for $10 in change not $5". At which point he looked like a deer in the headlights, further confirming my suspicions and stammered out "uh, isn't there... I thought there was two $5 bills in there". The entire time I was thinking: "yeah right, nice try 'bro', I know what you are up to". He is lucky I was with my friends or I would have gone up to the cashier when he wasn't looking and asked him to exchange a $20 for two $10's just to bust his lying ass. First of all, its very rare that an all cash restaurant would run out of $10 bills, especially on a slow Sunday night, but its even less likely that he would somehow confuse two $5 bills with one $5 bill. Its not like he was paying us 9 singles instead of 10 where he could easily have erred. Anyhow, if you go to this restaurant beware that the waiters have a culture of slimy tipping practices and leverage the all-cash environment to defraud their customers. Always read your bill carefully, count your change, and don't be afraid to call them out if they are ripping you off.
(2)Dennis J.
We got off the Blue Line station on our way to the Girl Talk show and decided to stop in here to grab a drink and dry off a bit. That was a mistake. If I could give it 0 stars, I would. We ordered three drinks: amanda hugnkiss, toy gun and the north sider. The first two were good (maybe even very good), but the third was just terrible. All gin, you couldn't taste any of the other ingredients. Took it back to the bartender and told her my wife didn't enjoy the drink and she just stared back at me blankly. Okay ... generally they'll make it again or offer something different but no, nothing. Just a dead stare. Alright, so I bought a beer for her since they couldn't screw that up. After I took it back to my wife and sister, we talked about how we would certainly not be returning and a waiter overheard us. He asked why. We explained what had just happened. He said, "Oh, well, that's how that drink is supposed to be. You just didn't like it." Really? All three of us tried and none of us could make out any flavor other than gin. Gin and ice. Is it really impossible to imagine that their bartender flubbed a drink? "It's like a martini, it's supposed to be strong," and then he shook his head at us and said "Never mind" and walked away. What is that? I get it Boiler Room, you don't need my money. I'm glad we found something we can agree on. If you want to drink in this area, I'd recommend The Whistler or Revolution Brewing. Or asking a bum for a sip. Really, anything else.
(1)Kevin C.
I thought this place had a lot of promise. At first glance the decor is unique, nice beer garden, the PBJ deal is outstanding, and the price is reasonable. Being my first time here I deferred to my friends who have been there before and started with the fried mozzarella balls and the chicken wings both which were extremely tasty. Now let me define the PBJ deal. Its a slice of pizza, a beer, and a shot of Jameson for $7.00, a deal which can't be beat. It just can't. The problem here is service and the quality of their pizza. The pizza that we received on the 2nd round was burnt (which they had the gall to serve to us) and their service was mediocre. Anticipate a lot of waiting and flagging servers down. As we were walking out the smell of burning pizza permeated out nostrils. If they served us burnt pizza I'm sure some poor patrons found some darkened pizza slices being put down onto their table. I would give this place another try because of their price but my first visit left me with a charred taste in my mouth.
(3)Mallory J.
When you come to the Boiler Room, there are certain concessions you have to make. Whole pizzas are admittedly pricey, your best bet is to order a classic slice of cheese/pepperoni/sausage (in itself, not too expensive), and they don't take credit cards. But whatever. The location is good, there's plenty of seating, and they give you a shot if you use their ATM (which basically cancels out the service fee). Some of the pizzas are hit or miss (personally, I like them), but as long as you don't shoot too high, you probably won't get bent out of shape. After all, if you're drunk at midnight, should you REALLY order more than a $3 slice of cheese pizza? Their special fries (Old bay seasoning, malt vinegar aioli--or something along those lines) are pretty great too.
(4)Andrzrej K.
very good pizza. If you like thin crust quasi-NY style, its the best Ive had in Chicago. And, if yout dont feel like feeling like you just ate pounds of pound cake, its a great choice, becuase that what Lou Ferrigno's taste like, even though it is very very good- the truth is Lou Ferrigno is an Egyptian man working out of a strip mall these days :( ooop actually meant Lou Malanati;s, but whatever, same shit. SO Boiler Room is actually very good pizza wise- and you know what they say "You either slangin crack rock, or have a wicked slice shop." Biggie
(3)T V.
We live in the area and have dined in a few times. The pizza is a very light thin crust pizza. A whole lot of goodness in your mouth! Our favorites are One Night in Bankok, Cheese Bomb and the BBQ Pork pizza. You can not go wrong with any of those! We also tried the sides (fries and macaroni and cheese), not so great. Stick with the pizza. And they only accept cash.
(5)Charles B.
AWESOME the PB&J. It's a slice of pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson. The place has a nice feel to it and the bathrooms are pretty cool ;-)
(4)Jonathan C.
I can't believe I'd forgotten to write up a review for this place for so long. The pizza here is very unique, very thin and airy, similar to new york, but less yeasty and chewy. Although its very thin, there is a that old Chicago butteriness and crispness to the crust, combined with the toppings I would hesite to call the pizza "light" no matter how thin it is. The style really can't be had anywhere else I know of. The chicken wings are good here as well, they leave the wing tips on which can result in some issues if you try to handle them when very hot. Prices are very reasonable and the space is big (sort of remiscent of a college bar to me for some reason, except for the quirky touches). If your looking for a unique thin crust style pizza, here in the city of deep dish, you have found it. I can't speak to the bar aspect of this place, as I hardly drink anymore. But I can't really shake the "grown up college bar" vibe I get from this place when I eat here. It may be a different feel later at night if I was drinking though.
(4)Beth M.
Awesome! The Boiler Room heard the request for vegan food and now offers a create-your-own-whole-pizza option. Vegan crust with one sauce and Daiya cheese is $18; Upton's seitan "meats" are an extra $5 and veggies/other toppings are $2-3 each. I ordered red sauce, "pepperoni", mushrooms and arugula; it was a beautiful and delicious creation. Unfortunately, there is only one pizza size: ultra-mega-ginormous, and realistically, none of my omnivorous friends are going to want to share my vegan pizza. I have a big appetite, but I'm currently consuming my third meal from the pie. It's also not likely I will want to shell out $30 on a regular basis for a quick, casual "slice" with friends. A personal pizza size option would make this perfect, though I am grateful for vast improvement in vegan offerings.
(4)Carly O.
I feel like there's no way of getting a feel for this place just by looking in the window. So go in, take in the atmosphere, enjoy really good, creative pizza, have a pint and be glad you didn't judge a book by it's cover.
(4)Jackson M.
Great pizza and cheap booze. The Jameson soft serve ice cream is awesome! Also can't beat the everyday $7 PBJ(Pizza, beer, Jameson) special when you're hungry, broke, and want to get tipsy. Back patio is also amazing if it's not too hot out. Cash only, but if you use their ATM save the receipt and they'll give you a free shot of Jameson.
(5)Katie J.
Great spot on California! I loved the salvage Chicago theme and decor. The staff was very friendly, the drinks stiff, and the boiler room slice was delicious. Sausage and big chunks of giardiniera, YUM! Affordable as well. Great spot to hang out or grab a quick bite. Well done!!
(5)Super L.
Not a fan of this place. Which is a shame because we live merely feet away and seem to lack the desire to do even basic cooking. I remember me and the boyfriend checking out the website in anticipation of it opening. We were definitely excited. My first experience was ordering a slice to go after work one night. Took FOREVER for a SLICE. WTF? My boyfriend mentioned that has been his experience, as well. Strange, as one of the purposes of pizza slices is convenience. Went back another time, don't remember the details but was not impressed. Then recently we decided to grab a bite to eat somewhere, and wanted to be quick about it so we could get back to work. We decided to go next door and grab a slice and a drink. He ordered two slices, I order a chicken ceasar. We also ordered two cocktails. They have a nice menu of handcrafted cocktails that sound great. However the execution is just not good. A simple dash of simple syrup would have been standard for the cocktails we ordered, and I am no mixologist, but it was just obvious it was missing an important and common ingredient. I remembered not being impressed the last time I was here, and this is probably why. Stick to beers. It took a REALLY long time for the food to come. A salad, and two slices. What GIVES with that? Anyhow, my salad was pretty gross. The romaine lettuce was wilted, black and soggy, and the anchovie caesar dressing was more like anchovie paste. The chicken was ok, and I just picked around. I know my salad was even worse than I thought when my boyfriend the omnivore went to finish it, and refused to touch it after poking at the "disgusting" wilted lettuce. He even gave me a verbal lashing for not sending it back, which is something we NEVER do. But considering how long it took to come out, I was not about to wait another 25 minutes for some food. His pizza was alright. We were going to order two more slices, but considering it was hard to get our server's attention, not to mention the time it takes to deliver a slice, we passed. If they could get their act together, it would definitely redeem this place as a valid pizza slice joint. The concept is awesome, the decor is awesome. The execution is terrible. Pizza slices should NOT take more than 5 minutes anywhere, ever. And learn how to mix a drink if you are going to offer cocktails. Otherwise just stick to beer. One more complaint, since this is obviously a BAD review. The seating in the back is terrible. I am pretty close to a midget, and the tables are so low to the floor that they hurt MY legs, and it is hard to move. I can't imagine anyone taller than 5 feet being comfortable.
(1)Emily S.
We stopped in here on our Tour de Logan Square, and although the place was decidedly dead for a Saturday afternoon, we still liked it. We split a couple slices - the meatball/giardenera and the pepperoni. Both were really tasty, although some of the full pie topping selections sounded more intriguing. However, the pies looked HUGE and it was just the two of us. Good beer list, friendly service. I'd definitely go back if I were in the area!
(4)Rachel R.
My first impression was that this place gave off a hip vibe. The decor was very unique in that it simulated a boiler room/ boiler room of a train. One main point to acknowledge is the very quick service we recieved. It was so quick, that our pizza was premade before we ordered it. It was even at our table before my pint of beer was poured and given to me. We had to tell our server to reheat our pizza because it seemed like it was sitting out beforehand. Too bad it wasn't initially served this way, because the boiler room pizza we ordered was actually pretty decent. Overall, an adequate experience.
(3)Krista B.
DREW IS AWESOME!!! Great service, everyone seemed to be on top of it but he was great!
(5)Dan F.
I really want to love this place.... With all the fancy train do dads and whatcha call it's. Plus the staff! My goodness are they trendy. But seriously this place is super cool. I like the look, the atmosphere, and drinks aren't too bad. The reason I didn't give it a great rating is due to it's inconsistency in service and the pizza is just ok. I find myself going here because I want to love it but then being very disappointed I didn't just go somewhere else.
(3)Allie W.
Yassss! I love this place. The pizza is delicious, there is a great bar/booze list, the servers are very friendly, the atmosphere is nice and laid back. Oh and my favorite thing - they have vegan pizza and it. is. so. good. Every Tuesday they have a vegan slice special, and i get it almost every week. You can always order a whole vegan pizza too, but slices only on Tuesdays. That PBJ special is perfect ($8 slice/beer/shot), they have boozy ice cream, outdoor patio in the summer, and even the dude on the phone is friendly. I wish they delivered, but then again I would probably go broke and fat ordering pizzas if they did.
(5)Audriana V.
Gotta love a pizza place with vegan options! When I'm craving New York style pizza, I go to the Boiler Room. What's better than some 'za, a PBR and a shot of Jameson?
(5)Stephen J.
This place is a solid place to go for those random nights out for pizza/drinks. The prices are ok, if not a bit high. But they do have a deal for a piece of pizza, a shot of Jameson, and a PBR. The food and pizza is nothing special but definitely not bad. The one thing they have going for them is their love of Jameson. The Jameson Ice Cream is great alone or with their Drunkin Donuts. They have lots of seating, and usually don't have too long of a wait. But many seats are not comfortable for long term sitting, mainly because they're designed as novelty seats with either no backs, or fabric straps for the bottom and back. The wait staff can be cool and/or nice. But they have more than their fair share of rude, inattentive, or slow waiters, so it can be hit or miss. They only accept cash, but do offer a free shot of Jameson if you use their ATM and keep the receipt. Overall the Boiler Room has decent food and a decent atmosphere. I wouldn't go out of my way to visit, but if you're nearby its not a bad place to stop in to.
(3)Shauna D.
Try the Jameson Soft Serve! It's cheap and very tasty, perfect for a hot afternoon on the patio. Service was a bit inconsistent. Our server was by a lot when we first got there, but by the time we were a couple of rounds in, and even added another person to our party, her stops became much less frequent and we found ourselves going to the bar for drinks. Yes its cash only but you get a shot of Jameson when you use their ATM. And yes, pricey pizza but they do have a great special that includes a beer, a shot, and a slice and the slices are a decent size. The patio is out the back so its not one of those completely packed places that people drive by and stop at just because they see outdoor seating. Bonus. But the minus, they don't make the most of the space. Instead of smaller tables of 2 and 4, they have picnic tables. So we walked out to find parties of 2-3 people occupying entire picnic tables. I didn't see a party of more than 4 people all afternoon to warrant these tables and feel like its an odd choice. It was strange to look out on a patio that at first glance seems empty, with maybe 10 people, yet still have nowhere to sit. Other than that we had a great afternoon and I do recommend!
(4)Chris S.
The pizza here was ok, but I've had better. We've been here a few times and the service is a bit snobbish, the pizza came lukewarm another time and we were overcharged for our food. In chicago, it is very easy to find many other great pizza spots.
(2)Gamaliel E.
I checked this place out with some friends and was happy to find that it wasn't overly crowded. Guess we got lucky, because I can see this place being packed in the future. We walked in and were told to sit anywhere. There are large picnic tables where you can sit at, which could have you sitting with strangers. There are booth style tables as well. My only suggestion would be that they seat people here, only because I saw some larger booths with only two people seated at them, leaving groups of 4 looking for a table that wouldn't break them up. The pizza was really good, and the crust reminded me of that at Grimaldi's in NYC. Thin, but still a bit chewy. The slices were a decent size, but not huge. It was a solid pizza, and I like that you can order by the slice. I ordered the North Sider drink, and my guests had the ginger snap and 1988. The 1988 was along the lines of a white Russian that came with a shot of cinnamon toast crunch. Both were good...but on the smaller side. I found the beer selection to be very unique (Mexican craft beers, etc) but not very vast. Hopefully the selection will increase in the near future. The back area is not open yet, but has a bunch of picnic tables which will make for great dining on nice summer days. Hit up the ATM, because I don't think they accept cards here. Oh....one last thing that I thought was cool, was the men's bathroom. It looked like a CTA Blue line car inside with actual audio from the train. "Next Stop...California". I like this place a ton and will be back for sure. It's a great new addition to the area, and you can tell the owners put a lot of thought in the decor.
(4)Matt S.
There's nothing like hearing the sultry sounds of the "El" guy announcing the next step while you pee. Confused? You aren't if you've ever been to the Boiler Room and taken a break to use the loo. Every time the door--which is made out of recycled Chicago El train cars--the audio from the blue line stop is pumped in. This is just one of the many neat things about Boiler Room, a Logan Square pizza place a group of friends and I tried for my partner's birthday. The best deal at Boiler Room is the PB&J--no not peanut butter and jelly--but rather a slice of Pizza, a can of Pabst Beer and a shot of Jamison for about $7. Having ordered this my first time there, I'd actually recommend sticking with their fine selection of ales rather than slumming it with a Pabst. (Don't hate me for comparing Pabst consumption to slumming.)
(4)Bryan W.
I was immediately impressed with the decor of this place and loved the music and overall vibe. The pizza was delicious and it was definitely a NY inspired pie. I loved the touch of corn meal on the bottom to prevent sticking to the pan. The beer and cocktail selection was also noteworthy although they did advertise a few beers that they didn't actually carry. The waitress explained they were in the process of changing menus. My only complaint to this establishment would be the cash only aspect and the waitstaff. Our server was pretty slow despite being a relativity slow night and was rather snarky when telling our party the cash only policy. Neither of these minor complaints would prevent me from going back. If your looking for a fun place to enjoy a slice of pie with a few friends I highly recommend this place. Oh yeah be sure to check out the bathrooms ;-)
(4)Santiago A.
Okay, here's the deal, I'm not here to waste your time. Okay, I certainly hope you're not here to waste mine, so I'm gonna keep this short. Order PB&Js, and you will be tipsy after 3 of them. Okay, I'm gonna repeat that, order the Pizza, PBR, and Jameson and you will be feeling good after 3 of them. There's no question as to whether you become a repeat customer here. The only question is, how many times over. You think I'm joking....I am not joking. I am a Boiler Room regular. It's a weird thing to hear, right? Lemme tell ya, its a weird thing to say: I am a f*ckin regular. And guess how old I am...29, you know what that makes me here? A f*ckin senior citizen. This bar is entirely comprised of people your age, not mine. Lucky for me, I happen to be very f*ckin good at ordering PB&Js or I'd run out of them. You guys are the new blood. You are the future swinging dicks of this bar. Now you all look like you'd enjoy drinking a 1988 and that's good. Anybody who tells you that a cocktail mixed with cereal is the root of all evil, has never f*ckin drank any. They say credit cards can't buy happiness. Well, here they are right, BUT you get a free shot if you show them your ATM receipt. Look at the f*ckin smile on my face! Ear to ear baby! You want details, fine. I take the Blue-line to the California stop. What's up? (side my CTA card across the table) They have a ridiculously awesome bathroom that looks like an El stop. They have booths with the backrests made of seat belts. And best of all, their drinks are liquid. So now you know what's possible, let me tell you what's required. You are required to drink your f*ckin ass off at this bar. We want winners here, not pikers. A piker walks at the bell. A Piker asks how many calories their beer has. Calories? People come to drink at this bar for one reason, to become sloppy drunk, that's it. We're not here to make friends, we're not saving the f*ckin manatees here guys. You want to watch calories, go drink a MGD 64 on your couch. Okay, first three visits to this bar are as a trainee, you'll pay $7.50 for each round of PB&Js. After you've done training, you might expand to the rest of the menu and all their great pizza combinations. Your friends will probably order you forty PB&Js before you start ordering for yourself. After that, the sky's the limit. A word or two about being a trainee, your friends, parents, other customers, they're gonna give you shit about it, it's true, $7.50 for a slice, shot and a beer, that's not a lot of money. Pay them no mind. You need to learn this business and this is the time to to do it. Once you pass this test, none of that's gonna matter. Your friends are sh*t. You tell em you had 25 PB&Js last month they're not gonna f*ckin believe you. F*ck them! F*ck 'em! Parents don't like the life you lead. F*ck you, mom and dad. See how it feels when you're making their f*ckin Lexus payments. Now go home and think about it. Think about whether or not this is really for you. If you decide that it isn't, listen, it's nothing to be embarrassed about. This is not for everyone. But if you really want this, you meet me in Logan Square and we'll talk. Just don't waste my f*ckin time......Okay, that's it.
(5)Tiff H.
One of my former roommates moved into the area and has claimed The Boiler Room as his local bar. So naturally, for an ex roommate reunion, we came here. I was excited to give it a whirl since I had heard so much about this place...mostly from cheap hipsters who raved about the $7ish for a slice of pizza, a shot of Jameson, and a PBR. Sadly, the cheapness in me didn't get to experience the deal. I let my roommate order...and here's how it broke down. -The service was lovely. -I had some type of Jameson cocktail...it tasted like cough syrup that was too sweet. Yech. -We had the sausage pizza...it was ok. The cheese just fell off my pizza slice when I went to eat it. It tasted like something I'd get from a Brooklyn dinner...good when you're drunk...but not sober. -Yuca chips needed salt and the black bean dip it was served with was pretty watery. -Wings were mediocre. -Atmosphere was so cute and great. I'll come back for beers only next time...the pizza isn't worth a PBR and a Jameson shot. I didn't get a chance to look at the bill but for the evening, it probably would have been around $25ish with tip, I think. Sorry, Boiler Room. I tried to like you. I'd give you 2.5 stars if I could have but I'm usually in the habit of rounding up.
(3)Jon D.
Awesome pizza, good atmosphere. 5 stars if they lost the pretentiousness.
(4)M M.
The pizza is good. I like the Buffalo myself. They have a decent craft beer selection. It's cute and funky with a hipster vibe. The crowd is on the young side. It's worth going with a few friends for drinks and pizza.
(4)Zach R.
After being convinced to go back because of a change in staff/management over a year later. I did. Much better service than the first couple months open.
(5)Alan W.
Here is why you should go here: gourmet pizza Amazing selection of beer Great atmosphere (Bathrooms are modeled after the EL dining area is repurposed airline baggage materials) Jameson on tap Inexpensive Reasons people are angry with this place Sometimes arrogant wait staff (you can feel the smug if you aren't wearing the right clothing) expensive beer list (even if it is good)
(5)Anneli H.
"when you haven't been drinking the decor is hard to take, it;s like fucking rainforest cafe for hipsters" "the only time i've been in there i was three sheets to the wind, the doorman had to tell me to stop wobbling or the bartenders would kick me out. Needless to say, i didn't really notice the decor." The pizza rules.
(4)Alexis K.
Effing awesome. As everyone else mentioned, hell yes, PB&J/Jameson ice cream/$3 shots. Pizza is wonderful, service was decent if not awesome, great atmosphere/vibe. Made me miss my hometown and wish they had this place in Buffalo!
(4)Stephanie M.
This is hands down, one of my absolute favorite places to eat in Chicago. The PB&J can't be beat, and the pizza here is ridonkulous. They have great vegetarian/vegan options for those weird friends of yours who've decided to make life extra difficult for themselves, and the atmosphere cannot be beat. I hosted my birthday here last year, I have brought countless amounts of out-of-town friends here, and all have come away satisfied. The staff are super nice, which I actually always find surprising, being that this place is so trendy, and the surrounding area is hipster central. I have yet to try the Jameson ice cream, but I hear it burns going down, just like a good ol' shot of Jamo. I warn you, they are a cash-only type o' place, *BUT* there is an ATM, and if you remember to save the ATM receipt, as a 'thank you,' and, I would assume, to make up for the irritating charge that comes with using some random ATM, Boiler Room will give you a shot of Jameson on the house. My roommate and I like to purposely 'forget' to bring cash so that we can close our night out with one more shot of Jamo. Love this place. Love love love LOVE. Yes, minus one star for being cash only. Even though I appreciate the shot of Jameson, it's a pain in the ass, and sometimes the ATM is down, or won't print receipts.
(4)Sunny J.
the pizza is great, the beers are cheap, and the jameson ice cream is outrageous!
(5)Brian C.
Stopped by a few nights ago, this place is located right across the door of the California blue line stop, amazing location!! The first thing we ran in to is a woman in a pink wig with a mustache... apparently Thursday nights are theme nights, good idea. The inside is huge but homey. We got what everyone gets.. the PB&J; PBR tallboy, slice of pizza and a shot of Jamison whiskey. As for the PBR and the whiskey, they are what you expect old standbys that always live up to their names. The pizza is great in my eyes, really reminds me of NYC pizza, if you are looking for some heat try the Boiler Room pizza it will get your taste buds going. As a reminder, this place is CASH ONLY, if you use the ATM inside show the bartender your receipt and you win a free shot for the trouble. If you are looking for a good place for a few drinks and a snack for a great price, and want to be somewhere close to the blue line stop by the Boiler Room, you wont be disappointed.
(4)tracy j.
They have great beers on tap like dogfish head, 3 floyds and lost coast. The pizza selections ranged from the Boiler Room (with Italian Sausage and Giardiniera) and the Logan (which I think was pulled pork and fried onions) to basics like pepperoni, cheese or sausage. The crust is generally thin and crispy on the bottom and the slices are a big size. The decor is really cool and the layout works well. It's not too casual, but not overly trendy.
(4)Valerie R.
I'm between 3 and 4 stars. If the pizza crust was better, it would definitely be a 4-star review. It's just not crunchy enough. I had a slice of the purist, and it was pretty tasty. $4 for a decent sized slice. Service is good, the people there are friendly. The bathroom is cool- only 2 stalls for the women though, so I can imagine the line might get a little long on busy nights, especially once the patio is open for drinking. BR has affordable food and beer... and they serve Robert the Bruce! Ok... I'll give 4 stars now, just because of the RTB.
(4)Kristi T.
Went to the grand opening on Wednesday. Can't blame them for the one in one out rule, although I thought being 25 and with a bunch of cute friends might help, there was still a bit of a wait. No worries, its a blast once you're in! $2 Beer + $2 Pizza =$10 dinner with a 4:1 Beer : Pizza ratio... classic! The pizzas were really interesting, although I must say the plain pepperoni slice was still my fave! The pizza dough is really light, the perfect thickness, and has a great texture. The bathrooms sound like you are getting on or off the el at "California is Next... Doors open on the left at California"... so cute! The architecture of the exposed ceilings were especially interesting. Great crowd, fun staff, and good deals. I will definitely be back!
(4)Elizabeth V.
I live pretty close so I go there whenever I'm in the mood for pizza and beer, If you live far then it's really nothing special for you to make the drive. Beer selection is good and the decor is pretty cool. I don't think I have ever had bad service at this place.
(3)John G.
I read a story a while back in the Redeye about the amazing caliber of pizza, paired with a pretty effin' sweet atmosphere in a bar off the blue line. While its a bit of a hike on public transit back to my 'hood, this place will always have a special place in my heart. And after a couple of drinks in Bucktown/Wicker Park, what night can end properly without a trip in for their best bargain menu item? What I consider to be their signature menu item is the PB&J (Tall Boy PBR, Shot of Jameson, Slice of pizza) for $7.50. The pizza choices are out of this world, as they serve your generic "pepperoni, cheese, sausage" slices, or you can choose from a huge variety of more gourmet slices for your exploratory palates. This bar also serves one of the best effing dirty martinis in the city. Perhaps in the midwest. If you have a table, please order the drink from the bar and tip that bartender generously. And the bathrooms. Holy +++. In most cases, you shouldn't base a rating off the standard of the bathrooms, but this is a unique case. The bathrooms are set up like Blue Line Train cars, complete with handles over the urinals. Motion sensors over the door announce "next stop California. this is a blue line to the loop." It seems so fitting that they chose a train car for a bathroom theme, as most late night trains generally smell and function as, well, you can make the connection. Only complaint? Cash Only. Atm surcharge: 2.50.
(5)Jim B.
This is a great new addition to the neighborhood. The decor is worthy of writing about, vintage wood booths, tables made on top of old metal school desks, reclaimed lighting, and very fun bathrooms. It is a very cool place that reminds me more of an older NY than Chicago. Speaking of New York, the pizza is fantastic! Somehow these fine people learned how to cut a pizza like a pizza, and made a super fine cheesy, greasy slice that I remember from my youth. Chicago pie is good, but this is a fantastic representation of what the east coast has to offer. The beer selection was good if you want to avoid the PBR of the PBnJ. The staff was great, especially the door man. It looks like they will even have a hip little back patio area where you can eat, drink, and soak up the sun one of these days. I will return.
(5)Deyf F.
Pros: Service, beer selection, tall boy PBR for cheap, Jameson, unique foods, compensation for ATM fees with a shot of Jamo, decor (seriously, it's pretty fucking cool), music (Catch 22 was playing a lot last night, a personal favorite), movies (Red Dawn, always a win), close to the train, close to the bus, free parking available like a block away. Cons: Cash only (but see above for compensation), The Logan Pizza, rather startling L recordings in the pisser. I will be back, and I will have a different pizza. The Logan is pork, mole and fried onions. Like deep fried beyond all onionness. Funyuns, really. The pork is totally over powered by the mole, which is so freaking hot, and missing all chocolate flavor. So they salted the pork. My mouth felt like someone had burned the bajeezus out of it and then packed it with wool. Between 5 people we could not finish a single pizza. OK, so I didn't like that pizza, I think it was a miss, but an excellent idea. I will still go back and try another. I have cooked enough things in my life to know that sometimes those really awesome shots in the dark work out awesomely, and sometimes fail miserably. The app we had was awesome (sausage, mustard seeds and applesauce) and everything else more than made up for that pizza. Go there, skip the Logan, get a PB&J or two. Rock out.
(4)Heather K.
Boiler Room is an awesome addition to Logan Square. Situated right off of the Blue Line this bar/pizzeria is industrially decorated with straps, seating, and the CTA automated train voice playing in the bathroom. I'm a sucker for gimmicks. The pizza is tasty and fast as was the Caesar salad with sun-dried tomatoes. They have an awesome beer list and their cocktails were creative and only 8 dollars. A steal! Sadly, they we're out of their Jameson ice cream which I was itching to try but a perfect excuse to return.
(5)Sophie F.
Their vegan pizza (Daiya. Seitan. Lots of veggie options.) is HUGE and DELICIOUS. One of the best vegan pizza spots in the city. That's all I have to say for now.
(4)Michael S.
Staff was friendly. Atmosphere was really great. And the vegan pizza was the best vegan pizza I have had to date. You might say, vegan pizza is terrible by it's very definition... and often it is. But not at the Boiler Room. Seriously, no compromising, delicious vegan pizza! So glad to have found this...
(5)Kory K.
Our waitress was quite unprofessional. She was visibly upset when we ordered water, rather than drinks, and the situation quickly deteriorated. Unfortunately, we walked out when she became argumentative when she returned to take our order.
(1)Cara T.
I had a forgettable experience. The pizza was okay, the appetizer dip special was okay. I literally just can't think of anything to say...good or bad. In this case,I think being speechless is a bad thing.
(2)Thomas P.
After moving to Chicago from The Bronx in 1972 I've always found The Windy City to be a pizza wasteland. With their skimpy crusts, overabundance of rubbery cheese, a lousy teaspoon of sauce, and ridiculous little squares in stead of real slices it's been disappointment after disappointment. But last night, at my sons' suggestion we met at The Boiler Room for pizza and beers. All I can say is MADONNA! Finally, a place that knows how to make ABEETZ!!! Tasty crust with a good bite, a lovely homemade tomato sauce and fresh toppings. And Hallelujah! it was cut into actual slices. Like a pie. You know, as in "pizza pie". A side order of fries completed our excellent gastronomical experience. We drank mostly stouts and porters but the beer list had a nice variety for everyone's taste. Al fresco dining on the back patio was a pleasure and for those of you who smoke (yuk) it's allowed there. A pretty good music selection piped in at a fairly comfortable volume so you can carry on a conversation without difficulty. Our lovely waitress was friendly, attentive and had a pair of legs that could make a Bishop kick out a stained glass window. What more could you ask for in a restaurant? I give The Boiler Room 5 stars and will recommend it to every one I know. Hell, I'll recommend it to strangers too. :-)
(5)Kelly B.
I love this place. Perfect location, awesome 7.50 PB&J special, laid back decor. Oh, and I could eat a whole Purist pizza by myself. Service is kinda slow on busy nights... but it's a bar so whatever. Dear fellow Boiler Room patrons, THEY ONLY TAKE CASH. When they get busy, it'll take a while for your server to give you your bill. Then it takes a while for your server to come pick it up... if you have a credit card out or if you don't have the right change, it's gonna take double the time to settle your tab. Just sayin'.
(4)Don B.
I never ate or drank inside here, I can only speak for the pizza. I've picked up pizzas "to go". For East Coast style pizza, this place is legit. It's Top3 along with Piece and Santullos. If you like the old style pizza with the poached egg in the middle, try Boiler Room's Egg pizza... It's got 5 or 6 eggs on top of the large pie. I'm pretty tough critic when it comes to good East Coast Pizza (because it's so hard to find in Chicago), but their pizza is among the best. The only problem is that they do not deliver. Hopefully that will change in the future.
(4)Eric L.
good pizza for chicago (f*ck deep dish), cool atmosphere, great bar, salads are average, but hey, its a pizza joint, so that's my own fault. awesome crowd, cool outoor patio. get the PBJ.
(3)S.Y. D.
I recently went here for the 2nd time with a larger group of friends. The service was excellent. I know it's not the easiest thing to do to handle a large group. Our server was attentive and was able to keep up with the fast pace of our drink and food orders. We tried the pepperoni, egg and cuban pizzas. We also had the meatball appetizer. I personally found the egg pizze to be amazing. If an egg can make a burger better, why not pizza? As for the atmosphere, it had a great vibe. I thought the music was just the right volume, not too loud to interfere with conversations but loud enough to enjoy the nice playlist they had going. It's also conveniently located right underneath the California blue line stop. I would definitely come back here again.
(4)Lin-z C.
Maybe it's because I went here the first day it opened, but even then, I'd expect them to be on top of their game. I'm gonna break it down: Decor: Interesting and hip on first glance (the TV screens are awesome), but the bulky chairs n' benches don't really hold many people and are a bitch to move. And the bar is tiny. And why oh why was I hearing the CTA dude in the bathroom? I have to hear him enough on my commute, and hearing his creepy voice in the bathroom is my limit. Service: The only dude that was on top of his stuff was the guy re-filling my water. Everyone else was looking confused and presenting us with pizzas that we didn't order. And OH MY GOD, Cash Only! Argh! Boiler Room, you're posh enough for a freakin' credit card machine! Pizza: We got the Logan, because pulled pork sounded good. The pork was bland, the mole sauce had no flavor, and the chihuahua cheese was non-existant. But after seeing an array of pizzas, I wouldn't mind coming back to try some more. Some with cheese. Overall, since I live in the neighborhood, I'll be back because it's pizza (and I love pizza) and they have Jameson on tap for 3 bucks (AND WHO DOESN'T LOVE THAT?!)!
(3)Christy F.
Love this place..been there 2 times in the last couple of weeks! Love the atmosphere & artistic/creative use of recycled materials! Love the PB&J special - hooked on the slice of sausage...the slices are pretty good sized & very flavorful. My husband usually gets 2 slices. Great location. Good service. Beer selection was ok..nothing to rave about. Just a fun, cozy place to meet friends! Definitely added to my rotation of places to hang!
(4)Anna P.
While visiting a couple of friends in Chicago we stumbled upon The Boiler Room. Thank GOD! I've been craving their pizza on a daily basis ever since. The atmosphere is unique and insanely awesome! Our server was super friendly despite being pretty busy. Fantastic beer selection, great music, just an all around good vibe. And last but certainly not least, Jameson Ice Cream. Soooooooooo good. If you're in Logan Square -- don't skip a trip here! :-)
(5)Alison H.
My first trip to Boiler Room was on the suggestion of a co-worker who had been there. We went on a Sunday night shortly after they opened and sat at the bar. The two bartenders were very friendly and kept us entertained with conversation and good service. The bar also shows movies (no TVs, which is refreshing and disappointing because I love to watch sporting events, but alas, we'll hit up another bar for the big game). We ended up staying through 3 awesomely bad movies which added to the ambiance and livened the conversation with the bartenders and other patrons. We tried the Boiler Room pie and several different beers on tap. The pizza was awesome! And their delicious craft beers were offered at a fair price, even a bit lower than other neighborhood bars. The best part of Boiler Room, besides the friendly staff and delicious food, is the decor. It's unique and industrial looking. I love the repurposed look of the bar and seating, and the bathrooms are just plain fun. Designed to look like El cars, there's even a louspeaker announcing your arrival to Logan Square when you open the door. Our 2nd visit, we opted for a table and had a great experience. The waiter was friendly and helpful in deciding what beers to order. We tried the Purist pie (balsamic, basil and mozzarella medallions). It has become our favorite! Definitely a neighborhood favorite and worth returning!
(5)Masha G.
I am surprised I have not left any comments for this place yet!!! It's hard to judge the place that is close to your home has food available after all other places are closed and has a good atmosphere. I say it's good. Since I live down the block right now - BR is a savior and a last stop during many nights out in the city. It has good pizza, though I think they should change up their classics sometimes, something like "seasonal" pizzas or each year introduce one new pizza to the basics menu. P.B. and J. deal is always good way to start off the night - cheap, and fulfilling. Other drinks are decent, good beer selections! So if you are hungry - be sure to go there before midnight - then you can get a table and enjoy the meal. If you'll show up after midnight - be ready to be standing, this place gets crowded fast.
(4)Kaybee K.
first visit here, i LOVED it. so much so, that my sister came in to town and specifically requested we go again. and we were so incredibly & sadly disappointed. our first visit we ordered a full pizza - which is apparently the way to go. our second trip we we ordered slices - so not the way to go. the slices of purist we got were burnt, uninspiring and straight up bland. it was heartbreaking. we skipped on the booze this time and got some diet cokes which were super flat. it all just seemed like a complete waste of a meal. perhaps you were just having a bad day, boiler room. you went from one of the best pizza's i've ever had to one of the worst. maybe one day i'll visit again, but i think for the time being, i need my space.
(2)John M.
I think 3.5 stars would be more in line. That said, I do in fact like this joint. The pizza is pretty good and the atmosphere is fun. The PBJ special is a good deal as well. The decor of the men's room may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but use it more than once and it's pretty annoying (DOORS CLOSING).
(4)Kristen H.
This place is great! The food is delicious - the cuban pizza is a favorite along with any of the salads. The decor is real industrial and they have a great group of staff. I went here for a casual meeting and it ended up being PBR bingo night which was awesome! It was so fun to play bingo and win prizes from PBR. This is a great place to come with a group to have some good beer & food. I can't wait to go head back for bingo!
(5)Dionisio A.
The Boiler Room has wonderful service and pizza. We were a party of 20 or so on a very busy Saturday night, and the servers were both gracious and accommodating. I loved their sour beer which was surprisingly on tap. They are cash only but they have an ATM inside. If you show the bartender your ATM receipt they will give you a free shot of Jameson Whiskey which is also on tap. The pizza is great and delicious. I greatly recommend this Logan Square hangout.
(5)Katie H.
Go ahead. Piss and moan about gentrification in Logan Square. You are one of the following: A. A hood rat. I couldn't give two craps and a stroke how long your family's been in the neighborhood. That's what happens in cities. They evolve. You want things to stay exactly as they are? Move to fucking Lee County. Hang out at the Steward Inn for the rest of your life. Enjoy the Keystone and the tots. B. A secret proponent of gentrification. You may or may not know it or ever freely admit to it. Just like the vast majority of hipsters can't bare to come to terms with themselves and their label. "I'm kinda Indie I guess." Let's not split hairs here. I've freely accepted what I am and will continue to enjoy flat bread pizza and slightly overpriced beer that taste like banana bread. Hooray for self-actualization. Both times I've been here I've been very, very pleased. Our server, Austin, was speedy, friendly and good enough to inform us of the heated smoking tent out back. Hooray. I'll definitely be back to stuff my craw and enjoy Horchata cocktails. They come with a side of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. They're even open to today! During Snowpocalypse. The Great Storm of aught eleven. That earns them the fifth and final star.
(5)John M.
this is my favorite artesianal-style pizza in the city (besting piece). while it is not NY-style, it certainly fills in nicely in a pinch. i especially like the semolina/cornmeal dusting under the crust. it lends a very sumptuous taste to the pizza. the drink selection here is great too, as are the prices. the atmosphere is unique as well and the early 80's movies playing by the bar always take me back. go early or late as there can be a bit of a wait sometimes. we asked one of the staff if they delivered and they said "not yet." i hope this means they are planning on doing so in the near future but for now it's eat-in or carry-out. if you are a pizza snob definitely add this place to your list. cash-only!!
(5)Ryan B.
Okay first off just read a review that really pissed me off.. Yes they card you at the door.. It is a bar they do that. I have been there a couple times when the service wasn't necessarily fantastic, I have also been there when the service is amazing I guess it depends on who you get, but the food is great! Caesar salad amazing, spinach and artichoke dip superb and obviously the pizza is good.. And they have a good list of beers on tap that will quench your thirst well. Also Jameson infused ice cream creative and fun.
(4)Coyote D.
My home away from home! Super friendly waitstaff, awesome pizza, and well-curated beer list...love it. Conveniently located beneath the California blue line stop, Boiler Room is a great destination for a date, a night out with the fellas, even the inevitable parental visit. I'm counting the days til it's warm enough to hang out on the outdoor patio. One of my favorite spots in Chicago, for sure. Be sure to try the Jamison soft-serve!
(5)Tricia M.
Not only does this place having amazing brick oven, thin crust, crispy goodness but the PB&J special has a special place in my heart. PBR, and chilled shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza? Man, this place was made just for this Jersey girl. The crowd is unpretentious most of the time, and the vibe is for the people who grew up in the 90's I feel like. Which, c'mon, the 90's were amazing!
(5)Deepika T.
When will I be allowed to do half stars, because this was definitely 3 1/2. I'll echo everyone else's sentiment about the decor as well. Very unique, and the restrooms deserve a special mention! We hardly ate, so I don't have much to say about the food. The drinks were good though.
(3)Jen B.
I love this bar. I know it's all about the beer but the cocktails are incredible. I love the white russian-y one that comes with a shot glass of cinnamon toast crunch. The place is decked out in vintage TVs and computer and transit stuff which gives it a steampunk-ish vibe. The bathroom stall doors are retired CTA train doors and when you walk in, a recording of the Blue Line "This is California. Doors open on the right at California" plays while you pee away your delicious drinks. They have Jameson ice cream and give you a free shot of Jamo when you use the ATM -- cuz it's cash-only.
(5)Mark C.
So I grew up on the east coast, about 20 minutes from New Haven, CT. The closest I've gotten to getting a Worcester Street (Peppy's Sally's etc.) style pizza here in Chicago has been Piece. Granted I haven't been searching high and low, but I miss the Brooklyn style east coast slice of my youth. I'm talking about a thin slice of pizza, crisp on the bottom but not like a cracker and cut into tiny squares. A nice big triangle slice, with a crust that's a bit charred and you can hold onto. This is pizza heaven. That having been said, this is the closest I've come to Brooklyn/New Haven style east coast pizza here in Chicago. They make the pie right in the window while you watch, everything is fresh and the sauce! And the cheese! It's really good. Every time I order once slice I find myself wanting another before I even finish the first. Being a block away from my house is also a massive bonus. As soon as I walked in and saw that they had Golden Monkey on draft (9.5 % - no joke), and Jameson on tap, I was sold. I recommend getting the PB&J after work for a quick fix, a slice, a shot, and a tall boy for $7.50. You can't beat the prices. I love the film selection they play at the bar, everything from Crouching Tiger to Creep Show to Dancer in the Dark.. they're not afraid to show it up on those screens. They only thing that kind of annoyed me was the music, mostly sort of alterna-punk. I wish they'd mix it up with some speed metal, local indie stuff, etc. But after two shots and a slice of that awesome pizza I can't even say I really notice. And some of the bands I heard totally fit the vibe they've got going on. The bathrooms were a nice touch too. Really good prices, super nice staff, and as far as I'm concerned the best pizza slices this side of the east coast. Give it a try.
(5)Angelica E.
PB&J!!!! Nice size slice of pizza, shot of jameson, and a pbr...only $7! Cant beat that! Plus the whiskey ice cream is really good! The main reason I give it a 3.....its a hipster spot (a little bit out of my element). They played alot of emo and rock songs (dont get me wrong I can dig rock but emo...not so much) and the waitresses are a bit slow. Again I will be back because of the PBJ.
(3)Donna T.
We went on week two and had a very good time! We had a rotating group of about 8 and took over most of the bar area. I liked the beer selection and the seasonal beer was even garnished with fresh chilled blue berries. I tried a slice of the Purist and my tried my boyfriend's Boiler Room which was topped with pbr meatballs. Both were really good and I loved the crust, which I'm not usually a fan of. We are used to almost always sitting at the bar when we go out because everyone is always moving around. I think next time we'll try sitting in the table area. There are a few small tables, but more long tavern tables. I think these were a great idea to still allow for some mingling. I like the decor, recommend the pizza and the staff took very good care of us. Their patio will hopefully be open soon and will be another excellent reason to stop by.
(5)Emily H.
I LOVE to hang out here. The staff and manager are really nice, the food and beer are tasty, the music is eclectic and cool, random movies on in the background, and you absolutely cannot beat the PB&J. I love the specialty slices (my all time fav had beets, zucchini, and goat cheese) and the rotating taps. The cocktails look great too, but I just can't get past the beer and whisky! Very casual, fun place to grab a slice on a weeknight or before a big outing, or grab a table and make a night of it. Not to mention it's steps from the train. Wins all around!
(5)Katie P.
Picked up a pizza on my way home from work - fresh off the el at California, cross the street and you're there. Decided to order a pizza based on a recommendation. Super good. New York Style. When I called to get an idea of how long it would take to make the pizza (trying to time it out), I was told it'd take about 10 minutes [for a full pizza]. I asked her to wait 10, then put it in. On a Friday after work, it took about 25-30 minutes. I suppose it didn't really matter, but I find it interesting how much she underestimated the time to make a pizza. Either way, I'm definitely ordering again. Great pizza.
(5)Soft Pie N.
The stars are for the unique drinks they serve. I have agreed to come here again and again because of the excellent drink choice. But to be honest with myself, I hate it here, and next time im invited il decline. First thing, the music. They play punk pop and Flogging Molly crap. I would have been thrilled about this when I was 15. Second, the service. Sit at the bar if you want to get served. Last time I came with my boy and we sat at a table it took forever to order are first drink. And when we tried to order a second round, well she took my boyfriends drink order and then immediatly walked away without looking at me. Then when she brought his drink she slammed it down and scurried off real quick so I still couldnt order....
(2)D D.
The pizza was excellent with some truly unique varieties - try the Fu Manchu for the Thai take on pizza. I also sampled the Logan and found it above average, with plenty of toppings and a golden crust. Awesome interior - everything is refurb and has a subway vibe, it's an assault on the senses. The men's room was really cool - I can't speak for the ladies' room however haha I was impressed to see a computer monitor in the back that tracks the power output of the solar panels on the roof - cool, feels good to know that the place leans environmentally friendly The Boiler Room has Jameson on tap - need I say more?
(5)Audrey K.
Two stars for the unique design and drinks/beer selection. Why only two? See below: Made our first stop here along a Logan Square bar hop in order to impress a few friends that hadn't experienced what is now Logan Square. Five of us walked in and got seated at one of their community tables, leaving one chair at the end open for two more that were on their way. First, the waitress directs my seated friend to move and sit in the open spot and we had to explain that we were waiting for two others (of which arrived not five minutes later). After being told to "pick one" while ordering our drinks, said waitress walks up behind two of my friends who were talking to each other and instead of saying "excuse me" in a kind manner, as they didn't see her standing there, she busts out with a rude valley-girl-like "hello...!" in order to hand them their drinks. She disappears for a long while, place isn't big or packed, so not sure where she went, but my friend and I get tired of waiting and we order our next two drinks at the bar. When walking back to our seats, she suddenly appears out of nowhere and yells at us saying, "you have a tab here, if you're going to order from the bar then you'll have to give up your seat here." Understood - had we not waited forever for service from an already offensive server. She immediately drops our bill off and the total is ten dollars more than it should be. Inquired about this, as we did not want to leave a gratuity (having been a server myself: great tips reserved for excellent service, no tips happen once or twice, if ever, for service you'd expect from a mule). Discoverd the extra was for a tip, at the same time receiving a "what more do you want, I'm giving you everything you asked for" response from our server. I later asked to speak with a manager. First person, said "okay" and continued to clean the tables next to us. Thinking we were getting Punk'd, I attempted to ask a second person who replied, "okay, I'll be right back" then proceeded to come back and tell us he in fact could help us. After explaining the situation he took the tip off and briefly apologized. Needless to say, awful service from someone who obviously thought she was too good for her job and certainly not what I've come to love about Logan Square.
(2)Serena L.
Dear Boiler Room, You. rock. 1) Thank you for sponsoring just about every event I've been to thus far this summer in Logan Square. More businesses here should act like you. 2) Thank you for compensating for the ATM fee at your cash-only establishment with a shot. 3) Thank you for the fact that I didn't have to wait ages for a table for six on a Saturday at 8 pm, while also being crowded enough that I didn't doubt how great your food was. 4) Thank you for the delicious birthday shot: German chocolate cake--howww???? 5) Your pizza. Stellar. Had the Purist and the Bizmark and was thrilled by both. 6) Thank you for not being like Longman and Eagle. Haaaaa... 7) Thanks for the patient, attentive, thoughtful service. 8) Again... that pizza. Drooooooooool.... All you party people, get your hungry selves over to the Boiler Room. Stat.
(5)ReRe A.
I was trying to impress a dude and suggested this place. The food was average and expensive. The cheese pizza with an oil based sauce we ordered was $24. The staff was not terrible, but certainly affecting the hipster indifference that is so common to the area (Think Daria--the late 90s MTV animated show). The most frustrating occurrence came at the end when the waitress said that they do not take credit cards...SAY WHAT?? Cash only...But there is the ATM, she says, and if you show us the receipt you get a free shot of Jameson...I wonder who owns that ATM in the corner that charges a 3.00 service fee? Something tells me the very same folks that own the Boiler Room... Amidst a sea of horn rims I felt very stupid.
(2)Erin H.
we were in town and had wanted to give revolution brewing a try, but big surprise, there was no getting in. one of our friends said he knew of a good place around the corner, so we headed there. well hello, boiler room! it's nice to meet you. the wait wasn't long, considering we had six people and it was a weekend night. we got drinks and waited by the bar. they have a semi-decent beer list for chicago (coming from a beer-spoiled wisconsinite). the cash only thing usually pisses me off... but clearly the owners of this establishment understand this sentiment, because you get a free shot of jameson when you show the bartender your ATM receipt. (I'm not even a whiskey drinker, buy that's pretty damn cool.) while we were waiting, the smokers of our group ventured out to the beer garden. it was march, so it was cold, but this area seems really spacious and I bet it kicks ass in the warmer months. we were seated at one of the center booths. I know it sounds nerdy, but I really liked the inventive use of materials in decorating this place. something about the lighting reminded me of star wars (in a good way). our server was great and kept the drinks coming. I'm not gonna lie and say this was the best pizza I've had, but it was decent and enough for three people. I dig this place and will be back, for sure.
(4)Ray S.
Love this place! When my husband or I have a rough day at the office, we meet here for the PB &J special. There is no better cure for a bad day than the Boiler Room slice, and ice cold PBR and a shot of Jameson.
(4)eric f.
maybe the pizza here is not that good + its inconsistent. i think its supposed to be nyc style slices/thin crust (santullos 'za is better). e.g. my 1st slice was tasty, my 2nd was so burnt i asked for a new one. the place has a kitch-pop aesthetic that's reminiscent of steam punk-meets-fraggle rock-meets-star trek. and the bathrooms mimic the experience of pissing on the cta. that said, they have a great special: slice, pbr, shot of jameson for $7.50. and there's a lot of space (including a patio) ::: in my opinion this isn't a pizza place with a bar, its a bar that serves pizza...which is a good thing.
(3)Marge K.
this used to be my go-to pizza place in logan square but i am so over it. that is most likely because the staff acts like THEY are so over it. on friday our server told my dinner date that there was "no way" they would add any additional topping to a slice of the purist. a simple, "no" would suffice. they charged 50 cents extra for ranch dressing. my food was cold and i had to ask the busser to send it back because our server didn't return to our table ONCE after delivering our drinks. bottom line? crap service. decent pizza. get it to go.
(2)Liz C.
I did it, I moved closer to Armitage. And now I get slices to go from the boiler room all the time. I have to say as much as I love them the food quality has gone down in general - the purist just isn't as good, the cheese isn't as good, there isn't much basil, etc. However, the daily slices are very inventive and sound tempting every time I walk by - these might be the way to go. I've had some pretty dried out slices at 2 am, though I'm so happy something is open I can hardly complain. As to the cash situation, we got cash one time and to our surprise got a free whiskey shot. That's their compensation for having to pay an atm fee. Works for me.
(4)Kristin L.
I'm a little heart broken to be giving The Boiler Room only 3 stars. I've been going there for awhile and I must say the experiences for me just keep going down and down. In the beginning, I loved this place. Great pizza, Jameson for only 3 dollars and nice staff. Sadly the last few times I've been there have not been a good experience. At first I thought they were just having an off night, but the last 3 times I've been there, I've left annoyed. Let me say their pizza (when cooked consistently) is outstanding. But the last few times I've been there I've notice their pizza is either burnt or way undercooked. Not good eats. I'll say their prices are decent but what I cannot get over is their super slow service with a side of bitchy attitude. I understand with your recent popularity, you've been busy. Well it's time to get yourself a new wait staff, or at least get some new people who don't mind doing their job. Our waitress last night made me want to scream She took forever with our drinks, even forgot a few. Took a good solid 15 min to take our pizza order and never came back to see how we were doing. Her dirty looks and condescending attitude seriously made me want to leave her a 50 cent tip. But I cannot bring myself to do that, so she only got 15% which was way too much. I think I'm going to pass on going back anytime soon. Hopefully next time I do decide to go there, their staff has gotten a big attitude adjustment.
(3)Kimberly L.
If you're looking for a place with a hipster vibe without the hipster 'tude, you must put the Boiler Room on your "check it out" list. The staff is friendly, the space is fun and creatively designed (love the old Chicago el doors in the restrooms), and the pizza is pretty darn good. I went with a friend and we shared a pepperoni pizza, which could have served 4 people easily. I was not delighted with the salad but that's probably my own fault (why, oh why, did I agree to sharing a salad with beets--ick). Cash only but they'll give you a shot of Jameson's to soften the blow of the exorbitant ATM fee the vendor charges. Mosey on up to the bar and show them your receipt and you'll get a free Irish whiskey.
(4)Mally S.
We just moved away from the 'hood, but I wanted to add my two cents. Convenience is key because this place is right at the California Blue Line stop. The price of the PB&J is fabulous (read other reviews - love the Jameson on tap!). The pizza is pretty good, it just takes forever to get a slice. Word to the wise, just go ahead and order 2 slices because they aren't huge and you will still be hungry after one. I loved the purist pizza with its drizzle of balsamic. When we first started going, the staff was fantastic and really helpful. The last time we went, it was not so fantastic. Too bad, because I really liked the beer menu and the pizza was good even after the 20 minute wait. The cash-only policy still sucks even with the free Jameson shot if you use their ATM. Get with it, guys.
(3)Jenna C.
As mentioned, the PB&J special is pretty rad. The atmosphere is cool. Minus a few stars for the exceptionally lousy music.
(3)erika s.
this place has really pulled it together since i went the first time. i've been here a few times since and their pizza has gotten increasingly better. decided the slice is the way to go. they've also added an alcoholic soft serve ice cream to the menu--what's in there i'm not sure, but it is intriguing. the back patio is pretty killer--one of my favorite things about the logan area is how many of these are just hidden around. ps the pb&j just can't be beat if you're on a budget. yep.
(4)Natalie J.
i'm glad this place is in logan square, i have to say. pizza by the slice is a rarity in this town but boy do i find pizza to be one of life's essentials. we started off with a sausage appetizer with sauteed apples. the first bite was really good but then the apples seemed overly sweet. i got the buffalo chicken slice and my boyfriend got the meatball giardiniera disaster. we actually ended up switching slices but both slices were....nothing short of gross really. it was seriously confusing. like they opened this restaurant and never had their staff sample the food and tell what they thought about it. so much giardiniera, it overwhelmed the sparse meatballs and also overloaded the thin crust pizza. anyway, that being said, i knew the crust was delicious, they just got the toppings wrong. so we choked those slices down then ordered a pepperoni and a purist/margarita and those slices were delicious! pizza i've been waiting for! good beer selection! awesome bar! just stick with the normal stuff, if you want my advice.
(4)Jeffrey H.
Great Pizza Slices and Salads. The pizza crust is the perfect amount of softness and crispness. The PB&J is a deal! Great Beer Selection and interesting venue. So glad to have new places opening in Logan Square. Be warned, the pizza slices are large and the place is filled with hipsters.
(4)Jeremy S.
jameson on tap...enough to keep me coming back...
(4)Ryan L.
It's impossible to beat the PB&J.
(5)Bob D.
This place is way overrated. The pizza is average at best and the staff is non-existent. I wouldn't recommend to anyone. Go to Peace on North if you want good pizza and actual service
(2)Jona W.
Ok, disclaimers are in order. I realize that we visited on the first Friday night that the place was open, so it's totally understandable that they still couldn't accept credit cards (that takes a while to set up), could only serve booze inside (that's City of Chicago for you), and didn't have a plan in place for getting people seated. I get it. If any of that stuff continued, I'd say thanks but no thanks, Boiler Room. But that's opening weekend-we-need-to-start-paying-for-this-place kind of stuff, everyone, so get the golden fork of high expectations out of your ass and give them a break. Okay, so they probably should have figured something out for seating...wouldn't you guess that you'd be busy on opening weekend? The no-host thing seemed like less of a simple oversight and more of an invitation for hipster chaos. To their credit, the waitstaff did work together to keep their eyes open for seats for us, because walk-ins snagged spots out from under us right and left by standing right next to tables full of annoyed diners. But on to the food. I give Boiler Room three stars because they do have simple things on the menu, like a cheese pizza, which I wish to all that is holy that we'd tried instead of what we got. Unfortunately, the menu is small and, probably in the interest of preserving some all-important aspect of graphic design, helpful descriptions of the food are nowhere to be found. Therefore, when you order a "Buffalo" pizza, (described only as "chicken, bleu cheese, ranch"), the onus is on you to ask the waiter "Is this going to be like Satan shitting fire down my throat?" Here begins the debate over whether I should have known that "buffalo" meant "spicy as all fuck." Apparently, the entire planet is divided on this one. In my day (which was fully stocked with sweet barbecue buffalo chicken wings), "buffalo" meant sweet barbecue, MAYBE a little spicy tang. At Boiler Room, Buffalo means that the crust is covered in thick, spicy, brown gravy-style salsa, loaded down with chunks of chicken and chopped carrots, drizzled with bleu cheese dressing. But when your mouth goes numb from the hotness, your eating experience becomes seriously limited to anything but the spicy gravy. By the time you are actually aware of having feeling in your stomach lining (because it is no longer flame retardant), you'll be begging the waiter to bring you the ice water they only place on every other table. I'm not usually one to complain about a little heat. I don't go ordering things extra spicy, but I've never had to hobble out of a restaurant and crawl into the 7-11 on the corner for a jug of half & half to put out the fire. I guess if you're one of those people who likes ridonkulously spicy foods, or just likes to cry at dinner like your stepdaddy brought a shotgun to the table again, by all means, order the buffalo pizza. +3 stars because you could argue that we did it to ourselves, in not asking pointed questions about what we were ordering. Plus the beer was good and the wait staff really stepped up and found us a seat with a quickness. -2 stars because I really would have had a much better experience if they had gone the extra mile and compromised on the menu's aesthetics in order to include a little bit of helpful detail. We will be back, Boiler Room, armed with more questions than Planned Parenthood. Prepare for an interrogation. Because contrary to popular belief, I do like to know what I'm putting in my mouth, thank you.
(3)Mogan B.
Ah, hells yeah. If I drank Jameson and was a millionaire when I was 12, this place would have been my clubhouse. The pizza's redonk, they have pretty much all the beers covered, and the PB&J (a slice, a tall can PBR and shot of Jameo for $7 or $8 or something) makes my head want to explode like that guy at the beginning of Scanners. This place is obviously run by some dudes who know what's up. The pizza is hand made, oven baked, thin crust and while they have your basics (pepperoni, sausage, cheese) as well as crazy shit like a Thai Chicken or the Boiler Room that has PBR meatballs and house made gardiniare, they also like to sometime like to shake things up a bit and get all baller and do stuff like a gyro pizza with grass fed organic lamb, feta and tzatzikii sauce. The place is cash only, but they have a policy that if you use their ATM and give the receipt to your server, you've earned yourself a free shot of Jameson, which pretty much takes care of the ATM fee. And gets you drunk. And they also serve it on tap. They also serve Jameson as soft serve ice cream, which not only tastes pretty damn good, but will also get you drunk, but in cone form. The ambiance is pretty great too. Behind the bar are projector screens, and every time I've been in there, they've been showing great 80's films you're parents wouldn't let you watch as a kid so you'd have to see at your Uncle's or friend's house during a slumber party, like Bachelor Party or Vacation. The bartender is usually playing a mix of 90's bro-punk mixed with 2000's hipster fare which is a little weird, but I'm not at all going to complain about hearing Strung Out into the Yeah Yeah Yeah's into Pennywise into Interpol. The only thing I feel is a little overboard is the "Theme" vibe of the men's room (I can't speak for the ladies, but maybe they know what I'm talking about, right ladies?) that has it decked out to be a Disney World version of the California EL stop that is right above the restaurant, and talks when you flush the toilet. I don't really have to feel like I'm in line for Startours to comfortably relieve myself in such an establishment, but it does take Diff'rent Strokes to move the world (yes, it does). The only real suggestion I would make to make the place any better would be maybe a firepole or a slip n slide out back. Other than that, they pretty much have shit covered.
(4)Peter K.
After bookmarking this place I decided to come here with a friend few days ago. We definitely both like this place. Inside is very comfortable with cool decor, but we have decided to sit outside in the patio - which i think is what makes this place. Patio is just a cool place to come hang out and have few beers with your friend - reminded me of some places in Brooklyn NYC. We ordered humus - which was good and Hawaiian pizza which in my opinion was excellent! Bit pricey on the pizza but the size of it made up for it i think. I noticed they have a great deal on Jameson shoot + PBR + slice of pizza for $7.50 ! cant beat that. Also this place doesn't take credit cards so be prepared or use their ATM inside (keep the receipt for free shot!!) - I would recommend this place to a friend for Atmosphere, good pizza and outside patio. Will come back.
(4)peanut b.
Pizza was really good - not great, but I think that was because I left it up to everyone else to decide. Not a fan of mustard and cauliflower and some of the other crazy stuff they settled on. Crust - great! Why have I been going to Piece is what I thought for most of the time I was there. Everything was great, until we settled behind the bar stools, and it was pretty clear one of the staff employees was there, and was done working. The 30ish, half balding dick weed three times shoved his way past my wife without warning. Pushed me out of the way once to with two fingers to rush back to his bar seat. I'm all for the staff hanging out after hours, but encourage them to act like they are still a representative of the establishment. And if by chance this was not an employee, then you should probably ask him to leave for being such an asshole. But...the pizza was good. So we will be back. The wife says; it was loud, and we waited a long time. She said they skipped over us when we were waiting. She wants to go back to, just not on a saturday.
(3)Jim Z.
The lack of AC is made up for the existence of the PB&J and the shot of Jameson you get when you use the ATM inside, so.... you can get 2 shots of Jameson, a PBR, and a slice of Pizza for seven bucks, which feels a lot like robbing a liquor store.
(4)felicia m.
friendly staff, great drinks and pizza. I've brought my parents here from out of town and they loved a pizza dinner on the back patio and even the CTA-themed bathrooms. then i brought a friend for a food stop on a long, crazy pub crawl, and the music kept us pumped up to go. such an easy location across from the California stop.
(5)Poof A.
PB & J, please! What an awesome deal for really tasty pizza [especially the slice with balsamic vinegar- something I've never had on pizza before but will definitely be adding to future pies!] The patio here is a lovely place to spend an afternoon/evening, and the indoor space is nice too. Don't tell your friends, though- I can see this place getting *really* crowded in the summer.
(4)Kelly K.
Came here before a show at the Congress and it was a great place to have a few drinks and some pizza pre show. The Toy Gun is the way to go!
(4)steve c.
Solid 3.5 stars for the boiler room - but has room for improvement. Across from the California blue line stop, Boiler room is conveniently located for getting wasted and jumping back on the CTA. The decor is nice and the booth we sat in was more comfy than it actually looks. The service was good. The beer list could be improved on - but not bad by all means. The PBR (Pizza, Tallboy PBR, and a shot of Jameson) for $7 is a good deal. The pizza was noting to rave about. Just some very thin crust with some cheese on top. Wouldn't order it by itself. I hope to see credit cards accepted and a open patio upon my next return.
(4)Sean W.
good pizza and beer cash only Interesting fact: On a Saturday night I ate almost an entire pizza. The next morning I ran 11 miles faster than I've ever run 11 miles. Must be the pizza.
(5)Ryan S.
PB&J is one of the best deals in town. A shot of J, tall boi of PBR, and a great slice of pie for 7.50. It takes a while to get your order sometimes and staff can be snobby. It's always full of the in crowd because of the location so be prepared. The Boiler Room is a fun time.
(4)Marisa H.
Purist Pizza All Day!!!!!!
(5)Lauren H.
My mom kept bugging me to order pizza from here because it was new york style..The sausage pizza is pretty huge for $18. I kinda was ehh for it but my mom definitely loved and because of their corn meal thin crust. She keeps telling me she wants to try the another kind of pizza so we will definitely order again.
(4)Debra R.
awful awful awful experience here. went with a group of 8 people on a friday night. we asked to be seated as we were planning to order food and hang for a bit. the hostess told us it would be 45 min to an hour so we headed to the bar and got drinks for the wait. 20 minutes later our table was ready. the hostess told us the tables are for "service" and if we wanted to order drinks at the bar then we have to give up the table. what?! ooohhhhh k. of course we will order from the server, NO problem. enter waiter. he asks if we need anything and most of us let him know we are waiting for our slices of pizza as we had ordered our first round at the bar. to which he responds letting us know the tables are for service only and not to be ordering from the bar. ohhhhhh k. (do these people hate the bartender or something? to which we repeat the story of our wait not being as long as anticipated and that these were simply our first drinks and that we would certainly order from him for the reminder of our time at the table. the rest of the night the waiter was less than responsive, rarely came by the table and when he did, he would take off before all of us could let him know what we want. i even waved at him to let him know i needed something but he didn't see as he was speeding away. so then i flag down the awesome bus-girl and ask her if she can help me get a drink as it has been a while and the waiter didn't help out. she said yes and then it was a REALLLLLY long time until my drink came. when it finally did come, i asked the waiter if he had a problem with our table and he REPEATS that we shouldn't be ordering from the bar OR from the bus-girl. at this point i'm getting a bit testy as i have never EVER been treated so rudely by a team of wait staff. so i explain to him that i had to order from the bus-girl because he either ignored me or ran away from the table every time i tried to order a drink (and pizza slice). he then ran to the hostess (or manager, i have no idea who she was) who explained that OUR table had been rude from the moment we sat down and we shouldn't be treating the waiter like that, etc etc. WHAAAAAAA? i seriously felt like i was taking crazy pills. she then berated us for ordering from the bartender AGAIN so at this point we thought we better just party ways and asked for the bill. she brought it back and it was the WRONG BILL! SERIOUSLY? it was about 3 times what we owed so we saw the lovely bus-girl and told her it was wrong and she took it and came back with it with the correct totals. absolutely ridiculous. it's sad too because our friends go there a LOT and they have a delicious beer list and specials. i didn't get my last slice of pizza that i ordered as it never came and i was really looking forward to it as my first piece was delicious. so sad. BAD SERVICE BOILER ROOM! i'm so disappointed!
(1)John A.
Great logan square spot. Nice beer selection and the food is damn good. My favorite pizza in LS. Staff is very friendly.
(5)John F.
Great pizza, good specials. Decent beer selection. Will visit frequently. Only downside.... Cash Only. Ive heard if you use the ATM you get a free shot of Jameson but what if you don't want Jameson
(4)Carlos G.
The beer selection was comprehensive and the pizza was excellent and very, very well priced. In fact, Boiler Room is clearly now the best pizza place in Logan Square (although Father & Sons is also good, it's a different sort of affair), with fresh ingredients and as good an approximation of classic New York pizza as I've had anywhere in Chicago. The atmosphere is lively, the menu simple but adequate, and the service prompt. And I can't get over what a bargain it is. I'm more impressed with this place than with any other new addition to our neighborhood save Longman & Eagle. Unlike Revolution Brewery and other fads of the month, the Boiler Room will silently gain fans until it becomes a genuine neighborhood institution. A great win for Logan Square.
(5)Craig L.
2nd time I've been in for lunch. The first visit I had the brunch pizza. This time had the buffalo chicken. It was very good pizza and great beers on tap. The beers are a little pricey.... but overall a great place.
(4)Roy A.
The pizza here is perfectly fine. Nice large pies of thin crust with a variety of toppings that you can choose. They have some specials where you can get a slice and a shot of whiskey and a PBR for a relatively cheap price. That's cool too. Why settle for a PBR when you can choose from a pretty solid beer list that they also offer? I really wanna come back and try some more of their carious toppings and get a better feel for the place, but for now it's pretty good pizza with some real good beer. But.... The decor is probably the best part of the restaurant with parts of trains and subways all over the place. Rumor has the bathroom (mens) is like a train car as well.
(4)kelly c.
I wish I liked you more. The CHICKEN is good, but I'm not a fan of the za. Good beers, good atmosphere. Simone's is so good, maybe I've expected too much?
(3)G L.
Went here once with the girlfriend. The pizza they had was pretty good, I dig the atmosphere and seating. They also have alcoholic ice cream! Decent prices, Not too bad. Def. Check it out. PB&J special is SWEET!
(4)Pam C.
Their patio is now open, and, on my last visit, they were offering one of their specialty pizzas by the slice. Delish.
(4)Tommy D.
Very good pizza with lots of atypical toppings to choose from. The restaurant has an awesome beer selection too. The decor is amazing and the staff was very friendly. I found the prices to be kind of high for the whole pizzas ($5 extra for some toppings)..And FYI..Cash only. Which kinda sucks cuz you'll have to bring a wad of cash to pay for your dinner. Boiler Room: Get a credit card machine, its the 21st century!!! But regardless.. good food, drink, atmosphere. I'll be back.
(4)Brynna P.
I'm a fan of this joint. The PB&J is the best thing ever and you shouldn't really pay attention to the rest of these jokers. It's your night in an order. Tall boy of PBR, shot of jameson, slice of pizza for $7.50. Win. Plus the pizza is tasty.
(4)Jillian S.
Hubs and I returned here for dinner so we could try the food and I can say that this place is now officially one of our favorite hang outs. We will be back again and again. The pulled pork pizza is amazing. BBQ sauce, pork, and coleslaw (!) are your toppings - and let me tell you, it is simply heaven. Hubs ordered a similar pizza at Crust a few weeks ago - which was no where NEAR as good as Boiler Room's! I will say hands down their pizza beats Crust. I also really loved the Lost Coast Great White they offer on tap - and the new raspberry brew is also excellent. Though I do miss the blueberry brew!
(5)Will D.
First time last night with an old friend. We chose to sit along the far wall but when I went to sit I felt water so we moved over a few seats. When I mentioned it to the waitress, she said "oh yeah, that's the AC dripping," like it was a normal thing. No "oh, I'm sorry" or anything. I suggested she might want to put a notice there. A while later she pushed the table to the wall. Weird. We ordered the basic pepperoni pizza for a freaking $18.00. It arrived burned. We should have sent it back...it was mostly grease, hardly any cheese to speak of. The cornmeal bottom was more like sand than anything edible. There was pepperoni but for that much money I would expect a whole lot more. We had a house beer which was ok but not enough to make up for the lousy food. After a bit we kept being approached by different waitstaff, who seemed to want us to leave even though it was only about six o'clock and there were plenty of tables. One tried to take my friend's plate even though he was still eating. Maybe we were the wrong demo? Too old for the hipster crowd? I actually liked the industrial decor but not enough to go back.
(2)Joseph N.
The pizza isn't the best, and the toppings choices are strange and for the most part not very good. The beer list is small, the decorations are tacky (still don't understand why it says "Doors open on the right at Logan Square" in the bathroom ... first of all, that's a really lame decoration; second, they open on the left at LS). But I do love this place and I'm giving it five stars to try to counterbalance everyone who's rated it so poorly based on things like service. The waitstaff are all really great. If they were rude to you you might've deserved it. I've never had a problem with them, and in fact I've seen them go out of their way for patrons a number of times. It's a great place to have close by.
(5)Trey S.
My favorite mellow, hip, cozy spot in LogSqua! Very cool and unique atmosphere. Great semi-NY style 'zah that is super reasonable by the slice. My only complaint is that it's not always as consistent as I'd like. But when it's on it can't be beat. A great place to meet some friends and have a beer, a shot and a slice!!!
(4)Ezra E.
Awesome inside if only because watching the movie frogs and mst3k'ing with my wife over some appetizers and beers was awesome. I've been back a few times for the pizzas which are delicious. So far I think the logan is my favorite but I may be swayed next time I stop. The pizzas are big enough that 4 people can eat comfortably with drinks or two of us can get stuffed. Great people with interesting ink and at least one Scottish accent.
(4)Brian Q.
The fruit flies at the bar are about the take your pizza place and fly it off into the sunset with it. How about closing for a day to do a deep clean? It's disgusting to sit at the bar and pick flies out of your beer and off your pizza.
(1)Chelsie L.
I liked the set-up and that the restaurant is basically constructed of leftover El parts (be sure to check out the bathrooms!) but that also contributed to the uncomfortable seating. The seatbelt style booths tend to cut into your skin (especially if you're wearing a dress) after a while. They show movies/shows on two screens above the bar so that's pretty cool, and the open air concept is nice (although it did get pretty hot). They have a pretty good variety of drinks, but I did have to ask them to change my cocktail because it tasted pretty terrible. Also, it's odd to me that they only have one pizza size (starting @ $18), and it's huge. I'm lactose intolerant so I had to order my own pizza and ended up taking 3/4 of it home, which is expensive and rather inconvenient. The service is horrid, absolutely terrible. I had to ask five times just to get a water and the waitress only came around every half an hour or so. Overall, I'd say this place is cool for it's ambiance but don't expect great service and remember to bring cash!
(2)Maggie R.
their pizza (the purist) is delicious and they have a good beer selection. pretty laid-back. the bathrooms are kinda cool. one time i went in and they were showing the movie predator. another time i went in and they were showing young frankenstein. swish. cash only, BUT if you use their atm and save the receipt they'll give you a free shot of jameson... ooooh. UPDATE: in the summertime they have jameson/boozy soft-serve ice cream cones. their back patio area is nice but gets kind crowded during peak times. whatever, it's worth it. also, monthly monday night PBR bingo. get into it.
(4)Rita P.
Went here the other night for the first time with some girl friends. I had a great time. Our waiter was very attentive and nice. The beer selection was amazing as well...I tried the Flying Dog in Heat-Wheat and was super impressed. My only complaint was the pizza. I bought a single slice of the Purist and was not very impressed....the pizza was pretty tough to bite into. Other than that I had a great time and thought the pricing was fair and on point!
(4)Jen M.
Pizza, amazing! Bartenders, amazing! Such a cool, laid back environment. Go see Mandy on Fridays... She is hilarious!
(5)Lace V.
Cool interior in this busy pizzeria. We walked in on a Friday night with 10 people and no reservation because the website and yelp says they don't take reservations, but the hostess told me they actually do. However, they were very accommodating and we had a space in minutes. The pizza was delicious! BUT the toppings were like 3 inches in from the outside rim of the crust... so minus one star for being skimpy with the toppings. BUT over all... this is a great space with good food and fun waiters. Looking forward to heading back!
(4)Roger L.
Although the pizza was above average and the ambience is interesting, they only accept cash and seem a bit proud of not accepting any type of credit card. That is the main reason I will not be back, too bad because it is in my neighborhood, just like to use my credit card as I then have a record.
(3)Marko H.
The vegan pizza was incredible! Lose one star for not taking credit cards and high prices.
(4)Tara B.
The only reason I don't give this place 5 stars is because the service is notoriously sketchy. My friends and I usually get PB&Js (that's a slice of pizza, a beer, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50!) once a week, and almost every time there has been questionable service. But it has never been so totally bad that we don't show up again the next week. Just be prepared to have to hunt someone down for your check. Otherwise, this place rocks. Especially their vegan options. It would be nice if they did vegan pizza by the slice, though, so you didn't have to order a whole pie.
(4)Jennifer M.
I want to give the place one star for being cash only - seriously!?! In this day and age, you're going to make me use your atm so I can pay a fee there and at my bank? Credit card transaction fees are a part of doing business. Work it into your plan Boiler Room. The pizza is pretty good although if you want to build your own pizza you're going to pay a hefty price (it's like 4 or 5 dollars to add any meat to your pizza. The beer list is lackluster at best. I was there last night and the bartender gave pretty crappy service, didn't offer up the specials until I asked for them and poured me the wrong beer. It was quite slow too so there really isn't any excuse. Decent atmosphere, good decor, comfortable bar seats. The bathroom is another story. It's so annoying. If you go, you'll know what I mean. Basically, it being cash only will most likely deter me from going here to often.
(2)Emily R.
How can you go wrong with a place like this?? The decor is great and non-traditional. The service is laidback but efficient. The pizzas are HUGE!!! If you aren't going for the PB&J (pizza beer jameson) I would recommend the Buffalo Chicken Pizza. It's really good, with the carrot and celery chunks really putting it over the top.
(4)Suzy D.
Just got the worst case of food poisoning ever from the Caesar salad over the weekend. Their pizza is pretty decent but after this experience I would reconsider this place.
(2)Cassie I.
My second visit here was so much better. The pizza was fantastic (though I ordered something different this time) and our waitress was super nice and helpful.
(4)Gunner F.
The pizza here is a total mystery to me. It looks so damn good coming out of the oven, but the taste never quite makes it to the table. Total whore of an experience. Wasn't thrilled with the prices either. Just add some damn flavor and save on the environmentally-friendly-me-so- organic-reverse-flavor side effect.
(2)Kristen D.
Trying too hard. Only partially succeeding.
(3)Kyle M.
Not a whole lot to say....excellent pizza, excellent beer selection. Carry our or dine in. I love this place.
(4)Tim W.
The decor is cool. They have a mirror image video screen above the bar which shows 70's Si-Fi Flicks. The pizza is just ok. The reason I come here however is the PB & J special. You get a tallboy PBR, draft Jameson shot , and a slice of pizza for $7.50! Great deal ! I give them 4 stars for PB&J and 1 star for being CASH ONLY!!!
(3)KM S.
blah. That's all I can really say. Nothing crazy exciting going on here. Definitely had much better.
(2)Mark M.
Boiler room still has a way to go, but kudos to them for making a few improvements: 1)Expansion of specialty pizzas, removal of the ones that sucked. 2)Improvement of outdoor patio - though "glycerine" lights were a bit off-putting in the day when I didn't know they were lights. 3)Improvement of "boiler room" pizza. Less oily, meat better distributed. 4)Improvement of service. They forgot my slice, but didn't charge me for it. Staff is still a bit pretentious. ***The server also attempted to "short change" me as mentioned by other posters. I gave a $20, The change amount given back was as if I had given a $10. Based on other comments, it looks like this has also happened to 3 other people. Positives: 1)I like the variety of seating options. Heard outdoor seating is nice in the winter. 2)$3 PBR tall boy Negatives: 1)TAKE CREDIT. It isn't charming or quaint that you refuse to pay a credit charge. I don't want a shot of jamo with my atm receipt, I want the ability to open a tab, and order what I want, with the vendor picking up the cost of service fee (like, you know, almost every other bar in the city). It's not like your prices are even cheaper than people who do take credit. At this point, independent coffee shops are even taking credit, there is no reason you can't. 2)Cocktails are a bit expensive for what they are. They are no where near as good as somewhere like Violet Hour, though they are trying to be that creative, and they cost about the same amount. 3)Staff can be a bit cold and seem resentful to be there. Possible improvements: 1)***Make it easier to order a slice to go. Why do I have to go to the bar? The guy is right there. 2)Add variety to the pizza you can buy by the slice.
(2)Aaron H.
It was 1am and I was hungry with no interest for anything in my kitchen. Turns out they're cash only, which I discovered only after my beer and a slice. However, they do compensate you for the ATM fee with a shot of Jameson. From the bar to my bedroom was less than 3 minutes, stumbling all the way. One of my new favorites! Pizza was pretty good for Chicago ;)
(4)Nicole M.
Great pizza. Love the fresh and light crust. Get the Purist Pizza (tomato, basil, mozzarella, balsamic). Absolutely delicous. The BBQ chicken pizza was good, too, but a little too much BBQ sauce. Cash only, but there is an ATM in the back. Big patio so good for the summertime.
(4)Sam M.
Damned good pizza(NY style). Get the boiler room pizza, giardinera and meatballs. PBJ= Slice, pabst tall boy, shot of Jameson for 7.50. Real tyte.
(4)John G.
We live around the corner, and finally made it in to try this place last night. The decor is cool, that's been said in most reviews. We started with the Thai-bbq wings which were good. My wife had a slice of The Purist and I ordered a whole sausage pizza. She was pleased with her slice. For mine, it needed more sauce and the crust was a little soft. That may just be their style(who knows, the website has no info). I understand the use of cornmeal under the pizza, to prevent sticking, but there was so much cornmeal, it became another ingrediant to the pizza! A little more care in the pizza prep is needed, some slices only had 2 pieces of sausage, while others had tons. I'd recommend this as a place to hang out for drinks, but if pizza is your objective, there are better choices.
(2)Dave M.
For 7.50+tax and tip, I got: Cheese Pizza: -Smallish, a tad bigger than a slice at dominoes. I'm not asking for Bacci's, but... -Bland for the premium image. I could see more sauce than cheese. Sauce was decent, but I like tomato sauce and oregano. The crust lacked character, a paper thin wippy crackerish material. 16oz PBR: A bit warm Shot o Jameson: no criticism here, except the unabashed pandering to the Logan Square crowd, but I'm on that boat, so i'll bite my tongue. shot. ONLY CASH: You have solar panels on the roof gawdammit. Give me some technology here. 25 minute wait time: For Cheese! The atmosphere was original when I walked in, but I left bored, without reason to return.
(2)whitney r.
awesome pizza! the fu manchu is out of this world: thai chicken, jalapenos, peanuts and cilantro- it was delicious! you can't buy this one by the slice, but trust me, you'll want the whole pizza! (i fought my table for the leftover last piece) super good beer on tap, too! the decor is a little kitschy, but cool.. and the bathroom's a little freaky- all in all, worth it!
(5)Little G.
Service has improved since the first time that we came here. That is, the staff actually serve you now instead of just strolling around the place avoiding eye contact like before. The ambience is dope. Solid beers, and jameson on tap - awesome. The pizza is mostly solid. Great crust. Avoid the Logan Square pizza. The mole is downright disgusting. Overall, a nice addition to the hood.
(3)Andrew R.
Great new addition to the neighborhood. My girlfriend and I stopped in on Sunday afternoon and really enjoyed a slice and quality beer. The vibe is great! Service was good and prices were very reasonable - however cash only. It's refreshing not having to order a whole pizza when you're not in the mood for it. Definitely a great atmosphere by the same folks that brought us Simone's in Pilsen. Also, Jameson on tap - awesome. We will be back very soon.
(5)Megan M.
Checked out The Boiler Room on a recent Friday night with a few friends. We had a great time and some excellent pizza. We split The Logan pizza (pulled pork, mole, chihuahua cheese, fried onions) and it was awesome. It was huge too...three of us ate until we were stuffed and still had leftovers. For just opening, the service was fantastic. Our waiter was attentive, funny, and answered all our questions. You can't beat the PBJ deal or the shot of Jameson with an ATM receipt. The decor is really unique and you can tell a lot of thought was put into every detail. The bathroom is probably the cleanest CTA train you'll ever see.
(4)Amanda O.
I am giving it a low rating purely for the sake they don't take debit/credit. I mean it's really annoying. I don't think it's very smart for a business that isn't yet established. The food is fine. I do really like the atmosphere. I was actually thinking of having a big group of us go there for a bachelorette party, but that won't fly with the whole cash only thing. I am not going to send an email to guests to let them know they have to bring cash because of one place. Oh well, we'll just be having dinner elsewhere. Honestly, I may go once in a blue moon, but not often. I live down the street, so it's their loss. I use my credit card for everything to get miles. Oh well, there are other places in the neighborhood.
(1)Beth K.
the boiler room is just plain awesome. the pb&j is one of the best deals in the city. the rotating drafts are always tasty, the specialty cocktails are delicious and inventive AND the pizza is delicious! ever since that new head chef started, i think all the food has improved in quality, creativity and taste. not to mention that the staff is super friendly. i end up hanging out there at least once a week and i always leave happy and buzzed. thanks, boiler room!
(5)Corey P.
This is a great spot to meet up with friends for pizza and beer (and wings too -- they were delicious). The pizza was really really really good. We got the "Boiler Room" pizza which featured finely sliced PBR soaked meatballs and giardiniera. Umm YES PLEASE AND THANK YOU. Holy crap good. Maybe heartburn on a plate; ain't no thang. Plus, there's another special where you get a shot of jamo, a PBR tallboy, and a slice of pizza for $7.50 ... which is unbeatable. The beer selection is good. The decor is nice too, with cool wooden beams, kind of distressed and perfectly dim lighting. Something from the ceiling was dripping on me the whole time I was seated, otherwise it would have been 5 stars. Luckily it was freaking hot out and I almost didn't mind.
(4)Andrew C.
Went on a sunday night to try the pizza and beers and was very pleased with everything. the inside of the place is very industrial themed, the bar seats and booths are made of cargo netting and the bathrooms look like blue line cars. the music was great, the old timey movie on the projector screens went well with the themes, and the pizza was amazing. i tried a slice of the boiler room which has sausage and giardiniera, the purist which has different cheeses and some veggies, and the buffalo chicken. i enjoyed all of these but my favorite was the boiler room. the beer list had a good variety and everyone that worked there seemed knowledgeable about the menu and was very friendly. i will definately be going back for the pizza and beer!
(5)Dinah P.
I really wanted to like this place because I love Simones in Pilsen in every way I wish it was as close to my place as boiler room, I've given them 10 tries/visits and each visit gets worst. The pizza and the prices on drinks are good but it's the staff that sucks! I never felt so unwelcome at a bar in my life until today. Walked in tonight and not one off the staff said hello and there were at least 6 staff members standing by the kitchen/ bar area, who all were just watching me. I sat and the bar and had to wave at the bartender to order at first he seem to be fast and helpful but when he asked if I wanted to open a tab and I said no and then he could give two shits about me as a customer. I don't need to open a tab to stay longer at your bar I will stay longer when you pay attention to everyone equally. I waited for 10 minutes for another drink while the bartender had his back to the bar and I had to leave because I was so frustrated there were only 3 people at the bar and I made it clear I needed another drink. Plus those 6 other staff members that were watching me and doing nothing could of at least gotten me a drink but didn't. When I left the bartender finally notice me and said goodnight in a disgusted manner. The other times I've been here and the staff ignored me and had an attitude I thought it was because they were busy but now I know it's because the staff do not care about their customers at all. Oh and the pizza was undercooked tonight!
(2)Ajja A.
This should be renamed b*****y waitresses. Some anorexic chic with a stupid short sleeve tattoo "waited" on our party of three. Couldn't remember anything and scowled the entire time. It's funny how one very toxic person can make everyone around them miserable. Really ruined what was an already underwhelming experience. Don't go...
(1)Scarter C.
Excellent Pizza!!! Giant slices even with the full pie! Decent beer list. Service was pretty good too for a Saturday night. Would definitely take friends here.
(4)Angela Z.
I like this place. It's different and unique. Good pizza, Whistlery drinks, cool space, good music--can't really lose here. I had the Purist slice, their take on the margherita. For a thin crust, I really enjoyed the taste! For a drink, I had Amanda Huginkiss. Both were delightful. I like that this is just a cool place to hang out and a different take on your average pizza joint and I was happy to see that they back up the coolness with decent food and drinks. I'm a fan.
(4)Daniel F.
Not only is Boiler Room the movie that launched Vin Diesals career, it is also an amazing NYC syle Pizza Bar located in the heart of logan square. The pizza is amazing you can buy basics by the slice that are excellent or you can venture from some crazy whole pie selections such as the cuban sandwich pizza. at first glance I thought the cuban sounded horrible however it was amazing. This pizza is loaded with pulled pork, ham, pickles and mustard. The flavors on the cuban flow together like Tribe called quest rhymes. Also this is great place to get your drink on without killing your bank account. They have the great 7.50 speacial shot, beer and pizza, that is way better then a drink, chips, and sub at subway. also speaking of shots this place is cash only however they will reward you a free shot of whiskey with atm receipt. as a friend suggested one should open an account up with a bank that remiburses outside atm fees, and then get all cash from boiler room and enjoy free whiskey damm that is an arbitrage. anways if you like beer and pizza you will love boiler room. if you love vin diesal you may or may not like boiler room.
(5)John M.
This place has great pizza and a great beer list. The interior design is really unique, and it's rare to find a place in this part of Chicago that has a decent sized back patio. They also have really good daily specials, and if you use their ATM (no credit cards) you can exchange the receipt for a free shot of Jameson to cover the ATM fee (which I believe was only $2-3). They'd get more of my money if they offered delivery, but I'm sure they have their reason so I'm not going to hold that decision against them.
(5)James F.
great pizza. alittle to crowded but that means its good right?
(4)William G.
Eh, just eh, nothing memorable, nothing really that special, especially at the prices they are charging. Crust is weak--eat your slice before it cools slightly as the crust turns into cardboard in about 5 to 10 min, ingredients are average,nothing special once again the high prices don't justify the product given the competition. Drinks are inconsistent. Best part is well situated back patio while its nice out.
(2)Kayla S.
I'll be honest, I only gave this place a 4th star because of the free shot of Jameson. Apparently it costs more to run credit than for them to just receive cash, so in order to encourage this, they give a free shot of Jameson to anyone who uses their ATM machine and bring the receipt to the bar. This was a pretty sweet deal. We had the buffalo wings for an appetizers which were pretty tasty only we had to wait awhile to order them because the busy servers hardly have time for you between all the tables they have to take care of. They also win for me in the decor department. The bathroom resembles a CTA train car and actually uses the automated voice to say "Doors closing". I'm a geek so I'm a sucker for this kind of thing. I get the feeling our experience would've been loads better if w had sat outside in their patio are, but the place was packed so we took what we could get. The pizza is decent. Nothing to write home about but good enough if a bit greasy. They don't have many by the slice options so that was kind of a downer for me. All in all it's a decent atmosphere if you wanna catch up with some friends over a pint and a slice. Don't expect the greatest service though.
(4)Dan F.
I had high hope for this place. It is very close to my house and I have seen it in construction for about a year now. My wife and I went over the other day.....were greeted nicely at the door (if not too nicely) and we were told to just find a table and a server will find you. Yeah.....immediate red flag. So we found one of several open tables and sat down. It smelled great and we were hungry.......unfortunately, 10 minutes later we still hadn't recieved any water, menus, or any attention from anyone so I flagged down someone who looked like they worked there and he finally got us menus and apologized for the wait............still another 15 minutes later.....no server ......nothing (and this goes for the majority of the tables around us.........absolutely no attention at all). Long story short, we just cut our losses and left.......we felt sorry for people who actually were able to order something and were waiting around for another drink or a check. It's really unfortunate when people mean well but have no idea how to run a bar/restaurant. It could be the coolest place in the coolest neighborhood with the best pizza but if your service sucks (or is non-existant) then you're dead in the water. The food smelled great though and they had a good beer list............wish we were able to try some of it. We ended up going to another great bar/restaurant down the street. This place is real sloppy and needs a kick in the head in the server dept..........mind you when we went, it wasn't that busy at all.
(1)leigh h.
let me start by stating that i am a huge supporter of local businesses and that it pains me to have to write this review. i live in logan square, about 2 blocks from the boiler room in fact. i was SO excited when they moved in. the concept was great, the pizza was not the best pizza i've had in my life, but it was fun and trendy, but the service sucked. and it continued to suck over the next handful of times i've gone there. salads were brought out at the same time as the pizza, wait staff blamed kitchen staff, blah blah blah that's all forgivable. but yesterday's experience confirmed i would not be going back there again. there were 3 people in our party yesterday and our waitress was obviously pissed that she was working and not utilizing the 3 day lollapalooza pass on her wrist. the place was empty and we waited a solid 10 minutes for our initial round of drinks. no water, nothing. we ordered an appetizer and after waiting what seemed like an abnormally long time, we decided to ask the waitress to bring the appetizer BEFORE the pizza. she said she would see what she could do....???? from there, my salad came out at the same time as my pizza- which actually isn't that big of a deal for me, but the salad had no dressing on it. i waited for her to come back to check on us. i waited, and waited, and waited. she finally came back when the other 2 people in our party had already finished their meal. not to mention the fact that they had been out of both water and beer for quite some time. i mentioned that my salad didn't have dressing on it, to which her response was "oh". at that time we ordered more drinks. a few minutes later a busboy came by with a lemon vinaigrette dressing. i had asked for red wine vinaigrette and asked him if he could bring that instead. he came back 30 seconds later and said "they told me that IS red wine vinaigrette". now, call me crazy, but the last time i checked, red wine vinaigrette was, well, red not yellow. anyway, long story short, i never got my red wine vinaigrette, that second round of drinks never came and we left wildly disappointed.
(1)Kelly B.
okay look- as if i didn't already know i was a huge jerk for ordering a salad for dinner at a pizza place, the boiler room really drove it home tonite. we had a nice server- very attentive and pretty and all that. my friends all ordered slices of pizza, i ordered the chicken caesar (i think this deserves explanation: it was Sunday, i had eaten pizza all weekend). As far as my knowledge of pizza places takes me, you can't go wrong with a basic salad in a pizza joint. Unless they serve you your dorky salad more than 5 minutes after your friends, the ones who ordered slices. And they serve you what can basically be described as a do-it-yourself salad bowl. for $7 +$3 for the chicken, i got a half of a head of romaine lettuce (literally, not chopped up or anything) topped with dressing, cheese, croutons and chicken that was dry enough to be confused with the croutons in the dim light. and so, with every lull in conversation, my friends were subject to watching me awkwardly saw away at my head of lettuce, careful not to push the plastic bowl off the table. that being said, i will return. to be honest, the whole experience was pretty comical and didn't ruin my enjoyment of the place at all. the bathroom is all it's cracked up to be and they had $4 beers on tap (again, this was a Sunday). my boyfriend had the cheese pizza and said it was just okay, so i guess we have some exploring to do when it comes to the variety there. just sayin.
(3)Em C.
I love this place. I live in Logan Square so it's super convenient. I only wish I lived a little closer. The atmosphere is great, not too loud but not quiet by any means. They have great beers on tap that change pretty frequently so there's no getting bored, if you're the type that would get bored drinking delicious beers. It's cash only, so be ready. They do have an ATM there and if you show the bartender your receipt they'll give you a shot of Jameson for the transaction fee. Lots of the choices are local which is great. Most importantly, they have vegan pizza! With vegan cheese AND meats. Daiya + Uptons + Veggies + Vegan crust = FAVORITE PLACE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD! It's superficially on the pricey side ($18 for just the vegan cheese pizza) but it's GIANT, so it's worth it. It can easily fill up 5 people, or can be a meal for 5 consecutive days for one. This is definitely a hipster place if that's gonna bother you. But it's the best kind of hipster place with vegan options and great beer. There's also PBR if you're that kind of hipster, but you should probably drink something better while you're there. Just sayin'.
(5)Alen K.
this was the worst experience of my life! food never came out and was told that the place was closing. our waiter never served us. ...... terrible!!!!! went to eat tacos at Arturo's instead. Stay away unless you like getting judged by hipster losers.
(1)Phil T.
Went here one night and had their special which was a slice of pizza, tallboy can of pbr, and shot of jamo for $7. I would have to say that's pretty awesome. I'm not a hipster and don't normally drink pbr, but that deal was too good to pass up. Pbr isn't that bad...kinda...sorta...hehe. But in all seriousness, I love the decor in this place. Very urban feel, and very creative use of "el train" parts...the guys bathroom is especially awesome. I tried their pizza special which was a bacon cheeseburger pizza...it came out with full blown toppings that you would find on a real cheeseburger...pickles ketchup and mustard included...and it actually tasted like a bacon cheeseburger lol. I don't know if I'd ever order it again though, I usually prefer my pizza simple. It was good though. Typical New York style slice, it was decent...had a little bit too much corn meal on the bottom of the crust...and I like my slices a little crispy but it wasn't bad. The dough had a nice taste to it, and next time I'll have to order a simpler slice of pizza to really try it out. I would recommend coming here for the ambiance, its a nice place to hang out and grab a drink with some friends, and the pizza is good. I'd go here again. Only bad thing...cash only....but they have an atm in the back and if you show them your receipt you get a free shot of jameson...now THAT'S awesome.
(3)Tobey D.
I'm liking it. Cool decor, great tunes, and a movie playing that literally makes me blurt out, "No way!" the three times I've been so far. Somehow it's hip without the B.S. 'tude. Love the Boiler Room pizza; not so much a fan of the cheese or pepperoni. I'm not a beer-drinker, but their blueberry beer was so good, I ordered one for myself; not content to continue stealing sips from my Hubby. and they're plenty kid-friendly before eight. Welcome addition to the neighborhood, no matter what the nay-sayers think.
(4)Vanessa K.
Jameson on tap. $7.50 PBJ deal (slice of pizza, PBR tallboy, and a shot of Jameson. Their pizza is delicious. Most bar/pizza joints I stick with just cheese, but I tried their slice with basil and balsamic.. Amazing.
(4)G F.
Ok, tried the place a second time. Just as bad as the first. Service is horrible. Food is even worse. I just don't know why people give this place a good review.
(1)Matt J.
I like the idea of The Boiler Room and I love having it down the street from where I live, but I just can't give this one more than 3 stars. I love the beer selection. I like the decor. I love that they play weird or obscure movies on the screens above the bar. Then I sit down and have a mixed experience. The chairs are a bit uncomfortable, especially in the booths. It that regard it seems very fitting that the chairs made out of recycled train/cargo parts are as uncomfortable as actual seats on trains. The other big gripe with this place is the food. I like some of the pizzas, but other ones are not such a good idea. Same goes for the apps. I like the Purist pizza, the balsamic is a nice touch. For that matter any of the basic by the slice pizzas are good. I liked he chips and dip hummus app a lot, but the last time I was there it was replaced by underwhelming bean dip. The Logan pizza wasn't so good and the Thai pizza wasn't so good. Those flavors don't really belong on pizza in my opinion. Despite all that, I still like to hang out here for a quick bite to eat and a good beer. The service is always pretty good and its a fun laid back atmosphere. So I'd say come here to have a drink with friends and stick with the basics on the menu.
(3)Lara D.
I'm only giving 2 stars. 1 star for the pizza, it was kinda tasty. 2 stars for my bad in taking my toddler with. So my girlfriend and I went for an early dinner with our toddlers (parents of toddlers will relate) to the 5 pm crowd. Anyway, the service was shocking. Our server must have had her head in the clouds. She forgot some drinks, we asked for 2 cups so that the toddlers could share a lemonade, she only brought one. I ordered the wine, $8 for the smallest glass of wine ever. I got a better serving at Bin wine cafe for the same price. Our server never checked on us, I saw her standing and talking to the other servers, probably because it was early before the real bar hopping crowd arrives. Anyway I was very dissapointed because our neighborhood needs more family friendly spots and this was just a disaster. My fault I guess because it is listed on yelp website that it's not good for kids. Spot on, go and get your pizza elsewhere.
(2)Laura B.
I should start by saying that I haven't actually eaten the food here, but I'm not inclined to spend the time to go back. We wanted to try it and we were walking by so we decided to get some slices to go. We asked what was ready and they said everything. So we ordered two slices and proceeded to wait...for about 15 minutes. We could overhear everyone behind the counter bickering and just when we think the food is coming, the guy dropped one of our slices in the trash so he had to start over. More bickering. I wasn't willing to wait another 15 minutes for one slice so we asked for our money back. That was my first try. A few days later, thinking that they are new, we decided to try again. It was about 4:45 and we had my son with us. I know it's a bar but I figured it was early enough to try to have some pizza with my kid. Nope, not a kid friendly place. It's fine, but you should know before you go in.
(2)Kori E.
We came here Saturday night, and I must admit I was feeling pretty good when we arrived so my attention to detail wasn't the best! It was a fun spot to grab a piece of pizza, a few beers and hang out. The pizza was REALLY good! I had the cheese and he had the pepperoni, both super thin large pieces. Definitely check out the bathrooms, probably my favorite aspect of this place! Its cash only, and if you use their ATM show them your receipt and you get a shot of Jameson...he passed on the shot...but it was a nice touch! I'll have to come back a tad more sober so I get a clearer impression of this place. Its right under the EL, so convenient if you live off the blue line.
(3)Chuck D.
Uhm - This place is amazing! It was a last minute decision to stop by and maybe have some alcoholic ice cream and I found myself sad when we decided it was time to leave more than an hour later! I don't think this can be said enough to warn people - CASH ONLY. BUT WAIT STOP!! Don't go to the ATM before, they have one there. Yes, you may have a bank fee (a couple bucks, I think) OR if you have an awesome bank like we do you will be reimbursed for those anyway. BUT the important part of this is - show your receipt that your took out cash there and guess what? Free shot of Jameson! Worth it. I'm pretty sure if you gave me a shot of Jameson after anything that was slightly inconvenient and I will love you forever always. Next up - warm fresh mini-donuts served with a side of their amazing soft serve (we got the Jameson flavor and loved it - some found it a little too boozy, so beware, but if you like Jameson, you'll love this. Others at our table got the root beer ice cream and loved it as well). PB and J Special is absolutely genius! It is a PBR tall boy, shot of Jameson (surprise!), and a slice of pizza. Yes please. Its run by a bunch of hipsters so that is the service you are going to get, but everyone was super nice and accommodating. Also when they forgot to bring out my friend's pizza to go with his PB & J, they brought over a couple of apology shots of Jameson - again - we didn't really care that the pizza took awhile and that we had to ask... but after a shot of Jameson, I found myself HAPPY they had made the mistake. :) Bathrooms are randomly designed to be like the L stations, but it was kind of funny and I liked it. Will definitely be back!! Never change, Boiler Room... never change.
(5)Alycia P.
Two words: PBJ special. $8.50 for a huge slice, a shot of Jameson, and a PBR tall boy. Can't go wrong! It's always packed and the service is glacial, so don't come here if you're in a hurry, but otherwise it's a great spot. Do yourself a favor and order the boiler room slice - gigantic meatballs and ridiculously good house-made giardinera.
(4)Simmone S.
Okay - I love this place, let me lay it out for you: 1) friendliest staff, we talked to out waiter A LOT, he was so nice and out going I wanted him to sit down and hang out with us and we were on a date 2) cool neighborhood 3) Everyone else eating there was trendy and put together 4) awesome drink menu at great prices 5) DELICIOUS - it's primarily pizza but these slices are huge and yummy and made from excellent and high-quality ingredients 5) fav thing? The Jameison infused ice cream and homemade donuts I recommend it to everyone now, new fav place.
(5)Trevor K.
I have been here a lot and put up with a lot, but no more. The service is really poor and the front is not friendly at all. they ask for your id meaner than if you get stopped by the police. The server was also incredibly neglectful, also not friendly. It stinks that their service is so bad bad because the pizza is good and if you want a slice and a drink its even a good value except when you are charged for things you did not order which has happened to me on several occasions. If you do go watch your bill and server like a hawk, but that is no dining experience.
(1)Stephanie R.
Boiler Room is fantastic. In so many ways. So many! The pizza, salads, wings, hummus... All are great. Candice is a fantastic server. Eventually, I hope she can help train or retrain anyone who isn't as fantastic as her.
(4)Dennis R.
A great option if in the area and need a lil sumptin sumptin. A friend and I stopped by after the Hawks opener on Oct 11th, it's been on my radar. Many of the best places close by 10pm or 11pm so it was nice having more than enough time to hit Boiler Room. I like being able to order by the slice, particularly this night because we wouldn't want the same toppings and a whole pizza was too much. The pizza itself was good but nothing to have me search them out for it when having a taste for it. I do want to try their Thai pizza though. The satay chicken was nice and light but also not incredible. They occasionally serve Not Your Father's Root Beer but not that evening. Everyone there was very friendly and helpful, always nice when dining. I'd give this 3.5 stars but chose 3 due to being a cash only establishment. Really wish we were allowed half stars because I hate rounding down.
(3)Jose B.
Delicious Pizza, Will be coming back. Just so you know its cash only not credit cards accepted. If you must take out $ use their ATM inside and save receipt. They will give you a shot of jameson,
(5)Natalia K.
We came here after a day of Riotfesting and needed seats and pizza pronto. Unfortunately, the wait was a looooot longer than they promised us, but with a good beer list to keep us busy, it wasn't the worst thing that could have happened. Plus, the pizza is worth the wait. Be aware that the actual pizzas are huge, however. I came here before with a friend and we ordered an app and a whole pizza and the waitress didn't even bat an eye. Please tell us we don't need that much food. We could barely finish two slices, let alone an entire pie. And the Thai Chicken wasn't my fave. But I know the rest of the food is awesome. And their boozy soft serve as well. Oh, and the decor is probably some of the coolest in the city- mainly because I love re-purposed items. Recycling is a great thing, and looks amazing, when done right!
(4)Lionel G.
This place did not live up to my expectations. The pizza was average at best, the fries were ok. The server was nice but took along time to get refills. When it came time to pay the bill the server mentioned that it was cash only which was pretty annoying because it wasn't on the website nor anywhere visible in the restaurant. Then the server proceeded to gossip about us to the next table about not having cash. That sealed the deal, this is the first and last time I come here. There are better options available in Logan Square.
(2)Sean H.
Another great meal. Sat on the patio, but they had a smoking section so we were smoked out. Pretty gross, not sure how that was allowed. Food, service and beer were good.
(4)Nikki S.
Great (huge) slices, always a fresh veggie option of the day, good beer, service is typically good. We love this spot!
(5)Kori T.
Pizza was good and the special they have a slice a pizza, a PBR and a shot is great but I wasn't feeling it the night I went I just wanted something fruity. I can't even remember what I asked for but the waitress was terribly rude and made me repeat it while she laughed. I'm giving you my service right? Don't be rude. Otherwise I really like this place.
(3)Haikanarumi L.
I love their pizza! But i don't like that they don't accept card (seriously, who carries cash all the time?). The service is great, except the hostess (she is terrible, well the one i had the past 3 times)
(3)Cauliflower C.
i love the boiler room. thank you for pizza beer and whiskey. your staff is all beautiful and very out going. thank you all at the boiler room.
(5)Shareen S.
This place is the whole package: friendly, knowledgable staff, great ambiance and AWESOME pizza. We went earlier in the afternoon and got seated/served almost immediately. Our waiter was super attentive and recommended some vegetarian friendly options that were delicious. It's cash only, but there's an ATM in the restaurant (it's got a $2.50 charge, but if you being your receipt to the bar, you'll get a free shot of Jameson!). Definitely coming back here very soon!
(5)Aaron A.
The good: The PBR special for 8.50 includes a PBR, shot of jameson and a slice of pie. I enjoyed the pepperoni slice and the purist slice. The bad: The jameson ice cream machine doesn't seem to always work. One time I was in there recently the printer in the kitchen wasn't functioning and I had to wait a long time for my slice. The bartender made it up to me with a shot of jameson, which was very cool of him. The whole pies are really expensive! The okay: They play movies at the bar which is sometimes pretty entertaining and sometimes distracting. If I wanted to watch movies I probably wouldn't have gone out but it is a unique touch with the different movies they play.
(3)Laleh A.
Such a cool interior. Can't beat the PBJ. But we got another free shot of Jameson because our pizza got ran to the wrong table. So yay for getting hammie. The pizza wasn't terrible but not the best I've had. Real New York style. You'll have to fold to eat. But other than that $15 for drinks and a food, who can say no?
(3)Brandon W.
There are so many other pizza places in Chicago with fantastic pizza. The pizza is paper thin and very easily eaten in a minute or two and not very memorable. The beer selection isn't better than any other bar these days. They all supply the craft beer favorite of the day. What really makes this place the worst place in Chicago is the service. It's awful. They're often very rude and not attentive. Our server on several trips here acted as if they were forced to communicate with us and were just angry that they had to be working. There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the city that really deserve local support. Find a different place to spend your evening.
(2)Bex F.
Yeah, no. Ended up here for a beverage because default-Logan was closed for renovations. And now we definitely won't be back here. Though the woman at the door was pleasant, the decor is clever, unusual, and really interesting, the service blew. We are not hipsters therefore our presence was clearly unwelcome, which is odd because we can afford to pay and tip. We were ignored at first then barely tended to and given attitude, lucky to be spoken to at all in comparison to other tables around us. Whatever. This place isn't even remotely cool enough for any of that hootenanny. Please.
(1)Tom S.
Went here for daughter's 21 st birthday. Wanted something fun and low key. Loved the outside back patio. Perfect night. Ordered the Castro and BBQ chicken pizzas. Personally I did not like the BBQ chicken with pineapple and hot peppers. Castro good. Must be their take on a Cuban sandwich. Liked the hip vibe overall. Service was generally slow but not bad enough to keep me away. Will go back. Also not too crazy about the cash only policy. I find that annoying especially with a large group you are paying for. Have to plan to bring big bags of cash and hope you have enough.
(4)Shannyn A.
Desserts here are above the top good. The veggie pizzas or any pizzas for the PBJ (pizza, beer, jameson) combos are really delicious too. I haven't had bad pizza here, and perhaps I've tried! The drunken doughnuts are a crowd favorite and seriously, I dream about these when I sleep. Also, the bathroom is fashioned after the L train, sound effects and all. The whole restaurant is a chicago/train theme and all in all, it's a classy, classy dive. We love bringing out of town visitors here because it's just that good and there isn't the horrendous wait that Revolution around the corner brings.
(4)Tony W.
nothing special here, just good food at great prices. The service is good, and the staff is so damn friendly. I used to get of the train at California blue line instead of logan square just to stop and get a quick shot of Jameson and a PBR with a slice, or some chicken, either is very good.
(4)Johnny R.
I'm torn on this place because as much as I love their food, I've found repetitive awful service. I realize it's a cash only place under the blue line in logan that has a shot and slice special but if they brought their service level up to match the pizza it could be a much better restaurant and not just a "man I guess we can go there."
(3)Matt K.
Get a PB&J Great pizza, wings, and fries. Lousy service. Use the ATM (for a fee) and get a free shot of Jameson.
(4)Shilpy S.
The PBJ deal is awesome: PBR + a shot of Jameson + a slice of pizza for $7.50! Service was great, veggie pizza tasted soo good, outdoor seating/ lighting was great & the music they played was SO great. Loved it. It is cash only... but they're great in that they give you a free Jameson shot if you show that you used their ATM machine... pretty cool in my opinion. Also, the seating and even the bathrooms were designed well - the bathroom looks like the inside of a subway and scribbling on the walls is encouraged. :)
(5)K D.
I end up going here way more often than I mean to- but it's hard to pass up. 1. It smells soooo good 2. Good New York style pizza 3. Decent beer prices 4. Comfortable backyard area There are lots of other restaurants I keep meaning to try, but I know I'll end up here again soon.
(4)Eric F.
Hey boiler room! How are you? How have you been? Have you raised your prices lately? We've been hanging out now for the last 2 years and I called you one lonely night and find your purist is now $3 more after I arrive at your place. "What's the big deal" you say? Well you're charging me $27 for a pizza with sauce, balsamic vinegar and a couple slices of lukewarm mozzarella? I'm breaking up with you forever. Peace.
(2)Allie W.
Yassss! I love this place. The pizza is delicious, there is a great bar/booze list, the servers are very friendly, the atmosphere is nice and laid back. Oh and my favorite thing - they have vegan pizza and it. is. so. good. Every Tuesday they have a vegan slice special, and i get it almost every week. You can always order a whole vegan pizza too, but slices only on Tuesdays. That PBJ special is perfect ($8 slice/beer/shot), they have boozy ice cream, outdoor patio in the summer, and even the dude on the phone is friendly. I wish they delivered, but then again I would probably go broke and fat ordering pizzas if they did.
(5)Kendall K.
First I must say that I love Boiler room. but what the @#$% are they thinking leaving the winter tent up for summer. that back patio was awesome. but now there is no sun, and it smells like plastic until the air system in the back kicks on and it breaths sewer/alley smell into the space. Lame. Food is always good, good selection of craft beers. good cocktail, great booze ice-cream. service is hit or miss. some servers are awesome some are kinda rude and annoyed that you might expect them to help you. I should be giving a 4-5 star review. someone please take that tent down!
(2)Trevor K.
I have been here a lot and put up with a lot, but no more. The service is really poor and the front is not friendly at all. they ask for your id meaner than if you get stopped by the police. The server was also incredibly neglectful, also not friendly. It stinks that their service is so bad bad because the pizza is good and if you want a slice and a drink its even a good value except when you are charged for things you did not order which has happened to me on several occasions. If you do go watch your bill and server like a hawk, but that is no dining experience.
(1)Cham S.
come for the pizza; the purist is a delectable artisan option for y'all of the meatless variety. def avoid the Jameson on tap as it's watered down and stale. I'm pretty sure it had me bed ridden for a night, and not like in the boozy sorta way. also should mention, this spot is better enjoyed in a booth as the bar squatters tend to be super super super fucking lame here. aIso I saw a dude pee in the hand sink, which made my night. big ups for all y'all adventurous pee-ers out there doing your thing...I think it's catching on. -cs
(3)Denny D.
I like this place for its atmosphere. I enjoy the decor, the bathrooms, the dim lighting, and the kick ass music. The food... Can def be improved. The pizza is a little below average, taste like the ones you buy at Walgreens and pop in the oven for 15 mins. Still, it's edible. I always try bloody Mary's wherever I go and the ones served here can really be improved. It's nothing but watered down tomato juice with a celery stick. This place can do better. Will prob be back tbh to check out the rest of the menu.
(3)Crystal C.
I have been to this location once with a group and the second time on a date. The waitress the first time was nice. The waitress the second time was terrible. You had to chase her down for things. Which on a crowded Saturday night is terrible. The pizza is good, and if your looking for a hipster type of vibe then this is the location for you. They give you Jamerson shots for just about everything. Which is a plus who doesn't love free shots.
(4)Erin E.
It's a little different than NY style pizza, but that's what they call it. Nevertheless, it's the best NY style pizza I've ever had. As I always say, you can get the best of any cuisine in Chicago. Each time I roam, I am more and more convinced of this. You get "The Boiler Room" slice with your PB&J. That's what you get.
(4)Stephanie R.
Boiler Room is fantastic. In so many ways. So many! The pizza, salads, wings, hummus... All are great. Candice is a fantastic server. Eventually, I hope she can help train or retrain anyone who isn't as fantastic as her.
(4)Summer S.
Wow! Chicago has a lot of bars with character, but this one was among the top of my list. They were playing Star Trek at the bar during my visit, which was a million times better than the scandalous awkward junk I find at many other bars. Our bartender was sweet and friendly- he took great care of my friends and me. This is a cash only bar, but if you give the bartender your ATM receipt, you get a free shot of Jameson. Nice :) The bathrooms are even worth mentioning. They were clean, fun and upon opening the door, it plays an announcement from the train! The outdoor patio was also lovely. There really isn't a bad seat in the house.
(5)Jeremy S.
jameson on tap...enough to keep me coming back...
(4)Ryan L.
It's impossible to beat the PB&J.
(5)B M.
I go to the Boiler Room often because it's conveniently located near me, cheap, and easy to get in on any night. Plus the patio is a bonus. I wouldn't say that I ever thought the pizza was stellar, but it's not bad and I I enjoy the cocktails. I will never go back, as many have communicated due to the service. Not of the waitress, but the manager. Last night I was there with a friend, who suddenly felt very sick, not from drinking, but low blood sugar or something to that effect. Her husband escorted her away from the table to sit down because she didn't want to vomit at the table in front of other customers or faint if either was the case. She sat down near the bathrooms with her husband. Meanwhile, our server was great, she came over, offered more water, said she communicated to the manager that my friend wasn't drunk or anything, sympathized with my friend's sudden wooziness/nausea, etc. as she had witnessed it. Apparently, another server was sent to my sick friend by the manager Eric and abruptly told by the server that she was really sorry but the manager said she would have to leave immediately if she didn't call an ambulance due to liability. My friend asked if she could just have two minutes to collect herself because you know that feeling when nausea will pass, and the server told her she had to leave now per the manager. My friend returned to the table, told us this and we were allowed to stay long enough to pay our bill. My friend asked to speak with this cowardly manager on her way out as she was feeling better and the nausea had passed. He coldly communicated liability, said he had heard she had fallen on the floor (not what our waitress had said to him) and did not apologize. Apparently he was so concerned with liability, he sent someone else over to communicate this and never actually offered to call an ambulance (the message was if she did not call an ambulance, she would have to leave). He had no concern with how my friend was feeling, whether it had to do with anything she ate there, etc. He was incredibly rude and cold and repeated the words liability. In sum, if you're even feeling slightly ill, are having nausea from pregnancy, might be getting the flu, are diabetic, have low blood sugar, don't eat here because they are so worried about liability, they would prefer for you to pass out in front of the building. I'm assuming this policy also applies to Part and Labor and Scofflaw as I'm pretty sure they're all the same owners and this is how they're training their managers. I used to go to those frequently too but will be sure to tell everyone in the Logan Square neighborhood this story.
(1)Emma G.
Although I was only here for drinks and a few side dishes the fun atmosphere along with the great setup for both individual patrons and groups makes it awesome. I look forward to going back and trying some of the well known food items and rotating boozey ice cream flavors.
(4)Jimbo B.
On multiple occasions I have experience GREAT service from very friendly staff. Love the vibe at this place. Hip but not too trendy or over the top. I have only had the pizza and it was great every single time. There's so many things on the menu I want to try but the PB&J special is too good to pass up! However, friends recommend the salads and mac n cheese. 5 stars= cheap, great service, great food, great atmosphere
(5)Chuck D.
Uhm - This place is amazing! It was a last minute decision to stop by and maybe have some alcoholic ice cream and I found myself sad when we decided it was time to leave more than an hour later! I don't think this can be said enough to warn people - CASH ONLY. BUT WAIT STOP!! Don't go to the ATM before, they have one there. Yes, you may have a bank fee (a couple bucks, I think) OR if you have an awesome bank like we do you will be reimbursed for those anyway. BUT the important part of this is - show your receipt that your took out cash there and guess what? Free shot of Jameson! Worth it. I'm pretty sure if you gave me a shot of Jameson after anything that was slightly inconvenient and I will love you forever always. Next up - warm fresh mini-donuts served with a side of their amazing soft serve (we got the Jameson flavor and loved it - some found it a little too boozy, so beware, but if you like Jameson, you'll love this. Others at our table got the root beer ice cream and loved it as well). PB and J Special is absolutely genius! It is a PBR tall boy, shot of Jameson (surprise!), and a slice of pizza. Yes please. Its run by a bunch of hipsters so that is the service you are going to get, but everyone was super nice and accommodating. Also when they forgot to bring out my friend's pizza to go with his PB & J, they brought over a couple of apology shots of Jameson - again - we didn't really care that the pizza took awhile and that we had to ask... but after a shot of Jameson, I found myself HAPPY they had made the mistake. :) Bathrooms are randomly designed to be like the L stations, but it was kind of funny and I liked it. Will definitely be back!! Never change, Boiler Room... never change.
(5)Lisa G.
Just recently moved into the area and this is a short walk down the street.. did I luck out or what?! PB&Js a couple times a week!!! Slice of pizza, PBR, and shot of Jameson for $7.50. Doesn't get any better than that. $8.50 if you want a slice of specialty pizza. I got a specialty pizza with banana pepper cream, sweet and spicy banana peppers... and some other stuff I don't remember. Way too spicy for me!! But that's not saying much. I still thought it was good before my mouth went numb. Now I stick with cheese. The bathroom is like a train station, complete with sounds. Awesome. The patio is pretty at night with lights all around and they were playing Motown the last time I was there.. Set a nice mood for date night! They play classics like Austin Powers and Ninja Turtles on the screens at the bar. I've tried out a couple other places in the area but overall I think this is going to the hangout based on atmosphere, food and price! Total package.
(5)Ted C.
Has all the trappings of a good pizza but they put way too much cornmeal on that shit. Who needs a crunch in every bite? Also I'm not sure if their website is out of date but it says $21 for pizza and they charged me $23 when I got there.
(2)Tracy B.
PB&J!!! Pizza, tall boy of PBR and a shot! I love you, boiler room. I make a stop here every time I enter Chicago. Conveniently located underneath the California blueline stop so that when you finish all your Whiskey and beer, you are able to hop the train and head home. Cash only. If you happen to use the ATM, save your receipt and they will give you a free shot of Jameson. I forgot to mention the Whiskey Infused Ice Cream! Mint chocolate chip or Vanilla. They have Jameson on tap. Holla.
(5)Antonio B.
Came here with some friends for some drinks and some appetizers. On one hand the drinks were out of this world both in price and taste, I didn't care to much for the food. at best it was just average bar food minus the fresh out of the fryer feel. If it wasn't for the cheap prices I'm not sure if id come back for round two.
(3)Kristin M.
We were headed to Revolution, but decided to try Boiler Room instead. If you don't feel like pizza, you'll be pressed to find something here. If you have a hankering for some pie, though, you're in luck! It's delicious. Intrigued by the carbonara pizza, we had to order it. The ham and chicken were smokey and delicious and the cream sauce was a tasty treat. The cocktails are delicious and only $8! (WHAT?!) The best thing had to be the WHISKEY SOFT SERVE! I think it's only available on Thursdays, but it's seriously worth a return trip. I'm not a whiskey lover but, though it was strong, the sweetness of the cream balanced it perfectly. Oh, and the bathrooms are as cool as everyone says...
(4)Caroline M.
Believe all the positive reviews. The bathrooms rock!!! Oh, and the pizza is pretty good, too. And I love the PB&J idea. More places need a classy deal like that :)
(4)Alex M.
I came here with a friend because she lived around the corner and told me about this PB&J special. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better deal in the pizza world of Chicago. I have the veggie slice which was New York-style (sorry Chicago, I love deep-dish but New York will always win my heart) and totally delish. I mean, it helps when you have a shot of smooth whiskey and a PBR. I plan on hitting this place up whenever I'm in the hood. Oh! Also the decor is great. Their backyard is damn nice and I wish I'd been here during the summer to enjoy it. Also, the dudes who go here are really fascinated by butt sex. Or at least that's what I gleaned from the bathroom. I usually like to keep my sex life private but y'know, whatever floats your boat. OHHH! CASH ONLY.
(4)Kim G.
Really good thin crust, good drink, good decore. Service can be slow but that won't keep me from going back.
(4)Dan N.
Bold flavor city USA. Take down some jamo and a great slice. Call it a good start to a night.
(5)Elieke D.
Get the PBR pizza shot for $7.50, such a great deal!! and don't forget to check out the bathrooms...the CTA theme is very well done. I need to go back because I was later told that the soft serve is to die for, I will update this within the next few weeks once I have the chance to go back. It is ideally located right off the blue-line..perfect for those who commute like myself to hop off and back on.
(4)Erika G.
Yeah, yeah, Logan Square is getting gentrified, cry me a fucking river, hipster, these are DEAF EARS. I will go on record as not liking it when the Subways, Bed, Bath and Beyonds and tanning salon chains arrive, but places like this? Bring it! It's not a particularly imaginative concept. Pizza, food, beer and booze. Open kitchen with lots of busy people running around and noisy. Noisy okay - if I want quiet, I'll stay home. We buzzed thru the lively, loud dining room anyway, and made a beeline for the outdoor patio out back. But this place is great! Our needs were simple on that night. 3 cans of Pabst, and an array of $3 pizza slices. DELICIOUS, and budget friendly! I got a slice of sausage, New York Style. It was seriously a quarter of a pie, quelle value. The outdoor area as lively and fun, with the L train overlooking it. This is my kind of urban space, with a garden in the middle. It's also possible to smoke freely out back, and who doesn't indulge in a social smoke now and then. Oh, stop, really. Everything in moderation, including moderation! The bathrooms were really fun. With L train doors, modeled after a train, complete with recorded announcements. I have to admit, it was a bit disconcerting to pee while hearing "Blue Line . . . Logan Square. . . is next" as those two activities have NEVER coincided in all my years in Chicago. And I hope to not develop a Pavlovian fixation now that I have been conditioned, as I've never mixed it up before this day. Though, on the Red Line, sadly, some do. I'd go back if in the area. This place is going to hop in summer.
(3)Kerri H.
Ah, Boiler Room. Boiler Room, I just can't quit you. I don't want to keep going back but there are just things about you that are so good! Personality wise - not great. Just like most of my ex-boyfriends. The pizza is great and I love the specials. The ice cream - awesome when you want to splurge. The service, however, is comically bad. My roommate and I count the number of eye rolls we get per visit. Sitting at the bar is your best bet for good service. If you want to count the amount of times your server forgets your order then comes back and asks, "ummm, like was I getting something for you?" then grab a table anywhere. The turnover of staff there is pretty alarming. The food (specifically alongside the PB&J deal) along with the proximity to my apartment will keep me going back. I don't want to, but I just can't stop myself. I want to give this place 5 stars but the shitty service brings it down to 4.
(4)Kimmi M.
PBR Meatballs. Oh my science. I laughed because there was graffiti in the bathroom that said "Next stop, California" and I was headed to Los Angeles in a few hours. Really great service, nice selection of beers, including Delirium for the low price of $10. Bleu cheese salad was really amazing, the chicken was blackened a lot, but once smothered in bleu cheese, I couldn't really tell. Great stop for a quick bite and so close to the El, you will never miss your train. Also, Shaun of the Dead was playing as I walked in, which to me is a sign that I was bound to have a good time, or perhaps spill pizza sauce on myself. You've got red on you.
(4)Lucy L.
First off, can we all PLEASE agree to stop using the word "hipster" in our Yelp reviews? Especially when we're reviewing a neighborhood bar/restaurant in LOGAN SQUARE? You're not providing us with any new information, buddy, and you're just making yourself look ignorant. Ignorant and old. Excuse the rant, guys. Truth is that I just really love going to Boiler Room, and they've never once let me down. Their pizza is my favorite in the city--thin crust that's soft and doughy instead of crispy, creatively topped with ample use of sauces and veggies. I try to branch out sometimes and get their daily special pizza, but I just love the Purist (marinara, mozzarella, basil & sweet balsamic vinegar) so much that I usually get lured back into that one. The PBJ special is such an amazing deal that it's my dinner more nights a week than I would care to admit. The Jameson ice cream is delicious; one night I came in and literally just got drunk off eating ice cream. It ruled. Every interaction I've had here has just been lovely. Their staff is attentive and friendly, even on crazy weekend nights when the place is slammed. Being a neighborhood bar, Boiler Room promotes the notion of community to the very end: they put out a free air hose and ample bike parking for cyclists, source ingredients locally when possible, and have a steady stream of locals who come in regularly (HIPSTERS, perhaps?). I'm really happy to call myself one of those locals, even if it does make me a f*cking h*pster.
(5)Eric Z.
Great pizza, paper thin with perfect dough and cheese ratio. I had to subtract 2 stars for value and service. If you pay close to $30 for a large pizza for 2 people you would expect to be full. Other than that, our server who claimed to work there for several years could not tell us the size of the pizza slices or the one size pizza that they offer. Cool bathrooms, built to replicate the L-train with sounds and all, the drawback here that it reeked just like it too.
(3)Michael R.
Nothing like getting off the blue line and grabbing a slice and staying for way too many beers. Then stumbling your way home. Oh, and they have Jameson on tap. I feel at home at the Boiler Room.
(4)Lisa M.
Have lived a block from the Boiler Room for 2 months and finally visited on Friday for the first time. We arrived around 7:30 and the place was packed. We opted to sit outside instead of waiting for 30 min for a table inside. It was a little chilly, but we were able to get a table with a heater so we were cozy. We both had a "Boiler Room" slice and PBR's. It's NY style pizza and is super yummy. The staff was friendly and attentive. Definitely a good experience. Will add the Boiler Room to our regular rotation. Two thumbs up!
(4)Lauren A.
I really love this place. Their pizza is delicious, their beer list is great, and the drunken donut dessert is delicious. There is always good music playing, too. I have heard Blackalicious playing more than once in this place which is amazing because I thought I was the only one who still loves them. Lastly, the bathrooms are sweet. Really, there is nothing wrong with this place. The only thing is that you need to arrive semi-early on a Friday or Saturday if you want to get a table and not be standing around tormented by the smell of yummy pizza. 5 Stars!
(5)Genefe D.
I came to Boiler Room with 2 of my Chicago friends. This was before I moved here. Forgive me because I'm writing this review 3 months late so the details are a little fuzzy... I'm a pizza lover and this was definitely a good place. I will mention up front this is on of those Chicago places that only takes cash! There's an ATM there if you forget to get it before you come. The theme of this place is pretty cool. It's near one of the CTA EL stops so they have old train cars and parts of it as decor. Of course there's also the Boiler Room aspect of it that runs throughout the restaurant. The restroom is made from an old train car and it has the CTA announcements on loop and train sounds while you are in there. I thought that was kinda cute. There were so many choices but I finally settled on 2 different slices of pizzas. Everyone wanted different kinds of pizzas so this was the easiest way to go. My first slice was the Boiler Room. It had PBR meatballs and house made Giardinara. This was my first time eating Giardinara and holy cow where has this been all my life. I love different kinds of relishes especially when they are the pickle type. This is a great combination. A little meat, some hot and spicy pickley goodness on a nice thin but crusty crust. How can you not love that?! My second slice was a simple sausage. Simple but tasty. There's all kinds of delicious things on the menu as well as different specials. They have a PB & J special which is a slice of pizza, beer (PBR of course) and a shot of Jameson. They also make Jameson ice cream in house. If that doesn't bring you to this place then why go. I didn't get to part take in the ice cream because I was full but I definitely need to go back just for that.
(4)Dustin G.
This is a great place for a cheap night out. I came here with some coworkers after work one day. We each got the PBJ. That's a big slice of NY Style pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson. It's all only $7! The atmosphere is really lively and the wait staff is nice and superfast especially considering how crowded it gets. I can definitely see the Boiler Room becoming a regular after work drink spot for me. The prices alone guarantee that. However, the food is also amazing. The pizza is delicious. I tried the sausage pizza and it was delicious and fresh. They make their own sausage in house! Go and try a slice.
(5)Gunner H.
Of all the places I've had pizza, or all the bars I've ever frequented, this one gets the most right for what it's worth. No frills, no expectations. The 2 years I lived near the Boiler Room are in the top 10 two-year time periods of my life. Since moved to D.C. - miss this place and all it stood for, hipster douchbags and all. Hell, I can't even find a place that serves anything close to the PB&J I came to expect in this one-horse town. I miss you Boiler Room. Miss you like dammit.
(5)Jay S.
So I wanted some pizza last night and I saw the boiler room had some decent reviews. I dont know why. Me and my girlfriend ordered a pizza that was half cooked and almost got sick from the coleslaw dump mixture they try to pass off as giardiniera. It looked like I was eating my own puke. Not to mention the stoned frat boy who took my order. Fine dining at its worst. Never again.
(1)Ashley B.
One of my favorite bars hands down. You walk in and the place immediately looks awesome. The bar looks like a plane fuselage of some sort, it's all very urban. Even the bathrooms have tracks of the dudes voice from the L. Not to mention, they are always playing some awesomely random movies on their flip screen behind the bar. All is nice and lovely, but then you hear about the PBJ deal. Good lord. It's not a traditional PBJ, it's $7, and it gets you a shot of Jameson, a Blue Ribbon tallboy, and a pretty hefty slice of pizza. I prefer the spicy Boiler Room pizza, with sausage and jardiniere, but the purist is also good too. Also, a word to the wise, it's cash only, but then again if you use their ATM you get a free Jameson shot. I mean hey, at least you're getting something for that $2.50 fee right? Overall I think this place is definitely worth trying out if you've never been!
(5)J. Chuck K.
Minus one star right off the bat for being cash only. Luckily I knew this before coming, but they should really accommodate their guests and take a damn credit card. Even the 1970's dive bar in my hometown has started taking credit cards. Our actual experience was pretty good, and we were seated sooner than originally told. A manager saw us at the table looking around for our waitress for about 5-6 and finally got her. Unlike previous (and frequent) complaints, our waitress was pretty solid. The fried mozzarella balls were fine, but nothing worth ordering again. Even though the pizza slices were nothing incredible, they still made the PBJ the best deal in the city. The bar itself is a cool space with creative decor, and a good beer list. The PBJ is a good enough reason alone to return. As I said, this would be a 4 star review if they accepted credit cards.
(3)Derek B.
I really want to like this place more.. The pizza is really good and comes with a variety of good toppings, they have a decent selection of beer, a great patio, and a uniquely pleasant, bohemian atmosphere. Only downsides, to me; The only thing worth ordering is the pizza, their cocktails are nothing to write home about, and the staff seems a little on the apathetic side. Overall: Great for an in-and-out slice, shot 'n beer, or a pre-bar night with a large group. That's about it. *** UPDATE *** The service here seems to have got better. Hosts are always friendly, the waitstaff is more attentive and eager to share the menu with you. The pizza always comes out fast. Keep up the good work!
(5)Daniela V.
The area is cool and the Mediterranean salad is really good and the fries are awesome. I've had the cheese pizza probably about 6 times... It's always undercooked and kinda tastes like soap. I think it's got good potential but its nothing to write home about. But the location is so good so it's cool to go get a beer now and again. I just think they gotta cook their pizza longer.
(2)Ross H.
This bar has a solid design and customer base. The tenders and waitstaff were pleasant and helpful and the food (pepperoni pizza with mushrooms) was tasty and didn't take too long. The bathrooms are interestingly designed in the style of a cta subway car, complete with the smell of shit and urine (just kidding it was very clean). It was a fine place with little to nothing that made it stand out in a negative or mind blowing way. So it's toward the high end of middle for me.
(3)Paul C.
Think of the Boiler Room as Piece for the budget crowd. It's got the same hipster vibe of piece, people with arms full of tattoos, men sporting facial that hasn't been popular since the 19th Century, and PBR cans being consumed by the caseload. Like Piece, Boiler also specializes in pizza, but unlike Piece the pizza is only so-so. I tried the signature Boiler Room pizza with PBR meatballs and homemade giardiniara and it was surprisingly bland. The pepperoni was also nothing to write home over. I liked the beer selection, they do offer drinkable beers for those who no longer find drinking PBR a suitable method for going about getting trashed and of course the Jameson on tap is definitely a plus. The place is also CASH ONLY which is obnoxious. I wish I had been able to try the Jameson ice cream because it looked pretty good. I would normally deduct a star for being a cash only business. However, if you use the ATM at Boiler and give your waitress the ATM receipt you will be rewarded with a free shot of Jameson which sort of makes up for the ATM fees and I guess the price of giving out Jameson shots is more than made up for by the cash only under the table tax dodging shadiness. I would come back to The Boiler Room for drinks and maybe even try the pizza again if I'm looking for something cheap, but the pizza just isn't good enough to make me a likely return customer. Come with low expectations and a healthy love for cheap beer and a young, hip environment and I think you'll enjoy it. If you want awesome pizza, do try somewhere else. A very weak 3 stars for The Boiler Room.
(3)Maria O.
a unique place with interesting interior and funny menu, lots of cool specials everyday! Situated right next to the subway it is a very convenient and cozy place. Despite everyone drinking PBR, don't be afraid to try every single lot on the menu, especially drunken donuts,they are pretty epic. And of course everyday specials include beer shot of liquor and pizza! You just can not miss it!
(5)Chris D.
Nice Place inside. Love the Pizza. It's the one place I can get a sausage pizza with giardinara and not have it overcooked. I like chewy and soft crust pizzas. Great beer selection. Good service. Hey, what's not to like.
(4)Sarah C.
This is a long overdue review, as I am a regular here. The pizza is great, New York style, they have a bunch of delicious options including vegetarian and vegan friendly. Drunken donuts are delicious and so is the chicken satay. To anyone who has had a "rude" service experience here it is most likely you as a diner, not the service. I cannot tell you how many times I have been here in the last year and have had many many different servers and have NEVER had a bad experience. This is a trendy joint, so if you're running your server around and being rude yourself they will throw it right back at you, which I love, these people are your servers, not servants. So all in all great service, great food, great beer! Enjoy.
(5)Noy And Alan T.
Being raised in the northeast, we don't have many chill places like this. The outdoor patio seating with some pretty good hip hop music is awesome to me. I wish Boston had places like this. The bathroom is cool with their CTA theme. The projector for movies/games is nice. The pizza is good for the price. The boyfriend goes for the pb&j. $7.50 for a pbr, slice of pizza and shot of jameson...you really can't go wrong. $3 for a shot of jameson yells cheap! You can't get that price in new england. My favorite from there is the jameson soft serve! Yummm! It has the perfect sweetness to it and you can definitely taste the jameson. Although the last time we went, the soft serve tasted a lot stronger than usual. The only bad side is that the place is cash only. But if you show them a receipt with your ATM fee, they give you a free shot of jameson! We've had a lot of visitors and so far everyone we have brought here, has also loved it. The staff is nice. The food is good.
(4)Sabby H.
Boiler Room was a nice surprise. A group of us came out to have dinner and drinks here after a Friday night practice and were seated in the cool outdoor area. Pizza's are flatbread - I had the meatball slice with gardinera - very tastey. There's a running P-B-J special that is a slice of pizza, a PBR and Shot of Jameson for $7.50 - great deal! They only take cash, so be awares. There is an ATM in the restaurant. Great casual dinning. check it out whe you're in the mood for some thin slice!
(3)Susie I.
I'm sorry, but I have to say No Way to the Boiler Room. My first time there, I was trying to hook up with some friends on election night. We couldn't make it happen, and it was raining, and i just wanted some dinner, so I grabbed a slice and went home to listen on NPR. I got home, I took a bite, and Boom. Crazy disappointment. I know, it was just a slice of cheese, but it was flavorless. Boring. My second time there, I was with my boyfriend. We had to go around the corner to the bank to get cash, which was just a bummer cuz it was cold. (I hear now they have a show-yer-atm-receipt-get-a-shot deal, but no one told us then.) The cool thing was they were showing the movie Elf, which we'd been wanting to see since Xmastime. So we both sat on the same side of the table like silly-heads and watched Elf while we enjoyed our PBR/Jameson/Slice dinner. This time I ordered more than just a slice of cheese. I got a slice of the "Purist". And.....BAM! Disappointed! Bland, no flavor, No good. My boyfriend got the special, which that day was something spicy....spicy which he described as being "too spicy for the regular Joe", but he could handle it. It took him a while. (And I have to say, he handles spicy pretty dang well.) That night I decided not to go back. And whenever we're getting off the Blue Line at California we joke "The Boiler Room is burning pizza again."
(2)Claire H.
Yes, this establishment is cash only... but if you use their ATM, they reward you with a free shot of Jameson. This is the most novel, bad-I-mean-excellent idea I've ever heard of since the combination Jagermeister fountain and nacho cheese fountain party I attended, back in '09. Virtually everyone here was cool as hell. "Where're you from? Visiting from Los Angeles? Oh, that's great. Let me buy ya a drink." "That's a great shirt. You've been to Mary's in Portland? Let me buy you a drink, we're buddies now." If I wasn't so busy being a whiskey-induced social butterfly, I would have gotten down with some of those damn good looking pizza slices. Holy hell. The Boiler Room has a "PB&J Special:" A slice of pizza, a beer, and a Jameson shot. They were playing Fast Times at Ridgemont High on one of the evenings I was drinking here, and all their staff were attentive, fun, and easy on the eyes.
(5)Beatriz T.
Boiler Room is quickly becoming my most favorite bar in the neighborhood!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have lived in Logan Square all my life and I remember when the Boiler Room used to be a skanky laundromat. :) I like it much better now! Pizza is pretty good (Purist is my fave). I like a couple of the specialty drinks..one has the word Peru in it...white whiskey and egg whites...pretty strong. Good selection of beer and you can't beat the PB&J special. Jameson Soft Serve. I love the decor, very good music playing every time I have been in there and always something interesting on the TV's. CASH ONLY....sometimes it's annoying...but oh well. If you use the ATM in the back and keep your receipt you get a free shot of Jameson so all is well in my world.
(4)Matt M.
A haiku: If you leave this place Without getting free Jameo You fucked up somehow
(4)Devon C.
Sitting by myself at the bar waiting for my friend, the bartender at The Boiler Room was super friendly and made what could have been a boring and lonely hour and a half, actually fun! They only take cash but I was pleasantly surprised that if you use their ATM and bring the receipt to the bar, you get a free shot of Jameson. BEST. The pizza was gigantic and my friend and I ate so much we could barely walk. Great beer selection and the servers are very knowledgable and helpful with selection. If you love Jameson, try the Jameson ice cream, it was soooooo good. Fun place, will definitely be back!
(4)Kristina K.
Boiler Room is one of those neighborhood treasures. So many great things including as many yelpers before me mentioned, the pb&j is the best. $7.50 for a shot of Jameson, PBR and a slice of pizza (great veggie options including seitan). The one warning that comes with the pizza is if you get a custom slice, I would get extra cheese. The sauce can be a little overwhelming. Make sure to try the whiskey soft serve too!
(4)Christopher J.
Stopped in for dinner before a night out in Bucktown...make sure to stop at the ATM on the way, spot is CASH ONLY! The pizza is good, nice selections of toppings and styles....I went with the "boiler room" (meatballs and giardinara, goods!), it's NYC style thin slices that you'll likely fold over...I prefer a crispy Chicago style pizza, but its not bad for a change of pace...they have jameson infused ice cream we saw tons of people ordering, didn't try but seems to be a hot comoddity....good beer selection and overall a cheap spot to grab a dinner with friends
(4)Nicolas C.
The atmosphere is the best part about this place. When I went, they were playing underground hip-hop and showing a movie on the big screen behind the bar. Definitely a great place to go with friends to get the night started. I'll be coming back here for sure.
(4)Alycia P.
Two words: PBJ special. $8.50 for a huge slice, a shot of Jameson, and a PBR tall boy. Can't go wrong! It's always packed and the service is glacial, so don't come here if you're in a hurry, but otherwise it's a great spot. Do yourself a favor and order the boiler room slice - gigantic meatballs and ridiculously good house-made giardinera.
(4)Kori E.
We came here Saturday night, and I must admit I was feeling pretty good when we arrived so my attention to detail wasn't the best! It was a fun spot to grab a piece of pizza, a few beers and hang out. The pizza was REALLY good! I had the cheese and he had the pepperoni, both super thin large pieces. Definitely check out the bathrooms, probably my favorite aspect of this place! Its cash only, and if you use their ATM show them your receipt and you get a shot of Jameson...he passed on the shot...but it was a nice touch! I'll have to come back a tad more sober so I get a clearer impression of this place. Its right under the EL, so convenient if you live off the blue line.
(3)Josh G.
Great Pizza, Jameson on tap, and good beer selection (although you only want to drink PBR when your there!). Fun place to start an evening of heavy drinking. Always easy on the wallet.
(4)Joe M.
This place rules! Always a great selection of draft and bottled beer and the pizza great. If you want a fun casual atmosphere, go to Boiler Room and sit on the back patio. Don't even think about not ordering the booze soft serve ice cream!
(5)Nikki A.
The food is traditional bar food. I think the quality of the food are way yummier than other bars, but it's not the best. Their booze and craft beer selection is top notch. They have decent specials on weekdays. Coolest bathroom ever. Cult films play on a projector at the bar. Oh, and it's a cash place. If you use their ATM, *keep your receipt*! You get a free shot of Jamo. Oh, and speaking of Jameson..... they have real booze whiskey ice cream. Not flavored ice cream, but soft served goodness that you can totally get tipsy off of. That's the reason why I keep coming back.
(4)Jose C.
Welcome to Logan Square Hipster paradise... and that's not a bad thing. With Revolution Brewery around the corner and Township next door, the corner of Milwaukee and California has become a mecca for skinny men with beards and the women who love them, but I digress. The Boiler room is an awesome bar and pizza joint, great for a meal and happy hour. The back patio has seating for about 40 and is great for enjoying a PBR, slice of pizza and shot of Jameson (their everyday $7.50 special) on a summer evening. Their pizza is New York style that they serve also with vegan options (not my thing, but my vegan friends swears by it). Last time I was there I had a pepperoni, bacon, chives Bar-b-q slice that was outstanding. But what you have to try is their Jameson infused soft-serve ice cream, this stuff is amazing! I don't think I need to explain why. So let me just repeat myself- JAMESON SOFT-SERVE ICE CREAM! Throw on a classic Smiths album in the background and yes, this is hipster paradise.
(4)Kris R.
where the eff has this place been all my life?! i just chalked it up to being another divey bar (don't get me wrong, i love dive bars). but this is a legit pizza/beer place. i noticed the decor looked quite similar to ruxbin's, so i googled that shit so quick and i was right. i love it - recycled what-have-yous all over the place. seriously genius. i waited for my friend at the bar and ordered an amber ale. yum. i was seated within 10 min on a saturday night at 8p without my friend needing to be there. she eventually found me, we chatted. we waited. and waited. we were able to snag someone in the first 15min to find our server, but nothing. we asked again and finally... we were showered with apologies and love. good thing we didnt care at all and he had made it up to us. since we were just two lil' ol' ladies, we ordered single pizza slices. i got the boiler room (because i'm the less dainty one) and she ordered the purist. both wonderful. the homemade gardineira was tasty. although we did not technically order the PBJ, we did get a shot of jame-o each, since the delay was great. our server was super sweet, fun and cute. what more can you ask for? we ended the meal with the ice cream with all the booze in it. SO good. and overall, the meal was SO CHEAP! you know i'll be back. heart this place so hard. cash only, but cash only with a shot of J once again, with your ATM receipt. BR, you are genius and i love you.
(4)Nikkie H.
I have no idea why, but I thought Boiler Room was a dive bar. Nopers. Met a big group of friends there last night before going to see a show at Revolution Brewing and I am now a huge fan. Cool interior, tasty pizza, and perhaps the coolest bathroom I've ever been in. I stuffed my face with pizza, enjoyed a cool brew and walked out only paying $20. For Chicago that's not half bad.
(4)Danie R.
Jameson whiskey on DRAFT? Great beers!? PIZZA!? I love this place. Yes, it's full of hipsters, but it's also amazing. It's also not too pricey either. It's busy, the service isn't great, but that's part of the charm.
(5)Patricia R.
This place is a great hangout in Logan Square. They have delicious pizza at a great price both by the slice and a whole pie. My favorite is the purist - fresh mozzarella, basil, balsamic reduction. I love their pizza because it's thin and crispy. Their salads and apps are pretty good, too. The dip, which is spinach artichoke dip with roasted garlic and parmesan in a homemade bread bowl is fantastic. It comes out warm and perfect. And have I mentioned the PBJ special? You can get a slice of pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson for just $7! I'm not a Jamo fan, so I just pass off my shot to someone else at my table. Still a great deal! If you're looking for a great bar to have some food and drinks at with friends, this is the place. It's not ridiculously loud, the atmosphere is good and they have a decently sized patio with plenty of tables and space. I especially love coming here during the warm weather months to take advantage of the patio out back. Great space! Note: it is cash only, but there is an ATM in the bar AND if you use it, you get a free shot of Jameson. Pretty neat! Thumbs up!
(4)Kat k.
Pb&j (pizza beer and Jameson shot) is worth the trip! ATM receipt earns you a free shot of jameson, which is free if you use a bank that reimburses ATM fees!!
(5)Keenan B.
Pretty decent spot. Obviously, you go in for the PB&J, which is an awesome, and the Jameson tastes AMAZING, because it's straight out of a cask. I just sip it. I just sit there and sip on it. It is delicious. And all of their standard slices are great, especially The Boiler, which is loaded beyond belief. Service is alright, depending a little bit on who you get. They're all very attractive people, but the best servers are, coincidentally, the ones who also describe a particular slice as being "effin' dope." So that's nice. Atmosphere is also nice. It's dark, like a bar, without feeling filthy. Decor is modern, even though the theme is inspired by the CTA. Be sure to check out the Men's Room, with its 'Wall of Butts.'
(4)joe b.
Good pizza slices, cheap beer and whisky. Nice staff. What else do you need to know?
(5)Cooper R.
Ended up here after visiting Revolution Brew. It's a large space with decent pizza. Not great, but better than most places offering pizza by the slice. The service is fast and friendly. The bathrooms are replicas of a metra and public transit station including all the bells and whistles. Fun atmosphere. The downside, they only take cash!!! There is an ATM outside the door, but who wants to wait in the cold for that!?
(4)Maribel C.
The only good thing about this bar is their pbj special, service could be better...
(2)Nina J.
I've been here quite a few times and plan to keep coming back. The music is great (bowie, hendrix and the likes) the staff is super friendly, AND it's affordable! you really can't beat the PB&J special---slice of pizza, PBR tall boy, and shot of Jameson!!! It's only 8.50 (was 7.50 earlier this year but who cares!) on any day of the week. The slice of pizza you get is not just some generic bs it is actually better than the cheap pizza you can get around the corner.
(5)Jacqueline M.
I have been here a few times, but after the last time NEVER AGAIN. The pizza here is good, and you can't beat the PB&J deal (slice of pizza, PBR, and a shot of Jameson). But I was treated so poorly, I will not be returning. My husband and came here after a funeral, so we had on nice clothes. The hostess was very cold, and told us there was a short wait. Not a problem, until she started seating her hipster friends who arrived long after us. I complained and we were seated after waiting for 45 mins. Then we sat at the table for 20 mins with no service! We walked out at that time. I don't want to think we were treated differently because of how we were dressed, but I spoken to other friends that have had very similar experiences. I will also say that I never had a problem when I showed up in jeans and a t-shirt.
(1)Greg M.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PLACE! PBJ-pabst, jameson, and a piece of pizza for 7.50! You can't go wrong! (well, unless you overdo this special-pace yourself!) This place has an overall friendly feel, and it's actually ok that it's a cash only bar. When you take money out of the atm machine there and present it to the waiter you get a free shot of whiskey. I honestly used to hate whiskey, or thought I did until I came here ( I wasn't going to not drink it!) The pizzas that they offer are also really yummy, it's not just your standard slice. They are open late, and conveniently off the blue line if you don't live in the area.
(5)Sarah F.
Amazing bar in Logan Square right off the California blue line stop. Very cool atmosphere, great drinks, bathrooms that sounds like you are on the El, and hands down the best place for a vegan to feel normal and get a pizza. The pizza is just amazing for all eaters, but its nice to have vegan options here too. The crust is thin but crunchy and chewy, the sauces are great, and topping list is fantastic as well. A shout out for them having daiya and seitan meats! Pizzas are also large. Great place to hang out!
(5)Steve G.
If there was a pizza place in the movie Blade Runner - it would look like this. Good food, decent beer selection, well-chosen music, friendly service. The ONLY thing keeping this from 5 stars is that the pizza is fold-able. Don't get me wrong, it's delicious, it's just that...c'mon this is Chicago. You don't have to go stuffed but how about one thicker variety?
(4)P M.
Um, YES. YES. YES. YES. YES. YES. F--K A DEEP DISH! Boiler Room is ALWAYS delicious. ALWAYS Cheap, too! My one and only qualm is the host station: Seriously, you're paid to seat me and make sure my overall experience is great. Stop constantly being inconvenienced by the fact that I walked in...
(4)Omar G.
This place is comfortable, feels like it can become my regular joint, which it kind of is cause since moving to Logan Square I've gone to this place more than any other and it's the place I take people to when I'm burdened with the task of showing a good time. Boiler Room is about the quality food (always impressive pizza!), the solid beer menu and also about the company you're with; the audio/visual entertainment is toned down to background level. Pros: Pizza! Jameo Ice Cream! Con: Cash Only (though if you use their ATM you get to trade the receipt for a shot of Jameo)
(5)Amy T.
Stacey the server? Terrible service. It was very close to closing time but my friend and I walked in about 30 minutes prior to closing. We ordered quickly and were not trying to have a long stretched out dinner but weren't trying to swallow our pizzas whole either. Anyways, home girl was definitely giving us the "get the eft out I want to go home vibe." She grabbed our plates, some pizza still on, and we had to grab em back. Sorry boo, I know closing down sucks, but I'm also a customer who is damn hungry. Let me eat my pizza, please. In general she was just inattentive and didn't come to the table besides taking the order and then trying to take it away. Now, if you think I was one of those people, who decide to "hang out" when the lights are up and people are sweeping the floor, nope. Restaurant was not even closed yet. So that was a huge turn off. Was the food good? Yep. Beer and free Jameson shot a good deal? Hells yeah.
(3)Lupe G.
So I didn't get to try their awesome pizza but I went for drinks and their booze-infuzed ice cream. I like the hipster Vibe; reminds me of a Seattle scene. It's also right across from the L-station so that rocks moreso! I'm definitely going back to try their pizza.
(3)Alissa R.
A good spot in Logan and has good pizza. Not the best in the world, but it's cheap enough. The door chick is always bitchy but who cares.
(4)Michael G.
The Irish say if you can remember a "Chicago wake" (leaving Chicago for somewhere else), it wasn't much a wake. And since I don't remember much of my going away party here due to too many PB&Js, in that fine Irish tradition, I compose the following celebration of beer and whiskey: If you hate your job and you've had a bad day, Three letters will take the pain away...PB&J! If you're out with a girl and you don't know what to say, Three letters will make the words from your mouth stray...PB&J! If you can't go to sleep and you just want to lay, Three letters will knock you out right away...PB&J! If you're from Logan Square and homesickness holds sway, Writing a review of this place's best invention will make you go yay...PB&J! While it's not a secret anymore and packed even more than Revolution Brewery on most nights, The Boiler Room is still pure Logan Square. The reason is that locals keep going there for the pizza and the magic it makes as part of the PB&J. Pizza, Blue (Ribbon), and Jameson! A $7 value "meal" and magic express ticket to a good buzz without being sick! Multiples should be consumed at the patron's own risk unless prescribed by a doctor (probably a psychiatrist). They might cause memory loss. And extreme "blurtiness" and "inappropritude" in certain patients. Maybe me. I don't remember. As far as the pizza goes, it's a mini-New York Style (which keeps with the general subway theme of the bar) slice, and greasy as heck. But tasty and saucy at the same time. While the flavors try to be gourmet, it maintains a certain Logan Square edge with slightly stiff cheese and slightly gloppy tomato sauce. I wouldn't call it my favorite cheese pizza in the world, but it takes the edge off of a shot of Jameson very nicely. Now the place is crowded and the waitstaff seems consistently overwhelmed so service can be poor. But that's a small price to pay to enjoy a PB&J! At least from what I can remember.
(4)Daniel M.
This place makes an unusual type of pizza that I'm not sure how to describe. It's thin-crust and square, but that doesn't really get the idea across; you just have to try it, which I recommend. They try to do a lot of weird stuff that has nothing to do with why they're good (they serve house cocktails for some reason, and they make "whiskey ice-cream" which just tastes like someone poured Jameson on top of soft serve.) The wise diner will simply ignore these side-shows and get a slice of pizza and a beer (and a shot of Jameson, which they push as though they own the distillery or something, if you must). Note: CASH ONLY. Their ATM takes a hefty fee but apparently they'll "reimburse" this fee with a free shot of Jameson if you keep your receipt.
(4)Kelsey P.
Oh the Boiler Room. I love everything about you. Your patio. Your cheap PBR. Your pizza. Your Salads. Never change.
(4)Megan G.
Two girlfriends and I landed here after being unwilling to wait 40 minutes to be seated at Revolution (and having to scream at each other all night...man, RevBrew is loud as heck!) We were seated pretty quickly on the back patio which is an awesome space. It's big and open with lots of seating and I couldn't help but be charmed by the giant industrial tote light sculptures. The inside of the restaurant is a little weird....they're going for some kind of theme, but I can't quite tell what it is. And they were playing IT on the porthole tv's behind the bar. We experienced none of the service problems others have complained of - our server was really nice and plenty attentive. I was disappointed to see Boiler Room doesn't offer individual or small pizzas - you only choice is to order a giant one or order from the very limited slice menu. Since my two friends were vegetarians there wasn't much available to them on the main menu so we opted for slices and salads. We also ordered Left Hand Nitro Stout (on tap, so awesome!) Our salads came first and I will say we all agreed these were excellent. Again, I wish there were a little more variety in the salads offered, but they're well priced and quite large. However when our slices arrived (as it turned out, we all ordered the special veggie slice of the evening) none of us were impressed. I love pizza and I extra love NY style pizza...these were fine, but nothing to write home about. When it came time to pay the bill we realized Boiler Room is cash only. Cash only restaurants irritate me on principle - and yes, I realize if you bring them your ATM receipt you get a free Jameson shot. Unfortunately on this evening, their ATM was broken so my friends had to wander off into the neighborhood in search of cash. Overall Boiler Room was fine. The beer garden is fantastic and if I lived in the area I could see meeting up with friends here all the time. However their cash only policy is annoying and the food is "meh", so I won't be making it a point to return.
(3)Kali S.
Awful service. We went in after work. I was still dressed for my big kid job when we got there. They told us we were next on the list to get a table... after an hour of watching everyone else get seated (large groups, small groups, our size groups) I decided to say something. They still refused to seat us and kept saying we were "next" while seating others. The pizza was pre-made and nothing special. If you must go here, bring thick rimmed glasses and hipster boots. Don't go inside looking like you do something besides barista.
(1)Jesse B.
Wait??? I was at the Boiler Room? I must have stopped in while buzzed for some delicious pepperoni pizza by the slice and a shot of Jameson. Sounds about right.
(4)Megan T.
What to say about our experience with Boiler Room? I like their beer list and that if you got money out of their ATM (because they're cash only), you get a free shot of Jameson. I liked the crust of the pizza but wasn't crazy about the toppings - our buffalo chicken pizza tasted like it had been drenched in Franks hot sauce. I didn't love that the waitstaff passed our hold for 45 minutes or that the waitress then missed our table for another 15 minutes. Or that the guy cleaning the tables spilled my beer and refilled a soda with water. All and all it was a super mediocre experience so thank goodness we were with good company. I don't know if I would go back but I know people that only come to Logan Square to go to the Boiler Room.
(3)Al D.
It's a shame I gotta give this place 2-stars, but that's what Boiler Room truly deserves. Hype about the interior aside (it's going to be dated and laughable in about 1.5 years anyway), the service here is unacceptable. If you're ok with attitudes that might correspond with the fact you're in scenester territory, then you'd love the mediocre pizza and their "PB&J" combo. Otherwise, what happened to us might make you re-evaluate why you'd spend your hard-earned cash here. A member of our group ordered shots of Malort. Nobody except for him had had it before. Our tatooed, faux-hipster (fauxster?) waiter jumped down our throats with "WHAT?!?! You've never had Malort? Where are you FROM!?!" "Born in Cicero..." He abashedly looked away and took our order. Our pizzas came soon, and we had to wait another 10 minutes for the last one. One of us reminded him politely that we didn't get the last pizza yet. He tersely said through clenched teeth that it's on the way, and followed up with a sarcastic and condescending "You guys are cool" and ran off. We were stunned. We were further put off when he literally threw down the plate on the table in front of the girl who ordered it, like she was a farm animal. Service like this can't be justified just because you're at a cool restaurant in a trendy location. I spent years at several service-based jobs in different fields and I know some days can suck, but if a simple question warranted behavior like what we saw that night, then certain employees would be well-advised to find another profession. Maybe as a narrator for audiobooks or something.
(2)Gene X.
This place is pretty sweet. My friend Rebecca took me here after a few cocktails and bone marrow at Longman & Eagle and it was a nice change. The subway(?) motif is fun and it's got a pretty laid back vibe. We were there around midnight on a weeknight so it wasn't too crowded. They have a decent beer selection and since it was late enough, I had a hankering for something to nom on and so we ordered slices. The pizza here is really good! I got a sausage slice and it was huge, cheap and tasty! Definitely my favorite thin crust in Chicago (only been to a few other places so far - Coalfire, most recently). Definitely will be back next time I'm in the hood!
(4)Amy M.
Sooo good! They have amazing and unique pizza that you won't find anywhere else! They also have a great night crowd and strong delicious cocktails! Check it out!
(5)Ericka A.
I got to devour yummy pizza and drink beer, but I also had to say goodbye to Michael G. He's leaving us for DC, so my trip to The Boiler Room was bittersweet. Luckily, he planned a nice little going away get-together here and about a dozen of us were able to gather around a large table and give him a proper farewell. I really enjoy the atmosphere of the place. They play XRT type music and there is a whole lot going on. People are friendly and there is a constant lively chatter. It's pretty loud, but you can still hear your dining companions. The modern decor of the restaurant also gave me good vibes. It kind of has shades of Chipotle, but without as much of the Tin Man feel. The food and drinks? They're alright. Nothing really wrong with it, but just not much "wow" factor. I ate it. It was greasy and yummy. I paid WAY too much for it. If I remember correctly, a PBR and two slices of pizza were about $20. That's ridiculous. They do have one good deal. It's called the PB&J (P - Pizza, B - Beer & J - Jameson). It's a slice of pizza, a PBR and a shot of Jameson. I would have gone for that if Jameson and I hadn't had a falling out many years ago. I also saw they have some burger pizza that's $23. It better come with 5 strips of thick-cut bacon on each slice and do my laundry at that price.
(3)Amanita M.
Very disappointing, considering the positive reviews on yelp. After ordering a whole pizza pie, the dirty bird, and the mozzarella balls: Considering the price: five buck for ten tiny mozzarella balls, we were disappointed that they tasted like old chicken grease. Nasty. The chicken wings w/ bbq sauce were horrible, tasted like they were soaked in grease and fried in lard. The overall opinion was that they were not fresh. The pizza: pepperoni with sliced tomato: the house sauce was tangy and tasty, the pepperoni was alright, but there was virtually no cheese and there was so much corn meal that it ruined the texture and altered the flavor. Final verdict: avoid everything fried, they recycle their oil too much, and everything fried tastes absolutely terrible. The pizza is alright, 7 out of 10, if you like new york style, ultra thin crust with minimal cheese. The house sauce has good flavor, and the pepperoni is decent, but for the price.... I would go somewhere else.
(1)Kayleigh M.
Jameson Ice Cream. This may be the only real reason I go. The pizza is pretty lame and the beer selection is on par with most places in the area. I live so close to this place I think I only frequent it because it's convenient. Atmosphere is definitely relaxed. One time I showed up with a few friends on a Friday night to be told it was a 45 minute wait. I literally laughed in the door guy's face so I feel I should apologize. It wasn't you, you were great, but anyone willing to wait 45 minutes for TBR is insane.
(3)Kristiana A.
I only had the Jameson Ice Cream but that alone is worth coming back for! You get the taste and the alcohol content of a shot of Jameson without feeling the burn. Amazing idea and I wish I could have bought a pint to bring home with me to San Diego :(
(4)Kathleen C.
I was talked into visiting the Boiler Room, so as you can imagine, I was quite skeptical....Promised that it was "just off of the blue line", I grudgingly went along with this. Wow, I was surprised. First of all, it was directly across from the blue line (I was sure that was a fib...). Secondly, it wasn't so overly crowded that we couldn't snag a table. We had to share with two really drunk guys...but it is a bar, so I'll let it slide. The atmosphere is cute - very unique..and who doesn't love a good viewing of National Lampoon's (random vacation...) in mirror images above the bar? Atmosphere is a 4. I had a glass of wine (I know, don't judge...) which was surprisingly good. We shared three slices...classic, sausage and the boiler room. I was shocked that I liked the boiler room pizza as I don't like giardiniera, but it was really delicious. The crust was pretty good and the pizza was tasty, though I'd like a little more done-ness on the bottom of the crust. However, food was a 4. Service was slow, but it was a bit busy. They were really friendly as well, so I won't knock the timing quite so much. Service is a 3. Value...seriously...$7 for a beer, shot of whiskey AND a slice of pizza? I can't even get a slice of pizza for that. The wine was reasonable as well and the individual pizza slices were cheap as well. A solid 5 for value. As to the bathrooms...they ROCKED...who doesn't love going to use the bathroom in an el? Well, you don't have to guess what that's like anymore...albeit, much cleaner! 5 for bathrooms! So, I guess I'll have to come back since I liked it so much...ok, I lose...I shouldn't have been such a baby about going....
(4)Audre L.
PB&J: 1 can of PBR, 1 slice of Pizza, and 1 shot of Jameson. Now how fun is that? Also, the boozy soft serve is actually really good. I had some of the Butterscotch flavor, it was tasty. Not sure what the Jameson soft serve would taste like. The salad (Spinach, Radicchio, Fennel with Orange Vinagerette) was really good, and perfect size to leave room for a slice of Pizza. Try the Purist - the balsamic on the pizza is quite tasty.
(5)Jennifer K.
Sorry guys, but the pizza is not that great. What is great is the Jameson soft serve, the super cheap PBJ deal and the bonus you get for using the ATM since it's cash only. I'm also a fan of the decor and the friendly wait staff (we know how cool it's become to act as if you're doing customers a favor by bringing their food to their tables *see restaurant next door*). Although I prefer pizza from other places, you really can't lose with Boiler Room as a pregame/postgame stop.
(4)Melissa S.
This is a great bar to pass some hours. I've always had good service. All the food is tasty, simple fair for good prices. Jameson on tap is always a win for me, and getting a free shot really takes the sting out of having to use the ATM and pay fees. The bathroom decoration is fun. Boiler Room gets 4 stars for being a nice, solid place that I would recommend to friends.
(4)Johnny T.
From the other reviews, it appears as though I got very lucky with my Boiler Room experience. Wow! After wanting to try it for months, I finally found the right time to meet up with a long-lost buddy and get some booze and pizza and catch up. The location right under the California stop is crazy-convenient. You don't have to deal with late buses or street parking to get a (responsible) drink on. I dig it. The interior is dark but really well-designed. I think I would enjoy walking around and checking out the details. My buddy arrived before I did and he had a seat at the bar. I joined him. Turns out, that was a wise decision. Had we had table service, this might be a different review. But, it's not. We sat at the bar, ordered the PB & J (and another slice of pizza, each), did the shot, folded the pie and started catching up. Yeah, the bartender wasn't particularly friendly, but we didn't need him to be. He wasn't a waiter. He was a bartender. He got our orders to us quickly and left us alone. Good show. The pizza reminded me of Santullo's and that's a good thing. The slices were wide and thin. The sauce is the slightest bit tangy, the crust is chewy and the sausage is crumbly. These are all pluses to me. I'm not much of a barfly (I tend to enjoy my drinking curled in the fetal position in a corner), but the seats were comfortable enough that my a$$ wasn't hurting after sitting on a stool for such a long time. Another win. For $7.50 (before that second slice of pizza), you could do far worse than a shot, a beer and some pizza. Sit at the bar and enjoy some good conversation with a friend. (judging from other reviews) Don't come here with a group and sit at a table. You might 'enjoy' a completely different experience. Keep it simple: one friend, one shot, one beer, two slices.
(4)Rachel H.
PBJ is the thing here, I know. In fact, I came in assuming this is how the night would go down. I oddly enough even ate a real PBJ sandwich for lunch today, yet that's not what I got. I was lured by better beers and I didn't really need a shot. Boiler Room does indeed have a respectable beer list, and a respectable pizza list, even for slices. The sausage slice absolutely hit the spot. The boyfriend super enjoyed his veggie slice which changes up frequently, and this evening's slice choice involved veg. bacon. Blasphemy to myself, an angels' choir to him. We also grabbed a couple salads which were very fresh and were a good complement to the pizza. The patio also seems pretty appealing, especially since it was a little warm inside what with all the pizza baking going on. Maybe the service was slower than I'd hoped for in a slice and brew spot, but that slice was damn good, and we were able to ascertain the lowdown of the horrible action movie being played throughout. It was called "The Last Sentinel" and was purchased in a box set at Strack & Van Til for like $4 if you're interested. Or you could just watch it over a delicious slice at The Boiler Room. Cash only, homies
(4)Angie M.
Just a few things to note. 1. The back patio is where it's at. It's pretty spacious and the best part is you can smoke back there. Huzzah! I'm confused by the staircases leading nowhere, but I'll let it pass. 2. They're out of a lot of things on Sunday. While I appreciate our server telling us that they're out of polenta, I'm also not loving that he told me that they get their food deliveries on Monday so most of the stuff you're getting by Sunday is old. Weak, yo. Don't make me feel like my chicken satay appetizer is sub par.
(3)Shannon L.
I like this place...like the atmosphere...like the feel...like the specials...plus the ladies room handi-man stall had my name written all over it so I felt very at home. We had great service, I liked the crowd. I'll be back. Plus the PB&J special is pretty amazing. I didn't love the pizza. I liked a lot about the pizza but it just wasn't flavorful enough for me...I first ordered the Boiler Room Slice which had PBR meatballs and giardinara. It was light on the meatballs (I only spotted on on the big slice) and the giardinara is served cold on top. However, our waitress happily told me that she would heat it up for me (in fact she brought me a whole new slice with warm giardiniera) and apologized for not telling me this is an option when I ordered. With the newly warmed giardinara, the slice was pretty good. The 2nd slice I ordered was pepperoni and sausage...and it just had no flavor...neither the sauce or the meat. It was a little confusing. It looked amazing (love the thin crust)...it just needed a little more flavor. Anyway, like I said before. I'll be back and I'll order the pizza again (this time with warm giandinara).
(4)Robin W.
How can you not love this place?! Especially during the summer! The outdoor patio is great! It's a great place to just chill with a group and have some drinks. The beer list is decent and the specialty drinks are good and STRONG. I had great, friendly service the couple of times I have been here. It's super easy to get to, right off the blue line and with multiple bus lines just down the street. And the pizza! I love a quick slice of New York style pizza every once in awhile! I know that might be blasphemy in Chicago, but I'm getting old and my metabolism can't handle the super thick, super fatty Chicago-style pizza very often anymore! After a beer (or four), a thin, crispy slice of NY pizza is just what you need. There are plenty of veg options too, and even... ew... seitan toppings. Also who would pass up the PB&J special??? Not peanut butter and jelly, but pizza, beer and jameson!! For $7.50. Love :)
(5)Minjee Y.
This place has a good vibe. Nice ambiance. I love the videos the play. Happy Gilmore is on. Hell yeah. $7.50 for a super large pizza. A big PBR. AND A shot. That's a deal....... I love it here. It's nice. I will be coming back. The pizza here is great. Get the purist one. It's the best!!!
(4)David S.
Ok, this is some damn good pizza, damn good! I'm not usually a fan of thin crust "New York Style" (and this was physics-bendingly thin shit) pizza but the vegan options (daiya cheese, variety of seitan), cornmeal crust and fresh ingredients won me over. I ordered the "F**k New York" cocktail to balance things out and it was stiff and tasty. Service was a bit spotty but friendly. The bathrooms made me feel at home too cuz peeing in the corner of a train is how I usually do it anyways. This place is a no-brainer. Fucking go already.
(4)J M.
Stopped in for a quick round with a friend, en route to going home one weekend night. Couldn't believe how rude the staff was, they act like big babysitters to their patrons. I left laughing at the level of unprofessionalism. but maybe that is what happens working at a four a.m. bar. maybe they should just like their jobs better......
(1)Meryl M.
*CASH ONLY* Free shot of Jameson with receipt if you use their ATM though (shot is $3 and ATM fee is $2.50). Been here a few times since moving back to Chicago in the fall. Though some of the pizzas can be pricey, you can't beat the PB&J Special. A slice of delicious thin crust pizza (lots of options), shot of Jameson, and a tallboy PBR for $8.50. It's usually busy but I've never waited more than 10 minutes and rarely have had trouble hearing the other people with me, which is usually what I look for in restaurants and bars. And there is a vegan pizza option too (downside being that you can only order a whole pizza, not just a slice).
(5)cassie r.
I can't say I've often left a restaurant utterly offended by the service, but this was exactly the situation I found myself in after my evening at Boiler Room last night. The night started out okay - we put our name in and stood near the bar while we waited for our table. My friend ordered a six pack of PBR for our group, and was handed six cans with the plastic ring still on it to take back with us. We sat about 10 minutes later, and our waitress came up a while after that to take our order. We weren't sure what we wanted, so we put in for some apps (hummus and fries) and continued to discuss the plan for pizza. A few minutes after that, the waitress spilled about half a dozen beers right behind our table, spraying two of us with the fallout. We did receive an apology, so mmkay, fine. Shit happens. Then about 5 minutes later, a manager came up to our table and asked where we got our beer and whether we actually bought it at their restaurant. She was essentially accusing us of BYOBing in a bar that definitely was not BYOB. My friend said he bought it at the bar, and she left without another word. So, let me stop for a minute, and say that If you're going to accuse a group of people of something pretty egregious, wouldn't you FIRST ask the waiter/waitress and bartender if they had served said beer, before accusing customers of smuggling it in? Apparently, common sense did not prevail in this situation, because alas, the manager then asked the bartender, and of course, the bartender confirmed our story. About 20 minutes later (probably because the waitress heard me lamenting the lack of apology), Ms. Manager came back and gave a pretty pathetic "sorry about that..." Was there a discount on our bill? No. Was there an offer for maybe a free drink or app for my friend? No. Nothing. While the food was good, the service was so terrible it's pretty tough to have anything but a negative memory of this place.
(2)Tony W.
Pizza here is great, drinks are cheap service is good, but stop at the atm they do not accept plastic
(3)Kelsey K.
Any place that shows Snatch and Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels back to back (in addition to playing whatever music they want) is a place I will frequent. I'm just SUPER glad that now there's a place that I can hit up if I want to stay on the train for one more stop in the dead of winter and then pop in to warm up again! Honestly though, it comes off as a place where the staff doesn't care and is just too cool, but they really are equally as genuine as those with whom they're speaking. If you're a douche, they're a douche right back at ya... if you're cool and friendly, they are too. So don't be a bullshitter and you'll be good. Oh yeah, don't forget cash though because they don't take cards and their ATM isn't one of the super cheap ones.
(5)Diana R.
2 hip 2 quit. This is the only pizza I've experienced so far that MUST be eaten with a fork and knife. It's incredibly thin! (Both I've tried have been scrumptious: some "special" chicken pizza and pepperoni.) Cash only spot, but if you use their ATM and show a receipt, you get a shot in return. Lots of cool kids. 4 stars because it's a good slice of pizza and I might have it if I'm in the neighborhood, but I don't go out of my way for it. (It's about a 45 minute train ride or 25 minute drive from my home.) Cash only can be annoying.
(4)Eileen Z.
When it comes to pizza, there's sauce people and cheese people. I'm a sauce person. Tart, with a little tang, with a minor cut of salt and seasoning and that's all I'd ever need. The sauce is money. I'd give 5-stars just for that alone even if I hated everything else on the menu. Which I don't. But just sayin'. I can also be the 92382461209593th person to mention the PBJ (off-menu). Because dude, 1. PIZZA 2. A TALL PBR 3. A SHOT OF JAMO. Dude. Not for beer and whiskey snobs but it'll get you thru the night for cheap. We can save snobbishness for another day and another place. Other highlights: Outdoor patio and the bathroom. Not joking. And not being sarcastic. See for yourself! Cash only but there's an in-house ATM if needed.
(5)Anna H.
This place is dangerously close to my house. I love the pb&j and their veggie slices. Warning- it's cash only, but if you present the receipt from the ATM, you get a free shot of Jameson. The service isn't always great, sadly. It's usually really hard to get a glass of water. But it's cheap and delicious and I can't stay away.
(4)ashley d.
Pretty cool digs. Super hipster Logan Square spot. Furnished and decorated with recycled cta el materials. Great beer and shot selections. Tons of different types of pizza to order whole or by the slice. There are vegan options, including pizza, but it has to be ordered as a whole za... No single slice option, unless it happens to be one of their daily, special, not "special," pizzas. Cash only, so bring yo green....however there is an ATM... and fee is made up for with a free shot of Jameson...just show receipt to bartender or server. Like I said, very hipster-esque, so come with your cool jeans, quirkey/ironic outfit, and funky haircut. Or just come as you are, they'll still serve you.
(4)Jeremy H.
Excellent decor, food, and bathroom! Must visit the bathroom. Service was awesome, and you even get a free shot if you use their ATM. Just give your ATM receipt to your server.
(5)Matt L.
Reaffirmation of 5 star review. Despite all the emo kids at the bar post Korn show (I swear, I didn't go, I just saw them wandering aimlessly from Congress), the waiter still accommodated my North Shore No. 6 flip request. Ordering a drink with frothed egg whites on a Saturday night is a dick move in general, but I had to do it so these peeps wouldn't think Ryan and I were at the concert. It was delicious, and I don't even drink gin. Sorry, Boiler Shop bartenders!
(5)Jocelyn P.
I love The Boiler Room! This is def one of my go-to spots in the neighborhood, and has been since their joyful opening some time ago. To me, the main attraction is the atmosphere. I love the repurposed/recycled furnishings, the fun old movies playing behind the bar (like, Empire Records, Blues Brothers, What About Bob, etc-- classic youth favorites), the playlists (this point must be emphasized: punk, 60s garage band, hip hop, and everything else that is considered to be good music by those who like music), and most of all the chill/relaxed vibe. The waitstaff are all very friendly and cool, and cute! There are always lots of young people here, and it's usually comfortably crowded. There's a good mix of the bar scene, group tables, and intimate tables for two. ;) OK now let's talk about the two MAIN highlights: 1.) The back patio. 2.) The PB&J. Summer is the best season for The Boiler Room with their spacious back patio where the goos vibes continue. It's so comfortable, I could go here every week. In fact, I come close!! And you must know by know about the pizza, beer, and Jameson for $7.50. A spectacular deal that is unbeatable. haha. Recommendations: get the PB&J with a purist slice of pizza, share some fries, and maybe try the super-potent Jameson ice cream!! :)
(5)Isabel M.
Good beer, good pizza, and an awesome concept. For $7, you can get the PB&J, which is a slice of pizza, a PBR, and a shot of Jameson. That's a great deal!! I was here in the early evening on a Sunday, and had the place mostly to myself, so I didn't deal with the crowds mentioned on other reviews. Don't miss a memorable trip to the loo while you're here! Their bathrooms look like public transit trains!!! Seriously, the bathrooms are really fun, with train doors, and automated speakers declaring "Next Stop, Logan Square. Doors Closing." So much fun!
(5)Kelli A.
Three of us came here for an early dinner tonight. We got seated and served right away. Our waitress was good about coming over every once in awhile to check on us. We loved that they were playing the old Batman movie, then they played the old Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie behind the bar. We ordered the PBR meatballs as an appetizer. They were solid, but we'd prefer to try other appetizers before ordering this again. We settled on the carbonara pizza. The idea of peas on a pizza almost threw us off but I'm glad it didn't. There were peas, but you barely noticed them compared to the fresh green onions they threw on top and the delicious bacon, chicken and cheese. The crust was a great consistency and flavor. The pie was 6 giant slices and can feed 4 people easily with an appetizer or two thrown in. The Jameson soft serve was amazing. I highly recommend getting it, especially if you like Jameson or soft serve. They have a solid beer list with PBR tallboys and craft beer selections, and even have Lindeman's Frambroise and a few ciders. I'm glad we remembered they were cash only. Overall we had a great experience here and can't wait to go back.
(4)Chris M.
pluses & minuses. It's a great place for a beer & a slice. It's reasonably priced. My only issue is really the service. It can be hard to get a server's attention when you're ready to order or need a new drink. The servers seem that they're more interested in saying that they work at a cool hipster bar in Logan Square than actually working at a cool hipster bar in Logan Square. Lastly, the decor is pretty awesome. As I'm told, everything is reclaimed and repurposed. The bathrooms are very distinct.
(3)Cam M.
I've been coming here since it opened at least once every two weeks. The pizza is good, the movies are cool and the music choice is awesome. I will say this though, after the 4 years of great service I've received there I recently went in for my usual pizza and a shot to be met by a really nasty chick behind the bar that served me some serious unnecessary attitude from the minute I said hello. Yikes! I recognized her from serving the floor but never encountered her behind the bar and It was enough to double think even going in there again. I have high gratitude and respect for the bartenders that work there regularly, since they've consistently took great care of me. But after reading some of your reviews, I can tell this girl is only hurting your business. No one wants to be treated disrespectfully, period, but especially not while trying to unwind after a long shift - at a bar! (Yes. I'm in the industry, so I "get it" and also know when someone is being a see you next Tuesday) Anyway, this may or may not make a bit of a difference. But If mgmt reads this - she's got an annoying voice. Ha! Peace
(3)Armand K.
Come for the PB&J, come back for the awesome atmosphere. This place tends to be siloed by it's predominately hipster clientele, but hipster or not, they have something special here. The slices hold their own, add in a ridiculous deal, sweet seating arrangements, and good service and you have yourself a winner. My first experience was amidst late night snackers, and even at that hour they managed to keep the service prompt and the bathrooms clean. I recommend the boiler room slice, along with the rest of the PB&J special. Don't let the rumors of bad service scare you, this is a solid win.
(4)Ellen L.
I really want to like this place. It's close, the pizza's good, and yes, that PB&J deal is pretty much one of the best things ever. That said... the service is often obnoxiously slow and unfriendly. Add in the fact that our bill was wrong 2 of the last 4 times I was there, and I'm just not so smitten with this place. I'm not talking about just poor arithmetic, I'm talking about charging us for 4 PB&Js, and then charging us for an additional 4 pieces of pizza... or randomly throwing an extra 9 or 10 bucks on the bill. Last night, when I brought the error to the attention of the waitress, she snapped at me before I could even finish explaining the problem and then took forever to correct the bill, stopping by the table to say, "oh, didn't I bring it? I must have left it over there," and then disappearing for another 5 minutes.
(2)shamrock B.
Again the PBJ is awesome... Great food cheap booze.. Unpretentious crowd granted a hipster weird joint but love the rough vibe should be added to anyone regular spots . I go once a month...
(5)Grace N.
OH SO GOOD. We came here with a large group and satisfied a serious floppy-pizza fix with "the most creative toppings I've seen," (this from someone in the group). We ordered the: Boiler Room - ok Purist - subtly drool-worthy Cuban - awesome..crunchy pickles on a pizza? Bring it! Steak & Eggs - yum...especially liked the ranch or blue cheese dressing option They also had a decent beer selection, and maybe one of the best bloody maries I've ever had. It's great for groups since they have these large picnic tables and outdoor seating in the back.
(4)Tre P.
I wanted to give it at least 2 stars for the fantastic space, but everything else was not even mediocre. First the good: the space, the art on the walls, the outdoor patio are great. Kind of goofy, but I really liked the L-themed bathroom. For that I considered 2 stars. BUT, after seated it took about 10 minutes for anybody to acknowledge us, and it wasn't busy (not excessive, but not starting off on the right foot) . The pizza fell perfectly in even-bad-pizza-is-OK category, but Boiler Room was able to add an extra level of disappointment--please read on: They put on a big presentation up front with the pizza makers and pizza ovens to show off preparation of fresh pizzas, but our's came out luke-warm (shouldn't a pizza coming out of the oven have the blister-the-top-of-your-mouth heat to it?). And one piece looked different. It almost certainly was baked separately from the rest of the pizza (see picture 46) and slid in to replace a piece that was removed. They sell pizza by the slice, but ordering a whole pizza, you expect the whole pizza. So, as may be expected from the evidence, the pizza had a warmed over quality. It was like getting pizza from under a heat lamp at a mall. And the mushrooms had an off taste and looked like chips of really dark shoe leather. The pizza we ordered was not fresh out of the oven. Finally, it's 2013. I get the "tax advantages" of cash only, but start taking plastic. Sorry Boiler Room, I really wanted to like you, but after making me feel like you tried to pull one over on me, you deserve the lowest review possible.
(1)Bri A.
I stopped by Boiler Room on a Thursday night for a friend's birthday. I've heard good things about their pizza and was intrigued! I would have done the $7.50 PBR/Jameson shot/pizza slice deal but my friends had already ordered a large pepperoni pizza. While it wasn't the best pizza, it was pretty good. Jameson shots are $3 which is the cheapest I've ever seen them. Save your receipt from the ATM and you can get a free shot of it! Service was good, there's a decent beer selection on tap and the bar is pretty chill. I would come here often if I lived in the hood. I need to try the Jameson ice cream next time!
(4)Nick M.
Have I been bamboozled?! What I thought was a total hipster bar full of irritating people... is actually, a really cool bar... with a side of the hipster crowd and only SOME irritating people. One day I was hanging out watching some crazy-ass weird movie on the big screen that sits behind the bar. I was enjoying the atmosphere when all of a sudden I hear this scuffle at the door. Apparently, they wouldn't let this guy in because he didn't have his id. He kept screaming "Do you know who I am?! I created Groupon you idiots!! How do you not know who I am". He persisted to scream this over and over again but they still wouldn't let him in. When he finally left frustrated, there was laughter and high fives all around... True story!! Well maybe the last part was in my head but still it, could have happened. I love the design, I love the patio, I do and do not love the staff, I love peeing on the CTA (Bathrooms are made to look like you're on the El. I know crazy!!), I don't love the cash only, I love how their pizzas look (One of these days I'll try one), and I totally opposite of love the place for being way the feck in Logan Square and not up in super cool Andersonville where then I would be able to frequent more often. Good day!
(4)Bobby L.
I have been here a couple of times. The pizza is decent. However, my last visit will prolly be my last. It was a mere 3 weeks ago, i festered over whether to leave them what seems to be a much needed review. I ran my experience past a couple industry friends only to find my experience not a rare one. I went there very hungry. I asked to sit at the bar. The host informed me that it was full and that tables were available. She then gave me an odd warning, "it might be a little while till your server is with you". I said "okay", assuming that it was busy. I knew what i wanted to order. I sat and watched a female server chat up this guy sitting in front of my table. She then went and checked on a six top, got them another round and then went back to chatting up said guy. I sat there for a good 30 min, i feel like time is normally exaggerated in these reviews. I had checked the time stamp of the text i sent my wife to let her know i had stopped for dinner. I finally stopped a male server to ask him if he could take my order. He told me the lovely lady chatting up the guy was my server. I just left at that point. So sad that a decent place has to be ruined by bad staff. Good luck if you go here. Maybe they will get to ya. I was going to leave this as a comment on their facebook page with less detail, but they so kindly took it down. Now it's on yelp.
(1)Claudia S.
So maybe I jumped the gun on my last review, because I've been back several times and found my pizza was sometimes too thin for its ingredients or the topping wasn't quite what I was expecting. However, I feel like they've finally worked out the kinks. I'm not just saying this because they put my favorite *special slice* as a regular pizza (the cheeseburger!), but because their menu choices have expanded and the pizza is a lot more consistent now. I enjoy meat and typically don't enjoy cheese but their purist is one of my favorite slices, I'm convinced it's because of the balsamic drizzled on it...yet another thing I don't typically care for. Their chef is clearly doing something right. Pretty good beer selection (with fair prices), nice cocktail list and really friendly bartenders. They've officially won me over.
(5)Amy H.
You wanna know how to shake up the hen house? You bring in a new cock. The Boiler Room is the new cock in the hen house of Chicago pizza. On a Sunday afternoon, after throwing elbows at the most recent Vintage Bazaar, my friend and I tucked into an egg pizza and some drinks. The egg pizza was good, with big cubes of salty pancetta and fresh basil pesto. The beer list is great, but unfortunately I'm off the beer so I had the Ginger Snap Snap cocktail and then a cider. 'Twas good. We also shared the sausage appetizer, which was spicy. To be honest, nothing about the food really stood out or made this place 4-star worthy. It was decent and I liked it all, but nothing was spectacular about it. However, the service was stellar! Our waitress was an absolute doll! She was attentive and cheerful...and even gave us each a big bag of basil from the garden in back. And has anyone discussed the ladies room?! It's like peeing on the Blue Line. Very clever, Boiler Room! Also, most of the interior is recycled. Our table was once an elementary school desk. Oh, and they have cold Jamo on tap. I don't indulge in the J anymore, but whiskey on tap is a cool thing to see.
(4)Marc R.
This place is one of those well capitalized ventures that has invaded Logan Square of late and while I am very happy to see the place thriving, it is a different scene and this is reflected in the very diverse clientele. I sat at the bar waiting for friends solo and the nearby baseball hat wearing frat boys actually had the women in their group move away from me to create a wall of douchebaggery between me and the girls. Really? Who does that? I know I am the "Most interesting Man in the World" but come on. Then again she did talk to me! Well, male insecurities aside, the bar itself was very cool and I liked the way they incorporated the railroad name plates above the bar and this theme runs through the entire place from bar to bathroom! My friend arrived and we were off to a table in the back. The server was super friendly and this whole scene got much better. I think the jerky clients tend to come around dinner and it gets much more laid back between 9-11. We drank a few beers and a couple cocktails and these were all solid if not amazing, then we ordered slices. I really liked the veggie slice I ordered and wanted a second. My friends were less impressed with the pizza. I thought the whole pies looked amazing and the winning thing for me was the crust! Loved the crust. I wouldn't go in here when it is crazy busy with Big State U jerks and their flirtatious girlfriends, but when it gets mellow after the dinner rush or before I bet, I would definitely make this my pizza stop for a slice and a drink for $10 and under! It is a welcome addition to the area and a good match for Piece if you ask me. CASH ONLY
(4)Rebecca S.
Popped in for a quick weeknight dinner not long ago. On the plus side, the pizza is really good. Mac & Cheese app was very tasty, too. And I really loved the interior of the place. Same designer as Simone's and Ombra maybe? But on the minus side, there are several things. First, cash only? Come on. When your pizzas range in price from $18 to $29, specialty drinks and wine are $8, and even beers are $5-6, the average tab is going to be something most people will want to pay for with plastic. And do not ask for ID's at the hostess stand. Especially from people who are clearly old enough to be your parents. I don't care if you "ID everyone because it's your policy." It's offputting and weird for the hostess to do it. This task is supposed to be handled by the server at the table and only in the event a patron orders an alcoholic drink. Which my friend and I did not. You are a restaurant, not a bar or a club. Asking for people to produce an ID just to get a table and order pizza is wrong. Anyway, nice concept and I wish them well, but overall there are better places in Logan Square/Bucktown/Wicker Park who are happy to take my money in whatever form I have in my wallet. And without asking for ID before serving me food.
(2)Shane B.
The Boiler Room is one of my go-to places when I want to meet my friends for drinks and a slice or two. The PBJ (PBR tall boy, shot of Jameson, and a slice) for $7.50 remains one of the best deals in the city. The inside can get a little crowded sometimes, but during the summer the amazing, huge patio really makes this the place to go. The pizza is damn good, they have a good beer selection and decent cocktails, and the outdoor seating is some of the most extensive in the area. To summarize: go there, get the PBJ, hang out with your friends, have a good night, guaranteed.
(4)Colleen C.
Headline: Yupster Pizza & Beer Strikes Logan Square Again! Subhead: 'Hood has "Officially" Arrived. --------------------------------------------------Â-- First off, I'm not a huge fan of the name "The Boiler Room." It's almost as bad as "Racine Plumbing" in Lincoln Park. Who wants to hang out in a place named after a room you wouldn't want to hang out in or...anything to do with...plumbing?! Beyond me, but I digress...the insides prove much worth a visit, and consequently I'm here to tell you about it. Do you like the decor at Simone's (Pilsen)? Then, you'll be right at home. The recycled, refinagled interior constructed of repurposed items makes this place unique (save Simone's, I suppose) and "boiling" over with character and ingenuity. Small booths carved out of whoknowswhat, etc. It's cool. Not so pre-fab "bar and grill" looking. But, if you are seeking that...just pop next door to Logan Bar and Grill. Ironically, its the same owner....smart man. With a group? Try to snag the long high-toppish tables in the middle...great for mingling and moving around. Otherwise, more intimate conversations/dates could certainly be held in the lower tops along the wall, the cozy booth, or bangin' bar. Crispy pizzas: We opted for a few slices ($4/each) of "The Purist" as we were running a bit late, and they did not disappoint. Piping hotmozzarella, tomato and basil. They arrived promptly and were devoured in the same fashion. A win. Salad: My selective salad-san and I split the green salad ($5) and it was certainly suitable. Beer! Allagash white in bottles? SOLD to the Boiler Room. Love. Two went down a bit too smoothly. ($6.50/each). Good lineup, most definitely. 9/10 beer snobs agree. Service: Surprisingly fantastic. Our server was quick despite it being a bit of a nuthouse on a Friday night, and fairly friendly. His mustache would have me thinking this might be a semi-surly cum apathetic dude, especially with all of the demands of a semi-new spot...but this guy really held his shit together and was overly accommodating and a good face for the business. Well done, indeed. Pizza. Beer. Logan Square. Upped a notch. It's a win, methinks. Forget the name, check out the guts. *Right across the street from California Blue Line *Easy walking distance to The Congress *Cash only.
(4)Laura S.
What's there to say beyond the PBJ (or my preference, PBJ&J, to include the Jameson soft serve)? I haven't experienced the service issues that others mention, and I thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere. Great music selection without being too loud. Even though it's a hike from my place, it's in my Top 3 Logan Square destinations.
(4)Jim L.
Very good pizza. Go for the boiler room pizza. It has awesome giardinara and meatballs. They don't deliver, but it is worth a trip.
(5)Todger ..
Chicago Pizza scene: you have a contender here for the top 5. First of all, the place is really cool, great industrial interior made me feel like I was on the deck of a Battlestar. What a cool cool place. Outdoor seating also superb space. Very nice job. But the Pizza oooooo the Pizza, you were delicious thin crust works of culinary art. The Purist was totally delish, the Thai was other worldly, the Pepper was very Chicaaaago-y. Beer and cocktails all well complementary. And the Guiness-icecream desert drink, yum. I am a fan and a bit in awe. I cannot wait to go back.
(4)Brett F.
Motion creates Emotion. youtube.com/watch?v=lofN… ... or so say Ben Affleck in one of my favorite scenes, from one of my favorite movies, The Boiler Room. What this has to do with pizza, beer, specialty cocktails or arugula salads, you ask? I have no effing clue. They share the same name and I couldn't help but think of the "always be closing" tirade the entire time I was attempting to peacefully mangia mangia on my slice 'o cheese zzah. Talk about distracting. This new Logan Square spot certainly isn't slick, swanky and glossy like those Boiler Roomers, nah, this is a pretty classic take on a pizza and beer joint gone recycled urban. Almost everything in the place has been derived from some cast-off, second-hand material or fixture (i.e. those insane CTA replica potties and a back patio illuminated by repurposed industrial shampoo containers)... yup, the vibe is most definitely 'casual quirky' and the menu follows suit. A small smattering of eats options means you have your choice of pizza by the slice, a whole pizza, a handful of apps like wings, hummus and sausage in a bowl (?) and three fresh salads for those looking to eat light. TBR keeps it simple and simplicity is nice. As for the pizza - their observable signature - it's good. Loved the wood fired taste and burny edges of my ubermelty cheese slice as well as the ultra intense heat that radiates from the house-made giardinera topped Boiler Room pizza. This is not a pie for pussies and will give you the most recognizable spicy nose runs ever. Not appropriate date food. A great beer selection (hellooooo Allagash White!) and tasty specialty cocktails (try the Tommy Hooligan - jameson, pimm's #1, blood orange bitters and angostura bitters with a sailor jerry wash - for good imbibing) make The Boiler Room a pretty sure fixture on the Square Scene. Its proximity to all things fabulous like The Whistler, Cole's, The Congress and Revo Brew Co. pretty much guarantee it. Just remember: bring cash and your CTA card, respectively, their servers and restrooms require both.
(4)Ali A.
Pizza and drinks and beers... lots of good beers and they play really awesome movies on the tv's. I didn't sit out there but there is a really nice patio outback. My favorite part about the place was the bathroom. It was like walking into a CTA train. It made for a nice potty experience. It's trendy and hipster like in here, reminds me of Kansas City.
(3)Doro R.
They are moving down in stars due to the lack of Blueberry beer. It was the most impressing feature (to me) and they no longer have it. I love that beer. We ordered a whole pizza and 'some other beers' and a mixed drink. The soda for the mixed drink was flat but the liquor ratio was pretty good. The beer options weren't that great... different than other places sure, but NO Blueberry Sea Dog and a few too many IPA or other hoppy flavors for my liking. Whole pie was just as good as the slices. Fluffy crust- wonderful texture but still no yeasty smell/flavor that I crave. My quest for an optimal pizza/beer balance in Chicago continues...
(2)Jenna S.
I always felt I was a resident of Logan Square that kept up with community happenings like new restaurant openings and such. I hadn't even heard of The Boiler Room when it opened, so clearly I dropped the ball somewhere. I didn't really know what to expect when we decided to go here last week, but I was definitely impressed with the entire place. There restaurant is kind of small, dark and industrial. We walked in and people were bustling around the pizza ovens in the small kitchen near the door. The din of the entire restaurant was actually inviting, not annoying. There was a lot of noise, but not enough that you couldn't talk to your neighbor. Just a lot of pleasant overtones. The people taking names at the door don't really take your name - they just sort of remember you. We were obviously wary of this system, but we just told them our name, how many we were and went over to the bar. The bar was nice, though kind of small, but it had two people manning it. I like that kind of bar service - never a wait! I got a chair, but my two friends did not as there only seemed to be about eight total chairs at the bar. There looks to be a nice patio outside, but there's no drinking out there yet, so it was totally unoccupied on a Saturday night at 9 p.m. The beer list was nice and there were a lot of IPAs (current drink-of-the-moment for the Hipster crowd), so I chose one of those. Nice choice of cocktails, as well, though less appealing to me so I didn't browse long. The restaurant seating is nice and I feel like a lot of the furnishings are repurposed. If they aren't, I'll keep thinking they are because a lot of other things seemed environmentally friendly in this establishment. The tables were covered with aluminum or something (adding to the industrial feel) and the large booth seats were made like slatted benches with belts or something. Very cool and it seems as though these items were found somewhere else (I hope). We sat at one of the long benches in the middle, which I didn't like at first because I don't like being close to strangers, but there's slight separation between tables so it didn't seem that bad. People have raved about the bathrooms. Modeled to be like L train cars, there's an automated greeting when you enter the bathroom. "Logan Square is next. Doors open on the right at Logan Square." That familiar voice made me smile, so of course I thought the bathrooms were kitschy and cool. I was most impressed with the eco-friendly toilet flushers, though. Pull up for #1, push down for #2 (uses less and more water, respectively). What an easy thing for a lot of companies to install to save a ton of water - why don't more establishments do this?! Right outside of the bathroom, there was a TV monitor with the Boiler Room's Solar Panel usage statistics - very awesome. The food was pretty excellent. We tried the Peanut Chicken Pizza, which had a sweet and savory peanut/barbeque sauce on it. It was pretty good, but the sauce was actually too strong for me to enjoy more than one piece. I'll definitely get another pizza next time, but it was still yummy. The cold beer added a nice touch to all of the pizza and everything was nicely priced, so our bill wasn't horrible. Our service was sort of spotty (she was around a lot sometimes and then disappeared at other times), but maybe it was just our server. This place isn't really big enough to have all-around terrible service (at least I hope not). Great addition to the Square, for sure. I can see myself coming here often for a slice or with friends for an entire pizza and some delicious beer. Way to go for the nice, eco-friendly touches, too. Always appreciated by me. **Note: They do not take credit cards now, but there is an ATM in the restaurant (there's also an ATM at the Citibank one block up California).
(5)Lois A.
I'm in no hurry to rush back. After having drinks at Longman and Eagle we came here because we were starving and it was during the two hour period when L & E doesn't serve food. It's not fair to compare cocktails here with the heavenly ones we'd just had but it is fair to say that I didn't care for the drink I was served and only managed to have a few sips of it. I should have just ordered a beer. Walking in the first thing the hostess said (not hello) was that it was cash only. The place was pretty empty and we asked to sit outside in the shade because they have an awesome patio. She took us over to a sun drenched spot and we said...um, the shade please? It seemed to bother her that her idea of shade was so much different than ours. I want to say it took 10- 15 minutes to get our drinks and we'd ordered two slices of pizza and fries at the same time. It took a full 30 minutes after getting our drinks for that small amount of food to come out. It felt like forever. A group that came out on the patio about 5 minutes after we did were eating a lot sooner than we were. This would not have been so bad except that one of the guys in the group started telling this really long and involved story about the colonoscopy he'd just had. If anyone reading this is wondering if they should tell a similar story while dining with friends the only correct answer is Please God NO! This is the kind of story that you maybe shouldn't even tell your mom. If you love her, that is. The food finally came just as that guy started on a new topic. The fries were amazing. Pretty much perfect. The pizza was less impressive. There are so many other pizzas in town I would rather have had. I can hardly remember enough about it other than the slice was big and it tasted like a slice you could get anywhere. Our waitress was nice but it seemed like she maybe had the whole restaurant to tend to and never asked if we wanted anything else. My husband's beer was gone long before the food arrived and no one asked if he wanted a refill. I want to give two stars but I really loved those fries.
(3)Ryan L.
I had just listened to the awful and horrifying Mel Gibson phone calls the night before coming here, and what's playing on the big screen when we walk in? Mad Max! It was just too funny. There were quite a few hits and misses on my visit here, and while I wish it were better, the aggregate value of it all is the super-lame 3 star, or the "A-OK". Hoping that it gets better on future visits. The pizza smelled awesome upon entering, but maybe that served to heighten my expectations a little too much. I got the Boiler Room pizza with a big meatball and giardiniera for toppings. It kinda seemed like the toppings were just plopped on at the end. And for how large it seemed when the slice came out, it was pretty hollow and not fulfilling. I had to ask three different people for water. I wouldn't have cared if I didnt have hot, hot giardiniera on my pizza. Our server was attentive at first, then not so attentive afterwards. He also brought out the wrong appetizer to us- chicken wings instead of their chutney sausage. We got to keep both, which was nice of him. You can really taste the chutney! (if you get this reference, I will love you) The saving grace is the daily special, the PB&J. You get a slice of pizza, a can of PBR, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. Not only that but Jameson is on tap and $3 every damn day. That's quite a bargain, and I can see this as a place to stop by after work. Aside from the service issues, the specials and the kitchsy CTA-style bathroom were A-OK in my book.
(3)C W.
0/5 stars for management and the hostess: We got there at 7pm, and our party of seven was seated at 8:40pm. The hostess/management are either complete jerks, or fantastically stupid, maybe both. 5/5 stars for the food. Hawaiian pizza is a must. 5/5 stars for the bartenders: Friendly, fast, and efficient. I ordered an app at 7:45 so we'd survive the wait at the bar. Then at 8:15 we just ordered some pizzas. 5 minutes after the pizzas came, we were seated at 8:40. The bartenders are awesome, and agreed with us that management is not competent. Apparently, we weren't the first to complain about them, and we won't be the last. Bartenders saved the day. Moral of the story: Go straight to the bar with large groups, or get ready to wait for two hours.
(3)B G.
Pizza's not bad but it's expensive and overflowing with too cool for school hipsters. Obnoxious. Also, the service is terrible.
(2)Burt R.
The pizza is excellent, the decor is totally unique, and they play terrifically nostalgic movies behind the bar. Add to this Jameson on tap and REALLY good rotating draft picks... Well, I know where I end up at least a few times a week. But the best part of this place, you ask? The staff. They are funny, friendly and easy on the eyes -- and hey, that goes for you too, fellas. They are those rare bartenders/servers who know when it's time to chit-chat, and also know when to leave a man alone for some QT with his slice. Bravo. **NOTE TO YELPERS**: I saw commenters getting down on the place for being cash only. Here's an idea: GROW UP. You're an adult; leave the house with a $20 in your wallet. And if you don't have cash in your wallet, use their ATM... They'll give you a shot! Running credit cards 100s of times a night costs small businesses huge money in fees. By being cash only, they can continue offering you great value, like the unbeatable slice, shot, and tall boy for $7, any night of the week.
(5)Jacob J.
Many have said it and I will also, love the décor which is composed of parts coming from a subway but can't much understand the name paired with it. Cool look, busy most times with cool people. I have to special mention the Men's room which echoes a familiar message most subway riders would hear when getting ready to exit the train. The entire washroom is composed of train parts which I won't detail because it's a treat to view in person. Pizza is tasty and interesting. The pie named after the place has got in house made hot giardinera with pbr meatballs. It's a spicy treat on thin crust. Priced at a low $4 bucks per. I've only tried slices but desire more and to taste their variety. Meatballs mentioned is a large slice which is laid flat like pepperoni. A slice paired with one of their signature cocktails and you're headed for a great time. Tried the Ginger snap snap, yummy ginger liqueur shaken with dark rum and a splash of ginger ale. Yep just like the menu states. Cocktails are $8, but some like the Ginger tend to arrive in a smaller glass. Something to note is how awesome a cocktail can be when in this case, rum is shaken, the flavors seem to meld much better. Worth a try, so why not try, or invite me so we can share a pie.
(4)Daniel D.
Oh god, yes. It's the never-ending pizza party for adults! Boiler Room is famous for the PBJ deal. Yes, booze, Jameson, and a liberal slice of your choosing for seven dollars. Don't argue with me stupid, thats fucking awesome. It's right off the Western stop and impossible to miss (the heavenly smells from open windows are a red-carpet). It's comfortable enough, with plenty of seating, outdoor included which they add tents with heaters in the frigid Chicago months. It's usually packed, because, well, see the aforementioned. Cash only. So? They have an ATM. By the way, turn in the receipt and get a shot on the house, now thats customer appreciation. Bar and table service are pretty snappy as well: servers are flying by with PBR's and shots, so hail-hail, you're going to get stuffed and quick. The crowed is pretty eclectic too, mostly the typical Logan Square/Bucktown youngsters and such. Everybody seems to get along, and unlike a bar, everyone shares a common love of delicious pizza, so everyone gets along. Boiler Room: I'll probably have my funeral reception here (open casket).
(5)Nancy K.
The atmosphere is interesting however I can't quite tell what the theme is... or rather themes. There are clearly several competing with one other. One, the bathroom doors are reminiscent of the subway (with their silhouette of people standing in a subway car). Two, the bar has a submarine feel to it (the 'submarine windows' have TVs inserted in them). Three, the rest of the place is comprised of juxtaposed metals and woods. I'm not quite sure it totally had a 'boiler room' feel though. On the plus side, the tufted pattern made of wood on the table top is pretty neat. My friend and I only waited 15 minutes on a Wednesday night for a table for two, so that was good. And as soon as we were seated, our waitress came over to take our order but we hadn't even looked at the menu yet so we asked her to come back in a few minutes. When she returned, we each ordered a salad, a Purist pizza slice, and a glass of their Pinot Noir (it was one of the three red wines to choose from; it was good). From that point on, the service was horrendous! I cannot believe how long my friend and I waited for our salad! At one point I thought she forgot about us. When the waitress finally arrived with our salads (at least she split the order up into two for us so we each had our own bowl; that was nice of her), she just kinda dropped the bowls in front of us. And there was no apology for the long wait. At least the salad was good. We ordered the Boston Bibb salad. It included bacon, blue cheese, tomatoes and pickled red onions with blue cheese dressing. It was tasty and rich. I recommend it. Luckily, as we were wrapping up our salad, our individual slice of pizza arrived. We had the Purist pizza which included fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic reduction. But too bad it was cold! For the amount of time we waited for everything, you'd think it was because they were making a new patch of pizzas! It was really disappointing to go to a pizzeria only to experience pizza that wasn't fresh out of the oven. Although the pizza was good, it was hard to enjoy it because it was cold (also they could have gone a little bit easier on the balsamic). Perhaps one would have better luck getting a warm pizza if they ordered a made-to-order one?
(2)Meg r.
Went in after a small apt. dance party for a whole pizza to share with family at home. 17 for a whole pie. sausage or pepperoni, not a bad deal and it was only 4 minutes to wait for it to be done for a 1/2 saus., pep, and mushroom and 1/2 cheese. 6 pieces is all they cut it into, so, ask for more slices if you need to share it. Brought it home and the cornmeal was still giving a good crunch on the crust, and as I ate the slice of meaty goodness my mouth was lighting up with a hot spice that I LOVED! I like the place for carryout or just a slice until 1:30am and the easy on off the blue line California stop or Milwaukee bus. Probably the best big slice of pizza in Chicago I have ever had, hands down. Chill pizza makers and a bartender that was quick with the order made this late night stop for a fresh pizza worth it. I will return.
(5)Steve G.
This place is pretty interesting on the inside, wooden tables and benches, bar seats built out of car seat belts, and two eyeball tv's above the bar. The decor alone makes it worth a visit... Sadly I was pretty disappointed with the pizza. It wasn't horrible, it was just eh. I was with a big group, so we tried several of their specialty pizzas; BBQ, Thai, Lombardi, and the Hawaiian. The thing you should know about this place is the pizza is east coast style meaning the pizza is paper thing. Which, I don't necessarily have a problem with, but this just wasn't that impressive.. What was impressive other then the cool interior? Two things... you get a free shot of Jameson with you use the atm, and you can also buy a PBR, a shot of Jamo and a slice of pizza for 7.50. That makes this place ok in my book... just not great.
(3)Shakeia T.
I didn't have pizza, but I did have the fantastic Jameson ice cream! As a fan of both whiskey and ice cream, this was amazing way to cool off on a super hot day. I like the look of Boiler Room, the staff was quite nice! The CTA themed bathroom was very, very cool! I was a bit startled by the "doors closing" as I left. But I was so tickled, I went back in and came out so I could hear it again. I'm real mature, guys. I definitely look forward to checking this place out to get some pizza. It looked and smell quite delicious!
(4)Lindsay L.
The pizza is so good! Thin crust and with yummy topping choices. I have to say it's quite expensive if you'd like a whole pie or exotic toppings, but when I order a regular slice I am ever disappointed. The panzanella salad is really yummy as well, but I wish they had a half size of it, because at $7 it's essentially an entree, and I can't be the only one who wants a little salad and pizza. I really like their balsamic salad dressing, which I like to dip my cheese pizza into. Other than that, I wish it weren't cash only. The bathrooms are really cool, with the CTA transit car theme, and the outdoor garden is very nice for warmer evenings.
(3)Will V.
I struggle whether to give this place two or three stars. We arrived here sometime after 11 pm on Saturday night, and I'm grateful the kitchen was still open, because we were starving. It was busy enough that our options were a group of open bar stools, or some seats at a big community high-top table in the middle of the dining room. We opted for the community table. The service was friendly, and good for a bar, but not great for a pizza joint in this price range. Wait, this is a pizza joint, right? Right. On to the food... For drunk pizza, this is pretty good stuff. But we weren't exactly drunk when we arrived, and didn't get any more intoxicated waiting for our pizza. The result? Disappointment. I tried a slice of the meatball and giardiniera, a slice of the Balsamic, and we ordered a whole pulled pork & mole sauce pizza. Of those, I like the Balsamic the best. The meatball and giardiniera, and the pulled pork and mole were both... bland. The crust on all three suffered from a sweetness that made me think of baby biscuits, not a good thing for serious pizza, although the consistency was good. The pulled pork & mole also suffered from a couple of the largest pizza dough bubbles I've ever seen in my life. That pizza should not have left the kitchen. I guess we were full anyway, but no one touched those pieces. In all fairness, the manager came over to our table after we were finished and asked us about our meal. We were brutally honest, and she seemed genuinely interested in what we were saying, and she indicated that discussions were underway to improve the menu and the food, and she would put our suggestions to use. I hope she does. It was nice to have such a frank discussion with a manager who seemed genuinely interested in what we thought of our meal. She also helped us with the bill, even though we ate most of our meal. A couple of other relatively minor quibbles here... not the bill, but the prices? Kind of high for the quality. I hope they work on the quality and the price and quality come to a nice meeting point, but for now, $20 for the pulled pork & mole pizza is too much. The slices were $4 each. Also, The Boiler Room is cash-only. Seriously? It's not like it's a small mom & pop struggling to survive that can't pay the 2% fee. So there you have it. I hope they improve. I'll try it again, I'm sure, but I won't be going back anytime soon.
(2)Emily W.
Something about the pizza bothers me. I think it's the combination of the sauce (a little bland) and the fact that the last 3 times I was here, the slice of pizza I got was undercooked and slightly doughy. I like my pizza to be crispy. Also, the jameson infused ice cream is the WORST thing I've ever tasted in my entire life. It burned my tongue and was just really really bad. Go ahead and try it, you will wish you hadn't. They really need to change the recipe or something.. I don't want this review to be all negative though because I enjoy the atmosphere and the food is pretty cheap. Their cocktail list is sophisticated and fun. Last time, I tried one called "Beetlegeuse" which consisted of spiced rum, cointreau, fresh mint and beets, orange wedge, and selzer water. Yum. And only $8. It's right across from the California Blue Line too, so it doesn't get much more convenient. There is an outdoor patio in the back for when it's nicer out too which rules.
(3)Frank D.
Oh, hey Boiler Room. My bad, I've been frequenting you for the past two years and have not yet changed my really shitty review. First time I came, yes, things were a little chaotic and the pizza was pretty soggy and gross. But hey, we all make mistakes. You got your act together, Boiler Room, and fast. No hard feelings? This place is awesome. Their pizza is pretty good, but I rarely come here for food only. More of a food + drink establishment, but with really good food. Open late, really pretty awesome to be able to stop by for a slice of pizza and another beer at 2am (it provides both another drinking establishment to enjoy and also an alternative to eating drunken mexican food). Cash only, but if you use the ATM *KEEP YOUR RECEIPT* if you want a free shot of whiskey (just give it to your waitress/bartender).
(4)Patrick S.
Hey guys, Pat S. here. So here's the thing. Like the Boiler Room is pretty cool, and they got good slices of za and the waitresses are all dope, but turn off those sounds in the bathroom!!
(4)Mark W.
I came here the day after they initially opened a few moths ago. I was terribly disappoitned. I wanted to love it, i really did. I mean, the pizza sounded amazing on the menu, my ceasar salad was superb, it was all going great, then the pizza came. I think, had it been cooked properly, it would have been amazing. Soggy around the edges, completely raw in the center. I mean, it was like the dough was not even cooked. I tried to eat it, but after the first slice, i just couldnt do it anymore. An hour or so after eating, i felt like i ate a brick and had a terrible stomach ache for the rest of the evening. Fast forward to december. They have now been open for several monthsand i keep reading reviews in the redeye ranting and raving about this new pizza joint in logan. I decieded to give it another shot. THANK YOU FOR GETTING YOUR SHIT TOGETHER, BOILER ROOM! Ive been abck a few times now, and im never disappointed. The pizza is cooked, yes COOKED!, to perfection. Just a really nice, flavorful, thin, crisp, yummy yum yum slice. The drink deals will keep you there for hours on end. It can get quite busy, as it is a trendy bar/pizzaria in trendy Logan Square. I mean, this place is sooo logan square. It just spits hipster at you when you walk in. In conclusion, if you want a slice, a pbr, maybe even a shot of jamo in an extremely convienent location, stop on in.
(4)Todd M.
Slices are a little over-priced but for some reason I can't stop going here, so they must've done something right.
(4)Alex C.
Love the Boiler Room. Mind the cash only policy, but if you use the ATM you get a free shot of Jamo! My go to is the PBJ with the Purist, but I highly recommend trying their slice of the day. Great interior. Neat bathroom. A good movie always playing. I forgot to mention, open late!!
(5)Zach Z.
THis place was cool. The design inside is just something you need to come and experience. They have good pizzas and lots of different beer (which i like) Just dont try the moose drool beer like I did :( This is a nice place to get food and do some day drinking. Check it out!
(4)Polly S.
Answer me this because I think I'm missing the obvious here: Why is the Boiler Room named what is it when it would be more apt as something like "Transit Station"? One (one=me) ponders. Went here yesterday on a Saturday night. It was crowded but luckily not claustrophobic. We had a 30 minute wait by the bar which was okay. Good beer selection. Once seated, service was thumbs up. We ordered the chips-n-dip for an appetizer. It wasn't my first choice for an app but it turned out to be surprisingly tasty. Highly recommend. We ordered a make your own pizza and appreciated that they accommodated us by only putting sausage on half the pie. We also added arugula and cherry tomatoes. You really can't beat grilled cherry tomatoes on a pizza. Crust was perfect. The atmosphere is cool and hip, if not a little kitschy. Conveniently located just outside the blue line California stop and right across the street from my friend's apartment. You can bet I'll be making this a regular pit stop every time I hang out with this friend. Important to note, cash only and vegan pie options available. I was told if you use their ATM to get cash, you get a free shot of Jameson. Nice policy.
(4)Renee E.
Boiler Room's decor definitely does resemble it's older sister, Simone's. This is not a bad thing. And the restrooms are pretty amusing, with their El announcements (however, that might get old after a while). We stopped in for a bite and a beer during the Milwaukee Ave. Arts Festival. We were only moderately hungry, so we opted for slices, instead of a full pie. My husband and I both got the purist. I have a high tolerance level for thin crust and sparse toppings, so I was fine. My husband would've liked a bit more cheese. We also split a nice sized salad that fortunately consisted of more than some dumb chunks of iceburg. The lemon dressing was light, just right. The beer menu had a lot to offer. The full pies seemed a little expensive and the pizza menu was a little on the light side, but if you're in the mood for a sit-down place to eat a slice and accompany that with a beer, Boiler Room will do.
(2)Donna P.
you're going to want to order the 4 cheese pizza. the plain cheese is ok too. love their pickled onions and their home made giardiniera. always make sure to leave room for their jameson soft serve ice cream. when you go, don't expect too much from some of their staff. i think they prefer to socialize than work. some may actually be stoned.
(3)Anne M.
I don't understand how you could give Boiler Room a bad review. Good pizza. Good beer. Good prices. Their cocktails, salads, and mac and cheese are also really good. Seriously, a $3 slice of pizza in Logan Square and you're mad?
(5)Sophia T.
Since giving up the cheese, I've had to stop eating pizza until I discovered that pizza could be cheeseless. Boiler Room understands my needs to have a delicious New York style crust (although not exact, but sort of close) with delicious sauce, delicious veggies, and seitan morsels. They make it to order and while I have my dairy free delight, my friend could have her mucus-forming fresh mozzarella. We were both happy, happy, happy. The slices are humungoid, I mean talk about folding the damn thing. this is a + cash only folks. The bathroom incidentally is a bit creepy b/c you feel like you are on the blue line and there is a recording of a conductor.
(4)James V.
I just got back from the grand opening of the boiler room. I really liked the place and I think I may find it to be my new default bar in the neighborhood, if the specials turn out to be good. Now first off, this is a review of the bar atmosphere, available drafts and the pizza. Anyone reviewing on service on opening day should be disregarded as a ninny. That said, my review is as follows: The Boiler Maker is a welcome addition to this area of Logan Square which has the Logan and Ronny's serving the immediate area. The pizza, which is pretty good for pub grub, is cheap enough at $3 a slice and $15 a pie. They have a backyard patio which is only open for food service, as their liquor license does not allow for outdoor alcohol service. They expect it to open up to everyone in the next few weeks. I got mixed reports, but they have a daily special which is a PBR tall boy, a shot of Jameson (on tap) and a slice of pizza for either $6.50 or $7.50. Not a bad deal, especially compared to the Flat Iron deal of $5 for a PBR and a shot of whiskey or the $5 beer that includes a free pizza at Crocodile. The atmosphere is pretty cool. With a turn of the century boiler as the centerpiece, I found the place to have a steampunk aesthetic. Lots of scrap metal and nixie lamps were scattered about the place. All in all, I will definitely be back on a slower night and I find it to be a welcome addition to the area.
(4)Jaime G.
They had me at the Youngs double chocolate stout on draft. Awesome. My favorite beer on daft plus other very good beer options. They even have jameson's Irish whisky on draft. Really? I did have some though. Didn't try the food but pizza and wings look excellent. Sell pizza by the slice for $3. Can't beat that for a bar. Atmosphere is def fun and interesting. Had a great time and would go back.
(4)Sarah C.
Next stop, California! At least that is what the woman's bathroom told me! The Broiler Room was the last stop on a recent bachelorette party tour. It could not have been a better place to end the night. Actually, that is a lie. The only improvement I would make would be to keep the patio open longer! Warm spring/summer nights in Chicago require patio access! We arrived around midnight on a Saturday night and the patio had just closed. Bummer fest. Thankfully, there were plenty of places to sit. And the decor was progressive and totally cool. Otherwise there was plenty of space to hang out and grab one of their signature $8 cocktails or beers. They also have $3 PBR if you really want to get down. I could not have been happier with all of the employees! They even got involved with our scavenger hunt for the bride making the night all around hilarious!
(5)Nick L.
Half the fun is watching pizza be made in their open-air kitchen. There are windows into facing the street as well if you have to wait outside. Food is fantastic. Drinks are cheap. But if there is a thin line between laid back service and unprofessional service, they tend to trip face first onto the latter side. Been here quite a few times, and the table service is persistently slow to the point of annoyance. Everyone working there is cool people and I'm rarely in a hurry to eat, but in a place that small, customers shouldn't have to get up and track waitstaff down as much as I've seen happen. If they can improve this just a bit, they'll have a special place in my heart forever. Because seriously. $3 shots of Jameson on the tap...
(4)Melanie V.
I hate pickles. (Unlike Snooki, ya know.) I also dislike mustard. That's why I've always strayed away from Cuban sandwiches. I mean, I've them a couple times, but never felt the need to eat it again. The over abundance of pickles and mustard just do not mesh well in my mouth. Blech. Enter the Cuban Pizza at the Boiler Room. At first, I cringed silently when my friends told me that's what we were ordering. I'm not really one to object, though, because I'm always open to trying new combos. (And, in the event I was completely disgusted, I would just order a slice of pepperoni. Easy!) To my delight, however, this pizza was realllllllly good. The mustard was spicy, so it blended well with the pickles. The pizza was topped with pulled pork, bacon and pepperoni, I think. Pork x 3 - amazing. I also have to stress that the crust was a high point for me - light, airy, not too dense. The other specialty pizzas sounded fascinating, with the bbq chicken pizza as my #1. You can get pizza by the slice for $3, but those are only cheese, sausage and pepperoni. The pizza we ordered was 6 (massive) slices for $26. Not bad! Plus, we came in around midnight and they were still fine with making a fresh pizza for us! Late night options, ftw. Our waiter was adorable. He even joined in our convo when my friend mentioned watching 'Beaches' earlier in the day. Note: Make a note of checking out the restrooms. My friends thought they were cheesy, but the 'el-esqueness' of it was a lil endearing to me.
(4)Brent W.
I'm feeling moody, baby, ahh yea, i'm feeling moody baby, ahh yea. Bring that atti and you're all good. Sat at the bar and the bartender who'd been there from day 1 was accommodating and congenial as ever, just what you want in a bartender. Good beer select and no need to mention the PBJ combo which is very hard to beat. Pizza. Solid. 4/5 easily if not a 5 spot.
(4)Angela S.
I crave the slices here. Great for pizza and the drink specials are decent too.
(3)Jose H.
PB&J with The Purist please
(5)D L.
Under 21 years old? - well, you can't go in - not even to eat. Everyone in group has to be over 21 years.
(1)Joshua M.
What is there to say that hasn't already been said? They deal out so much Jameson here that they have it on a tap. They must go through three pallets of PBR in a night. And if there is another place in Chicago that serves a decent New York style slice, I haven't heard of it. To taste all three for seven dollars and fifty cents, ain't that the dream? And I'm not even asleep.... I like to sit at the bar and try to wrap my head around whatever film is silently playing on the wall. The house tunes never disappoint either. And as others have noted, the Jameson Ice Cream doesn't just taste like whiskey, it WILL get you loaded. Fair warning.
(4)Keith A.
The crowd and staff here are just pure unadulterated logan square. Basically its very eclectic with people from all walks of life with varying degrees of ink on their bodied. And you know what, it's awesome. That really isn't the main reason that this place is a lot of fun, its just part of the full equation. You have some damn good pizza coupled with beer and all the jameson you can want which = a place that begs to be revisited. My friend and I dropped by here to chill after a pretty crappy work day for both of us. So, with a need for beer and pizza, it was a good chance to hit up the boiler room. Both of us ordered up slices and quickly I found out that it was cash only. Thankfully they had an atm and with an atm reciept you get a shot of jameson. Dangerous, you'd better believe it but it wouldn't be too much of a problem. The beer prices were just fine and the slices were extremely big. I got both sausage and pepperoni just to make sure that I'd grab some full on staples. The sausage was really good and the pepperoni was pretty good but fairly standard. What made the real difference was that the crust was real tasty and the slices were big to do some new york style folding on them. All in all the price wasn't all too bad as it cost me ~20 with two slices and three beers before tip. The service was always on point and easy to get a hold of even though we were there right at around 7 on a friday night
(4)Kyla S.
I wish I could say that I have experienced what I hear is their good pizza but I haven't. The host sat us and said a server will be right with us, apparently that was a joke. Me and my friend sat there for 20 minutes with not even a greeting or anything. I saw servers serve the people around us (who they seemed to know) who were sat after us. We finally gave up and left. I understand when its busy it can be rough to get to a table right away. However, we received not even a glance in our direction and it wasn't even that busy. I was looking forward to trying this place out, it looked very cool inside but I don't think I will ever go back if that is the way they treat customers.
(1)Jared O.
This is a great place to go before a night on the town. The PB&J special is a good value and the wait staff is quick/friendly enough. This place is cash only, but if you get a receipt from the ATM, they will give you a shot of Jameson. My only real complaint is how hard it is to order from the bar. In my experiences here the bar is often short-staffed with all seats being full. This is great for them, but it makes picking-up food unnecessarily time consuming. My suggestion would be to have a small section for pick-up orders somewhere in the bar instead of having the bartender take care of it. Otherwise definitely recommend this spot as a "pregamer/diner" to a night out.
(3)Smunsky T.
I was pretty impressed with the service even though it was a super busy night. I absolutely did not like that I had to eat in a tent outside mid-March in Chicago. We had a slice of pizza and an order of cheeseballs. Both me and my girl threw up all night long. I haven't been able to eat anything today I've been so sick, and I just threw up again. Needless to say I will absolutely never eat there again. Besides the pizza is under cooked. Maybe that's the way they do it there. I have no idea but the crust is soft. Absolutely nasty and disgusting restaurant.
(1)Claire L.
Confession - I'm not a hipster and this truly was my first time dining anywhere west of Southport after nearly 6 years in Chicago. I know, pathetic. Anyways, a friend dragged me here for dinner last week and I reluctantly agreed to leave my bubble and check it out. First things first, cash only. ATMs everywhere with a hefty fee attached. The pizza was just ok, We spilt the buffalo chicken pizza which was average at best and not good enough for either of us to bother taking it home. Our waitress was terrible, very uninterested in us and barely stopped by twice during the meal. The place was rowdy for a Tuesday night and no one seemed to mind that the place literally smelled of sweat, smoke and something else I just can't identify. Finally, left a 100 bill on a 76 meal. Our waitress never returned with the change and apparently just decided to leave herself a nice 33% tip. Of course we had no intention of shorting her at all, however I do think we should have been given a chance to leave the tip we preferred. You should have seen the look on her face when I was her walk by and I asked for our change, ice cold glare. Needless to say, this place is out my bubble but I wouldn't return even if it was next door. Not my scene, not my crowd and so many better options that let you charge your meal!
(2)Josephine J.
5 stars for pizza. 2 stars for service. Pricey for what it is. So averaged to 3.5. Went around 630 on a Friday night. It was ok busy. Group of 3 was seated immediately on the patio. Waitress was nice but we asked for more water and she never brought anymore despite the muggy August heat. Instead we saw her promptly getting beers and shots for several other tables. Luckily the guy bringing pizza was much more prompt so our thirst was quenched when he put down a whole pitcher of iced water. The pizza crust was amazing. The slices are big so kinda worth the $5.50 slice price for the meat special. I think it was worth more like $4 then $1 for a tip would be more appropriate. We also tried their monthly pear lemon ice cream. It was pretty boozy and served in a double shot definitely added to the flair. Worth $3-4, not $5. Maybe if the portion was bigger. Atmosphere was cute with graffiti art on the fence. Music was a little loud + train noise = yelling at times. Some misting fans would've been awesome in August.
(3)Rachel R.
My first impression was that this place gave off a hip vibe. The decor was very unique in that it simulated a boiler room/ boiler room of a train. One main point to acknowledge is the very quick service we recieved. It was so quick, that our pizza was premade before we ordered it. It was even at our table before my pint of beer was poured and given to me. We had to tell our server to reheat our pizza because it seemed like it was sitting out beforehand. Too bad it wasn't initially served this way, because the boiler room pizza we ordered was actually pretty decent. Overall, an adequate experience.
(3)Krista B.
DREW IS AWESOME!!! Great service, everyone seemed to be on top of it but he was great!
(5)Kat L.
I want to love this spot, but it left a few sour tastes in my mouth. Great vibe. Happening. Easy parking. Pretty interior with repurposed-like wood seating. Long benches good for groups. Good music. Limited TV's. PB & J is the special to get, $8 including a pizza slice of choice, shot of Jamo, and a PBR. It seems like pizza is the main food feature, and I wasn't disappointed. Sans the special, a typical slice is $4-5. (appetizers range from $5-10.) The pizza is pretty flat, thin-crusted, but flavorful. The daily special I had included BBQ sauce, pork, and mushrooms. I feel the price is justified, for as thinly sliced the ingredients are. You'll get a taste, but not hearty bites. Here's my meh-factors. Cash only. ATM on-site. They give you a shot of Jamo for every ATM withdrawal if you keep the receipt... but really, I'd rather have a shot of my choosing, and may not want a shot to soothe the pain of a double ATM withdrawal fee. To add insult to injury, although it is cash only, they will NOT split your bill within your group. So if someone has to leave early, you've gotta ask a little extra for them to cover tip. This put a damper on our experience, for sure, trying to keep tabs on different people's orders for food, who ended up having to leave. Service was largely inattentive. It seemed our waitress was the only one in the bar. Don't know if someone called in sick, or that's how it usually fares. BUT we also noticed multiple discrepancies on our bill. An additional charge for a pizza slice, an added soda, and an added daily special pizza slice. It makes for an uncomfortable argument. Our waitress took of the additional items we were incorrectly charged for, but she had to do this based on trust. We were still met with frustration by the waitress. However, if she wrote out separate orders to "split the check," a paper copy would have been a beautiful trail for cross-checking our order to our bill. Last thoughts: come with a small group. bring cash on hand to bypass the entire atm withdrawal for a shot of jamo "deal." and watch your bill.
(3)Jungle D.
The pizza and vibe are good, it's always an issue getting drink refills though. Pro tip, don't let your pizza get too one sided. It will show off onto the floor.
(3)Lucie M.
It really pains me to say this, but I think I have to quit Boiler Room. At least until their service improves. I didn't come to this decision lightly since I love this place for many reasons. My experience this past Saturday night (8/8) was the last straw after a few "meh" experiences recently. From the two girls that were at the hostess stand to the spotty service from our waitress when we finally did get a table (mind you the place was half empty early Saturday evening), service was a nightmare. It's really a bummer because I love the PBJ deal, appetizers & that Jamo soft serve. I guess if you want a hostess to be mad at you for wanting a table at a half empty establishment and your server to take half an hour to bring you the check, you might still enjoy this place.
(1)Coleen K.
The Boiler Room is actually pretty great! I phrase it this way because my initial expectations were quite low. I always pictured it as a pretty run down sort of dive bar, with cheap Home Run Inn quality pizza. This was absolutely wrong. Boiler Room has a nice casual atmosphere, friendly hostess to greet you when you come in, and a bomb back patio. We took two seats at the indoor bar and they were playing old black and white films. A fun touch. Our bartender was super friendly and helped us go through the cocktail menu. In the end, my boyfriend and I both ended up ordering the Shake Weight-- their version of an old fashioned. This drink is amazing, everything I ever want out of an old fashioned and more. Perfect balance between sweet, boozy, and orange flavored. All that for only $8, to boot. Although we didn't try the pizza or the PBR special this time, I was pleasantly surprised by their variety of pizza offerings and that these pizzas are made at the front of the house in an open kitchen. They looked super fresh, and I would definitely come back to try a pie. All in all, this is a cool and unique spot for cocktails, beers and pizza right off the blue line stop.
(5)Patrick D.
Great pizza, service... is meh. The place is cash only, but has two ATMs where you can take cash out, and get a receipt that's worth a free Jameson shot (the ATM fee is $2.75). Not a bad deal. As for the pizza- it's probably 4/5 or 5/5 stars. Depends on the day, but always a fan of the pizza. Lots of cheese, lots of options. The service can be hit or miss. Some of the servers seem to have a bit of an attitude in regards to simple requests (can you bring back a few more knifes or napkins). Additionally, I ripped the balance off my ATM receipt (intentionally, I'm a private person) and the server said that I couldn't get the free shot anymore. What? I don't want you seeing my balances, ripped that tiny part off, and its no good? I'll keep coming back here- their cocktails are strong and great. If coming on a weekend night, after around 9pm, it gets packed, so if you want to eat, I'd arrive no later than 7:30pm.
(3)Adriaan T.
Nice set up, cool place. But the food is pretty mediocre. The only thing they are missing is good food. But considering this is a restaurant, is kind of an important thing to miss. I had the pepperoni pizza which was greasy. The veggie was ok. The wings were pretty bad (the buffalo sauce was pretty odd) Don't think I'll be coming back
(3)Karly V.
My bf and I were tempted to leave this place without paying the bill, but we left cash under my salad bowl. The entire experience was seriously underwhelming, from the angry doorman to the negligent waitress who forgot to bring us water and dropped the plates on the wrong side of the table without giving a f*ck. We won't be back here anytime soon.
(1)Daniel H.
Fun spot to grab a slice right next to the California blue line stop. Thin crust, big slices. The 'boiler room' (PBR meatball and giardenera) is good. The 'purist' (basil, mozz, balsamic) is also good. The PB&J special is a must. There is all kind of CTA type stuff around, check out the bathrooms... Overall, probably the best place for a slice and a beer in the neighborhood.
(4)Michael P.
If you just wanna get drunk and you wanna do so with very little style and you like Jameson, this might be one of the better places around. It's been said before, and it'll be said again, but PB&J. $8.50. Big slice of great-pizza-if-you're-drunk-or-o.k.-pizza-if-you'Âre-not, beer (PBR tallboy) & Jameson. That's about all I've ever done there, and I've had much more fun doing it outside than inside. Inside it's hard to forget that you're surrounded by pseudo hipsters and guys taking their Tinder dates there to show that they're not a bro. The staff is so-so. Some are pretty col, others have that "I'm going to show you that I'm better than this by doing a shitty job of it" attitude. Try the Jameson soft serve. I don't know why I'm even saying that. If you're at Boiler Room, it's probably because you like Jameson, and if you like Jameson, how in the hell would you not try the soft serve if for no other reason than morbid curiosity? Oh, and just as a reminder, your ATM transaction fee gets you a free shot of...wait for it...Jameson. I would not bring a first date here. I would not come here for dinner. I would come here to sit with a few friends and shoot the shit for awhile, with instructions to the server to keep 'em comin'.
(3)Shane E.
Pizza - thin crust, just alright in my opinion. It works well accompanying aggressive amounts of alcohol. Speaking of which... PBJ deal - You get a big slice of pizza, a PBR, and a shot of Jameson for $8.50 Atmosphere - they actually have a lot of space, and it's not too difficult to get a table here. They have a patio in the back with a decent amount of tables as well - awesome in the summer time. Service - I've had some strange servers, but never to the extent that it hurt the experience. Overall - a good option in Logan Square.
(3)Ariella V.
I forget how much I love this place until I go back. I almost always go with with the daily or veggie special slice.Thin crust, fresh ingredients, fresh out the oven, delicious. The fries are on point too. While I love their za, Boiler Room is more of a bar than restaurant. So if you're expecting super attentive and eager servers, this isn't the place, but they'll always make sure your drink is full. Other important things to note: cash only, but ATM inside and you can exchange your receipt for a shot. Awesome patio seating (if summer comes). PBR bingo the first Monday of every month, free to play, fun prizes. Finally, they have Jame0 ice cream and have it on draft. Enough said.
(5)Dan F.
I really want to love this place.... With all the fancy train do dads and whatcha call it's. Plus the staff! My goodness are they trendy. But seriously this place is super cool. I like the look, the atmosphere, and drinks aren't too bad. The reason I didn't give it a great rating is due to it's inconsistency in service and the pizza is just ok. I find myself going here because I want to love it but then being very disappointed I didn't just go somewhere else.
(3)Tamara P.
Really love this place, especially late night. From the vibe to the decor, it's an awesome fit in the neighborhood. The outdoor space rocks & late nights here are awesome. The PB & J special is fabulous - day or late night. A slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy & a shot of Jameson out of the cask... you just can't go wrong for $ 8.50... what a deal! And the boozy ice cream!?!? If only there were more places with cold, creamy treats like this! I crave their Jamo vanilla soft serve, but they also have other fab flavors. One option this afternoon was vodka strawberry shortcake. How much more refreshing than that can you get? Aside from the pizza, I've also had their Caesar & Cobb Salads and both were fresh, crisp & big. Did I mention the boozy ice cream? Ok, maybe I did, but I'd be remiss if I didn't share insight into their drunkin donuts...also a hit!! Deep fried goodness served with - you guessed it - their Jamo soft serve. Seriously, this is for real! In my humble opinion, the Boiler Room is great day or night, but I love capping off a night of fun and telling myself I'm helping prevent a massive hangover by having a PB&J and some soft serve at the end of a night out. Yes, boozy ice cream with a PBR & shot of Jamo I really didn't need, but I also fit pizza in there! Hey, a girl can dream it's a magic cure, right? ONE LAST TIP - I almost forgot, CASH ONLY!!
(5)Ricky M.
Came here for their boozy ice cream. LOVED the atmosphere! Great place to go for a slice of pizza or dessert on a night out with friends. Ask for the outdoor seating which are wooden benches covered with outdoor lighting and an awning. Great place.
(4)Laura N.
Located steps from the California stop on the Blue Line, The Boiler Room is a fun spot to hit up for a casual, trendy evening in Chicago with delicious pizza & drinks. I've only been here a couple times (both for my sister's birthday, two years in a row), but enjoyed each experience. The pizza is fantastic, the drinks are decent, and the atmosphere is great for hanging out and people-watching. It's also fun to watch the workers make pizza through the window. Some of the seating options are odd and unique -- booths enclosed in glass doors and long tables with tall stools. I personally prefer the patio, which is gorgeous with benches, lights, and plants, but usually full. Good luck finding a place to sit there (I think you can put your name on a list)! In addition to beer and pizza (and other foods on the menu), they have whiskey ice cream! I was a bit hesitant to try it, but it's a tasty, creamy alcoholic treat on a cone. Get the full experience with the PB&J special: huge slice of pizza, a PBR (ha!), and a shot of Jameson for $7.50..... the perfect special for twenty-somethings. Hehe. Oh, and the bathrooms look like 'L' trains. It's sort of fitting because the 'L' itself kind of seems like a bathroom sometimes with all the dirt and urine smells. While the Boiler Room isn't exactly my scene, it's cool. I dig it. YUM.
(4)Collin C.
Maybe I've been living in LA for too long, but the pizza here is dope! It's, really, really good. The corn meal crust is exactly what you would hope for, a good foundation with taste. There's plenty of options to choose from, they mix and match for you, do halves etc. The staff is friendly, although I notice they always sit down to take your order. I don't know if that's what they tell them to do to make people comfortable or are their feet sore? Whatever, I'll buy it, have a seat, I'll be here for a while. When the weather is accommodating they open up their patio. Be sure to take a leak, their bathrooms are pretty novel. Again most importantly they get the pizza right here. It's cash only here, BUT, if you use their ATM they give you a shot. Deal.
(4)Marie B.
Great selection for pizza by the slice! The pizzas here are flavorful and hearty! Big slices, not just great for the intoxicated crowd but for the sober ones too! I've been hanging out in the area for years and just discovered this place in the spring....glad I found it! Try the specials or the classic menu items..they won't disappoint!
(4)Kevin H.
Great cash bar with pizza known for their PB&J: slice of Pizza, tall boy Beer, and shot of Jameson. The highest compliment I can give this place is that I've been here about 30 times and have never had bad service from the staff. Big patio in the back during the summer. Dark lighting throughout the restaurant with an 80s movie going silently on a big screen behind the bar. No TVs besides the big screen behind the bar. Bathroom has a goofy CTA train theme to it. I heard s rumor that the tables were refurbished from the wood from old CPS desks.
(5)Dorey G.
The boozy soft serve is delicious!!! We got the donut and ice cream appetizer (small plate?) and the soft serve is seriously amazing!! It is rather boozy so if you don't like Jameson, not really for you, but otherwise you need get it! The donuts were also very good, similar to beignets, highly recommended. My chef friend said the pizza he got (the boiler room) was the best New York style pizza he'd had in the city. The atmosphere is awesome too, especially the patio!! So, add this to your ever growing list of places to eat in Logan square!
(5)Mellissa K.
This place has a really awesome vibe to it. The bar setting & atmosphere is pretty cool with a nice selection of drinks. A nice go to place in Logan Square. They have pizza by the slice which is rather mediocre per se since its paper thin (New York style pizza), decent taste, but not so much in value. I am a pizza lover, so I can be extremely critical, but nevertheless it can be a good, cheap night choice. The menu is creative with so many options. They have Jameson infused soft serve and "drunken donuts" which I did not try because it was so late and calories, but will undoubtedly try next time for sure!! Didn't try much of the menu this night since it was a random stop, but I will definitely be coming back here soon to try more because the atmosphere and service was great. It is cash only so be aware, although they do have an ATM within for convenience. Awesome place to try out!.
(4)Lynsy M.
Tips and Tricks: 1. Jameson infused soft serve + 4 "drunken donuts" = only $5! The doughnuts are made in-house and are delightfully delicious -- the perfect compliment to their Jameson ice cream. 2. The PBJ Special: One pizza slice + a 16oz PBR + a shot of Jameson = only $8.50! This deal alone is reason to give The Boiler Room a try. Though the daily pizza specials are hit or miss, the pepperoni and cheese slices are consistently solid. Large, wide yet foldable pizza slices with a thin, crispy crust is their specialty. You won't find any deep dish here. 3. CASH ONLY. But no complaints here. If you forgot to stop by the ATM on the way, you're in luck. There is an ATM on site. Withdrawal money from the ATM and get a FREE shot of Jameson! Just give your waiter your receipt... and make sure to use the ATM INSIDE The Boiler Room. 4. Have I mentioned the bathrooms, yet? Oh, well, I should. Inspired by the one and only "L" train, it is quite a novelty. Enjoy a nice sit on the toilet while the CTA recording announces your arrival to the Logan Square Blue Line Stop. *insert public transit piss joke here* 5. Cult films silently play on a projector behind the bar... ya know, films like Top Secret!, the highly underrated film by comedy writer/director duo Jim Abrahams and David Zucker -- the same guys that brought you the more recognizable film Airplane!. 6. Bring ear plugs. My only complaint is the extremely loud music playing on the back patio. It's a shame. Their playlist was on point, but the speakers kept interrupting my enjoyable dining experience. I know the trend is to order food then pull out the phone, but I still enjoy a nice conversation over a beer or two.
(4)Carolina N.
This place has the potential to be way cooler than it is. I lived down the block from Boiler Room for 3 years and trust me, I tried to like this place but no. The pizza is not very good, the service sucks, and did I mention the pizza is not good? It's too mealy, floppy, greasy, and bland. You need more than one slice to fill up, and ordering a whole pizza is expensive....not worth it. The only cool thing about this place is the back patio area.
(2)Michael S.
I have been here twice now and was impressed both times with the food, drinks, and service. I also think the décor of the bar is pretty cool. I have had multiple cocktails that were all delicious and reasonably priced at $8. I think this place is most well known for its pizza; $4 per slice and the slices are huge and delicious. You can also get a PBJ deal which is a slice, a 16 oz PBR beer, and a shot of Jameson for $8. Another menu item worth noting are the donuts. Freshly made powdered donuts with a bowl of whiskey infused vanilla ice cream for only $6 is quite the treat. If you are looking for a cool bar with a unique, tasty menu, this is your place.
(5)Peggah G.
This place didn't live up to the hype. The waiter was friendly when we first sat down, but then seemed to be blatantly ignoring us after food was delivered and I needed a refill. I strained my neck looking around for him. The food was nothing special, and cash only is pretty annoying. I don't want a shot of alcohol for using the atm, I want you to accept credit cards. I'm sure I'll be back here sometime soon and actually try their pizza. I got their cheese ball things and some fries. Both were okay, though the cheese balls were less gooey by the time I got a refill and my preferred sauce.
(2)Lexie G.
Came here on a Saturday night while visiting friends in the city. Pizza was fine. Which isn't necessarily something you like to read about in regards to a pizza place. I wasn't digging the cash-only quality (though I hear it is common in this neighborhood), it was super crowded and loud, and our wait staff took forever to show up. However. If you want pizza, a beer, and a shot of jame-o for less than $10 in Chicago, then by all means, step on up. Ive got other places to check out. Thanks though. Pass.
(3)Pari P.
Say goodbye to mediocre late night Mexican food. The answer to all of your drunken cravings lies at Boiler Room. At Boiler Room, you can get a delicious hand-made giant slice of pizza till 3am on Saturdays. It's not Chicago style deep dish, New Haven, or New York style pizza. It's simply a thin crust pizza done really well where you taste all of the ingredients and the crust is a little crispy and chewy. The Purist is my slice of choice with buffalo mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. If you didn't have enough alcohol in your system, top off your meal with a serving of Jameson soft serve - it's adult ice cream at its best. There's enough alcohol in it to where you can't bring it outside. Beware of hordes of hipsters. It's common to see 40 florescent colored bicycles parked outside of Boiler Room. Don't worry, they don't bite - just don't stare at them directly in the eyes for too long.
(5)Hyerim P.
The food was pretty good but the service was awful. I came here with my best friend Mike who comes here often. We were thinking of spending the evening/night here drinking and eating pizza but we cut our time here short after a beer and a slice of pizza. It took over 90 minutes for us to even get this food, as our blonde waitress paid no attention and spent her time on her phone/standing in a corner. Mike tried flagging her down a couple of times with her either remaining in the corner or completely ignoring us and walking by. We even had to ask one of the people cleaning off the tables if we could get our check. Neither of us will be back anytime soon, if not ever again. Reading these other reviews, it sounds like this is a common issue.
(2)Mark Y.
Great location, food, drinks, environment, culture, decor, bathrooms, MENU!!.. But man could your waitresses be any ruder? Woulda given u 5stars if ur peeps weren't consistently neglectful and unfriendly :/. Maybe I'm just not used to bars thought it was a restaurant
(3)Daniel H.
One of my go-to places for great food & drinks. Can't go wrong when there's Jameson on tap! Two slices of pizza and some beer and I'm a happy dude. The drunkin' donuts are an absolute necessity for dessert.
(5)Emily J.
The Boiler Room is probably one of my new go-to's. I went on Friday for a social/work meeting and this was the perfect place to do so. I had a rough week at work! I got to the bar about 10 minutes early. To be able to easily grab a seat at the bar with immediate service and one of my favorite cult movies playing (Dumb & Dumber) - was perfect and exactly what I needed. I wasn't impressed with the table service, but I guess we sat down during the change in shift? Once our waitress finally figured out we were there, she was very attentive. None-the-less, it's not a huge deal breaker. PS: This place is cash only. As someone who works for a non-profit and rarely carries cash - thankfully, they have an ATM. You will pay a $2.75 surcharge for your withdrawal.
(4)Thomas S.
Loved the pizza! It is probably my best pizza find all year. Excellent crust and creative topping combinations, in addition to select-your-own topping options. Our pick eater of the group gave the pizza a resounding thumbs-up. Service was attentive but not pushy. Parking can be a bust, but it is literally steps away from the California Blue Line station, so that is the way to go. Beer selection is well-curated, as is the funky cool artwork on the wall. The music was loud and rockin' while we were there (a good thing for us). The retro industrial vibe sealed the deal. Heads up: Cash only. Double heads-up: In a hurry, want a snack or need a quick fix -- try the PBJ -- a PBR, shot of Jameson and a slice-that-is-bigger-than-your-head pizza for $8.50. We'll be back.
(5)Nicole M.
This place is one of the neighborhood's best spots. If you have a small party of two, you'll rarely have to wait. The pizza is awesome, as are the salads. Their special pizzas of the day are usually great, but only every once in a while are they "just ok." In my opinion, there are only two catches to this place. First, it's cash only. So either get cash before going to the restaurant, or use the ATM inside and save your receipt for a free shot of Jameson. Secondly, there's usually a strange, disturbing movie showing above the bar, which is viewable in most areas of the restaurant. I've had to switch seats with my dining partner before because it was distracting me from my meal, not in a good way. Otherwise, I highly recommend this casual, but very stylish and affordable spot!
(4)Joel S.
I went here during a nice warm day for brunch with my family. Their special is the PB&J for $8.50. So in case your thinking peanut butter and jelly. Get you heads out of the clouds. This is a new twist on those 3 magical letters. It stand for the following: 1 Can of Pabst Blue Ribbon and a shot of Jameson. Oh yeah, they include a nice sized slice of their Boiler Room pizza as a chaser. My wife had the brunch special pizza. It came with eggs, beans, cheese. It was an omelette in a pie and mine was the Boiler Room. I was happy to see that they catered to children. My daughter was one of like 5 kids there and they all had these massive slices of pizza that they couldn't put down. The staff was friendly and the prices were better than most other places in the area. I liked it there. It might not be the place for kids at night or on a Saturday night, but definitely a cool spot that I will go back to again. It also helps that its about 5 blocks from my house.
(4)Lindsay G.
Good pizza. Couldn't figure out if I wanted one slice or two. One and a half would have been perfect. Service was pretty awful, but luckily it wasn't crowded.
(4)Alex G.
Great pizza, can't beat the PBJ special. Getting the check and cashing out takes longer that it should, but the hassle is worth it.
(4)Jessica G.
Delicious pizza AND fries!!! Mainly a 4 because of the food. Beer selection is alright. They only accept cash so that's a meh for me. Service is alright. They play good music and the atmosphere is super cool.
(4)Dennis R.
A great option if in the area and need a lil sumptin sumptin. A friend and I stopped by after the Hawks opener on Oct 11th, it's been on my radar. Many of the best places close by 10pm or 11pm so it was nice having more than enough time to hit Boiler Room. I like being able to order by the slice, particularly this night because we wouldn't want the same toppings and a whole pizza was too much. The pizza itself was good but nothing to have me search them out for it when having a taste for it. I do want to try their Thai pizza though. The satay chicken was nice and light but also not incredible. They occasionally serve Not Your Father's Root Beer but not that evening. Everyone there was very friendly and helpful, always nice when dining. I'd give this 3.5 stars but chose 3 due to being a cash only establishment. Really wish we were allowed half stars because I hate rounding down.
(3)Jose B.
Delicious Pizza, Will be coming back. Just so you know its cash only not credit cards accepted. If you must take out $ use their ATM inside and save receipt. They will give you a shot of jameson,
(5)Natalia K.
We came here after a day of Riotfesting and needed seats and pizza pronto. Unfortunately, the wait was a looooot longer than they promised us, but with a good beer list to keep us busy, it wasn't the worst thing that could have happened. Plus, the pizza is worth the wait. Be aware that the actual pizzas are huge, however. I came here before with a friend and we ordered an app and a whole pizza and the waitress didn't even bat an eye. Please tell us we don't need that much food. We could barely finish two slices, let alone an entire pie. And the Thai Chicken wasn't my fave. But I know the rest of the food is awesome. And their boozy soft serve as well. Oh, and the decor is probably some of the coolest in the city- mainly because I love re-purposed items. Recycling is a great thing, and looks amazing, when done right!
(4)Julie Y.
Cool place to go. Came on a Friday night so there was a bit of a wait but had a blast.. Probably cause my company but the atmosphere was cool too. First drink I ordered was whiskey mixed with a couple other things called lions dick or something like that.. Love my whiskey but that was way too sweet for me. When you look outside there were probably over 50 bicycles parked in front which was pretty cool. Jalapeños poppers were a disappointment cause they didn't have a lot of flavor and it wasn't event hot at all (temperature warm, flavor not). If you must order make sure you ask for different sauce on the side cause it comes with jelly.-weird. Ordered pizza by the slice. Can't remember what I ordered but it was good. I would defiantly come here again because I liked the vibe. Also it's cash only if you use their ATM they give you a free shot of jamo!
(3)Kelly K.
I LOVE THIS PLACE! We have been coming here for about a year now and each time i love coming back. Cash only, but they offer you a free shot of Jameson when you use their ATM. Great pizza, and they have a pretty large menu. PBJ is the way to go. Ive had a few other cocktails here, mixed ones on their menu, they weren't the best but not a deal breaker as i go there fir the pizza and great atmosphere. Looking forward to my next visit, which will likely be this week sometime.
(5)Sarah G.
I will say, that their PB&J deal is pretty amazing. And that is clearly a strong contributing factor as to why this place is so popular. And no, I do not mean a sandwich when I say PB&J...It is a PBR and a shot of Jameson and a slice of their pizza for about $8. It is a steal, and a great deal name for sure. We actually were not that cool, and went with splitting their salad which was good, but not quite enough toppings or dressing, but it made us feel healthier at least watching everyone around us with their PBRs and Jameson shots ha ha Then we each got a piece of their pizza too--a reuben pizza special which was pretty good, and their daily veggie special which honestly was kind of like a frozen piece of pizza you cook in the oven. The toppings were just plain and the reuben pizza definitely seemed to have tastier cheese on it. But there is a great beer selection to wash it all down with, and an even more awesome patio area that is covered that is a perfect spot to hang out on a warm day. Definitely a fun spot to grab a drink in and hang out.
(3)Rahul G.
Some really lame reviews for this place, wow. This place is one of the best in Logan Square. Not many great pizza places and this is the one. Cash only. Great prices IMO. The pepperoni pizza is delicious. I like the salads as well. The cheese blast and purist are also cool. The Boiler Room is different, I like the giardiniera of course. I love sitting outside when the weather is nice. The service is great. We went one time when it was super busy and food was taking a while. Server felt bad and brought us some of the soft serve, which has whiskey in. Very good! This is one of the places I keep coming back to and love taking friends too. Ignore the bad reviews. Easily.
(5)Jackie M.
New York inspired pizza - translation: big, thin and floppy slices with a variety of toppings. Thai Serrano - the sweet chili sauce that is drizzled is nice. Not a lot of toppings, could use more carrots and chicken. All pizza appears to come in one size and cut into 6 slices. Good for a simple gathering and boozing up with your buddies, but not the best pizza around if you want something more substantial and filling. Given the variety, the great back patio, and industrial art gallery appeal, I boosted my experience to 4 stars cause I wouldn't mind coming back. The service was on the slow side considering it not busy - Sundays around 3pm. Can't imagine how it is when it is busy. The only thing is, not knowing it was ***cash only***, so we didn't indulge as much as we would have liked, plus it's to be a pricey for what you get. It's not a small mom and pop shop, it's aimed at yuppies and hipsters who probably have Google Wallet installed on their phones. Really, I can't pull out my Jay-Z black card?
(4)Brandon W.
There are so many other pizza places in Chicago with fantastic pizza. The pizza is paper thin and very easily eaten in a minute or two and not very memorable. The beer selection isn't better than any other bar these days. They all supply the craft beer favorite of the day. What really makes this place the worst place in Chicago is the service. It's awful. They're often very rude and not attentive. Our server on several trips here acted as if they were forced to communicate with us and were just angry that they had to be working. There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the city that really deserve local support. Find a different place to spend your evening.
(2)Varun S.
Had really high expectations of this place as we walked it. The decor and ambience were perfect for pizza and beer, and we got seated in a really cool booth. The layout of the restaurant is really good and can accommodate small and large groups. However after walking in things went downhill. Service was super slow even though it was really empty for a sunday evening. We ordered some drinks and then the boiler room pizza. We actually asked the server how long it normally takes for the pizza to come out because we were starving... she said 15 minutes. Our pizza came out in 3 minutes and even before our drinks!! Pizza was obviously cold and had been sitting out for who knows how long, since they sell that pizza by the slice. We told the server that the pizza is cold, she was so kind to reheat it for us rather then make us a fresh one because the staff was overwhelmed by the 10 people in the place. The pizza came back warm but now burnt, but it definitely was better then cold pizza. Good thing we were all starving so we ate and left. What it BOILS down to is, we won't be back, and wouldn't recommend.
(2)Kara S.
Cash only, but they have ATMs, and if you pull money, they'll give you a free shot of Jameson. Just make sure to mention it to your server. Excellent neighborhood bar/pizza joint. Crowded, loud, sort of a scene, but in a good way. Crazy silent movie on the TVs by the bar. Entertaining to watch and kill time. Good conversation piece. Tasty, fresh pizza - you can watch them make it. Good beers. They have the PB&J special, which is a slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy, and a shot of Jameson for $8.50 all day, everyday. What a steal! I didn't know about that when I stopped by, but I'll for sure get that next time. We came on a Saturday night, and there was a wait, but nothing too long. Just enough to enjoy a drink at the bar. Our hostess found us about 20 minutes after we came by, and brought us to our table. We got two slices (cheese and a special) and a side of chicken wings. I'd probably pass on the wings next time. They tasted good, but I think it was $7 something for 4 pieces. It's a little more than I like to pay for wings, but we had a craving. Our server was super nice, which I'm starting to think is maybe a Chicago thing. Very friendly and super cute. Whatever it is, I dig it. It's a refreshing change from what I'm used to. All in all, it was a good meal and I was happy to try it. It'll probably be on my list of go to spots where I bring visiting guests, and a solid spot to grab a slice after work when I'm too lazy to cook.
(4)Simmone S.
Okay - I love this place, let me lay it out for you: 1) friendliest staff, we talked to out waiter A LOT, he was so nice and out going I wanted him to sit down and hang out with us and we were on a date 2) cool neighborhood 3) Everyone else eating there was trendy and put together 4) awesome drink menu at great prices 5) DELICIOUS - it's primarily pizza but these slices are huge and yummy and made from excellent and high-quality ingredients 5) fav thing? The Jameison infused ice cream and homemade donuts I recommend it to everyone now, new fav place.
(5)Charlie G.
My god I have not met more Fuc$&$ rude people in my life then in this embarrassment of an establishment . The hostess literally walked away from me as I asked if I can still order a slice . Are you kidding me ?? Another employee saw this and very nicely told me I can order from the bar, of course I'm standing at the bar like a jackass while bartenders , yes bartenders ( as in 2 ) don't ask if I needed anything. Again I say, are you kidding me ? Either you guys are really trying to be that cool or you forgot to train the staff customer service 101. Besides the door guy being sympathetic I couldn't believe the disgusting customer service . Sorry I wanted pizza at 1:15 am boiler room . They can care less but I will NEVER step foot in that trash of a place . I'll gladly go to Peace pizza .
(1)Elisabeth C.
The beer garden is fantastic, although service can definitely be slow.
(4)Coleman B.
The best part of the Boiler Room is its design and ambiance. Very cool almost Sci Fi vibe and worth a trip to see it (go see the bathrooms too!). My biggest issue is that its a pizzeria with really sub par pizza. Just not anything to right home about. Super thin and floppy without much sass. I asked the host man what the special of the day was and he had no idea. Great job, he's really going places, that one. The apps are good but a little pricey for the punch. The best deal is the PB and J which is a pizza slice, PBR can and a shot of Jameson for 8 bucks. However the shot of Jameson is noticeably watered down (they also give you one for using their ATM). So, fun experience regardless, just not my go to.
(3)Chris T.
Living right around the corner and a pizza fanatic in general, Boiler Room has become my go-to late night spot...especially after a night out on the town. The fried cheese balls and mac & cheese are my fav apps and the bbq pizza is probaably my fav specialty pie. The Purest is also quite tasty as are most of their pies. Cool vibe with matching tunes - obvously - nothing less will sufffice for Logan Square. Beer selection is also decent. Cash only, but of course the ATM fee is comped with a shot a Jameson on the house.
(4)Nat Z.
I really waffle on this place (unfortunately, they do not sell waffles). It's a great location, it's always kind of fun and kind of weird, and the pizza really isn't bad. Salad was decent. I've met up here for drinks, dinner, late night, early evening, and it's really a pretty decent place. They also have a nice patio in those rare summer months. Minus one star for being cash only AND not cheap-- if you're going to do the first one, please do the second one, too.
(3)CB L.
Being from the northeast living in Chicago, there are few decent thin crust places worth mentioning, the Boiler Room is one. It will never be confused for a north east slice, but it is still a good pizza. It is a cash only establishment, however if you need cash, they have an ATM on site and will give you a shot of Jameson's for your troubles. I like to ordered the fried mozzarella and pepperoni pizza. The pizza is always good, but like most Chicago places, it is still $20 a pie, which is still nuts to think about compared to the quality of and size of pizza one could get in NY or New England for half the price, but that appears to be a Chicago price target for some reason, so it is not their fault. The staff is always friendly and quick to refill beverages. It definitely attracts the hipster crowd, which while I do not fit that mold, I am okay with. I usually see one or two friends each time I am there, which is an added bonus. If you are looking for a quality thin slice of pie, this is a top five spot for me in this city.
(4)K N.
Boiler Room, ohhh Boiler Room. I was never a fan of NY style pizza and I've spent quite a bit of time out east but Boiler Room nailed it! I had carried out on several occasions so I was eager to take advantage of my free Jamo shot (and I hate Jamo) but something about "free" made it taste better. My friend and I went on a Friday night, got there around 7:30 and it was pretty empty but I was also pretty early. We ordered a couple apps, the fried cheese balls and the wings. Unfortunately, the wings aren't their specialty but that's excused when they're crankin out tasty pies. Our server who rocked his daisy duke shorts was a bit on the "I wanna socialize more than serve" tip so we found ourselves flagging him down more often than not. A pint glass should never sit empty on a table for more than 5 minute without being replaced by a frosty new brew, especially when you're server has just two other tables. Again, it was excused because we were having a great time being the goofballs that we are and we knew what was coming....PIZZA! I wish I could eat more than one slice, I'm actually a bit heartbroken that my tummy can't fit more than one. The sausage pizza is perfection. I can't tell you how many Boiler Room virgins I've corrupted and brought over to the scrumptious side (No kids, Jets pizza is not real pizza. Time to grow up and eat like an adult.) I have to keep my indulging ways to once or twice a month so I don't become a pizza fatty but I could easily eat here a few times a week. One of which will take place this Friday as I'm bringing a couple suburban folks over so I can open their eyes to the goodness that is Boiler Room. Keep up the good work, guys. Tis a favorite!
(4)Jessica C.
I loved the way the bar is set up. From the outside, it's almost questionable, but the inside doesn't reflect that at all. The beer was well priced except for some of the nicer craft beers were around $7. If you go, please do yourself a favor and order a pb&j and I'm not talking about a sandwich. Pizza, beer, and a shot of Jameson, what could be better?! You can have all that for $8.50. Make sure you bring cash since this a cash only bar. In case you forgot and need to use an atm, they will buy you a shot! Definitely a great place to go on a date or with some friends.
(5)Sarah S.
I absolutely loved The Boiler Room! You can usually gauge how passionate I am about a place by my excessive use of exclamation marks. I get excited over the smallest things and go crazy. Warning: The exclamation marks are coming with a vengeance for this review!!! Quick Tip: Cash only. The Boiler Room has one of the best deals in town - their PB&J Special. You get a huge slice of super thin pizza, a beer in the form of a PBR Tall Boy and a shot of Jameson all for just $7.50. Ha! PB&J! I went in expecting nothing more than a good deal but was surprised at how much I truly loved the place. First off, the food was bueno. I really liked the slice of pizza I got and was surprised at the options we got to pick from for our slice of pie. I'm not big on pizza but really enjoyed theirs. It was more than enough to fill me up! Our waitress was just as sweet as pie inside and when we transitioned outside our cutie mustached waiter was cool, too. The atmosphere is chill. Inside is nice & has cool decor but their patio sure is the bomb. When I went with my homegirls, we sat inside until a table was available outside. It gets packed out there! But it's fun and open until at least 2am each day. Coolest bathroom ever! It's made to be like you're on the L. You walk on and the overhead speaker announces your stop. I thought the whole look to the bathroom was creative in a grimy kind of cool way. I want more PB&J and I want it now!!! And yea, I might expand to trying more things on their menu. ^_^
(5)Bailey Q.
The pizza is pretty good. I usually like more sauce on my pizza than what they put on thiers. But its still good. Ive only had the pepperoni pizza. The waitress told me that the mac n cheese is really good. Plus you can add any pizza toppings to it . Might try that next time.
(4)Chyanne C.
Great pizza. Slow, unattentive service. 20 mins after seated someone came to take our drink and pizza order.. The busser and food runner was more helpful than our waitress. Cash only! On a $50 order, 1 pizza + 2 drinks. I bet that policy has led to some awkward date discussions.
(3)Joe L.
The ambiance in the Boiler Room is modern, fun, dark, and very lively. This is a cool place to hang out with friends or groups. The pizza is good, and comes in huge slices. The best deal here is the PB&J, which includes a PBR, a shot of Jameson, and a slice of any kind of pizza. Since this place is cash only, be sure to bring money or use their ATM- and show that ATM receipt for a free Jamo shot! The service was a little spotty, but everything else made up for it.
(4)Christiana T.
Stopped by here before a show in the area and was thoroughly impressed. We were seated on the patio and even though it was October during our visit, they had space warmers everywhere. It was a very comfortable setting. The decoration was cool, filled with art and murals. The bathroom itself was CTA themed. I ordered one of their vegan options. I was impressed at that, although I am vegetarian I will get vegan whenever the opportunity arises. After, my boyfriend had the JAMESON ICE CREAM! That was delicious. They also have a PBR infused ice cream. I have to try that on my next visit here!
(5)Stephen J.
This place is a solid place to go for those random nights out for pizza/drinks. The prices are ok, if not a bit high. But they do have a deal for a piece of pizza, a shot of Jameson, and a PBR. The food and pizza is nothing special but definitely not bad. The one thing they have going for them is their love of Jameson. The Jameson Ice Cream is great alone or with their Drunkin Donuts. They have lots of seating, and usually don't have too long of a wait. But many seats are not comfortable for long term sitting, mainly because they're designed as novelty seats with either no backs, or fabric straps for the bottom and back. The wait staff can be cool and/or nice. But they have more than their fair share of rude, inattentive, or slow waiters, so it can be hit or miss. They only accept cash, but do offer a free shot of Jameson if you use their ATM and keep the receipt. Overall the Boiler Room has decent food and a decent atmosphere. I wouldn't go out of my way to visit, but if you're nearby its not a bad place to stop in to.
(3)Ryan C.
How many hipsters can you fit in a pizza place? Go to the Boiler Room and you'll find out that it's quite a bit. Boiler Room has done a great job at taking a pizza menu and marketing it towards a niche crowd. I like the environment, the décor set up and the crowd is not obnoxious. The music at the bar provided a good blend of music and with two projection screens behind the bar playing movies, it sets the tone of the atmosphere. If you go on a Saturday night, expect it to be crowded with a small wait. Hunger? Want a drink while you wait? No problem...the PBR, Jamo shot and slice of pizza will hold you over until you get a spot to sit. For $8.50, not bad. I was with a group of 4 with a 5th that showed up later. We ordered 2 pizzas; one sausage and one Thai Serrano pizza (sweet chili oil, Thai cream cheese sauce, house blend of mozzarella and provolone, Serrano peppers and pulled Amish natural chicken topped with cilantro and carrots). The pizzas are rather large and close to a NY style thin...almost. For an appetizer, we shared a spinach dip bread bowl, which was really good and I do recommend. With the amount of food, we found it to be a perfect amount for the small party. The staff was quick with the orders and friendly. No complaints. I enjoyed the place and will go back. Would I take my grandma or parents there? No. But, if you are looking for a cool place with friends for some pizza and beer, it's a great places. My Yelp PSA: If you get pizza and beer, enjoy it. Please stop taking pictures of your pizza slices and beer and posting them. They already have 100s of each. No need to take more.
(4)Dustin H.
Prefer to carry cash over credit cards, and love the delicious taste of Jameson? You're in luck! Sure, there is a $2.75 service fee at the ATM in the back, but show your receipt to the bartender and the shot's on the house! Awesome.
(3)Trae B.
Upon arriving I checked out the menu and was super excited, I love food. I arrived to a note at the hostess stand, sit anywhere, ok cool. I sat and sat and sat. After 20 minutes I got up, walked out and still no one noticed me. I won't recommend it, I won't go back. I will never try their food all because of the terrible customer service. BTW, the table that walked in before me, wasn't greeted either.
(1)Alexander W.
The best dairy-free pizza you can get in Chicago. Hands down. I've probably told over a hundred people to try it over the years, and used to be a regular here. That said... for God's sake get it carry-out, 'cuz the service is still so consistently awful. Here's how tonight's visit went: We ordered a pizza with Daiya cheese. When it arrives the food runner throws it on the very edge of that weird little elevated stand they have on the table for pizza. As soon as one of us takes a piece, the weight of the other size causes the entire pan to immediately topple over onto the floor (shouldn't the stand be in the middle of the table anyway?). Bus boy sees it, tells us he'll get another one started because that's clearly not our fault as WE NEVER TOUCHED THE PAN. If I lift a French fry off my plate and the plate flips over onto the floor, something is clearly amiss. That was the case here. Fast forward thirty minutes. The bus boy completely vanished, but the waiter finally reappears with the check (no pizza) and a small dish of ice cream because he "heard that we dropped the pizza." Uh, no, we didn't drop anything you worthless absent ass, but that aside: We ordered a dairy free pizza. Paid $26 for it. And the consolation prize is... bowl of dairy. Specifically one dish of dairy for three people. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. Hypothetically, let's say I DID somehow flail my arms and knock an entire pizza off the table (I didn't). Really can't imagine any other restaurant or bar just shrugging its shoulders and handing me the bill, especially when we're talking about something as cheap to produce as a damn PIZZA. Even if you don't want to give me anything--God forbid!--how about asking if I want to buy a replacement? At least the OPTION would be some kind of service, plus it would mean I would spend more money on booze while waiting for it. Instead I got the one thing the waiter knows we can't eat AND left the place hungry because, you know, our pizza was on the ground. (Since I was charged for the whole thing, shouldn't I get the "floor pizza" in a box? Or at least have the opportunity? Granted I probably would've just thrown it at their windows once I got outside, but still.) In conclusion: If you're going for the $9 PB&J special you should expect service comparable to that price point. Keep those expectations low, my friends. Or save yourself a bad time and just get the, again, VERY GOOD pizza to go.
(1)Stephanie L.
Went here for a din din with Kris R. Its a mello chillaxed place that I could see people LOVING at like 2AM. Cheap, thin pizza that is just OK. Also, Jame-o ICE CREAM?!?!?! YUMMmmmmm! Started off with the hummus. That shit is GOOD! I was slightly surprised. Also the mixed green salad. Next up, the purist pizza. I found it to be kind of flavorless...although I loved the thinness of the pizza. Tables are small and the servers are mediocre. I mean, what do you expect? It was a little awkward because the tables are teeny and the food was all out at once. CASH ONLY! I could see this being a late night cheap spot to go, but not full on din din which is what we did. Also, maybe a different pizza with some more flavs for me.
(3)Dylan V.
The pizza is friggin great. The patio is awesome. But this place has kind of gone down hill in the past couple years.
(3)Alexandria T.
I met a friend for a drink at another local establishment, but the weather was so nice, we decided to go to Boiler Room, so we could sit outside. I didn't order any food, but I am in love with the place! We requested a table outside, and one hostess told us to go on back, once back there, we were sent back to the hostess to be seated--a little bit of miscommunication, but it didn't ruin my night. They have an awesome back patio for summer dining. Once seated, I began to pour over the menu, I had started off the night drinking wine, and wanted to transition to beer. #whitegirlproblems Our server gave a recommendation of trying a sour beer, which in the past I have not been a fan of. She brought over a taste of Monk's Flemish Ale, I was skeptical, but it turns out to be the perfect transition beer. I liked it so much, I stuck with it the rest of the night. My friend ordered a slice of pizza, and it came out quickly. Late night, their PB & J special--a slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy, and a shot Jameson for $7.50, all day very day--seems like a great choice. They also have beer ice cream on the menu that is also tempting. They definitely win second place for coolest women's restroom after The Signature Room for its views. The restroom is set up like an El station and is pretty awesome experience. Bottom line, the space, service, and menu is great. One last thing, keep in mind, it's cash only.
(5)Erin C.
I've been to Boiler Room before and always enjoy it - different kind of place with great pizza, apps, and atmosphere. Today I went to lunch with my parents and my aunt around 12:30pm. The place didn't have too many people in it, but the music was super loud (per the normal atmosphere). I asked our waiter if it would be possible to turn it down, because I really wanted my parents and aunt to enjoy our lunch and he adjusted it and even asked if it was low enough. I always appreciate a business willing to accommodate, especially when the request isn't exactly serving their normal clientele! Also, HIGHLY recommend the breakfast pizza if it's available when you're there, absolutely delicious.
(5)Lionel G.
This place did not live up to my expectations. The pizza was average at best, the fries were ok. The server was nice but took along time to get refills. When it came time to pay the bill the server mentioned that it was cash only which was pretty annoying because it wasn't on the website nor anywhere visible in the restaurant. Then the server proceeded to gossip about us to the next table about not having cash. That sealed the deal, this is the first and last time I come here. There are better options available in Logan Square.
(2)Sean H.
Another great meal. Sat on the patio, but they had a smoking section so we were smoked out. Pretty gross, not sure how that was allowed. Food, service and beer were good.
(4)Leah W.
The pizza at Boiler Room is in my top 5 pizza places in the city - it's sort of New York / Chicago style meld, with cornmeal crumbs, thin crust, and big slices. The pepperoni is really good and so is the namesake pizza (Boiler Room), which has in-house giardiniera and PBR marinated meatballs. Yum. They do sell pizza by the slice and it's very affordable ($3-$4 per slice, which are pretty large). They also have a daily vegan option. There are good daily specials (slice of pizza, beer, and a shot for $10 bucks!) and though it's cash only, which is annoying, there is an ATM in the bar, and if you present that precious receipt to the bartender, you get a free shot of whiskey. Pay back my ATM fees in liquor? I'm in! The bar has a fun Chicago design, my fave part being the "el platform" bathrooms, with the standard Chicago outdoor heating lamps and the conductor announcing that your train is leaving the entire time you're peeing. Other notable items on the menu are a beet salad with gorgonzola, bacon and pickled red onions. The pickled onions are sort of weird actually, so I always get the salad without it, and the salad is a overpriced for the small size, but, I still order it because it's delicious! Also, my absolute favorite thing in the place is the Jameson ice cream cone. Drunky frozen goodness. The only negative things might be considered positive by others - the place is usually packed with bike-ridin' hipsters, especially on weekends, and it's often difficult to get a parking spot outside because of all the bikes. It is a bit annoying if you just want to pick-up food, which I often do. And of course, not being able to use your credit card. Other than that, a fun place with above average food and great prices. Also a pretty awesome place to bring an out-of-town friend, because the bar really embraces the Chicago bar-hopping beer-loving pizza-facestuffing vibe!
(4)Christine S.
Went in here on a Sunday evening and got seated right away. The place is crowded but not overly crowded. There's a good vibe here. I dig it. We had an AWESOME server. Seriously, this chick was awesome. Very attentive but not annoying. We had a deck of cards and she taught us to play Spades with only two people. On to the food. We ended up ordering a Boiler Room pizza, which is homemade sauce, house blend of mozzarella and provolone, pbr meatballs w/ homemade giardinara. If you order a whole pizza and you'd like to finish it, I'd recommend having at least 3 or 4 people there. The pizza is cut NY style and a little hard to pick up when there are gigantic meatballs on there, but it's not really a problem at all! This pizza has good flavor and has some kick. Next time, I'll order it with extra giardinara to get the kick in the ass that I like when I order something spicy. The Boiler Room has a pretty good selection of beer and they LOVE PBR and Jamo at this joint.
(4)Flash F.
I liked the boiler room because it was close, convenient, and well... because I love pizza. But, the pizza itself was not that special, and the service was pretty poor. I even tried to politely joke around with the staff a little bit to get them to lighten up, but no... they are a little stiff for my taste in a local pizza joint.
(2)Tony T.
Great place to eat pizza. Spinach artichoke dip was excellent! Yum! Beer garden was great too. Going there again to have some more drinks and try some more of there food.
(5)William W.
The Boiler Room! I was in Chicago for a few days and a few friends recommended this place so I hopped on the blue and went to Logan's Square. The atmosphere of this place is awesome, it's themed after (you guessed it) an 1800s boiler room. They have a badass rotating pizza oven, so it's interesting to watch how their pizzas are done! The big special they have is the Pb&j. For around 9 bucks you get a pbr tall boy, a shot of Jameson and a generous slice of whatever you pizza you want. Not bad at all! The bar only accepts cash, which would normally be a downer, but this place has an atm in the building. The atm will charge you $2.50, but if you keep the receipt from the atm, you can exchange it for a shot of Jameson. There was a good amount of hipsters there when I was there, so of that's not your thing, maybe this isn't the place for you. I loved the place!
(5)Kyle W.
It's the perfect logan square bar and pizza joint. Cool, laid back, kind of funky atmosphere with quick service and good prices. The thin crust pizza is nothing to go crazy about, but it's damn good. Plenty of vegetarian options and vegan pizza available too! Good beer list and cheap cocktails. It's rightfully a neighborhood staple, but don't expect the food to blow you away.
(3)Nia F.
I really really wish the owners would read these reviews and do something about the service, it would completely change my view of this place. Awkward, slow, inconsistent, and often completely incorrect. They have far too much staff that's always socializing rather than working. Some guy comes out to the area, stares at all the tables with pizza in hand for at least a minute, walks back to the kitchen, and then delivers it. Does he think the answer is going to magically pop in his head as the pizza gets cold? This happens every time I'm there. For the love of god, FIX THE SERVICE and I would enjoy coming here. The outdoor seating in the winter was described as "cozy," but it's an actual igloo. No. Get rid of it. It made for an absolutely awful experience. I could rant for a while about them being cash only, but adding credit cards would probably only add to the horrible service experience. We stuff some cash under the clip and run out after waiting far too long for dinner. I've often seen people leave because no one comes to their table to take an order.
(2)Laurie S.
Cool decor and atmosphere but bland pizza. The four cheese tasted like crust and that's it. Even after adding oregano and red pepper it was still rather tasteless. Very disappointing. I also requested a spicy pizza and was recommended the Thai pizza. This was better than the 4 cheese but still rather bland and not spicy at all. The jalapeños had zero kick. It was weird that they were flavorless. The pizza had no complexity. The crusts were the best part of the pizza although they appeared under cooked. The one good menu item we received was the fried cheese. Very good and the green sauce did actually have flavor. I don't see all the hype in this place and probably will never return or recommend it. Chicago has WAY better places to spend your time.
(2)Max T.
For starters, I can say that I do not like or even try to frequent many cash only establishments. And in this hipster era sometimes it's hard to tip toe around them. The Boiler Room is one of only a hand full of places I will come to knowing their setup. The place is accessible, clean and decorated well. Even the bathroom though that weird to say but you have to see it for yourself. It's novelty. Then as for the menu they have good beer selections on draft and in bottle. The pizza is interesting when you select the specialites but don't overlook even the purist slice. A really cool practice that they've adopted alongside the cash only rule is that if you use the in house ATM you can keep your receipt and they will give you a shot of Jameson. At least its something. Because though the ATM fees aren't much they are such an inconvenience. The atmosphere in this place has always given off good vibes and the outdoor patio in back is one of the nicer I've seen around. I suggest as point of entry just stop in and grab a PB&J which is a slice, a PBR tallboy and a shot of Jameson. From there get a little more adventurous and stop in the bathroom. Creep.
(4)Jim J.
Decent pizza, slow service. Sometimes very slow. One time recently we had to leave and the last slice was taking an absurd amount of time, so we canceled the order. They still tried to charge us for it. The manager eventually took it off the check, but it's absurd that they even tried to charge us for it in the first place.
(3)Caitlin W.
The pizza here is phenomenal. It's not Chicago deep dish and it's not Chicago square cut. The thin, enormous slices of pizza from Boiler Room are more reminiscent of NY style pizza. It's thin, foldable and not messy--how do they do it? The service has ALWAYS been great and I've been here over 10 times. The drinks are also worth trying. My boyfriend orders old fashioneds at every bar we go to and he reports that "The Shake Weight" is on point. QUICK TIP: Just want a quick slice of pizza and don't want to sit down? You can ask the hostess and your order will be up in 5-10 minutes depending on what you've ordered. Cash only, but there's an ATM and you get a free shot of Jameson when you use Boiler Room's ATM.
(5)Whitney B.
Oh, Boiler Room. How I miss/love/loathe thee. You introduced me to some of the best vegan pizza in Chicago, AND THEN YOU TOOK IT AWAY! I miss the days when Boiler Room had two crusts to choose from. A vegan, and non. Unfortunately when they switched to one, it was no longer vegan. Some may question me saying it's not vegan, especially since they have a vegan pizza night. There is honey in the crust, and for some, including myself, I don't consider honey vegan. That's not to say that I don't support them, or their decision to offer a selection of vegan "meats" and "cheeses." I think it's great that they try to cater to such a wide selection of eaters. That being said, I miss eating here so bad, and hope one day they can offer a crust without honey again. Honestly some of the best pizza I've ever had was from Boiler Room and I MISS IT. I was also introduced to one of my favorite drinks in the world here: Gosling's Ginger Beer (non-alcoholic). WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE with your delicious gingery taste and cute little seal on the can. I love the atmosphere here, especially sitting on the back patio when it's nice out. Great place to come with friends and hang out over a pizza or drinks. Super convenient location under the California Blue Line stop. Just make sure to bring cash!!
(4)Lamar S.
This place is awesome! Me and my cousin came here for out #SundayFunday adventure (we go to different restaurants every week and check out the drinks and food in various neighborhoods of Chicago. It helps both of us east coast transplants get to know our new city better). We were greeted by a friendly staff and helpful information. *tip: this is a cash only place. If you get cash from their ATM and show it to the bartender, you get a shot of Jameson.* They have a great special right now call the PBJ - a shot of Jameson, a 16oz pbr and a slice of pizza for $8.50! Can't beat it. Overall, this was a great experience. They have outside seating that seats about 50 people and the food is cheap but good. We are def coming back here with our friends and out of town guest!
(5)Brookley C.
Gah Boiler Room - I really want to like you. While the food and drink have been consistently good - the service is downright awkward. Last night went for a drink after work around 5:30. The place was nearly empty, and the bartender was clearly bothered by my beverage request. Understood - your phone and bartender friend/patron clearly take priority. My husband and I celebrated a promotion here a while back, had a great pie, and excellent cocktails. The PBJ deal - killer. Just expect it with a side of 'tude and you'll be fine.
(2)Rachel M.
This place, hands down, has the best pizza I have ever eaten in my life. No joke. If you are a fan of thin crust, this is the place for you. My favorite was the Eat Your Veggies pizza, but it seems they've tragically removed it from the menu (big mistake). The buffalo, thai serrano and purist pizzas were also good. I highly recommend the jalapeño poppers as an app, which were also the best I've had since I can remember. Ambience-wise, the place has a dark and industrial feel to it. They show classic films in the bar area, visible from multiple vantage points in the restaurant and perfect for lulls in conversation when you're stuffing your face with Jameson soft serve ice cream. It's a great place to take someone on a date, or enjoy with friends. I recommend!
(4)Draenna J.
I wish I could give this place more stars, because I love coming here. I love the Jameson ice cream, and putting it in a Milk Stout float is OH MY GOD good. But I can no longer recommend the pizza. A friend and I got sick after stopping in on a Sunday night. We had different types of pizza and everything. Both slices were room temperature when we got them. I didn't think much of it at the time. That same night, we were both up at 3 in the morning, pissing out of our butts. When we mentioned this to others, we got more than a few "Oh, that's happened to me, too"s. Get the ice cream. Skip the pizza.
(3)Alex G.
This was the first place we went when we first moved to the neighborhood, and it did not disappoint! Things to note: The pizzas are huge. We ordered two for eight people and had half a (very large) pizza leftover. The Castro pizza is excellent. It has some unique ingredients (as do all of their pizzas), and they are an amazing blend. The Jameson infused ice cream, with AND without the donuts, is spectacular. Save room for this if you can, or swing by after dinner another night just for this. Their beer selection is pretty wonderful, as well! Overall, we love this place and can't wait to come back!
(5)Paige W.
I need to stop letting pseudo hipster blind dates from ok Cupid pick spots to meet. Yeah, I said it, I've been going on lots of blind dates. With guys off ok Cupid. Whatevs. This place might (might!) have been cool if I was super drunk, or if my date had been super hot. Neither were the case. I ordered two appetizers- the cheesy fried balls and the Jameson meat balls. Both came out luke warm, which really sealed the deal on this place. Maybe they would have been better if they were hot?? Well they weren't, and neither was my date, so the whole experience was a major bummer Maybe they were hot when they were originally ready. But our server was too busy chatting up one of the tables to bring them out when they were actually ready. He was a total dud too. Maybe if I was down with doing Jameson shots all night (they're 3 dollars), I'd come back. But I'm not into that. So I will never ever come back.
(2)Matthew M.
The Boiler Room is the perfect spot in Logan Square for a slice and a drink. Their PB&J special includes a generous slice of pizza, a can of PBR, and a shot of Jameson, all for under $9. The pizza is delicious and the service and quick and courteous. Their cash-only policy may seem like a hassle to some, but they have an ATM in-house with a low service fee, and you can trade the receipt from it for a free shot of Jameson if you need to take out some cash. Five stars, A+, perfect.
(5)Caitlyn D.
This is my favorite little pizza place in my neighborhood! I usually get the specialty slices since they are always top notch. They have a great special called the PB&J, a PBR, a shot of Jameson and a slice of pizza for $8.50. They are open until 2am most nights (even Sundays!) which is awesome for me considering I'm out late most Sunday nights and am usually looking for something quick on the way home. It's right off the California stop on the blue line, easily accessible. Keep in mind they are cash only; however, they do have an ATM and if you take money out they give you a free shot of Jameson! Yay free shots!
(4)Megan M.
The place is great but the reason I'm leaving 5 stars is because of the excellent service I received from Jordan. I was in town on vacation from Los Angeles and Jordan made my experience so enjoyable that I came back a second time. I'll make sure this place is a MUST next time I'm in town and hope hope hope I get Jordan again. A+ for hospitality!! Jordan if you are reading this, if you are ever in La, we will make room in our restaurant for you! ;)
(5)Leticia N.
I have given the Boiler Room three chances and I have been disappointed each time. The bar tender completely ignored our presence on one occasion. The pizza is not the best and I have had many sour encounters that I don't think i'll be giving it another try. For great pizza try Pequod's or Piece.
(1)Mark G.
Boiler Room threw me off. First, I walk into the men's room to find it's modeled after the "L" train. It's pertinent because the L smells like urine. Secondly, the pizza smelled and looked amazing. I suggested we grab one to take back to the crib. There I learned the pizza was awful. Some of that can be attributed to my drunk friend ordering random and strange ingredients, but mostly because it was just bad. Maybe it's good when it's eaten fresh, right out of the oven. But guess what? GOOD pizza should still taste good even after it's become a little soft and soggy. But it didn't. It tasted like unicorn sh*t. The last surprise was ice cream. That's right. Mothafu*ka said ice cream, yo. I don't even care for ice cream, because I'm not 5 years old. But to my amazement, Boiler Room has great ice cream. I tried ice cream that was flavored with Jameson whiskey (strong) and this other with Rice Crispies. Sh*t was bomb. Especially when I put some in my pint glass of Nitro Milk Stout. Definitely unique and full of surprises. Some good, some not so good. But worth checking out.
(3)Edgar A.
Was out on a date and couldn't have picked a better spot for pizza and crafty beer. Everything from the service to the ambiance was awesome. we had the meatball appetizer and it was great starter, good taste. We ordered the Buffalo chicken pizza and it was amazing. The ingredients were fresh, the size of the pizza was huge and the flavor was amazing. Great place to eat, very trendy. Love the cta features they have in place. Really speaks chicago! Highly recommend.
(5)Karry L.
In the words of noted philosopher and Chicago native Robert Sylvester Kelly: "It's the freakin' weekend, baby I'm about to have me some fun." It seems churlish to turn down such sage advice, and in that vein, Boiler Room is usually my first stop out of the office on those impossibly beautiful summer evenings. The inside has a steampunk Pinterest vibe going on, what with the plexiglass booths, arbitrarily-placed red police tape, and exposed metal everything. Random movies play on projection screens shaped like extra-large portholes. I'm actually a fan of the décor, but for the less nautically-inclined, there's a fairly large outdoor seating area with the standard rustic-chic wooden tables, incongruously large speakers, and underemployed hipster girls in Ray-Bans and floral dresses sashaying about. It's a perfect location to observe the Humans of Logan Square, knock back a few cold ones, and commiserate with your friends about where it all went wrong for you personally and professionally. All before 4:30 on a Friday. And speaking of which, you'll probably want to start with the PB&J special: a slice of pizza, a PBR tallboy, and a shot of Jameson, all for the intern-friendly price of $8.50. The pizza is surprisingly decent, with a good ratio of non-rubbery cheese to tomato sauce, and miles better than the dreck that passes for thin-crust in this town (the less said about deep-dish the better). Keep the buzz going with a couple of the craft brews, which range from $5-7. Cocktails hover around $8, but are a bit on the sweet side for my taste. What's that? You've asked for the check and someone just told you that it's cash only? Luckily, there is an ATM conveniently located within the very bar, and if you show the receipt to the bartender you can close out with a free shot of Jamo for your troubles. Recommend if: your checking account reimburses you for ATM fees.
(5)Amanda G.
We live in the area, and I can't believe we hadn't heard of this place before. They are known for their large-sliced pizza, beer selection, $3 Jamo shots, and Jamo-infused ice cream. I loved the menu selections at this place, but my husband pointed out they offer only pizza, apps, and salads. The pizzas all sounded good and different. We got the Purist, which has balsamic reduction on it, which I wasn't crazy about but grew on me. The pizza was pretty good, seemed fresh, and I like the thin, cornmeal-crunchy crust. The handcut fries looked amazing, and I plan to get some next time. The Duffy Asian Salad with Peanut Sauce and Sweet Chilli Sauce was also very good. It is a bar/pizzeria type of place, but they don't really have TVs. This could be a pro or a con, depending on why you are going. The beer selection was pretty extensive - yay! But they don't describe their draft beers or give the ABV on the menu, which I to like. The server was a funny guy, but in that "I am a hipster and I hate you" kind of way. We will go back I am sure.
(4)Rhonda P.
Im really digging this place, the music, the food, the movies playing on the projection screen and last but not least the PBJ special. It's a very chill spot with a great patio and some interesting people watching.
(4)Andre W.
Cash only!!! Just wanted to make sure you all know that They have an ATM there that charges you around $2 and some change in which I am not a fan of. Aside from that, this place is really cool. It comes off as very dark & hipster-ish as Nick M mentioned, but it is very cool. Beer selection is pretty stellar. Music is pumping loud and they seem to have movies playing on the TVs they have hanging. They were playing some Jean Claude Van Dam movie which had a scene with some woman's exposed breast....I wasn't upset by this @ all. When you walk in the door, the scent of pizza hits you right in the nose. They have what my friend referred to as "spicy ass pizza" which was really some sort of thai pizza which was really good. We got a half thai/half buffalo chicken pizza. We did the damn thang on it as a group of 5. Definitely enjoyed my time here and will def be back when I am in Logan Square
(4)Julee W.
This place has gotten better! The pizza and the service were killer the last two times I went! So great to see
(4)Smart C.
I'm surprised at what a really bad experience we just had here, given the previously adequate times we've had here before. Maybe it started with putting us in the corner... anyway, drinks were tiny and watery. ($8 for a watery 2 shot martini?) one pizza slice was cold in spots and watery. 2nd drink order was not what we ordered. appetizer came after the food. i asked for an upsell to the PBJ, was told no, but was not offered a beer to buy, either. I'm tempted to call the Ageism card on this one. We had plenty of cash and would have spent it, if we had felt like they cared for our business. I even did laser-eyes on what I am pretty sure was the floor manager, but the corner made us invisible. I am sad. We had such fun here before.
(1)Erin S.
As an update, I emailed the Boiler Room with no response to the issue. These guys totally lost my and all my friends' business!
(1)Daniel G.
This place was dooooooope. Perfect place to eat after leaving a bar or club. The music they play there is amazing! Nothing but jams. I got the PB&J deal which is a daily special they have that includes a PBR, shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza for like $8 and some change. That is one of the greatest deals I've ever seen! Got the veggie pizza which wasn't the best pizza I've had in Chicago but it was good especially after a night of drinking. They also have alcohol infused ice creams that I didn't try but sounded amazing. The staff was amazing. Everyone was really nice and service was extremely fast. This is a great place to eat anytime of day and day of the week. Really good place to keep the party going and munch out.
(4)Vaidehi T.
Two and a half stars. Was out with friends on a Fri night. Its obviously popular because it was crowded. We were seated at the back, which is basically a tarp over the roof. We were right next to a speaker, so we had to yell the whole time to get heard. The pizzas were not worth it... two of the 3 that we ordered were very mediocre. I dont know why the purist and the chicken pizza were downright sweet. The only good one was the veggie pizza. The service was bad. One of us in the group wanted some water. There were no servers around, so she went up to the front and asked one of the servers. We were told they ran out of glasses - so we couldn't get any water. It is a strange place.
(3)Rebecca O.
I used to love this place. The PB&J was a great deal... until they upped the price. Now it's way cheaper to just share a pizza, order PBR tall boys, and get a free shot for using the ATM. (btw I love that they give you a free shot for using the ATM). I came here with my friends a few weeks ago. They sat us in the back where there's basically a tarp over the patio with some heaters. It was freezing!! We wore our coats the whole meal. Also we were sitting right under a speaker. I was enjoying their music selection, but it was so loud we couldn't even hear each other talk. Our pizza was lukewarm, and the crust was thin but floppy. It was really not good, nor was it cheap. Also, the service was abysmal. We were ready for our check for at least 30 minutes before we were able to flag down the server. This place has changed a lot, and not for the better. I'm pretty disappointed.
(2)Kait G.
This place has some of the better thin crust pizza in Chicago. They have a PB+J special, slice of pizza, PBR tall boy, and a jameson shot for $8.50. Pretty sweet deal but I usually go with the largest pizza with toppings of sausage and the amAzZzZing giardiniera. Seriously, the giardiniera is a MUST. The salads and jalepeno poppers are also tasty and they have a decent beer menu. The service is hit or miss but always friendly and it is CASH ONLY. No worries, an ATM is provided including a free shot of jameson if used. The ambiance is laid back, enjoy the classic films and CTA themed bathrooms!
(4)Meagan T.
While the food was good, the service of this place was horrible. They don't take cash. Don't come in here with a large party because the waitress won't even be kind enough to split the check. So prepare for 30+ minutes of your party trying to manually split the check, get the appropriate change, etc. My evening and buzz was ruined by the service. Not worth it.
(2)April M.
WORST SERVICE I HAVE EVER HAD! I went here for the first time on a busier evening to meet some friends for pizza and drinks. The hostess and door man were very friendly, so good start. Then we sat there for over 20 minutes waiting for someone to greet us. Finally, our server, Katie appears looking frazzled and apologized for the delay. No big deal.. it was busy. She takes our order and my drink actually got there pretty quickly. She says she will bring us shots for the length of time it took her to greet us. Meanwhile, my friends are still waiting on their drinks. Mind you, one friend ordered the same drink as me (which took 15 minutes) and my other friend ordered a beer (30 minutes at least). Katie came back and asked me if I'd like to order a drink. I replied that she had just brought me my drink and that my friends were still waiting for their drinks. Every time the server came to check on us, we'd remind her that we were still waiting on a beer and we also had to remind her what kind of beer it was. Seriously? Look, I was a server for over 4 years and I get that people have bad days, but this was just comically terrible. She kept saying, 'Oh, I'll bring you guys some shots' and then she'd disappear and reappear asking how we were doing. She kept forgetting to bring us the shots....or maybe she thought we'd forget. But that doesn't matter because I don't take shots of Jameson anyway. It became absurdly ridiculous and we concluded that she must be drinking them herself. It started as a joke, but then it did appear to us that she was actually drunk, especially when she hiccuped as she dropped off the box for our leftover pizza. For a while there, I thought I was on Candid Camera. Nope, couldn't be so lucky. She brought the bill. Wrong one. This was not a huge surprise to us. Everything that could go wrong, did - with the exception of the food being exactly what we ordered. It's a miracle she got that right. I asked to speak with a manager and spoke with Bobbie who agreed with me that Katie should go home and she said 'She is going through some stuff right now. She's not usually like this. I put another server on. I'm so sorry.' Then we were offered shots for the fifth time and this time they brought them... five of them (there were four of us). Katie dropped off the bill and we noticed a gratuity was added. Again, there were four of us. I went back to the manager and she promptly took the gratuity off of the bill. Then, Katie appeared again 'I'm so sorry, I never add gratuity to checks, it was a mistake.' And I told her okay, whatever and I hope she resolves whatever issue that she has. She walked away. I left the worst tip I've ever left anyone which was 5%. And she didn't even deserve that. Mind you, I NEVER do this. The manager told me to leave my number so that she could give me a discount next time I came in. I agreed to that until I realized I would most likely never be coming back. There are far better places in Chicago to eat and drink with much better service.
(1)Max H.
Pizza wasnt not great at all and they only take cash. I hate places that only take cash makes me think its all a big scam so they dont have to buy taxes.
(1)Brandon S.
I live right near this place, so it's hard to avoid. They generally have good beer on tap, and if you can score a seat at the bar then you can have a decent evening. There are several problems though. One is that the service in the dining area is downright awful. I've had various waitresses completely avoid me and my party, walking around oblivious to the fact that we are out of drinks and/or want to pay the bill. Secondly, the music is terrible and unbearably loud. This place is a restaurant first, a bar second, and a dance club never. No one comes there to hear the top 40 indie Spotify playlist they've subscribed to. Thirdly, and this is probably the most important since they are a pizza place, is that the pizza is soggy and usually pretty gross. The crust is translucent half the time, and trying to pick up your slice usually results in your fingers finding their way into molten hot pizza sauce instead of a nice crispy crust. They really wish they were making New York style pizza, so maybe they should send one of the employees to New York to see how it's actually done.
(2)Michael R.
THIS PLACE IS CASH ONLY! They serve pizza by the slice!!! Slices are pretty big, one is certainly enough for one person. Pizza was great and the staff was great! The one deal breaker is that they only take cash as payment. There is an ATM inside and they give you a free shot if Jameson if you use it. I really see no excuse for not taking credit cards in 2014 though.
(4)Kat D.
Boiler room is one of the best places in Logan square to have a solid piece of pie. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here but if you're in the area you def need to check this place out. They have a pretty good beer selection and if you like Jameson and PBR then take advantage of their PB&J!
(5)Aditi P.
OMG PIZZA LOVE! I wish I knew this place when I lived in the city, I'd get the Castro pizza here everyday. Maybe it is a good thing I didn't. Super hipster and too cool for school crowd (we were the only ones in business casual work clothes and felt lame, but that's okay). We got the thai pizza (had to try it duh), and the Castro (the BEST)..and both were amazing. The pizza slices are ginormous and we ate it the next day too. The beignets with the jamo soft serve will hit the spot!
(4)Luvleen K.
Who lets a full table order the PB&J (pizza, beer and a shot of jamo) at 1:30 and then proceed to turn on the lights ten minutes later followed by kicking everyone out before closing time. Not to mention we were waiting for service for a while. The dining experience prior to this was fine but a warning would have been nice. We all felt like we just gave them money to not finish our food and drinks. Thanks for the horrible ending to the night boiler room.
(1)Mark C.
Overall it was a good experience. They wouldn't let my iguana in however, nor would they let me let my 12 year old mail order bride in. Drinks were good, but full of alcohol. We sat on the patio, I could feel the wind and I'm really upset they didn't do something to stop it: however I had an enjoyable experience and it all worked out because my 12 year old bride was able to get some quality time in with my iguana on the sidewalk. Try the red pepper flakes.
(5)Vanessa G.
This is not what you think of when you think of Chicago and pizza -- no deep dish here. This is thin crust, perfectly chewy but yet soft with a slight crunch from the intense oven heat and addition of cornmeal. My favorite is the Purist pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil and a balsamic reduction drizzle. You can order a whole pie or by the slice and there's also a nifty daily special called the PB & J which is slice of pizza, a PBR and a shot of Jameson all for $8.50. Oh and an absolute must try is their Jameson soft serve vanilla ice cream. Simply amazing, seriously. So smooth and creamy with just a hint of Jameson flavor. You can also get it with freshly made warm mini cinnamon flavored donuts! Aside from food, there's a full bar with an interestingly quirky cocktail menu. It's cash only, but you get a free shot with your ATM receipt. The vibe here is definitely hipster/cool, maybe with a smidge of divey-ness. Check out the bathroom's interesting decor for some Instagram material. But don't let that put you off. There's a great beer garden area out back, which is always welcoming and a nice place for larger groups to hang out, especially in the summers. Also this place is located right off the Blue Line which makes it easy to get to. Also open late, especially nice on weekends when you're looking for some late night eats. Highly recommend, try this place out.
(5)James L.
Once in awhile the service is lacking, the pizza is a little off, and sometimes the music is way too loud, but most of the time Boiler Room is perfect! The PBJ is the easy option and it seem to always satisfy me- I'm too old to be a hipster, so don't judge! I very highly recommend the drunkin' doughnuts! It's the most affordable and original dessert available in the area and possibly in Chicago. It's a great option if you want something less formal and more fun after dinner at a fancier place nearby.
(4)Kelly K.
Cool bar concept and nice/fast staff. Pizza choices/ toppings are great but the actual pizza crust its self is just mehhh. Beer meatballs were pretty dry. Stick to the alcohol and you're golden lol Very hipster-ish (duh! it's logan sq) Cash only BUT you do get a free shot of jamo if you show them your ATM receipt lol
(3)Jessica D.
Love the PBJ deal, and the pizza slice (I tried the veggie) was absolutely delicious! It's in a great location, too. However, whoever our server was, ugh!! Total B. We get that it is cash only, and that's fine. But if we're telling you we are not associated with the table next to us, don't f***ing add everyone's total together anyway! Actually listen to what the customers are saying. Not really interested in going back based on poor service.
(3)Kate G.
quality food and great drinks - but too many restrictions. Cash only, no modifications to drink menu and majority of their pizzas can only be ordered in one size. And you have to show ID before you can even speak to a host/hostess on wait time. This place is packed all the time and can only assume makes a killing - why so restrictive??? The food and drinks are memorable, but you have to be willing to put up with all the quirks
(3)Jonathan P.
In any discussion of Boiler Room, the PB&J is pretty much the alpha and the omega. The acronym--though a bit of a stretch in designating "Pizza, Blue-Ribbon, & Jameson"--represents a confluence of items that's a lot more savory (and a lot less nutty) than it initially sounds. In fact, compared to peanut-butter and jelly, it's straight-up wholesome: one wide, thin slice that you select from amongst their assortment of pies (and, in my experience, they don't even up-charge if you opt for one of the more-expensive-on-their-own daily-special slices), accompanied by a sixteen-ounce Pabst and a shot of Jameson Irish Whiskey. It really is a five-star innovention--and I say that not even being much of a fan of Jameson, on its own merits. Sadly, the cost has recently risen to $8.50 (from the halcyon price-point of $7.50). Nonetheless, I don't find this a deal-breaker. It's still an entirely solid deal--especially if you regard Boiler Room as I do: a great bar to be waylaid, amongst other designs and destinations, but not necessarily an independent justification for a trip up north. Situated immediately under the California stop, the location also provides a great excuse to duck in when you're making the old periplus around blue-line-adjacent places, whether you'd like a swift, unsophisticated late lunch or need a night-cap, with a slice built into the price to soak-up the work of previous bars. And if I lived in the area, I'd probably drop through a lot more regularly for lazy-day lunches or dinners. The cocktails, in terms of both price and quality, are much closer to two-star offerings, so I wouldn't really visit Boiler Room intending to drink any spirit other than Jameson. While, beyond the borders of the Blue-Ribbon, the draught-list is solid, if minimally over-priced. The remainder of the food offerings--outside the seasoned fries, which are excellent--fall solidly around the three-star vicinity. But you shouldn't be going to Boiler Room for any of those things. You *should* be going to Boiler Room because it's conveniently positioned right under an absolutely-arterial corridor of Chicago; because it's a very comfortable, somewhat hearth-some space, nice for wiling away of an afternoon hour or two; because its soft-, thin-, doughy-crusted pizzas are good--particularly The Purist--but are also filling without leaving you overly-full. And of course there's that PBJ thing: a perfectly-portioned little unit you can purchase by plopping down a ten-spot.
(4)Daina T.
This place is dangerous for a multitude of reasons. One - it's right across the street from the Blue Line stop, so it's far too easy to slip in for a (quick) drink and a slice of delicious pizza after work. It's quickly becoming a habit. Two - Jameson. On. Tap. It somehow tastes better this way. What else is there to say? Three - Great staff, great music, strong cocktails. Four - Cash only, but the ATM is convenient. Thanks for making me feel welcome in the neighborhood, Boiler Room.
(4)Alex T.
Pros -Free Jameson shot when you use their ATM -Pizza crust is great -Decent on-tap beer selection -Smells great Cons -Ordered buffalo chicken pizza-usually one of my favorites. It was pretty much shredded chicken with hot sauce dumped on top--not awesome -Mac N' Cheese app left a lot to be desired. Mix between homemade and Kraft -Cash only -Had a little trouble with service spilling drinks. I think I want to give this place one more shot because the crust was good, maybe the buffalo chicken just isn't their forte. Can't say I'll be excited to go back for a second time.
(3)Kyle H.
Previously I've only been to the Boiler Room for a drink while my friends ate- went back for dinner and fell in love with it! Got there before my guest and had the pleasure of enjoying a drink at the bar, and watching a goofy movie on their two big screens. The bartender was pleasant, and she even took time to answer my questions about their specialty drinks. They do some nice mixed drinks here- think Whistler. Many people bellied up to the bar were enjoying the PB&J Special- a Pizza slice, Beer (PBR) & shot of Jameson. I'll definitely stop in for that special some time after a long day of work. The decor here is full of reclaimed subway materials- and it's funky and unique. The crowd is lively and kinda loud, and it gets busy. But staff was nothing but friendly and helpful all night! The salad menu looked really good! For another time, perhaps. We ordered the Hawaiian Pizza with chunk ham, pineapple, and bacon. The pizza was huge! Enough for 3-4 people. The pizza was alright, neither of us was a big fan of the chunk ham- would probably do better with the traditional Canadian Bacon. Still, the crust and sauce were good. A simple pizza will run you about $18, but can get as high as $30. I look forward to trying the Purist, with mozzarella, basil and a balsamic drizzle. Looking forward to the next visit.
(4)Marcus A.
Amazing environment! Amazing food! Amazing prices! We did the PB&J deal which is a shot of Jameson, a slice of pizza and a 16oz PBR! Absolutely loved it and will be returning!
(5)Lisa F.
Just moved to Logan, had to check this place out. Love it! PB&J, or just a slice of pizza and a great drink (try the lions dick!), or both! either way, I've been in a couple times and every time it is great. Love the free shot if you have to use the ATM, pretty awesome.
(5)Kandace L.
I don't come here anymore on the weekends. It is best to come on an off night. (depends on the atmosphere I guess) I like the movies on the bar and the ambiance inside. Food and mixed drinks are really something different. For thin crust pizza this is my all time favorite.
(5)Frank B.
Came for the $8.50 PBJ special which is 1 slice of pizza, 1 PBR and 1 shot of Jameson. Great deal for quality pizza. Its very doughy, soft and near gooey. It almost taste undercooked but its pure magic. Sorcery I say! Really want to come back and try a whole pizza but for $20 and up?! Me thinks I will reconsider before making the trek to Logan. *CASH ONLY
(4)Katie K.
PBJ. Pizza, beer, jameson--who's to complain? It's only 7 bucks too. I love this place. I think the pizza is tasty and the slices are huge!! It's really great. I also have had their mac and cheese fried pops--they were quite yummy. I have tried their salads too, always fresh and delicious. In the summer, their outdoor patio is really awesome. The service is stellar, the ambiance is great, really no complaints from me! PS. It's cash only.
(5)Brooke O.
I really used to love this place. The chefs used to pick up produce from me at the Logan Market for their veggie pizzas, the inside is unique, and I love that if you have to use the ATM, you can save your receipt for a shot on the house. Unfortunately, it has become too sketchy for me to return. This review is not a reflection of the kitchen or wait staff, but rather of the staff watching the front door and the kinds of folks hanging around there. My boyfriend and I stopped in on Sunday night for a couple PBJs after a long day. We locked up our frames outside of the bar (huge mistake in the first place, we always lock up our wheels), in clear sight for the door guy to see and even people sitting at the window. On our way out, my boyfriend's wheel was gone. To make a long story very short, it was clear that the people working the front door saw the wheel get taken and refused to help. After reviewing security footage from around the area and the POLICE STATION next door, it became even more obvious that it is a neighbor taking parts of off bikes and everyone is turning a blind eye. While I would never expect the doorman to double as the security guard, I can't give business to a place whose staff "blindly" allow these kinds of things to happen at its front door and in our neighborhood.
(2)Jelena Z.
What? I've been here four times since they've opened and I'm just now penning a review. Oh, Bolier Room... how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. // The PB & J Special: A slice of pizza, a PBR tall boy and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. All day, every day! // 8 innovative cocktails for $8 a piece. My pick? The 1988, with rum chata, Van Gogh espresso vodka and Absolut vanilla. The proverbial icing: it's served up with a side of Cinnamon Toast Crunch! Yes, as in the cereal. Hilarious yet heavenly at the same time. // Hot, bestubbled hipster boys open to dishing on their Jameson soft serve (yes, they have it) and cevapcici (well, they don't have them). // One of the coolest, cleanest washrooms in the world! Created from retired CTA train parts + real audio taken straight from the Blue Line (now approaching: California!), the facilities are worth taking a leak in twice. // The patio in back was made for soaking up the sun and throwing back a cold one. Yessss. // The name: Awesome, just like the movie. // A handsome beer list including about two dozen craft brews. // Jameson on draft. I repeat: Jameson on draft! // The pizza! It's not 100% loyal to NY-style but I'd definitely tout it as NY-inspired. The pies are baked on a bed of cornmeal, creating a crispy, unevenly charred crust with a chewy core. Try a slice of The Purist with fresh mozzarella, basil and a balsamic reduction. While you're at it, order two - you'll want it. *Cash only.
(5)Rebekah S.
I fall in The Boiler Room fan camp for sure. Every time I go I love their pizza more and more, salads aren't bad either. In a city of deep dish this is a great thin crust spot. Sure, service isn't stellar and it's cash only, but there's enough charm and good pizza to overcome this. Plus, the stuff they play on TV is entertaining in and of itself. My favorite? The 80s toy commercials.
(5)Bex F.
Yeah, no. Ended up here for a beverage because default-Logan was closed for renovations. And now we definitely won't be back here. Though the woman at the door was pleasant, the decor is clever, unusual, and really interesting, the service blew. We are not hipsters therefore our presence was clearly unwelcome, which is odd because we can afford to pay and tip. We were ignored at first then barely tended to and given attitude, lucky to be spoken to at all in comparison to other tables around us. Whatever. This place isn't even remotely cool enough for any of that hootenanny. Please.
(1)Luke T.
Boiler Room is obsessed with Jameson, which just so happens to be my whiskey of choice. This could be an issue. They have a special called a PB and J...Guess what that is! Pizza, Beer and Jameson! You get a slice of pizza, a beer, and a shot of jameson for, I think, around $7? Craziness. My friend Matt and I were on our best behavior because we were couchsurfing with people, so we used all of our strength to resist indulging in the everflowing Jameson. The $3 price tag (all day uryday) made this feat extremely difficult. We did have beers though, and the selection is decent. Nothing like Hopjack's 150 drafts down in Pcola, but not too shabby either. The pizza was decent. It wasn't great, but it was above average. They had nice options for their specialty pies, and there were at least two vegetarian ones as I recall. As far as decor, the only thing that really stood out was the bathrooms, which are designed to look like the El train, and feature a recording of the El stop message and everything. Very cool.
(3)Chris L.
Shitty greasy cheap ass pizza.!!! Hipsters everrrrrrywhere, waitress was rude and seemed like a bitch towards me and my friends i don't know why. Never will go back to this shitty place agaIn. Really don't know how people actually like there pizza, im not a picky person but damn that pizza was greasy N tasted cheap!!!
(1)Faith L.
Wonderful PBJ special (pizza, tallboy of pbr, and a jameson shot). The specialties are super on point, with options of a vegetarian and meat special. However, the service is TERRIBLE and the music is extremely loud. Cash only as well, but the plus side is that your ATM receipt gets you a free jamo shot. If you're willing to wait and yell over loud music, your'e at least guaranteed good food and (okay) beer.
(4)Shradha A.
Their Thai curry pizza was really good. The atmosphere is unique and yes, you do have to go check out the restrooms. The soft serve machine was broken so we didn't get to try that. They allow half-n-half but only when the sauce is the same - so we did Purist and Lombardi. First was fresh but regular and second was interesting because different. CASH ONLY!
(4)Aaron Jae M.
The PBJ special is awesome. $7.50 for a slice of pizza, tall boy of PBR, and a shot of jameson. They are cash only which usually is somewhat of a hassle BUT if you go to the ATM, you can trade in your receipt for a shot of jameson which is a good deal since shots usually cost more than ATM fees. Their pizza is not chicago style but it is done pretty well. Has good flavor and the slices are pretty well sized. The slices are flimsy but they taste good enough for me to overlook that fact.
(4)Alex K.
I love the pizza here. You get a huge slice. I think Tuesdays are vegan which is great for my girlfriend. Beer selection never makes me extremely happy--I ask for suggestions and am never super pleased. However, I usually order 2-3 beers, maybe because I go here on weekends. The famous PBJ deal went up a dollar a few months ago and I've gone less. The service didn't get any better, so that was a disappointment. Who wants pbr anyway? Oh wait, I'm in Logan Square :)
(3)Nikki S.
Great (huge) slices, always a fresh veggie option of the day, good beer, service is typically good. We love this spot!
(5)Kori T.
Pizza was good and the special they have a slice a pizza, a PBR and a shot is great but I wasn't feeling it the night I went I just wanted something fruity. I can't even remember what I asked for but the waitress was terribly rude and made me repeat it while she laughed. I'm giving you my service right? Don't be rude. Otherwise I really like this place.
(3)Aaron A.
The good: The PBR special for 8.50 includes a PBR, shot of jameson and a slice of pie. I enjoyed the pepperoni slice and the purist slice. The bad: The jameson ice cream machine doesn't seem to always work. One time I was in there recently the printer in the kitchen wasn't functioning and I had to wait a long time for my slice. The bartender made it up to me with a shot of jameson, which was very cool of him. The whole pies are really expensive! The okay: They play movies at the bar which is sometimes pretty entertaining and sometimes distracting. If I wanted to watch movies I probably wouldn't have gone out but it is a unique touch with the different movies they play.
(3)Laleh A.
Such a cool interior. Can't beat the PBJ. But we got another free shot of Jameson because our pizza got ran to the wrong table. So yay for getting hammie. The pizza wasn't terrible but not the best I've had. Real New York style. You'll have to fold to eat. But other than that $15 for drinks and a food, who can say no?
(3)Haikanarumi L.
I love their pizza! But i don't like that they don't accept card (seriously, who carries cash all the time?). The service is great, except the hostess (she is terrible, well the one i had the past 3 times)
(3)Cauliflower C.
i love the boiler room. thank you for pizza beer and whiskey. your staff is all beautiful and very out going. thank you all at the boiler room.
(5)Shareen S.
This place is the whole package: friendly, knowledgable staff, great ambiance and AWESOME pizza. We went earlier in the afternoon and got seated/served almost immediately. Our waiter was super attentive and recommended some vegetarian friendly options that were delicious. It's cash only, but there's an ATM in the restaurant (it's got a $2.50 charge, but if you being your receipt to the bar, you'll get a free shot of Jameson!). Definitely coming back here very soon!
(5)Roseanne S.
This weekend was my first trip to Logan Square. Being a South suburban girl my whole life, the whole hipster thing isn't really my scene. However, this place was actually chill enough that I didn't feel completely out of place. I actually liked it here. It was a pretty busy Friday night. My boyfriend, a friend, and I came here looking for a quick bite and some beer before a show at the Ultra Lounge. We put our name down for a table, but weren't given an estimated time for seating. That's fine, we'll just have some beers. They have a daily special of PBR, a slice of pizza, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. I would never get this because 1) PBR=piss water and 2) I had a bad night with Jameson once. I now shudder at the name. Instead, we got some beers and they do have a great selection, both on tap and in bottles. I had an IPA that was pretty good as well as Three Floyds Pride and Joy. Since it was pretty packed inside, we went to the outside patio. It was a little cold, but nothing a Chicagoan can't handle. As I drank my delicious craft beer, I looked around and every single person was drinking a PBR. You could attribute this to the Boiler Room's deal, but I think there's a rule that if you live in Logan Square, you can't be caught dead without a PBR in your hand. Clearly, I wasn't from these parts but I don't care. Someone's gotta drink the good stuff and I'm up to the task. After a beer, we decided to go inside and figure out when we were going to be seated. As I was about to get some more beer, I heard someone order a slice of pizza at the bar. What? You can do that? Maybe you can only do it if you get the piss water deal? Either way, I was thinking, "Well why the hell am I waiting for a table if you can just order pizza from the bar?" That's all we really wanted. Just as I was about to ask about this, we were seated. I guess I'll never know. We were seated in the outdoor tent. I know what you're thinking. It's winter. Are you crazy? Have no fear. The tent has heaters at each table which is nice, except that one half of your face feels like it's going to get sunburn. But at least it allows you to eat outside. We ordered our slices and drank our beer. The pizza is New York style as in it's very thin and it's a very big piece but in a setting like this, it works. It was very good. Just the right amount of grease and it hit the spot. I got pepperoni, my boyfriend got the Purist, which is basil and fresh motzarella; and his friend got the Boiler Room slice, which has meatballs dipped in PBR (obviously) and some giardinara. Every slice looked delicious and they were. You should know that this place is cash only so make sure you come with some in hand. Also, the bathroom is really cool. It's like a CTA stop. When you open the door, the CTA man's voice comes and announces a blue line stop. The stall is made using a CTA car door. Pretty neat. If I'm back in Logan Square, I'll be back here.
(4)Pamela M.
Nice Cargo Straps! Made for comfy seats. The place is cool I'll give them that. Make sure to use the rest room while there. Server was emotionless and my Lombardi pizza was good (what else do you expect from a cheesehead Packer fan ;) crust nice and thin, but $30 a pizza is quite a stretch for me. And $8 for a teenie glass of wine (limited selections) Cool place to try at least once.
(3)Mogan B.
Ah, hells yeah. If I drank Jameson and was a millionaire when I was 12, this place would have been my clubhouse. The pizza's redonk, they have pretty much all the beers covered, and the PB&J (a slice, a tall can PBR and shot of Jameo for $7 or $8 or something) makes my head want to explode like that guy at the beginning of Scanners. This place is obviously run by some dudes who know what's up. The pizza is hand made, oven baked, thin crust and while they have your basics (pepperoni, sausage, cheese) as well as crazy shit like a Thai Chicken or the Boiler Room that has PBR meatballs and house made gardiniare, they also like to sometime like to shake things up a bit and get all baller and do stuff like a gyro pizza with grass fed organic lamb, feta and tzatzikii sauce. The place is cash only, but they have a policy that if you use their ATM and give the receipt to your server, you've earned yourself a free shot of Jameson, which pretty much takes care of the ATM fee. And gets you drunk. And they also serve it on tap. They also serve Jameson as soft serve ice cream, which not only tastes pretty damn good, but will also get you drunk, but in cone form. The ambiance is pretty great too. Behind the bar are projector screens, and every time I've been in there, they've been showing great 80's films you're parents wouldn't let you watch as a kid so you'd have to see at your Uncle's or friend's house during a slumber party, like Bachelor Party or Vacation. The bartender is usually playing a mix of 90's bro-punk mixed with 2000's hipster fare which is a little weird, but I'm not at all going to complain about hearing Strung Out into the Yeah Yeah Yeah's into Pennywise into Interpol. The only thing I feel is a little overboard is the "Theme" vibe of the men's room (I can't speak for the ladies, but maybe they know what I'm talking about, right ladies?) that has it decked out to be a Disney World version of the California EL stop that is right above the restaurant, and talks when you flush the toilet. I don't really have to feel like I'm in line for Startours to comfortably relieve myself in such an establishment, but it does take Diff'rent Strokes to move the world (yes, it does). The only real suggestion I would make to make the place any better would be maybe a firepole or a slip n slide out back. Other than that, they pretty much have shit covered.
(4)Peter K.
After bookmarking this place I decided to come here with a friend few days ago. We definitely both like this place. Inside is very comfortable with cool decor, but we have decided to sit outside in the patio - which i think is what makes this place. Patio is just a cool place to come hang out and have few beers with your friend - reminded me of some places in Brooklyn NYC. We ordered humus - which was good and Hawaiian pizza which in my opinion was excellent! Bit pricey on the pizza but the size of it made up for it i think. I noticed they have a great deal on Jameson shoot + PBR + slice of pizza for $7.50 ! cant beat that. Also this place doesn't take credit cards so be prepared or use their ATM inside (keep the receipt for free shot!!) - I would recommend this place to a friend for Atmosphere, good pizza and outside patio. Will come back.
(4)peanut b.
Pizza was really good - not great, but I think that was because I left it up to everyone else to decide. Not a fan of mustard and cauliflower and some of the other crazy stuff they settled on. Crust - great! Why have I been going to Piece is what I thought for most of the time I was there. Everything was great, until we settled behind the bar stools, and it was pretty clear one of the staff employees was there, and was done working. The 30ish, half balding dick weed three times shoved his way past my wife without warning. Pushed me out of the way once to with two fingers to rush back to his bar seat. I'm all for the staff hanging out after hours, but encourage them to act like they are still a representative of the establishment. And if by chance this was not an employee, then you should probably ask him to leave for being such an asshole. But...the pizza was good. So we will be back. The wife says; it was loud, and we waited a long time. She said they skipped over us when we were waiting. She wants to go back to, just not on a saturday.
(3)Jim Z.
The lack of AC is made up for the existence of the PB&J and the shot of Jameson you get when you use the ATM inside, so.... you can get 2 shots of Jameson, a PBR, and a slice of Pizza for seven bucks, which feels a lot like robbing a liquor store.
(4)felicia m.
friendly staff, great drinks and pizza. I've brought my parents here from out of town and they loved a pizza dinner on the back patio and even the CTA-themed bathrooms. then i brought a friend for a food stop on a long, crazy pub crawl, and the music kept us pumped up to go. such an easy location across from the California stop.
(5)Poof A.
PB & J, please! What an awesome deal for really tasty pizza [especially the slice with balsamic vinegar- something I've never had on pizza before but will definitely be adding to future pies!] The patio here is a lovely place to spend an afternoon/evening, and the indoor space is nice too. Don't tell your friends, though- I can see this place getting *really* crowded in the summer.
(4)Kelly K.
Came here before a show at the Congress and it was a great place to have a few drinks and some pizza pre show. The Toy Gun is the way to go!
(4)steve c.
Solid 3.5 stars for the boiler room - but has room for improvement. Across from the California blue line stop, Boiler room is conveniently located for getting wasted and jumping back on the CTA. The decor is nice and the booth we sat in was more comfy than it actually looks. The service was good. The beer list could be improved on - but not bad by all means. The PBR (Pizza, Tallboy PBR, and a shot of Jameson) for $7 is a good deal. The pizza was noting to rave about. Just some very thin crust with some cheese on top. Wouldn't order it by itself. I hope to see credit cards accepted and a open patio upon my next return.
(4)Sean W.
good pizza and beer cash only Interesting fact: On a Saturday night I ate almost an entire pizza. The next morning I ran 11 miles faster than I've ever run 11 miles. Must be the pizza.
(5)Ryan S.
PB&J is one of the best deals in town. A shot of J, tall boi of PBR, and a great slice of pie for 7.50. It takes a while to get your order sometimes and staff can be snobby. It's always full of the in crowd because of the location so be prepared. The Boiler Room is a fun time.
(4)Marisa H.
Purist Pizza All Day!!!!!!
(5)Lauren H.
My mom kept bugging me to order pizza from here because it was new york style..The sausage pizza is pretty huge for $18. I kinda was ehh for it but my mom definitely loved and because of their corn meal thin crust. She keeps telling me she wants to try the another kind of pizza so we will definitely order again.
(4)Debra R.
awful awful awful experience here. went with a group of 8 people on a friday night. we asked to be seated as we were planning to order food and hang for a bit. the hostess told us it would be 45 min to an hour so we headed to the bar and got drinks for the wait. 20 minutes later our table was ready. the hostess told us the tables are for "service" and if we wanted to order drinks at the bar then we have to give up the table. what?! ooohhhhh k. of course we will order from the server, NO problem. enter waiter. he asks if we need anything and most of us let him know we are waiting for our slices of pizza as we had ordered our first round at the bar. to which he responds letting us know the tables are for service only and not to be ordering from the bar. ohhhhhh k. (do these people hate the bartender or something? to which we repeat the story of our wait not being as long as anticipated and that these were simply our first drinks and that we would certainly order from him for the reminder of our time at the table. the rest of the night the waiter was less than responsive, rarely came by the table and when he did, he would take off before all of us could let him know what we want. i even waved at him to let him know i needed something but he didn't see as he was speeding away. so then i flag down the awesome bus-girl and ask her if she can help me get a drink as it has been a while and the waiter didn't help out. she said yes and then it was a REALLLLLY long time until my drink came. when it finally did come, i asked the waiter if he had a problem with our table and he REPEATS that we shouldn't be ordering from the bar OR from the bus-girl. at this point i'm getting a bit testy as i have never EVER been treated so rudely by a team of wait staff. so i explain to him that i had to order from the bus-girl because he either ignored me or ran away from the table every time i tried to order a drink (and pizza slice). he then ran to the hostess (or manager, i have no idea who she was) who explained that OUR table had been rude from the moment we sat down and we shouldn't be treating the waiter like that, etc etc. WHAAAAAAA? i seriously felt like i was taking crazy pills. she then berated us for ordering from the bartender AGAIN so at this point we thought we better just party ways and asked for the bill. she brought it back and it was the WRONG BILL! SERIOUSLY? it was about 3 times what we owed so we saw the lovely bus-girl and told her it was wrong and she took it and came back with it with the correct totals. absolutely ridiculous. it's sad too because our friends go there a LOT and they have a delicious beer list and specials. i didn't get my last slice of pizza that i ordered as it never came and i was really looking forward to it as my first piece was delicious. so sad. BAD SERVICE BOILER ROOM! i'm so disappointed!
(1)John A.
Great logan square spot. Nice beer selection and the food is damn good. My favorite pizza in LS. Staff is very friendly.
(5)John F.
Great pizza, good specials. Decent beer selection. Will visit frequently. Only downside.... Cash Only. Ive heard if you use the ATM you get a free shot of Jameson but what if you don't want Jameson
(4)Carlos G.
The beer selection was comprehensive and the pizza was excellent and very, very well priced. In fact, Boiler Room is clearly now the best pizza place in Logan Square (although Father & Sons is also good, it's a different sort of affair), with fresh ingredients and as good an approximation of classic New York pizza as I've had anywhere in Chicago. The atmosphere is lively, the menu simple but adequate, and the service prompt. And I can't get over what a bargain it is. I'm more impressed with this place than with any other new addition to our neighborhood save Longman & Eagle. Unlike Revolution Brewery and other fads of the month, the Boiler Room will silently gain fans until it becomes a genuine neighborhood institution. A great win for Logan Square.
(5)Craig L.
2nd time I've been in for lunch. The first visit I had the brunch pizza. This time had the buffalo chicken. It was very good pizza and great beers on tap. The beers are a little pricey.... but overall a great place.
(4)Roy A.
The pizza here is perfectly fine. Nice large pies of thin crust with a variety of toppings that you can choose. They have some specials where you can get a slice and a shot of whiskey and a PBR for a relatively cheap price. That's cool too. Why settle for a PBR when you can choose from a pretty solid beer list that they also offer? I really wanna come back and try some more of their carious toppings and get a better feel for the place, but for now it's pretty good pizza with some real good beer. But.... The decor is probably the best part of the restaurant with parts of trains and subways all over the place. Rumor has the bathroom (mens) is like a train car as well.
(4)kelly c.
I wish I liked you more. The CHICKEN is good, but I'm not a fan of the za. Good beers, good atmosphere. Simone's is so good, maybe I've expected too much?
(3)G L.
Went here once with the girlfriend. The pizza they had was pretty good, I dig the atmosphere and seating. They also have alcoholic ice cream! Decent prices, Not too bad. Def. Check it out. PB&J special is SWEET!
(4)Pam C.
Their patio is now open, and, on my last visit, they were offering one of their specialty pizzas by the slice. Delish.
(4)Tommy D.
Very good pizza with lots of atypical toppings to choose from. The restaurant has an awesome beer selection too. The decor is amazing and the staff was very friendly. I found the prices to be kind of high for the whole pizzas ($5 extra for some toppings)..And FYI..Cash only. Which kinda sucks cuz you'll have to bring a wad of cash to pay for your dinner. Boiler Room: Get a credit card machine, its the 21st century!!! But regardless.. good food, drink, atmosphere. I'll be back.
(4)Brynna P.
I'm a fan of this joint. The PB&J is the best thing ever and you shouldn't really pay attention to the rest of these jokers. It's your night in an order. Tall boy of PBR, shot of jameson, slice of pizza for $7.50. Win. Plus the pizza is tasty.
(4)Jillian S.
Hubs and I returned here for dinner so we could try the food and I can say that this place is now officially one of our favorite hang outs. We will be back again and again. The pulled pork pizza is amazing. BBQ sauce, pork, and coleslaw (!) are your toppings - and let me tell you, it is simply heaven. Hubs ordered a similar pizza at Crust a few weeks ago - which was no where NEAR as good as Boiler Room's! I will say hands down their pizza beats Crust. I also really loved the Lost Coast Great White they offer on tap - and the new raspberry brew is also excellent. Though I do miss the blueberry brew!
(5)Will D.
First time last night with an old friend. We chose to sit along the far wall but when I went to sit I felt water so we moved over a few seats. When I mentioned it to the waitress, she said "oh yeah, that's the AC dripping," like it was a normal thing. No "oh, I'm sorry" or anything. I suggested she might want to put a notice there. A while later she pushed the table to the wall. Weird. We ordered the basic pepperoni pizza for a freaking $18.00. It arrived burned. We should have sent it back...it was mostly grease, hardly any cheese to speak of. The cornmeal bottom was more like sand than anything edible. There was pepperoni but for that much money I would expect a whole lot more. We had a house beer which was ok but not enough to make up for the lousy food. After a bit we kept being approached by different waitstaff, who seemed to want us to leave even though it was only about six o'clock and there were plenty of tables. One tried to take my friend's plate even though he was still eating. Maybe we were the wrong demo? Too old for the hipster crowd? I actually liked the industrial decor but not enough to go back.
(2)Joseph N.
The pizza isn't the best, and the toppings choices are strange and for the most part not very good. The beer list is small, the decorations are tacky (still don't understand why it says "Doors open on the right at Logan Square" in the bathroom ... first of all, that's a really lame decoration; second, they open on the left at LS). But I do love this place and I'm giving it five stars to try to counterbalance everyone who's rated it so poorly based on things like service. The waitstaff are all really great. If they were rude to you you might've deserved it. I've never had a problem with them, and in fact I've seen them go out of their way for patrons a number of times. It's a great place to have close by.
(5)Trey S.
My favorite mellow, hip, cozy spot in LogSqua! Very cool and unique atmosphere. Great semi-NY style 'zah that is super reasonable by the slice. My only complaint is that it's not always as consistent as I'd like. But when it's on it can't be beat. A great place to meet some friends and have a beer, a shot and a slice!!!
(4)Ezra E.
Awesome inside if only because watching the movie frogs and mst3k'ing with my wife over some appetizers and beers was awesome. I've been back a few times for the pizzas which are delicious. So far I think the logan is my favorite but I may be swayed next time I stop. The pizzas are big enough that 4 people can eat comfortably with drinks or two of us can get stuffed. Great people with interesting ink and at least one Scottish accent.
(4)Brian Q.
The fruit flies at the bar are about the take your pizza place and fly it off into the sunset with it. How about closing for a day to do a deep clean? It's disgusting to sit at the bar and pick flies out of your beer and off your pizza.
(1)Chelsie L.
I liked the set-up and that the restaurant is basically constructed of leftover El parts (be sure to check out the bathrooms!) but that also contributed to the uncomfortable seating. The seatbelt style booths tend to cut into your skin (especially if you're wearing a dress) after a while. They show movies/shows on two screens above the bar so that's pretty cool, and the open air concept is nice (although it did get pretty hot). They have a pretty good variety of drinks, but I did have to ask them to change my cocktail because it tasted pretty terrible. Also, it's odd to me that they only have one pizza size (starting @ $18), and it's huge. I'm lactose intolerant so I had to order my own pizza and ended up taking 3/4 of it home, which is expensive and rather inconvenient. The service is horrid, absolutely terrible. I had to ask five times just to get a water and the waitress only came around every half an hour or so. Overall, I'd say this place is cool for it's ambiance but don't expect great service and remember to bring cash!
(2)Maggie R.
their pizza (the purist) is delicious and they have a good beer selection. pretty laid-back. the bathrooms are kinda cool. one time i went in and they were showing the movie predator. another time i went in and they were showing young frankenstein. swish. cash only, BUT if you use their atm and save the receipt they'll give you a free shot of jameson... ooooh. UPDATE: in the summertime they have jameson/boozy soft-serve ice cream cones. their back patio area is nice but gets kind crowded during peak times. whatever, it's worth it. also, monthly monday night PBR bingo. get into it.
(4)Rita P.
Went here the other night for the first time with some girl friends. I had a great time. Our waiter was very attentive and nice. The beer selection was amazing as well...I tried the Flying Dog in Heat-Wheat and was super impressed. My only complaint was the pizza. I bought a single slice of the Purist and was not very impressed....the pizza was pretty tough to bite into. Other than that I had a great time and thought the pricing was fair and on point!
(4)Jen M.
Pizza, amazing! Bartenders, amazing! Such a cool, laid back environment. Go see Mandy on Fridays... She is hilarious!
(5)Lace V.
Cool interior in this busy pizzeria. We walked in on a Friday night with 10 people and no reservation because the website and yelp says they don't take reservations, but the hostess told me they actually do. However, they were very accommodating and we had a space in minutes. The pizza was delicious! BUT the toppings were like 3 inches in from the outside rim of the crust... so minus one star for being skimpy with the toppings. BUT over all... this is a great space with good food and fun waiters. Looking forward to heading back!
(4)Roger L.
Although the pizza was above average and the ambience is interesting, they only accept cash and seem a bit proud of not accepting any type of credit card. That is the main reason I will not be back, too bad because it is in my neighborhood, just like to use my credit card as I then have a record.
(3)Marko H.
The vegan pizza was incredible! Lose one star for not taking credit cards and high prices.
(4)Tara B.
The only reason I don't give this place 5 stars is because the service is notoriously sketchy. My friends and I usually get PB&Js (that's a slice of pizza, a beer, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50!) once a week, and almost every time there has been questionable service. But it has never been so totally bad that we don't show up again the next week. Just be prepared to have to hunt someone down for your check. Otherwise, this place rocks. Especially their vegan options. It would be nice if they did vegan pizza by the slice, though, so you didn't have to order a whole pie.
(4)Jennifer M.
I want to give the place one star for being cash only - seriously!?! In this day and age, you're going to make me use your atm so I can pay a fee there and at my bank? Credit card transaction fees are a part of doing business. Work it into your plan Boiler Room. The pizza is pretty good although if you want to build your own pizza you're going to pay a hefty price (it's like 4 or 5 dollars to add any meat to your pizza. The beer list is lackluster at best. I was there last night and the bartender gave pretty crappy service, didn't offer up the specials until I asked for them and poured me the wrong beer. It was quite slow too so there really isn't any excuse. Decent atmosphere, good decor, comfortable bar seats. The bathroom is another story. It's so annoying. If you go, you'll know what I mean. Basically, it being cash only will most likely deter me from going here to often.
(2)Emily R.
How can you go wrong with a place like this?? The decor is great and non-traditional. The service is laidback but efficient. The pizzas are HUGE!!! If you aren't going for the PB&J (pizza beer jameson) I would recommend the Buffalo Chicken Pizza. It's really good, with the carrot and celery chunks really putting it over the top.
(4)Suzy D.
Just got the worst case of food poisoning ever from the Caesar salad over the weekend. Their pizza is pretty decent but after this experience I would reconsider this place.
(2)Cassie I.
My second visit here was so much better. The pizza was fantastic (though I ordered something different this time) and our waitress was super nice and helpful.
(4)Gunner F.
The pizza here is a total mystery to me. It looks so damn good coming out of the oven, but the taste never quite makes it to the table. Total whore of an experience. Wasn't thrilled with the prices either. Just add some damn flavor and save on the environmentally-friendly-me-so- organic-reverse-flavor side effect.
(2)Kristen D.
Trying too hard. Only partially succeeding.
(3)Kyle M.
Not a whole lot to say....excellent pizza, excellent beer selection. Carry our or dine in. I love this place.
(4)Tim W.
The decor is cool. They have a mirror image video screen above the bar which shows 70's Si-Fi Flicks. The pizza is just ok. The reason I come here however is the PB & J special. You get a tallboy PBR, draft Jameson shot , and a slice of pizza for $7.50! Great deal ! I give them 4 stars for PB&J and 1 star for being CASH ONLY!!!
(3)KM S.
blah. That's all I can really say. Nothing crazy exciting going on here. Definitely had much better.
(2)Mark M.
Boiler room still has a way to go, but kudos to them for making a few improvements: 1)Expansion of specialty pizzas, removal of the ones that sucked. 2)Improvement of outdoor patio - though "glycerine" lights were a bit off-putting in the day when I didn't know they were lights. 3)Improvement of "boiler room" pizza. Less oily, meat better distributed. 4)Improvement of service. They forgot my slice, but didn't charge me for it. Staff is still a bit pretentious. ***The server also attempted to "short change" me as mentioned by other posters. I gave a $20, The change amount given back was as if I had given a $10. Based on other comments, it looks like this has also happened to 3 other people. Positives: 1)I like the variety of seating options. Heard outdoor seating is nice in the winter. 2)$3 PBR tall boy Negatives: 1)TAKE CREDIT. It isn't charming or quaint that you refuse to pay a credit charge. I don't want a shot of jamo with my atm receipt, I want the ability to open a tab, and order what I want, with the vendor picking up the cost of service fee (like, you know, almost every other bar in the city). It's not like your prices are even cheaper than people who do take credit. At this point, independent coffee shops are even taking credit, there is no reason you can't. 2)Cocktails are a bit expensive for what they are. They are no where near as good as somewhere like Violet Hour, though they are trying to be that creative, and they cost about the same amount. 3)Staff can be a bit cold and seem resentful to be there. Possible improvements: 1)***Make it easier to order a slice to go. Why do I have to go to the bar? The guy is right there. 2)Add variety to the pizza you can buy by the slice.
(2)Aaron H.
It was 1am and I was hungry with no interest for anything in my kitchen. Turns out they're cash only, which I discovered only after my beer and a slice. However, they do compensate you for the ATM fee with a shot of Jameson. From the bar to my bedroom was less than 3 minutes, stumbling all the way. One of my new favorites! Pizza was pretty good for Chicago ;)
(4)Nicole M.
Great pizza. Love the fresh and light crust. Get the Purist Pizza (tomato, basil, mozzarella, balsamic). Absolutely delicous. The BBQ chicken pizza was good, too, but a little too much BBQ sauce. Cash only, but there is an ATM in the back. Big patio so good for the summertime.
(4)Sam M.
Damned good pizza(NY style). Get the boiler room pizza, giardinera and meatballs. PBJ= Slice, pabst tall boy, shot of Jameson for 7.50. Real tyte.
(4)John G.
We live around the corner, and finally made it in to try this place last night. The decor is cool, that's been said in most reviews. We started with the Thai-bbq wings which were good. My wife had a slice of The Purist and I ordered a whole sausage pizza. She was pleased with her slice. For mine, it needed more sauce and the crust was a little soft. That may just be their style(who knows, the website has no info). I understand the use of cornmeal under the pizza, to prevent sticking, but there was so much cornmeal, it became another ingrediant to the pizza! A little more care in the pizza prep is needed, some slices only had 2 pieces of sausage, while others had tons. I'd recommend this as a place to hang out for drinks, but if pizza is your objective, there are better choices.
(2)Dave M.
For 7.50+tax and tip, I got: Cheese Pizza: -Smallish, a tad bigger than a slice at dominoes. I'm not asking for Bacci's, but... -Bland for the premium image. I could see more sauce than cheese. Sauce was decent, but I like tomato sauce and oregano. The crust lacked character, a paper thin wippy crackerish material. 16oz PBR: A bit warm Shot o Jameson: no criticism here, except the unabashed pandering to the Logan Square crowd, but I'm on that boat, so i'll bite my tongue. shot. ONLY CASH: You have solar panels on the roof gawdammit. Give me some technology here. 25 minute wait time: For Cheese! The atmosphere was original when I walked in, but I left bored, without reason to return.
(2)whitney r.
awesome pizza! the fu manchu is out of this world: thai chicken, jalapenos, peanuts and cilantro- it was delicious! you can't buy this one by the slice, but trust me, you'll want the whole pizza! (i fought my table for the leftover last piece) super good beer on tap, too! the decor is a little kitschy, but cool.. and the bathroom's a little freaky- all in all, worth it!
(5)Little G.
Service has improved since the first time that we came here. That is, the staff actually serve you now instead of just strolling around the place avoiding eye contact like before. The ambience is dope. Solid beers, and jameson on tap - awesome. The pizza is mostly solid. Great crust. Avoid the Logan Square pizza. The mole is downright disgusting. Overall, a nice addition to the hood.
(3)Andrew R.
Great new addition to the neighborhood. My girlfriend and I stopped in on Sunday afternoon and really enjoyed a slice and quality beer. The vibe is great! Service was good and prices were very reasonable - however cash only. It's refreshing not having to order a whole pizza when you're not in the mood for it. Definitely a great atmosphere by the same folks that brought us Simone's in Pilsen. Also, Jameson on tap - awesome. We will be back very soon.
(5)Megan M.
Checked out The Boiler Room on a recent Friday night with a few friends. We had a great time and some excellent pizza. We split The Logan pizza (pulled pork, mole, chihuahua cheese, fried onions) and it was awesome. It was huge too...three of us ate until we were stuffed and still had leftovers. For just opening, the service was fantastic. Our waiter was attentive, funny, and answered all our questions. You can't beat the PBJ deal or the shot of Jameson with an ATM receipt. The decor is really unique and you can tell a lot of thought was put into every detail. The bathroom is probably the cleanest CTA train you'll ever see.
(4)Amanda O.
I am giving it a low rating purely for the sake they don't take debit/credit. I mean it's really annoying. I don't think it's very smart for a business that isn't yet established. The food is fine. I do really like the atmosphere. I was actually thinking of having a big group of us go there for a bachelorette party, but that won't fly with the whole cash only thing. I am not going to send an email to guests to let them know they have to bring cash because of one place. Oh well, we'll just be having dinner elsewhere. Honestly, I may go once in a blue moon, but not often. I live down the street, so it's their loss. I use my credit card for everything to get miles. Oh well, there are other places in the neighborhood.
(1)Beth K.
the boiler room is just plain awesome. the pb&j is one of the best deals in the city. the rotating drafts are always tasty, the specialty cocktails are delicious and inventive AND the pizza is delicious! ever since that new head chef started, i think all the food has improved in quality, creativity and taste. not to mention that the staff is super friendly. i end up hanging out there at least once a week and i always leave happy and buzzed. thanks, boiler room!
(5)Corey P.
This is a great spot to meet up with friends for pizza and beer (and wings too -- they were delicious). The pizza was really really really good. We got the "Boiler Room" pizza which featured finely sliced PBR soaked meatballs and giardiniera. Umm YES PLEASE AND THANK YOU. Holy crap good. Maybe heartburn on a plate; ain't no thang. Plus, there's another special where you get a shot of jamo, a PBR tallboy, and a slice of pizza for $7.50 ... which is unbeatable. The beer selection is good. The decor is nice too, with cool wooden beams, kind of distressed and perfectly dim lighting. Something from the ceiling was dripping on me the whole time I was seated, otherwise it would have been 5 stars. Luckily it was freaking hot out and I almost didn't mind.
(4)Andrew C.
Went on a sunday night to try the pizza and beers and was very pleased with everything. the inside of the place is very industrial themed, the bar seats and booths are made of cargo netting and the bathrooms look like blue line cars. the music was great, the old timey movie on the projector screens went well with the themes, and the pizza was amazing. i tried a slice of the boiler room which has sausage and giardiniera, the purist which has different cheeses and some veggies, and the buffalo chicken. i enjoyed all of these but my favorite was the boiler room. the beer list had a good variety and everyone that worked there seemed knowledgeable about the menu and was very friendly. i will definately be going back for the pizza and beer!
(5)Dinah P.
I really wanted to like this place because I love Simones in Pilsen in every way I wish it was as close to my place as boiler room, I've given them 10 tries/visits and each visit gets worst. The pizza and the prices on drinks are good but it's the staff that sucks! I never felt so unwelcome at a bar in my life until today. Walked in tonight and not one off the staff said hello and there were at least 6 staff members standing by the kitchen/ bar area, who all were just watching me. I sat and the bar and had to wave at the bartender to order at first he seem to be fast and helpful but when he asked if I wanted to open a tab and I said no and then he could give two shits about me as a customer. I don't need to open a tab to stay longer at your bar I will stay longer when you pay attention to everyone equally. I waited for 10 minutes for another drink while the bartender had his back to the bar and I had to leave because I was so frustrated there were only 3 people at the bar and I made it clear I needed another drink. Plus those 6 other staff members that were watching me and doing nothing could of at least gotten me a drink but didn't. When I left the bartender finally notice me and said goodnight in a disgusted manner. The other times I've been here and the staff ignored me and had an attitude I thought it was because they were busy but now I know it's because the staff do not care about their customers at all. Oh and the pizza was undercooked tonight!
(2)Ajja A.
This should be renamed b*****y waitresses. Some anorexic chic with a stupid short sleeve tattoo "waited" on our party of three. Couldn't remember anything and scowled the entire time. It's funny how one very toxic person can make everyone around them miserable. Really ruined what was an already underwhelming experience. Don't go...
(1)Scarter C.
Excellent Pizza!!! Giant slices even with the full pie! Decent beer list. Service was pretty good too for a Saturday night. Would definitely take friends here.
(4)Angela Z.
I like this place. It's different and unique. Good pizza, Whistlery drinks, cool space, good music--can't really lose here. I had the Purist slice, their take on the margherita. For a thin crust, I really enjoyed the taste! For a drink, I had Amanda Huginkiss. Both were delightful. I like that this is just a cool place to hang out and a different take on your average pizza joint and I was happy to see that they back up the coolness with decent food and drinks. I'm a fan.
(4)Daniel F.
Not only is Boiler Room the movie that launched Vin Diesals career, it is also an amazing NYC syle Pizza Bar located in the heart of logan square. The pizza is amazing you can buy basics by the slice that are excellent or you can venture from some crazy whole pie selections such as the cuban sandwich pizza. at first glance I thought the cuban sounded horrible however it was amazing. This pizza is loaded with pulled pork, ham, pickles and mustard. The flavors on the cuban flow together like Tribe called quest rhymes. Also this is great place to get your drink on without killing your bank account. They have the great 7.50 speacial shot, beer and pizza, that is way better then a drink, chips, and sub at subway. also speaking of shots this place is cash only however they will reward you a free shot of whiskey with atm receipt. as a friend suggested one should open an account up with a bank that remiburses outside atm fees, and then get all cash from boiler room and enjoy free whiskey damm that is an arbitrage. anways if you like beer and pizza you will love boiler room. if you love vin diesal you may or may not like boiler room.
(5)John M.
This place has great pizza and a great beer list. The interior design is really unique, and it's rare to find a place in this part of Chicago that has a decent sized back patio. They also have really good daily specials, and if you use their ATM (no credit cards) you can exchange the receipt for a free shot of Jameson to cover the ATM fee (which I believe was only $2-3). They'd get more of my money if they offered delivery, but I'm sure they have their reason so I'm not going to hold that decision against them.
(5)James F.
great pizza. alittle to crowded but that means its good right?
(4)William G.
Eh, just eh, nothing memorable, nothing really that special, especially at the prices they are charging. Crust is weak--eat your slice before it cools slightly as the crust turns into cardboard in about 5 to 10 min, ingredients are average,nothing special once again the high prices don't justify the product given the competition. Drinks are inconsistent. Best part is well situated back patio while its nice out.
(2)Kayla S.
I'll be honest, I only gave this place a 4th star because of the free shot of Jameson. Apparently it costs more to run credit than for them to just receive cash, so in order to encourage this, they give a free shot of Jameson to anyone who uses their ATM machine and bring the receipt to the bar. This was a pretty sweet deal. We had the buffalo wings for an appetizers which were pretty tasty only we had to wait awhile to order them because the busy servers hardly have time for you between all the tables they have to take care of. They also win for me in the decor department. The bathroom resembles a CTA train car and actually uses the automated voice to say "Doors closing". I'm a geek so I'm a sucker for this kind of thing. I get the feeling our experience would've been loads better if w had sat outside in their patio are, but the place was packed so we took what we could get. The pizza is decent. Nothing to write home about but good enough if a bit greasy. They don't have many by the slice options so that was kind of a downer for me. All in all it's a decent atmosphere if you wanna catch up with some friends over a pint and a slice. Don't expect the greatest service though.
(4)Bob D.
This place is way overrated. The pizza is average at best and the staff is non-existent. I wouldn't recommend to anyone. Go to Peace on North if you want good pizza and actual service
(2)Dan F.
I had high hope for this place. It is very close to my house and I have seen it in construction for about a year now. My wife and I went over the other day.....were greeted nicely at the door (if not too nicely) and we were told to just find a table and a server will find you. Yeah.....immediate red flag. So we found one of several open tables and sat down. It smelled great and we were hungry.......unfortunately, 10 minutes later we still hadn't recieved any water, menus, or any attention from anyone so I flagged down someone who looked like they worked there and he finally got us menus and apologized for the wait............still another 15 minutes later.....no server ......nothing (and this goes for the majority of the tables around us.........absolutely no attention at all). Long story short, we just cut our losses and left.......we felt sorry for people who actually were able to order something and were waiting around for another drink or a check. It's really unfortunate when people mean well but have no idea how to run a bar/restaurant. It could be the coolest place in the coolest neighborhood with the best pizza but if your service sucks (or is non-existant) then you're dead in the water. The food smelled great though and they had a good beer list............wish we were able to try some of it. We ended up going to another great bar/restaurant down the street. This place is real sloppy and needs a kick in the head in the server dept..........mind you when we went, it wasn't that busy at all.
(1)Em C.
I love this place. I live in Logan Square so it's super convenient. I only wish I lived a little closer. The atmosphere is great, not too loud but not quiet by any means. They have great beers on tap that change pretty frequently so there's no getting bored, if you're the type that would get bored drinking delicious beers. It's cash only, so be ready. They do have an ATM there and if you show the bartender your receipt they'll give you a shot of Jameson for the transaction fee. Lots of the choices are local which is great. Most importantly, they have vegan pizza! With vegan cheese AND meats. Daiya + Uptons + Veggies + Vegan crust = FAVORITE PLACE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD! It's superficially on the pricey side ($18 for just the vegan cheese pizza) but it's GIANT, so it's worth it. It can easily fill up 5 people, or can be a meal for 5 consecutive days for one. This is definitely a hipster place if that's gonna bother you. But it's the best kind of hipster place with vegan options and great beer. There's also PBR if you're that kind of hipster, but you should probably drink something better while you're there. Just sayin'.
(5)Alen K.
this was the worst experience of my life! food never came out and was told that the place was closing. our waiter never served us. ...... terrible!!!!! went to eat tacos at Arturo's instead. Stay away unless you like getting judged by hipster losers.
(1)leigh h.
let me start by stating that i am a huge supporter of local businesses and that it pains me to have to write this review. i live in logan square, about 2 blocks from the boiler room in fact. i was SO excited when they moved in. the concept was great, the pizza was not the best pizza i've had in my life, but it was fun and trendy, but the service sucked. and it continued to suck over the next handful of times i've gone there. salads were brought out at the same time as the pizza, wait staff blamed kitchen staff, blah blah blah that's all forgivable. but yesterday's experience confirmed i would not be going back there again. there were 3 people in our party yesterday and our waitress was obviously pissed that she was working and not utilizing the 3 day lollapalooza pass on her wrist. the place was empty and we waited a solid 10 minutes for our initial round of drinks. no water, nothing. we ordered an appetizer and after waiting what seemed like an abnormally long time, we decided to ask the waitress to bring the appetizer BEFORE the pizza. she said she would see what she could do....???? from there, my salad came out at the same time as my pizza- which actually isn't that big of a deal for me, but the salad had no dressing on it. i waited for her to come back to check on us. i waited, and waited, and waited. she finally came back when the other 2 people in our party had already finished their meal. not to mention the fact that they had been out of both water and beer for quite some time. i mentioned that my salad didn't have dressing on it, to which her response was "oh". at that time we ordered more drinks. a few minutes later a busboy came by with a lemon vinaigrette dressing. i had asked for red wine vinaigrette and asked him if he could bring that instead. he came back 30 seconds later and said "they told me that IS red wine vinaigrette". now, call me crazy, but the last time i checked, red wine vinaigrette was, well, red not yellow. anyway, long story short, i never got my red wine vinaigrette, that second round of drinks never came and we left wildly disappointed.
(1)Kelly B.
okay look- as if i didn't already know i was a huge jerk for ordering a salad for dinner at a pizza place, the boiler room really drove it home tonite. we had a nice server- very attentive and pretty and all that. my friends all ordered slices of pizza, i ordered the chicken caesar (i think this deserves explanation: it was Sunday, i had eaten pizza all weekend). As far as my knowledge of pizza places takes me, you can't go wrong with a basic salad in a pizza joint. Unless they serve you your dorky salad more than 5 minutes after your friends, the ones who ordered slices. And they serve you what can basically be described as a do-it-yourself salad bowl. for $7 +$3 for the chicken, i got a half of a head of romaine lettuce (literally, not chopped up or anything) topped with dressing, cheese, croutons and chicken that was dry enough to be confused with the croutons in the dim light. and so, with every lull in conversation, my friends were subject to watching me awkwardly saw away at my head of lettuce, careful not to push the plastic bowl off the table. that being said, i will return. to be honest, the whole experience was pretty comical and didn't ruin my enjoyment of the place at all. the bathroom is all it's cracked up to be and they had $4 beers on tap (again, this was a Sunday). my boyfriend had the cheese pizza and said it was just okay, so i guess we have some exploring to do when it comes to the variety there. just sayin.
(3)Phil T.
Went here one night and had their special which was a slice of pizza, tallboy can of pbr, and shot of jamo for $7. I would have to say that's pretty awesome. I'm not a hipster and don't normally drink pbr, but that deal was too good to pass up. Pbr isn't that bad...kinda...sorta...hehe. But in all seriousness, I love the decor in this place. Very urban feel, and very creative use of "el train" parts...the guys bathroom is especially awesome. I tried their pizza special which was a bacon cheeseburger pizza...it came out with full blown toppings that you would find on a real cheeseburger...pickles ketchup and mustard included...and it actually tasted like a bacon cheeseburger lol. I don't know if I'd ever order it again though, I usually prefer my pizza simple. It was good though. Typical New York style slice, it was decent...had a little bit too much corn meal on the bottom of the crust...and I like my slices a little crispy but it wasn't bad. The dough had a nice taste to it, and next time I'll have to order a simpler slice of pizza to really try it out. I would recommend coming here for the ambiance, its a nice place to hang out and grab a drink with some friends, and the pizza is good. I'd go here again. Only bad thing...cash only....but they have an atm in the back and if you show them your receipt you get a free shot of jameson...now THAT'S awesome.
(3)Tobey D.
I'm liking it. Cool decor, great tunes, and a movie playing that literally makes me blurt out, "No way!" the three times I've been so far. Somehow it's hip without the B.S. 'tude. Love the Boiler Room pizza; not so much a fan of the cheese or pepperoni. I'm not a beer-drinker, but their blueberry beer was so good, I ordered one for myself; not content to continue stealing sips from my Hubby. and they're plenty kid-friendly before eight. Welcome addition to the neighborhood, no matter what the nay-sayers think.
(4)Vanessa K.
Jameson on tap. $7.50 PBJ deal (slice of pizza, PBR tallboy, and a shot of Jameson. Their pizza is delicious. Most bar/pizza joints I stick with just cheese, but I tried their slice with basil and balsamic.. Amazing.
(4)G F.
Ok, tried the place a second time. Just as bad as the first. Service is horrible. Food is even worse. I just don't know why people give this place a good review.
(1)Matt J.
I like the idea of The Boiler Room and I love having it down the street from where I live, but I just can't give this one more than 3 stars. I love the beer selection. I like the decor. I love that they play weird or obscure movies on the screens above the bar. Then I sit down and have a mixed experience. The chairs are a bit uncomfortable, especially in the booths. It that regard it seems very fitting that the chairs made out of recycled train/cargo parts are as uncomfortable as actual seats on trains. The other big gripe with this place is the food. I like some of the pizzas, but other ones are not such a good idea. Same goes for the apps. I like the Purist pizza, the balsamic is a nice touch. For that matter any of the basic by the slice pizzas are good. I liked he chips and dip hummus app a lot, but the last time I was there it was replaced by underwhelming bean dip. The Logan pizza wasn't so good and the Thai pizza wasn't so good. Those flavors don't really belong on pizza in my opinion. Despite all that, I still like to hang out here for a quick bite to eat and a good beer. The service is always pretty good and its a fun laid back atmosphere. So I'd say come here to have a drink with friends and stick with the basics on the menu.
(3)Lara D.
I'm only giving 2 stars. 1 star for the pizza, it was kinda tasty. 2 stars for my bad in taking my toddler with. So my girlfriend and I went for an early dinner with our toddlers (parents of toddlers will relate) to the 5 pm crowd. Anyway, the service was shocking. Our server must have had her head in the clouds. She forgot some drinks, we asked for 2 cups so that the toddlers could share a lemonade, she only brought one. I ordered the wine, $8 for the smallest glass of wine ever. I got a better serving at Bin wine cafe for the same price. Our server never checked on us, I saw her standing and talking to the other servers, probably because it was early before the real bar hopping crowd arrives. Anyway I was very dissapointed because our neighborhood needs more family friendly spots and this was just a disaster. My fault I guess because it is listed on yelp website that it's not good for kids. Spot on, go and get your pizza elsewhere.
(2)Laura B.
I should start by saying that I haven't actually eaten the food here, but I'm not inclined to spend the time to go back. We wanted to try it and we were walking by so we decided to get some slices to go. We asked what was ready and they said everything. So we ordered two slices and proceeded to wait...for about 15 minutes. We could overhear everyone behind the counter bickering and just when we think the food is coming, the guy dropped one of our slices in the trash so he had to start over. More bickering. I wasn't willing to wait another 15 minutes for one slice so we asked for our money back. That was my first try. A few days later, thinking that they are new, we decided to try again. It was about 4:45 and we had my son with us. I know it's a bar but I figured it was early enough to try to have some pizza with my kid. Nope, not a kid friendly place. It's fine, but you should know before you go in.
(2)Stephen M.
I tried this place a few more times since my last review. I like it. Late food menu is convenient. Good prices and drink & food combo specials. Spinach artichoke dip is awesome.
(4)Tory w.
I love this place! Sure, it's too hipster for its own good, but the pizza is excellent so who cares. I came here by chance one night after finding out last minute that trivia at my beloved Logan was cancelled. I was hungry, had an out of town guest, and had always like the look (and smell) of the place. Apparently they are famous for their PB and J - pizza, PBR, and Jameson for $7.50. They also give you a free shot of Jameson for using their ATM. Our server explained that they have some connection to Jameson, I can't remember what. The atmosphere, as mentioned before, is very trendy in that grungy, trying too hard not to be trendy way, but the pizza was delish. My first time here I had the buffalo chicken pizza and my second time, a sausage and onion. Fellow diners tried vegetarian style pizzas, and one that was called the classic or something. It doesn't matter that I can't remember the names, they were all really, really, good, and I am something of a pizza snob. The pizzas are thin crust but huge, one can easily feed two people with a slice leftover for lunch. Highly recommended.
(5)Regina C.
Great vegan options, really good beer list.
(4)A M.
I've been here a few times and I always leave dissatisfied with some aspect of the experience. The first time it was simply the service. Our server had absolutely no knowledge of the food or drink menu. Every question asked was quickly replied with, "I don't know." She may have been honest but her lack of enthusiasm was indicative of her service style: inattentive and lazy. I probably would have been more forgiving if the answer would have fallen under the lines of "I don't know, but let me find out." But, nope. We managed to figure it out on our own. Little did she know that sitting at the table were 3 veteran industry gals that probably would have tipped her well above the standard. Alas, we tipped the standard. On my second visit, my friend and I were sat outside at a table with another couple that were smoking. Neither of us smoke and we were never asked. Of course when we very politely asked to be moved to another table (even joking with the couple who were not offended in the least) we were treated with disdain and as a bother. We were on a tight schedule and decided to stay. Third times a charm? I think not. The food is okay...but what can I say? The service in this place is despicable. I was with my family this time and my niece and nephew are minors. I thought, pizza? Hip? Teens will dig this place. I called ahead and was told if we are in before 8 then no problems. Well, we arrived shortly before 8 but the hostess refused to seat us. There were 2 people at the bar (coincidentally one of whom was my roomie) and 4 tables. Definitely not busy and there was no one in line behind us. Yet, we were turned away just for the sake of being able to say NO. The smirk on the face as we were being told this confirmed my gut feelings. Overall, Boiler Room is just too cool for it's own good and the attitude is thick. Perhaps this can be said about many hipster joints but it's a bummer because this one happens to be in the neighborhood. But...so are plenty of other hip restaurants and many more are on their way...
(1)Aaron T.
Update: Went back here 2x more times and had a great waiter and the other time no waiter at all because we sat at a table for 20 minutes and left. This confirms my theory of having a 50/50 chance of having a good experience. This place has my favorite slices in the city and is one of my favorite places to hang in the city. I always come here for the PBJ special. Pizza wise, I usually get the boiler room (house meatballs and gardinara) or the purist (basil, fresh mozz, balsamic vinegar reduction). You can drink cheap (PBR and Jameson $3 each) or not cheap and order some tasty microbrews. The back patio is pretty nice and who couldn't appreciate the butt wall men's in the bathroom?! Why only 3 stars? For the same reason as this place has three stars overall. The service is awful here. Don't expect the royal treatment here or expect to be treated like a customer whatsoever. I would say the service here is been good 50% of the time, so if you go here, expect to get your panties all in a bunch. Hey boiler room wait staff F. U. Just remember that you don't make the pizza, beer or the whiskey. You just serve it. So get off your fucking high horse and appreciate that someone created food and drink good enough for me to spend money here and stop giving this place a bad reputation!
(2)Adam S.
The pizza is great. From crust to topping selection, to what they've dreamed up, solid stuff all around. And yes, as pretty much everyone else has said, the PB&J. Duh. You can't go wrong. The inside is also awesome, the layout, bar design, etc. Nice work. So, why two stars? 1. It's cash only. Grow up, guys. If you were just a bar that sold drinks and no food, OK, although in 2011 there's not really any legitimate excuse. But you serve food. That's just stupid. And no, the fact that you offer a shot of whiskey with ATM receipt is nice, but it does not get you off the hook for being cash only. It's 2011, grow up. 2. The slices are awesome, but dude, the whole pies? One size? $4 for meat? $3 FOR A VEGETABLE? Gimme a break. It's clear you only want to sell slices. Just sell slices. PROTIP: If you're going to get a whole pie, get a specialty pizza. 3. I have been here several times, and man, every single time, the service has been balls out terrible. Not rude servers persay, just servers who are really bad at their job. Your pizza and PB&J special are great, but man it's hard to ignore your shitty service. I want to like this place more, I really do. I am just unable to at this point. Hopefully I'll update it later.
(2)Patrick K.
A great joint in Logan Square. CASH ONLY, but it keeps prices down. Bring your ATM receipt to bar and get a free shot of Jamison. HOW SWEET IS THAT! I love the vibe of the place. The restrooms are CTA "L" themed and you feel like you are on the train. All in all, PBJ = SOLID DEAL ($7.50 for a PBR TALL BOY, SHOT of JAMO and A slice of PIZZA). Pizza was a little soggy, but the atmosphere, patio and prices were WORTH IT.
(4)Christina M.
Attention all Hipsters.... Attention all hipsters..... Boiler Room is like Simones on the North Side. Great Food. The server we had seemed like she wanted us to go. A brunette with a bob. We stopped in last night and were seated at the booth. The server seemed a little annoyed that not all of us were eating. But it was 10:30 at night. I did see her get excited when her tables started leaving so we thought she was off. i don't know it was kind of weird. I know everyone has they're off days but only four because it was strange.
(4)Molly A.
we just came here for a drink one night (though dan couldn't resist and ended up with the pb&j special - a decision he claims not to regret). the ambience is quite unique (the original teenage mutant ninja turtles movie was playing on a big screen behind the bar). excellent people watching and a very fun place to drop by for a drink on a weeknight. super close to the el stop (california blue line) so extra points for convenience.
(4)Tawanda W.
We went in at 1am. We sat down and immediately they took our order. We waited for 50 minutes and it finally came, then some guy comes, smacks his hand on the table and says we close in 5 minutes so hurry and eat your pizza. He literally came back every 2 minutes expecting my fiance and I to have eaten an entire pizza. I will never go back to this establishment again. The only reason I gave it 1 star is because the pizza was decent! Too bad we couldnt enjoy it!
(1)Kymberly J.
Yep, the Simone's folks have brought you another repurposed-ly decorated joint. I love the openness of this place and all the cool fixtures and decor - in no way is this place standard or generic. The coolest thing is the bathroom. The door to the bathroom and the stalls are old L doors. And! are you ready for it? When the main door opens you hear the L voice saying "this is a Blue Line train to O'Hare" OMG! How neat!!! So on to the pizza, it's pretty darn good. Thin crust and delicious. They even have slices available in the specialty pizzas. I was impressed by that since most places offer slices of sausage, peperoni or cheese only. Cash only, a fine selection of micro brews and of course PBR, what more could you ask for in a hip new pizza place?
(5)Aaron S.
Everything about my first visit was pretty darn awesome, from the free shot for using the ATM (best way to screw the credit card companies), to the perfect North Shore gin martini, to the salad with mint leaves in it, to the PBR meatball slice (YUM), to the Jameson soft serve ice cream. I'd actually opted for this place over another restaurant because I knew they had TVs so I thought they'd be showing the MLB playoffs, but NO! Kingpin and First Blood DVDs instead--works for me. Can't wait to go back with a bigger group to split a whole pie.
(5)Dj Nightwolf ..
The 200+ reviews before mine are all fluff. All you need to know about The Boiler Room is this: $7.50 Jameson shot + PBR tallboy + slice of pizza. - SAY WHAT!!! AND Jameson softserve ice cream! - THIS IS THE DESSERT OF THE GODS! A great deal followed by deliciousness that is infused with the nectar that causes blackouts will always get Mr Beautiful to show his beautiful face at this establishment. Holla!!!â„¢
(4)Josan K.
Pizza is really good, good specials! Pb+j! Can get crowded on fridays and saturdays...and the rest of the week is hipster central but it's always a great time!
(4)Food Junkie S.
They have a great PBJ special, but the staff could use some customer service skills. The pizza is very good. I'm not a deep dish fan, but Boiler Room makes NY style very well. They also have PBR tall boys and Jameson on tap! The best part is the Jameson soft serve ice cream!
(4)Joshua J.
The thing about the Boiler Room is that the pizza is pretty decent, but it's not as decent as the price would suggest. Also, this place tends to be wall-to-wall packed on basically every day of the week, so unless you're looking to be seen grabbing a slice, I'd say go elsewhere if you're hungry. HOWEVER. The Boiler Room has Jameson whiskey soft serve ice cream. And that shit will fuck your world up on the walk home.
(3)Alana W.
Yummy pizza, awesome PB&J special (pizza slice, beer, and shot of Jameson for $7.50), and great bartenders who were quick to refill my drink whenever it went empty. If you don't drink, you can get a large slice by itself for only $3. The alcohol-flavored ice cream was also a nice touch. Don't go on a weekend night and expect to be seated quickly, that should be a given at almost any place that serves alcohol. I did find it odd though like another review mentioned that we were not given any kind of estimate as to how long the wait would be. I don't mind waiting for a seat, however, it is nice to know upfront approximately HOW long the wait will be. The only thing they lost a star for is that the place is cash only. In 2012 I find cash-only weird at any place that isn't a cheap hole-in-the-wall place. I also wish they would have better signage about it (we didn't find out about it until our check came as it was written on the check book). We also weren't informed about the free shot if you used the ATM outside and provided a receipt, and in my panic to find money for our bill quickly (while my boyfriend waited so they wouldn't think we were trying to ditch on our bill), I walked right past the ATM that is immediately outside the door; so, in the end, I'll have to pay around $5 in ATM fees for using an ATM not owned by my bank.
(4)Vic C.
Best deal in Chicago. If you've gone, you know what I'm talking about. If you haven't been.....FIND OUT. Thin crust pizza is excellent. I had a slice of the vegetarian special and a slice of the boiler room accompanied by a PBR. Their patio is also a great feature.
(5)Mike P.
If you like punk music, zombie movies, cheap beer, and tattoos, this is your place. I've been going to Boiler Room ever since the opening and I love it! It's definitely a place to check out if you're hungry or want a decent special (The PB&J is totally worth it, trust me!). The food isn't "amazing", but you get decent portions and I've never had a problem with it! The Purist, Dirty Bird, and Hummas are my favorite items to get. The atmosphere is different than most places and I like it a lot, but I suggest the back patio to first timers. It's cozy, comfortable, and there's robot paintings on the fences, come on! So rad! Anyone who calls this place a "hipster dive" is sort of right, I'm not going to deny that, but it's not a snobby, crowded bar as much as it is a place for people to eat, so you don't have to deal with anyone if you don't want to (and let's be honest, you're in Logan Square, if you're complaining about the existence of hipsters then you're sadly going to have to deal with it regardless where you go). You can easily just sit down, enjoy your food/drinks, and be on your way.
(5)Dawid P.
The beet salad could use a beet.
(3)Erin J.
Not docking stars for this because they're still relatively new, but it has to be said that the service has tapered off dramatically after we've gotten our pizza every time I have been there so far. We've been acknowledged fairly quickly and the lovely beverages come at a decent pace initially but after the pizza is delivered, good fuckin luck getting the server to come back to get you another drink or box up the last piece or bring you the check or anything. This has happened every time to a degree but the last time I was there, we sat for about 20 minutes after the last slice was boxed up, waiting for our check, staring at our empty glasses. And then once we got the check, I cursed myself for not having enough singles to just pay the bill and leave; I needed change. That took another 10 minutes. So, no docking stars as of yet because I realize that everything is wonky within the first few months of a new place. But this should be elementary in short order. Also to note: PARENTS: Do not bring your huge, clunky strollers with your screaming children into this bar. There is no place to put a stroller, so it would be sitting between the tables, which are hi-top communal benches. It clogs up the works and your kid will be about 3-4 feet below/to the side of you. So for safety, sanity and courtesy, please don't bring your very little ones to this bar.
(4)Erin P.
New obsession: Boiler Room pizza! Thin and tasty with just the right amount of corn meal on the bottom of the crust to give an extra crunch (is it weird that I like that?) Good service, great music and movies playing at all times. We usually stick to slices or the PBJ special and it tends to be pretty affordable. I have also picked up take out slices for cheap ($4). My boyfriend swears by the "Georgey" cocktail: Young's Double Chocolate Stout with Jameson soft serve. Does life get much better?
(5)Adam K.
PBJ = pizza, beer, jameson 7 bux, best deal in the hood. Freal. DOpe spot in the SUPER TRENDY 'hood called Logan Square? Have you guys heard of this place? They have REALLY cool light fixtures, that is kinda my thing. Lighting. Took Forever to get my pizza, and when I did get it, I wanted another J, see, thats how they get you. RIGHT ACROSS FROM THE BLUE LINE CALIFORNIA STOP! SO STOP DRIVING YOUR DRUNK ASS ACROSS TOWN. Oh yeah, almost forgot, Jameson Ice Cream. Yeah, I will be back.
(4)Brittany C.
Who knew there was a place in Chicago were you'd need to wait for a table at 10:30 PM on a Wednesday? Shock me, shock me. So-so pizza. Good bear list. Fine prices. Lotsa Hipster-love, enjoying PBR. I am not sure anything else needs to be said but.... Does it bother anyone else that the "EL Stop" in the bathroom is the Logan Square stop, even though it's across the street from the California stop? Probably not.
(3)Michele W.
I'm really mad at the Boiler Room right now. Why? Because I'm not there at this very moment and because they wouldn't put their Jameson ice cream in a 5 gallon bucket for me... Yes folks, take a deep breath. Jameson. Infused. Soft. Serve. Ice Cream. Sweet baby J. I'm going to have inappropriate dreams about that ice cream tonight. It was amazing. Great ice cream with this amazingly rich and surprisingly tasty flavor. Wow. Honestly, that's really all the Boiler Room needed to win a place in my heart forever. But, wait, there's more!! This bar has a great, laid back decor and cool beer garden. Oh yes, speaking of beer--great beer selection! And, just when I thought my little heart couldn't take anymore, my cup runneth over. They have pizza. GOOD PIZZA. I mean, real delicious looking pizza. I have to give myself a little timeout before I finish writing, I'm so overcome with emotion. Whew, ok -- better now. If you've read any of my other reviews, you'll know that a piece of my soul dies every time I have bad pizza here in Chicago (which happens often). Just looking at the myriad flavors of pizza deliciousness warmed my soul once again. And, if that wasn't enough... you'll also get -- Jameson on tap. Yes, whiskey on tap. It's too much, I can't.... I think I've said too much already...
(5)Big J.
I gave them another chance and they clearly turned it all around. I still wouldn't order the fancier pizzas, but the $7 PB&J special is a special delight, and the shot-for-your-receipt deal is great.
(4)Kynsley A.
This place wasn't as "divey" and hipster/trendy as is it looked on the outside. This place is just a restaurant not a bar, (like I originally thought), wait to be seated and you're good to go. The pizza was good and the waitress was nice. I didn't capitalize on the PBJ combo but all is well. Laid back place, awesome bathrooms. Complete sentences not necessary. ^_^
(3)Sonia B.
Seriously, whyyy do I even bother coming here? I came here the other night after catching The Ravonettes at Green Music Fest, and I told the waiter all I wanted was a slice of cheese and a water. He said fine, and never came back. The hostess brought out our slices fairly quickly, but I never got my glass of water. I think a $1 tip is generous enough for shitty service in a pretty empty restaurant. Get over yourselves, hipsters.
(1)Corinne M.
This is my new favorite place to grab a slice of pizza!!! Nothing beats the PB&J special: slice of pizza, PBR, and a shot of Jameson for $7.50. That is a deal. I simply LOVE the decor. The chairs and benches made with luggage straps are awesome and along the lines of "crafty" that I enjoy. The bathrooms are done up like an el stop and even have the intercom/overhead sound you would hear on the train. The lighting is perfect, the TVs are set back, behind the bar, in a completely non-distracting tone. Tip: If you use their ATM and keep your receipt, you can get a free shot of Jameson. Much love for the delicious Irish whiskey!
(5)Josh G.
Boiler Room I just don't get you sometimes. I've been here many times and have had 5 star experiences and some 2 star experiences. When you first opened I preferred some of the pizzas to what you have now. I've had great service here and I have terrible service. When you first opened up I thought your service was great. For awhile I thought your service was terrible. Now it seems you've gotten better. Have you gotten in your "groove" yet? Let's hope so. Now for the pizza, I love you peperoni it has a nice spiciness to it, the sausage is in made in house and it's great. The Purist is great I love the balsamic and the fresh mozzarella. If you come here by yourself just get a few slices don't go with a whole pizza, from some reason it just doesn't reheat too well. As for the original menu you had a egg pizza that I really liked but you changed up the recipe on it. :( The newer recipe just didn't do it for me. (It may be gone I don't remember seeing available on my last visit.) The beer menu is decent not huge but it always has some tasty beer on tap. I don't drink much anymore but if I was just a little younger I would totally do the PBJ ( a slice of pizza, a PBR and a shot of Jameson) but seeing as I don't recover from hangovers like I used to I find myself not ordering it. In summary I think the Boiler Room was a solid 5 stars when it opened, there was about 2 months were you dipped to about 2.5 stars, but in the last few months I'd say you guys are getting better and I'll rate you a solid 3.5 and rounding that up since I do think you've finally found your winning formula. Plus it never hurts that I get off the train and bang there you are just waiting for me to grab a slice and a beer.
(4)angela p.
The pizza! THE PIZZA! Oh the pizza is incredible. I usually get The Purist slice (basil, fresh mozzarella, balsamic reduction) because I'm lactose intolerant and it's easy for me to pick off the cheese (woe is me). So I wind up with a big ol slice of cheeseless pizza covered in balsamic goodness and fresh basil. And it's still scrumptious. The service, meh. Don't misunderstand: the servers are all very friendly, but I don't think they staff very many waiters, so it's always a wait to get your order taken and the check. Nevertheless, I keep coming back for the pizza. THE PIZZA! Oh, and the place is cash only. But if you use their ATM inside and present them with your receipt, you get a free shot of Jameson.
(4)Elyse H.
El train car for the bathroom? Okay! I always have a place in my heart for The Boiler Room. Even though the wait can be quite long on the weekends, I think it is worth it. The decor + food is awesome. Pizza slices are all unique and I love the foldable option. :) Summers are the best because you can eat outside. Wins all around.
(4)Neel S.
Great place to end the night. Decent selection of beer. Best part is the thin-crust pizza served until late. Comfy bar chairs and old-school movies projected behind the tap add to the quiet vibe. Bring a friend (and cash), come hungry and ready to talk.
(4)Joe H.
I would give this place a much higher rating as they have a delicious buffalo pizza and and awesome interior, but I generally prefer my meals served without a side of fraud. I have gone here twice, but the second time I had an experience similar to that outlined by Audrey K. in her review of this restaurant. Tonight I had an excellent meal and received our bill for $60.40. We only had twenties on us and only wanted to leave a $10 tip. We explicitly asked the waiter for $10.00 in change and were surprised when we only received a $5 bill in change. Normally I wouldn't be a conspiracy theorist, but the waiter (dirty hipster type with a beard; isn't that why we go to Boiler Room? To judge the other hipsters?) was acting suspicious and it was pretty clear to me that he was hoping we would simply be too timid to call him out over $5. However, I'm not afraid to be a brash asshole and called him back over to the table and said "sorry, we asked for $10 in change not $5". At which point he looked like a deer in the headlights, further confirming my suspicions and stammered out "uh, isn't there... I thought there was two $5 bills in there". The entire time I was thinking: "yeah right, nice try 'bro', I know what you are up to". He is lucky I was with my friends or I would have gone up to the cashier when he wasn't looking and asked him to exchange a $20 for two $10's just to bust his lying ass. First of all, its very rare that an all cash restaurant would run out of $10 bills, especially on a slow Sunday night, but its even less likely that he would somehow confuse two $5 bills with one $5 bill. Its not like he was paying us 9 singles instead of 10 where he could easily have erred. Anyhow, if you go to this restaurant beware that the waiters have a culture of slimy tipping practices and leverage the all-cash environment to defraud their customers. Always read your bill carefully, count your change, and don't be afraid to call them out if they are ripping you off.
(2)Dennis J.
We got off the Blue Line station on our way to the Girl Talk show and decided to stop in here to grab a drink and dry off a bit. That was a mistake. If I could give it 0 stars, I would. We ordered three drinks: amanda hugnkiss, toy gun and the north sider. The first two were good (maybe even very good), but the third was just terrible. All gin, you couldn't taste any of the other ingredients. Took it back to the bartender and told her my wife didn't enjoy the drink and she just stared back at me blankly. Okay ... generally they'll make it again or offer something different but no, nothing. Just a dead stare. Alright, so I bought a beer for her since they couldn't screw that up. After I took it back to my wife and sister, we talked about how we would certainly not be returning and a waiter overheard us. He asked why. We explained what had just happened. He said, "Oh, well, that's how that drink is supposed to be. You just didn't like it." Really? All three of us tried and none of us could make out any flavor other than gin. Gin and ice. Is it really impossible to imagine that their bartender flubbed a drink? "It's like a martini, it's supposed to be strong," and then he shook his head at us and said "Never mind" and walked away. What is that? I get it Boiler Room, you don't need my money. I'm glad we found something we can agree on. If you want to drink in this area, I'd recommend The Whistler or Revolution Brewing. Or asking a bum for a sip. Really, anything else.
(1)Kevin C.
I thought this place had a lot of promise. At first glance the decor is unique, nice beer garden, the PBJ deal is outstanding, and the price is reasonable. Being my first time here I deferred to my friends who have been there before and started with the fried mozzarella balls and the chicken wings both which were extremely tasty. Now let me define the PBJ deal. Its a slice of pizza, a beer, and a shot of Jameson for $7.00, a deal which can't be beat. It just can't. The problem here is service and the quality of their pizza. The pizza that we received on the 2nd round was burnt (which they had the gall to serve to us) and their service was mediocre. Anticipate a lot of waiting and flagging servers down. As we were walking out the smell of burning pizza permeated out nostrils. If they served us burnt pizza I'm sure some poor patrons found some darkened pizza slices being put down onto their table. I would give this place another try because of their price but my first visit left me with a charred taste in my mouth.
(3)Mallory J.
When you come to the Boiler Room, there are certain concessions you have to make. Whole pizzas are admittedly pricey, your best bet is to order a classic slice of cheese/pepperoni/sausage (in itself, not too expensive), and they don't take credit cards. But whatever. The location is good, there's plenty of seating, and they give you a shot if you use their ATM (which basically cancels out the service fee). Some of the pizzas are hit or miss (personally, I like them), but as long as you don't shoot too high, you probably won't get bent out of shape. After all, if you're drunk at midnight, should you REALLY order more than a $3 slice of cheese pizza? Their special fries (Old bay seasoning, malt vinegar aioli--or something along those lines) are pretty great too.
(4)Andrzrej K.
very good pizza. If you like thin crust quasi-NY style, its the best Ive had in Chicago. And, if yout dont feel like feeling like you just ate pounds of pound cake, its a great choice, becuase that what Lou Ferrigno's taste like, even though it is very very good- the truth is Lou Ferrigno is an Egyptian man working out of a strip mall these days :( ooop actually meant Lou Malanati;s, but whatever, same shit. SO Boiler Room is actually very good pizza wise- and you know what they say "You either slangin crack rock, or have a wicked slice shop." Biggie
(3)T V.
We live in the area and have dined in a few times. The pizza is a very light thin crust pizza. A whole lot of goodness in your mouth! Our favorites are One Night in Bankok, Cheese Bomb and the BBQ Pork pizza. You can not go wrong with any of those! We also tried the sides (fries and macaroni and cheese), not so great. Stick with the pizza. And they only accept cash.
(5)Charles B.
AWESOME the PB&J. It's a slice of pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson. The place has a nice feel to it and the bathrooms are pretty cool ;-)
(4)Aquarius E.
great place, pizza is so-so, service is so-so, gets packed in there on weekends around dinner time, patio is nice. The thing i love most about boiler room is: 1. the cute doorman, 2. The interior of the place the seat belt booths, I love that every table has an outlet, really helpful for people like me that have shitty phones that die all the time. the bathroom is awesome too inmates the L. and the best part of all 3. BOOZE SOFT SERVE! this place has Jameson flavored ice cream that has booze in it, one cone is equivalent to a shot! ps. cash only, but if you use their atm you get a free shot of jameson if you keep the receipt!
(4)Jonathan C.
I can't believe I'd forgotten to write up a review for this place for so long. The pizza here is very unique, very thin and airy, similar to new york, but less yeasty and chewy. Although its very thin, there is a that old Chicago butteriness and crispness to the crust, combined with the toppings I would hesite to call the pizza "light" no matter how thin it is. The style really can't be had anywhere else I know of. The chicken wings are good here as well, they leave the wing tips on which can result in some issues if you try to handle them when very hot. Prices are very reasonable and the space is big (sort of remiscent of a college bar to me for some reason, except for the quirky touches). If your looking for a unique thin crust style pizza, here in the city of deep dish, you have found it. I can't speak to the bar aspect of this place, as I hardly drink anymore. But I can't really shake the "grown up college bar" vibe I get from this place when I eat here. It may be a different feel later at night if I was drinking though.
(4)Beth M.
Awesome! The Boiler Room heard the request for vegan food and now offers a create-your-own-whole-pizza option. Vegan crust with one sauce and Daiya cheese is $18; Upton's seitan "meats" are an extra $5 and veggies/other toppings are $2-3 each. I ordered red sauce, "pepperoni", mushrooms and arugula; it was a beautiful and delicious creation. Unfortunately, there is only one pizza size: ultra-mega-ginormous, and realistically, none of my omnivorous friends are going to want to share my vegan pizza. I have a big appetite, but I'm currently consuming my third meal from the pie. It's also not likely I will want to shell out $30 on a regular basis for a quick, casual "slice" with friends. A personal pizza size option would make this perfect, though I am grateful for vast improvement in vegan offerings.
(4)Carly O.
I feel like there's no way of getting a feel for this place just by looking in the window. So go in, take in the atmosphere, enjoy really good, creative pizza, have a pint and be glad you didn't judge a book by it's cover.
(4)Jackson M.
Great pizza and cheap booze. The Jameson soft serve ice cream is awesome! Also can't beat the everyday $7 PBJ(Pizza, beer, Jameson) special when you're hungry, broke, and want to get tipsy. Back patio is also amazing if it's not too hot out. Cash only, but if you use their ATM save the receipt and they'll give you a free shot of Jameson.
(5)Super L.
Not a fan of this place. Which is a shame because we live merely feet away and seem to lack the desire to do even basic cooking. I remember me and the boyfriend checking out the website in anticipation of it opening. We were definitely excited. My first experience was ordering a slice to go after work one night. Took FOREVER for a SLICE. WTF? My boyfriend mentioned that has been his experience, as well. Strange, as one of the purposes of pizza slices is convenience. Went back another time, don't remember the details but was not impressed. Then recently we decided to grab a bite to eat somewhere, and wanted to be quick about it so we could get back to work. We decided to go next door and grab a slice and a drink. He ordered two slices, I order a chicken ceasar. We also ordered two cocktails. They have a nice menu of handcrafted cocktails that sound great. However the execution is just not good. A simple dash of simple syrup would have been standard for the cocktails we ordered, and I am no mixologist, but it was just obvious it was missing an important and common ingredient. I remembered not being impressed the last time I was here, and this is probably why. Stick to beers. It took a REALLY long time for the food to come. A salad, and two slices. What GIVES with that? Anyhow, my salad was pretty gross. The romaine lettuce was wilted, black and soggy, and the anchovie caesar dressing was more like anchovie paste. The chicken was ok, and I just picked around. I know my salad was even worse than I thought when my boyfriend the omnivore went to finish it, and refused to touch it after poking at the "disgusting" wilted lettuce. He even gave me a verbal lashing for not sending it back, which is something we NEVER do. But considering how long it took to come out, I was not about to wait another 25 minutes for some food. His pizza was alright. We were going to order two more slices, but considering it was hard to get our server's attention, not to mention the time it takes to deliver a slice, we passed. If they could get their act together, it would definitely redeem this place as a valid pizza slice joint. The concept is awesome, the decor is awesome. The execution is terrible. Pizza slices should NOT take more than 5 minutes anywhere, ever. And learn how to mix a drink if you are going to offer cocktails. Otherwise just stick to beer. One more complaint, since this is obviously a BAD review. The seating in the back is terrible. I am pretty close to a midget, and the tables are so low to the floor that they hurt MY legs, and it is hard to move. I can't imagine anyone taller than 5 feet being comfortable.
(1)Emily S.
We stopped in here on our Tour de Logan Square, and although the place was decidedly dead for a Saturday afternoon, we still liked it. We split a couple slices - the meatball/giardenera and the pepperoni. Both were really tasty, although some of the full pie topping selections sounded more intriguing. However, the pies looked HUGE and it was just the two of us. Good beer list, friendly service. I'd definitely go back if I were in the area!
(4)Piedad M.
I've been here three times. I really hate going to places like this because its gentrifying the neighborhood my family had once made their home. The first time I waited over fifteen minutes for a undercooked joke of a slice. Second time it was OK. Third time, I didn't even get served. I just waited and waited and waited If I wanted to be ignored I'd hang out with my boyfriend. At least its endearing when he does it. The cook finally noticed me and he told me I had to order with the bartender. I waited for him but rain man was still trying to figure out what a couple beers adds up to. I couldn't believe he was struggling to wrap his head around basic math to close his checks. The music here is also bad. It's like their taste in music has not progressed since they started skateboarding in 7th grade. A better location for this business would be in the basement of The Alley. The Boiler room does nothing to diversify the Logan Square neighborhood. It's generic at best. I really hope this place doesn't last through the winter. P.S. I don't give a sh*t about Jameson being on tap.
(1)Michael F.
Amongst the 50 new bars and restaurants that have opened in Logan Square in the past two weeks, Boiler Room is one of my favorites. The pizza is good, and the selection has vastly improved since they first opened. Previously, a customer could not choose their own ingredients, but had to make a selection of a few types of pizza the Boiler Room decided on; I thought Mussolini was dead! Things have changed, though. Now democracy rules, and the options are plentiful. You can pick your cheese, your sauce, and, wait for it, even the ingredients. I especially like that they offer seitan versions of meat options such as sausage, meatballs, and gorilla. Boiler Room also has an excellent rotating beer selection, and Jameson on tap if you can't wait that extra two seconds it would take for them to find the bottle. Also, visit the bathroom, even if you don't have to vomit. It is designed like an el car right down to a recording of the sounds. It's similar to another restroom designed like an el car called the Red Line.
(4)Brook E.
This place makes my kind of pizza. The crust is perfect--think thin chewy crust, not too crispy or flopsy. So far I've just gotten the purist, because I haven't been in a big enough group just to get a pizza--but it is soooo good--not to much cheese, you can taste the tomato and balsamic reduction. Waitstaff here is hit or miss, some of the waiters can be a bit stand-offish. However, at least everything is prompt, and they come around often enough. One waiter spilled a little bit of spinach/artichoke on my jeans when clearing, and he gave us a free shots of whiskey for the trouble. So take away one star for stand-offishness, but add one star for throwing money at a problem. Back to five stars! Kind of weird that they don't accept credit cards, but the prices are low enough that it's acceptable. Final word of advice: do not skip ordering a cone of the whiskey soft-serve ice cream for dessert. It may make you a little tipsy because it's that strong, but oh so creamy and good.
(5)Theresa C.
I always pass this place on my way to Logan Bar and wish I were coming here instead, but alas, trivia is still at Logan... Anyhoo, The Boiler Room. It's a nice place. The bathroom is a little kitch, but it's clean and it works, so win. We sat at the bar, so I can't really comment on servers, and it was pretty empty on a Sunday afternoon, so everything was quick and easy. The bar itself is kind of small, but because it wasn't crowded we sat and watched a football game while we ate. We ordered pizza, we got the Boiler Room pizza, which comes with sausage and giardiniera. It was really fantastic. Some other people have complained about the plainness of the simple pizzas (and it is important to do a good plain cheese or one topping pizza), but the specialty stuff is where it's at with this place. I also like a really thin pizza, so I liked this a lot. You just have to get a little adventurous, try something new and exciting and delicious. The beers on tap are excellent and they have specials for during games and special events and the like. Overall the meal was delicious, the atmosphere was pleasant and the drinks were awesome. I would come here WAY more often if I lived closer and weren't so committed to that Logan Bar Trivia.
(4)Marissa K.
After not having been here for a while (but ordering takeout a few times), I gave it another chance, and they seemed to have stepped up their game. While the crowd is generally not for me, that's not something they can control. Service was satisfactory, even on a busy night. Chicken satay and fried mozzarella balls were excellent. The salads are a little overpriced for what you're getting, I would recommend adding meat to them to give them some substance. The purist pizza was absolutely delicious, and while they still have some strange pizza concoctions, they seem to get the basics right. Cash only is still pretty obnoxious, especially in this day and age, and the wine is SEVERELY lacking. I would avoid at all costs and go with the safe choice of a craft brew instead. I'm not sure if it's their choice in wine or the way it's kept/stored, but I had a glass of Pinot Noir and a Cabernet that both tasted sour and almost spoiled. Overall, a place I like for takeout more than dining in, but still solid. Oh yeah, and please, please, please Boiler Room, when someone orders takeout, DO NOT PUT COLD FOODS UNDER THE HEAT LAMP!!! I do NOT want my salad getting warm and gross if I'm not there to pick it up the second it's ready. It can't be that difficult to let your staff know this!
(3)marc r.
This place is quite simply the best place for pizza in Chicago. Just get the PB&J with whatever slice suits you best - Pepperoni and Purist are the best. That is all.
(5)Sarah N.
Vegan Pizza! At first the whole pizza seem pricey, but believe me, they are huge, and its nice to not be charged extra for making the pizza vegan. The crust was awesome, super thin, and cooked perfectly. Our server was good, and the pizza came out pretty quickly. Yes, it's cash only, that's annoying, but I can deal.
(4)Patrick H.
Great for drinks and food. They only take cash but will give you a shot to cover the atm fee. The atmosphere is great and very unique. They also have jamison on tap which is pretty fricken awesome.
(4)Katie J.
Great spot on California! I loved the salvage Chicago theme and decor. The staff was very friendly, the drinks stiff, and the boiler room slice was delicious. Sausage and big chunks of giardiniera, YUM! Affordable as well. Great spot to hang out or grab a quick bite. Well done!!
(5)Celia G.
We went back there a couple of months later hoping that this place might have improved. It's really close by my place and of course I wanted it to do well. However, it was again a very disappointing experience. Cash only just blows. They try to make up for it by giving you a jameson shot with the ATM receipt. They tell you that $2.5 ATM fee for a $3 shot, but don't forget your bank charge you too. So, you pay at least $5 to get cash and you only get one $3 shot... Furthermore, the bartender not only asked you to show him the ATM receipt to get a Jameson shot, he wanted to keep it too. This is EXTREMELY invasive because the receipt shows the amount of money you have in your checking account. This time, the hotestess was not very bright. Even if you put your name down, she would not remember your name or face or bother to call out your name. She literally and simply gives the seat to whoever she thinks is the right person. The food is still average and you can get WAY better pizza at Revolution Brew just down the street. Two thumbs down. .
(1)Rafael H.
You gotta get the PB&J. It's a slice of pizza, a beer and a shot of Jameson. This place has Jameson on tap. Great atmosphere. I've had better pizza but this place is good nonetheless. The bathrooms are really cool. When you walk in, you hear the voice of the CTA man who calls the Logan Square stop and you even get the ding from the bell ... as if you were in the blue line. They have a really good selection of beer. BTW, it's cash only. They have an ATM inside. If you have to use it though, they will give you a free shot of Jameson. I will be coming here again!
(4)Mark K.
So apparently there isn't much boiled food going on at Boiler Room. Oh the deceit! Luckily, they bake some really solid pizza pies! Combine that with shockingly affordable Jameson, The Warriors playing at the bar, and you'll have a fuzzy good time. The crust is as close to perfection as any non-buttered variety can achieve: crispy on the ends with the right amount of chew in the center. The Boiler Room slice is decked out with a mild julienned giardiniera and PBR meatballs. Now that's how you win my heart. And there are some unique beer options on tap including a pear cider and raspberry ale. Oh and $3 Jameson shots? Don't mind if I do. Boiler Room never seemed crowded on the Friday night I went despite the dining area seemluing at capacity. It appears a little claustrophobic from the outside, but once you're seated there is a great sense of space around you. For such a popular and well patronized restaurant, I never felt rushed or packed in. It was as laid back as a slice of pizza and a beer could be.
(4)Ed P.
Me and my girlfriend are from the east coast and both agree this is the best thin crust pizza you're gonna get in Chicago. we've never been treated poorly , although service has been a little slow on a couple of occasions. Usually just get slices. You can't best the purist. The special slices are always pretty good and different. The whole pies are a bit pricy but you will need some friends to help you eat one anyway. The beer selection is good. While the decor is overdone, it still has a good neighborhood atmosphere. Gets very busy on Friday and Saturday nights; expect to wait a while.
(4)Kaylie C.
Love this place. All the food is made from scratch and the taste reflects that. I have been coming here since it opened and my only complaint is that the host staff is often very rude/snobby. Kitchen and wait staff are generally very nice and the hosts tend to get fired/cycle out fairly frequently anyway. Decor is awesome and the bathrooms are super clean (always a plus). Recommended: The Purist slice, The Boiler Room slice, specialty cocktails, Jameson (or other booze-infused) soft serve. Remember to bring cash, but if you forget and use their ATM, show your receipt for a free shot of Jameson!
(4)Egan V.
Boiler Room offers vegan pizza options!
(5)Jean C.
For some reason, I am on a pizza craze. I just can't get enough of it. Which makes the hubs happy since he could eat it more often than not. Our neighbors have many good things to say about this place that we decided to come here after selecting our Blackhawks games. We were seated immediately at a long communal table. This communal table is so different than other places because you aren't sitting on top of the people next to you at all. It's spacious and the benches are oddly comfortable. We weren't too hungry so ordering a whole pie was out. I got the Purist and the hubs got the Boiler Room slice. This is New York style pizza folks. You have to fold that bad boy if you want to eat it with your hands. And the pizza was delicious. We ended up splitting a slice of pepperoni as well. And it came split for two so we didn't have to deal with the mess. For $3-$4 a slice depending on what you get, it is a great deal. I can't wait to come back with a group of people. I have my eye on the New Haven. And I won't be satisfied until I try it.
(5)Dawn K.
Let's get to the point- the spinach + artichoke dip and the Purist Pizza is the way to go. The mozzarella on that pizza isn't the best, but not bad- great cheese should stretch! The service is pretty awesome, and it was amazingly cheap. All 4 of us got drinks, shared a pie and an appetizer. $60 including tip, and all of us were pretty damn full. They also have booze soft serve- Jameson is on there regularly and they usually have a special (it was orange creamsicle when I got mine) for $3. ONLY get it if you love both booze and ice cream. I sadly, only love one (ice cream is greater than booze. message me if you'd like to duel it out). Alcohol was strong and the texture was as normal as a soft serve could be. This place is cash only, but if you use their ATM during the weekends, they give you a shot. Not bad, right? Also, a special tip to light-weight drinkers: go for the Mouse in a House! Super light, fizzy, and taste of real ginger! i die.
(4)kat m.
MMmmmm PIZZA First things first: -Have your ID ready -You may have to share a huge table with another party - Get a % off on Thursdays if you dress to theme - Great special every day of the week P.B.J. $7.50 (Pizza, Beer *Blue Ribbon, Shot of Jameson ) This a Neighborhood spot for me. Don't be confused, your are on the North Side and No this is not Simones. They do share the same owners I believe. The pizza is very good , crispy crust and big pie cut slices. If you order the P.B.J. make sure to order it together if you order in any other combination they will charge you separate. Aside from the service I love the Boiler room but still Every time I go I am faced with a server with little time and way too many tables. All criticisms aside I still go back, so that must say something. Just wish the service was better. (PS check out the Restrooms before you leave)
(3)Katie R.
finally i made my way to the boiler room and i'm glad i did! we were starving, so had chips n' dip for an appetizer - i was most impressed by the yucca chips more than anything. i mean, they were really amazing. the dip, not so much, but overall very good due to the chips alone. we had the lombardi. the combination of flavors was perfect, they put on the perfect amount of sauce (can't stand dry pizza) and the crust was sooo delicious. thin, partially crispy but partially not - i can't even explain, but the ingredients alone made it so yummy. also, the pizza was hugggeee! loved it! our waitress was really sweet but service was a little slow - not a problem for me, but i know it can be for others. also, the beer was good and prices were comparable.
(4)Pete H.
I'll spare you the review foreplay this time and get right down to business. You want to order the PBJ. For $7.50 you get: P - Pizza: a damn tasty slice (I recommend the Boiler Room--meat balls & giardinara... tastebuds 1, butthole 0). B - Beer: a delicious, icy cold tall boy of PBR. J - Jameson: Jameson. After two PBJ's, I'm king of the mountain. I love it, my friends love it, grandmas love it, kids love it. Go love it.
(5)Michael T.
For those who worship the thin crust (or people who want to convert), check this place out! Ignore the fact that this place has been architectured for the hippster and try their pizza. Each pie is floated in the oven on a bed of cornmeal. The often overlooked technique has armed The Boiler Room with a crust that is thin with a crispy skin but once you bit into it, it has a soft chewy core. For the people looking to be converted to thin crust - this is the place to go. Your complaints of a cracker like crust will not be experienced here. Do not try the "by the slice" on your first go. The reheating process takes away from the oven-fresh crust. For the hippsters: * Hippster style decor * "Slumming it" beer selection (like PBR) * $7.50 PB&J special - PBR, Jameson, & Pizza Slice * Bathroom is styled (and sounded) like a CTA train car * Other sauce options (cause tomato is too main-stream) Not for the hippsters on a trust fund: * CASH ONLY * The tomato sauce is the best
(4)Erika C.
I'm so glad I live around the corner from this place. Every time I go, we order at least two pies. Each time, one of the pies has been "meh" while the other has been excellent. My two favorites so far are the Castro and the Purist. The Lombardi and Russ' Greek Diner are just OK. The former is too bland while the latter has an overwhelming amount of feta cheese. You can't go wrong with a slice of sausage. This place has an excellent beer list. Cash only. There's an ATM inside. Show your receipt to the bartender and they'll give you a shot of Jameson (to compensate for the ATM transaction fee).
(4)Kimberly N.
Mmm, pizza. We all know I love pizza, or at least NOW we all know I love pizza. And I think I love The Boiler Room. I LIKE the pizza, but I'm not totally in love. It is more like a huge crush, like I'll think about it a lot, but I'm not making any commitments here. It is all about hangin' out, drinking beer (they only have good beer, and, of course, PBR), eating pizza, and watching the erotic vampire flicks on the mirrored TV at the bar. Also, the decor is awesome reclaimed stuffs. It is the kind of atmosphere you want to hang around with friends at, not take a first date to, unless she likes punk rock, horror, and whiskey (hey, I like this new girl!). It reminds me of a dive bar, but it isn't one. Does this make sense? Oh, and the balsamic glaze on the purist is heaven. I want to eat that stuff on ice cream.
(4)Nicole S.
Love this place! I love the vibe, the pizza is amazing and they serve Original Sin Cider which is one of my favorites! We had a difficult time deciding what pizza to try because they have some really interesting options, but we settled on the BBQ pizza with shredded pork and chicken (half and half) and carolina slaw. The crust was nice and thin and cooked perfectly, and the topping flavors really complemented one another. I wasnt sure about the slaw at first , but it was peppery and seemed to give it a nice extra "bite". Now I'm definately going to have to return to try some of the others. For a Tuesday night the place was packed and we had really great service so no complaints here!
(5)Mackenzie R.
Okay, spoiler alert: I'm not a hipster. However, I am pretty sure this does not preclude me from getting good service. I mean, I don't think so, but I'm not really up on the rules, so I could be wrong. I went to Boiler Room with a bunch a friends a few weeks ago and they could not have been more rude to us. We shouldn't have to ask again and again for basic things like water and napkins, right? It was especially frusterating because they were not even particularly busy, it just appeared that they legitimately did not care about our experience. Maybe I'm wrong, again, I don't have the hispster rulebook.
(1)Meghan K.
Boiler Room. What's the deal? It make me sad that I can't give you 5 stars, cause the PBJ is a 5 star commodity. But, as of late..... your staff... from rude hostesses to waiters who show up once, I just don't get it. I'm always ready and willing to spend plenty o' cash on pizza, beer and Jameson, but if you don't come back to my table, I simply cannot spend it. Because I can't order. And I really do LOVE this pizza, it's delicious. But I just don't appreciate the hostess rolling her eyes at my group when we ask for a table, even though no one else is waiting.
(2)Phil F.
Probably wont be going back to this place anytime soon, unless it is just for beer. Even then, there are a lot better places. First of all, the fact that it is only cash is lame. I think cash only works at places with crappy beer and cheap food. This place is def on the expensive side of things. Also, you cannot split a pizza.....you have to get a whole pizza with only one selection of toppings. Double lame. And the pizza was not that good, underseasoned and not what we were execting. Its weird that the experience was so different from the first but whatever....overall, it pails in comparison to Piece on North Ave. ;(
(2)Meredith O.
As a Chicagoan, I feel it's safe to say that I know good pizza. The Boiler Room, though different from traditional Chicago style pizza, is unique and equally delicious. Haven't had a bad pie there, but will say that the Cuban is my favorite - garlic oil, cheese, pulled pork, ham, bacon, spicy mustard and home-made pickles. They have a great beer selection and love the fact that all of the booths, decorations and even the bathrooms are made from recycled pieces. The location is perfect, literally steps from the California blue line stop. Just remember cash! They don't accept credit/debit cards.
(5)Jessica G.
I was super excited to check out our new neighborhood pizza place and grab a Friday evening drink. Unfortunately, I will not be returning. I am gonna stick to my $4.50 sol del sur burrito instead. And if I feel the need to spend a bigger wad of cash I will walk over to lula. The Pizza: I appreciate their use of thin crust, but the crust flavor was a bit lacking and too flimsy for my liking. I tried the basic cheese and the purist. Both were minimal and delicate, which I liked. But the flavor on both was flat. Not enough punch in their house cheese blend. And the purist was nothing special--I was expecting much more from the balsamic glaze. Their red sauce was completely unmemorable. The Drinks: Cider, PBR tall boys, and Gin/Tonics were had by our group. Decent prices on their beer. But $6 for a small well drink (with bad limes) is pushing it. The Music: Completely distracting. Think 2002 Oz Fest. No thank you. The Service: Slow.
(2)Julie A.
The Purist slice was delicious, the beet salad was just ok and the chips and dip were - well, the chips were good. But they had a nice beer list and the pizza is why I will be coming back often. And the have the coolest bathroom in Chicago. (for ladies).
(4)Lauren S.
Things I like about Boiler room: tasty cocktails, tasty pizza and very cool environment. Things that make me stay away: crap service due to long wait times. Only ever seen two servers for the entire place which means you sit around waiting for...
(3)Monica L.
My husband and I love this place. We're new to Chicago and are often sticker-shocked by the price of a drink at some places...but at the Boiler Room, we can get a shot of Jameson for $3 every night of the week! (it helps that Jameson is our favorite shot anyway) We found our new place to be. The pizza's pretty good too. Thanks for putting up with us!!!
(5)Angie M.
Shooting whiskey is not on my " to do" list these days. But The Whiskey Gods got a hold of me at The Boiler Room and I gave in to the whole "it's chilled on tap" novelty. Ten minutes after we sat down, I was shooting whiskey. Next I ordered a Golden Monkey beer. This beer is solid. Let's just say the conversation quickly turned from BP's evil doings to types of men and women's underwear... On to the pizza. I've been here five times and have tried a decent number of their pizzas. The Purist (mozzarella, balsamic, basil) wins my vote for their best. The cheese is pretty tasty too. The Logan (pulled pork, mole, chihauhau, onion, cheese) needed more mole...or cheese...or something. It was a bit bland. I didn't really like the Egg pizza (pancetta, egg, pesto, arugula) either. I'm now a firm believer that eggs do not belong on pizza. What can I say, I'm a Purist. The service here is not bad. Or good. They take a nonchalant attitude, which is not bad. Or good. I'm not a fan of the Cash Only rule. Yeah, they have an ATM inside, but that ATM charges me $3 to take out cash. Bah. I would understand if it's a dive bar ran by some old Grandpa, but that's not the case here. It's the 00's, who carries cash anymore?
(4)Mike U.
the boiler room pizza is so satisfying: sausage and onions...wash it down with a nice Alpha King...so good! mozzarella balls and mac and cheese were also nice surprises As noted this place is cash only, but the free shot of Jameson for using their ATM is a nice gesture!
(4)Elizabeth S.
I can't stop thinking about the Purist pizza. Fresh mozzarella. Basil. Balsamic reduction. Thin crust. Giant slices. So simple. SO AMAZING. Paired with a Young's Double Chocolate Stout - best meal ever. It's cash only, but if you use their ATM & give them your receipt, they'll give you a free shot of Jameson.
(5)John W.
So, yeah, the PB&J (Pizza, pbr Beer and Jameson) is a little too hipster-iffic, but damn if it doesn't taste great on a warm night. And this is Logan Square, so it's done with a wink and a nod, not a pair of skinny jeans and cowboy boots. I could talk about the decor, but you know that. Let's talk about how amazing our server was. She was dressed up like Alice (Wonderland, not Cooper), and sweeter than we had any right to expect on a busy Friday night. When you leave a place drunk, stuffed, and in the throes of a new crush...isn't that pretty much perfect?
(5)Jamie J.
It's good I don't live a 2-minute walk from here, as I did a few years ago. I finally checked it out and definitely enjoyed myself. The Cuban pizza was excellent and the house-made pickles were my second favorite part after the ham. The bacon and roast pork just made it better. We had the mozzarella ball special for an app and the pesto it comes with hit the spot. Our server was friendly and attentive. Yeah, the crowd runs toward the hipsterish. Hipsters gotta eat too, but I don't get the PBR thing. Fortunately they have a beer list with several area breweries well represented. And, obviously, Jameson on tap. The L train bathroom I didn't care for. I've already got too many mental connections between the CTA and toilets.
(4)Steve R.
Stopped in on the way home from another outing, just out of curiosity over the new joint in the 'hood. Decor - kinda interesting, was surprisingly empty when I went in. Perplexingly so. Beer - selection of taps was nice. Nothing jaw-droppingly unusual but I was perfectly happy. Service: Fine. I only dealt with the bartender. She was as fast and friendly as I need a bartender to be. Pizza: Purty darn good. Grabbed a slice for the road, which they put into an absurdly oversized box. That's gonna make 'em go broke, I could have sent that thing to Uganda as-is via international mail and it would have made it there intact. Just tried the cheese. Didn't blow me away and I was fairly buzzed, but it fit the bill at the time. Music: top notch.Old Stooges, Johnny Thunders and the like. Pretty tailored to the rock tastes of the modern hairy guy. OVerall it was decent. I can see it improving over time, I will return to check it out again. I don't get the 5 star reviews, but maybe I caught 'em on an off nite. The cash-only thing is weak.
(3)Colin B.
I gotta admit, i had pretty low hopes /expectations for this joint. I was thinking - great, another psuedo yuppie bar in my neighborhood is the last freaking thing i wanted - at least it's by the train.... however, i went last night for the first time and was pleasantly surprised. The decor is interesting - salvaged items and a bathroom that was modeled after the el. it was just a shade below kitsch - perhaps the bathroom was a bit over the top, and usually my tolerance for bull sh*ttery like that is pretty low (it could have been altered by the 7 beers and 2 shots i'd had already). To say i wasn't annoyed, and even enjoyed the decor is refreshing. You'll just have to see it for yourself. As others have mentioned, the PB&J is the deal to get. It's not a real shot, it's probably a half shot, but still- that's a good deal. the pizza I got is great. I forgot the name of it, but there was basil / balsamic reduction / fresh mozzarella on it. In fact, i ordered another PB&J because it was so good. Their vegetarian options were somewhat lacking if i remember correctly,m but i'm not too picky when it comes to pizza. the crust was interesting - none of this chicago deep dish crap, but rather thin, flour-y crust. i kinda liked it. Service was great and attentive although someone we were with knew here so that kind of skews it a bit i'm sure. Either way, i'm glad to say i'm excited to have this place in the hood and will probably be going there a fair amount for drinks, food, or both in the future.
(4)Erica R.
The Boiler Room has become a regular hang out for us when we're in Logan Square. I'm not the biggest fan of hipster hangouts, but despite the plaid shirts & endless cans of PBR this place is pretty cool. I like their beer selection as well as a few of their creative cocktails (can't remember the name, but one taste like milk and comes with Cinnamon Toast Crunch on the side). Their pizza has been a lifesaver when I needed something to eat after a show at the Congress. And while I'm usually slightly intoxicated by the time we stop here, I'm sure I wouldn't be opposed to a sober afternoon bite to eat (especially on their lovely patio out back). Oh yeah, check out the women's restroom... definitely one of the coolest in Chicago.
(3)Rhea B.
I"m excited that this is here. It's nice to have non ghost town places to visit within walking distance from my house. My biggest downside? The amount of doucheyness this place is already attracting. I liked how separate my neighborhood was from Lakeview/Lincoln park/Wrigleyville but now it's turning that way. I hate to sound like yet another hipster whining about gentrification but I guess I just am. Also, I'm sure many people are sick of vegans bitching about not having food options but seriously, all I could really get was fries. Be inventive! Do you know how many vegans there are in this side of town? Apparently not, because if you had even on vegan option, you'd be even more packed. Maybe that's just not the clientele you're looking for?
(3)Carrie S.
For months and months, I waited for this fabled pizza place to open since it's insanely close to our abode. Last night, we finally came in for our weekly pizza night. Boiler Room's great on first impressions with their well thought out decor and stylish digs. However, their door staff is a little lazy and forgot to card us as we nearly entered the restaurant only to be stopped at the threshold. Also, being carded at 6:30p.m. on a Thursday is really lame. Our server was pretty attentive at first with getting us menus and explaining the pizza offerings. We went with some beers and a Boiler Room pizza from the sparse menu. Despite the restaurant filling with up for the dinner hour, our pizza arrived pretty quickly. The Boiler Room pizza's alright, nothing special. I wasn't fond of the sausage itself. It tasted way too much like hamburger instead of a sausage. I wasn't wowed by their pizza or its extremely thin crust. Their thin crust tried way too hard to be thin crust, but failed in its execution. It lacked the crisp crunch of a sturdy, yet robust thin crust. The pizza disappointed me so much. I wanted an awesome, artisanal pizza that's so memorable, I want to stop in weekly to experience it. Instead, Boiler Room's pizza made me less likely to return because it wasn't exciting, tasty, or filling. After we finished, it took awhile to get the check and change since it's cash only for now. All in all, Boiler Room's just alright. I hoped for a really great and creative pizza joint in the Logan Square I can show off to my out of town friends and say "look awesome it is that we have a great pizza joint nearby." It didn't deliver on that. Instead, it seems that they're much more focused on their great beer selection and decor while stand-out, memorable food is secondary.
(2)Ela G.
Hell yeah! This pizza crust is amazing - slightly crispy yet soft and chewy at the same time...bringing me back to New York, those streets'll make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you.......oohhh..... Although their menu is kinda small, they have the classics, including classic pepperoni and margarita, both with great fresh ingredients, as well as some more out of the box pizzas that will keep you happy and intrigued. They also have a great beer selection and thanks GM, for sending over the jameson shots, that's hard core, but I like it!!! They also make their own giardinara for the meatball pizza in house and it's tasty and perfect on the pizza, although I gotta say I wasn't a fan of the meatball...would've been better spicy or salted or something. They have a great outdoor patio and the women's ladies room even TALKS to you when you open the door, wow they really thought of EVERYTHING, that has so been lacking in my restroom experiences at other restaurants.
(5)Jim D.
Yeah. The pizza is that awesome. Dripping with deliciousness. $7.50 for a PBR tall boy, Jameson and slice of pizza. Can't beat that. It looks cool at first inside, and the bathroom makes you feel like a homeless guy going on a subway car, because it's themed like a subway car, which is cool. It's not really the place to watch a sporting event at all. But, it's a neat place to go with friends. I really liked it.
(4)Sarah S.
Great! The pizza was awesome - the purist pizza with balsamic was great, and the crust was perfect. Excellent beer list. I usually only give four stars even to places I really like, but the 5th star comes from the appetizer we got, which was a special, I think - polenta with tomatoes and pickled onion and other lovely things. It was so so good. Ambiance is trying a little too hard, but cute - it's got a sort of hipster faux-industrial thing going on, and the CTA decor in the bathrooms made me chuckle. Service was fabulous, and gave lots of recommendations. Check it out, definitely!
(5)Tanya M.
I wouldn't go out of my way for this place but it is conveniently located across the street from the california blue line stop. The menu is very small. The pizza is good for $3 a slice but nothing special, the beer selection is ok and they have whiskey on tap if you like whiskey. Our waitress was awful. She seemed very flustered even though it really wasn't terribly busy and wasn't very attentive. She mixed up our beer orders and we had to flag her down for enrything, The decor is cool. Seats made out of seat belts and old subway doors for bathroom doors. Plus instead of music in the bathroom its L stop announcements. They also have a tv in the back that shows you the solar panel (which is on their roof) data. I feel this place is more novelty then anything else
(3)Matty O.
Checked out the Boiler Room last Thursday while some friends were visiting from the Old Pueblo (Tucson). I heard this bar was setup by the same guys that designed Simone's (a bar I'm a big fan of). We ordered the hummus for starters. Excellent. They make they're own home fries to dip in it. Not a bad way to start off the meal. I enjoyed the fact you could get a slice, tall boy PBR, and a shot of Jamo for 7 bones. Not bad little hipster special. We decided to share the Fu Manchu. Definitely enjoyable, loved the sauce, could of used a bit more sauce in my opinion, good nevertheless. Not a bad Logan joint (though, should not be compared to Simone's besides on decor merit). Definitely, somewhere to pop in if you're in the neighborhood. Decor is cool, music was good, service was great, and the bathrooms resemble CTA cars (because who hasn't had the desire to take a whiz in a CTA car at some point, haha).
(4)Saverio T.
Cool space but the pizza is forgettable. I'm thin crust ONLY guy and found this pizza too thin (transparent even) and crust lacking substance. Prices are high for such a lightweight pizza. I prefer Piece in Wicker Park, hands down. Also don't be fooled by the free shot of kegged Jamison for using their ATM. It's a $3 fee plus your own bank's fee. They're not building a great rapport with me.
(2)Lissa C.
OMIGOD this pizza is amazing! I am so excited I discovered this place. The decor is super edgy and cool, the staff was nice, and the pizza was definitely in my top 5 best ever (this is taking some pretty serious authentic NY and Italian pizza into account, so that's saying something). My friend and I split the 'Purist' and next time I really want to try the buffalo chicken pizza. The one draw back is cash only, but it's a small downer compared to the great food, great bar selection, and unique atmosphere.
(5)Meghan B.
3.5 stars The overall atmosphere and decor of the Boiler Room is pretty sweet, and it was very laid-back on a Sunday night. I ordered a slice of pepperoni pizza, the Lost Coast white beer, and my friends and I split the polenta appetizer. Everything was good but I wasn't blown away. I'll probably come back sometime and try something more adventurous. Overall, I think the Boiler Room is a good addition to the neighborhood...the prices seem reasonable and the beer/drink list is pretty solid.
(3)Victor M.
It's Saturday night, 46 degrees in the month of April. Having some minor hunger pains from the previous ayce place, we decided to come here because it's chill and it wasn't really packed. Indeed it is chilled! As we engage into our conversations, couldn't help but to develop something to munch on. Fries and pizza. Fresh cut fries and crispy nyc pizza. On top of it all, $3 shots of Jameson. One of the best deals I can find when I'm out drinking.
(5)Colleen R.
"Like, there's this boiler room, in the basement by the north exit, where only certain people go. For only one reason...." When I think of "boiler room," I think of "My-So Called Life," for reasons obvious to fans of the show. So I'm already inclined to like a restaurant by that name. Fortunately, the yummy food makes it even easier to like it. A recent visit on a Saturday afternoon at lunchtime found the place nearly empty. Our waitress had a touch of an attitude, but thanks to the emptiness, service was fast so we didn't mind a bit of snippiness. The green salad we ordered was generously portioned, so we split it, and since we weren't in the mood to bring home leftovers, we each opted for a slice of pizza. The slices, topped with better-than-expected PBR meatballs, were more than enough food, and only $3 each. I'd be remiss if I failed to mention the ladies' room. The CTA kitsch that is infused in the restaurant's found industrial decor (including the large, raised communal tables) is kicked into overdrive, with train doors for the stalls and a recording playing the CTA"s "Now approaching: California" message on a loop. It's the kind of thing that's amusing once, but will it still be around in a year? Who knows. I'd be up for returning to the Boiler Room to watch a football game sometime, but from what I recall, the large screens by the bar were showing old movies instead of TV. So perhaps another quiet Saturday lunch is in order sometime soon.
(4)Katrina S.
As for the ambience: This I like. It has a cool industrial/rock/hipster vibe. They use a lot of reclaimed materials which is orignal and fits right in with today's eco-trends. The bar stools are made out of what seems to be seatbelts & reclaimed wood. They have a great patio too. As for the pie: the slices are huge but every time I've been here they are entirely inconsistent - not enough cheese, too much sauce, over cooked, under cooked, super floppy, not floppy, etc. Out of the 5 times I've been here I think it was once that I really enjoyed the pizza and it may have been because I'd had a "few" drinks. They do have some creative and delicious cocktails. As for the service: The staff are too cool for school - ala Kuma's or a few other hipster type joints I can think of. They seem very unenthusiastic about being there - seems they could give a shit if customers are there either. Having been in the service industry I don't need my ass kissed and will wait a while before I try to get the attention of a bartender or waiter. If you're like me and willing to wait until they get around to you - you could be waiting... and waiting.... I walked in recently and said, "Hi" to the guys making pizza (which is at the entrance). I thought it was the polite thing to do because there was eye contact. Totally snubbed. I went for pick up once and when the bartender finally got around to noticing me (with four people at a small bar) I gave him my name, paid and waited. I could see a few orders sitting a foot away from me for about 10 minutes so finally I asked, "Are one of those mine?" "oh, yeah." he said and with no eye contact he hands it to me and walks away. "Ummmm, thanks...?" I tipped him... For this?? I've heard the service is similar at Dante's and that the pie is the same style but superior so I think next time I am craving this type of pie I will give them a shot instead.. Summary: Cool atmosphere, inconsistent pie, not so much on the service... Cash only..
(3)Chris H.
Pizza is pretty good, beer selection is pretty good, the only thing holding this place back from a five star rating is the consistently poor service. The service at this place deserves one star, if that.
(4)Rebecca G.
Great big pizza slices and also my type of music. Super cool interior. From their most extreme pizza like the Cuban or maybe the Boiler Room it's all been tasty. Even their regular pizza that you can make yourself comes out delicious. Actually my favorite is the Purist (fresh basil, moz and a balsamic vinegar drizzle that is so good) Sometimes the crust can be burned but not usually. Wait staff has been cool. And are always nice to suggest what beer to have. The interior is made from recycled parts of transportation vehicles, I think from like "L" cars and maybe buses or trucks too? Just another cool feature. They also usually have a good movie playing on the mirrored screens behind the bar. Also I've tried their alcohol soft serve. It is alright but something about the frozen alcohol hurts your tongue. So you might want to try it, but I'll just drink my Jameson thank you.
(4)Dustin R.
This is a great place to go and hang out with friends, get some cheap pizza and drinking in before going out for the night. I love their alcohol flavored ice creams and the fries are surprisingly good as well. The ONLY problem with this place is some of the hosts and waiters, waitresses are rude and the service is lacking. Sometimes they will leave before even taking everyones orders. Considering I go here on an almost weekly basis and I bring in 10+ friends (customers for them) with me you would think we would get better service. So go prepared, if you have a large party you will have to wait.
(4)Michelle Z.
I love this freaking pizza. Thin and crisp and flavorful sauce and the toppings are plentiful. My favorite it sausage with mushrooms and arugula. ($22) I always get a whole pie when a slice would be more than enough but who doesn't love a slice of cold pizza? I'm not crazy about the grilled Cesar salad. Kinda bland. Seating is really uncomfortable but the pizza is so good here that I would sit on the sidewalk in the cold and eat it if I had to.
(5)Kaitlyn P.
We went to this place after a disastrous - let me repeat, disastrous - concert at the Congress Theater. So, we were looking for something to save the night. This place definitely did. I ordered the buffalo chicken and was warned by our waitress that it was large. She wasn't kidding; two full wings and two drumsticks later, I was stuffed and more than a little embarrassed by the mass of bones on the table next to me. But the chicken was crispy and well-seasoned, and the buffalo sauce hot, so I couldn't complain. The PB&J combo was too tempting to pass up, even if I felt like a hipster ordering it. The pizza that came with it was nothing fancy, but had a great thin crust. The subway theme didn't immediately jump out at me, but looking around after we had ordered our food, I liked its quirkiness. This theme carried over the the bathrooms, and actually made me laugh when I walked in. A nice bar to keep in mind for the next time a night needs saving.
(4)Clif P.
Don't waste your time and money here. Drinks are not cheap. The service wasn't great. Pizza is decent, but I've had better elsewhere. Cash only, not taking credit cards is rediculous. I can't possibly support an estiblishment that does this. I never carry I had high hopes for this place when I attended their grand opening (free pizza, cheap drinks). It's been very downhill the twice I've been since.
(1)Trevor H.
My partner and I are looking for apartments, and I seriously considered one solely on the basis that it was near The Boiler Room. I love this bar. Where else can you get drunk on ice cream during a hot day? The customers at the bar tend to be friendly and talkative, and a PBJ always hits the spot. Please don't ever change.
(5)Jeanette S.
Went here for a birthday dinner with a few friends. LOVED the pizza. The special was a cuban sandwich style pizza, a bitter's end drink and of course, a whiskey shot. The only problem I have is the slow service. The place wasn't crowded and I wasn't exactly expecting to wait around for the check! But other than that, it was really a surprising hit!
(4)Courtney C.
I rarely want pizza, but when I have a craving, I always go to the Boiler Room. Their pizzas are really thin crust, which I prefer, and the slices are huge. The Purist is my favorite: mozzarella, basil, balsamic vinaigrette. Their salads are tasty, too. Their draft beers are a rotation of seasonal crafts, but this is the best part: they have Jameson on draft! Jameson and I have had a long-standing relationship, and it took the Boiler Room to show me how much more I like Jameson when it is cold and slightly carbonated. I would say this was a life-changing discovery, but that makes me sound like more of a lush than I actually am. The decor at the the Boiler Room is fun: reconstituted wood, metal, and industrial fibers. And the restroom audibly makes the sound of the el stops (you know the guy who tells you which stop you're approaching.) I enjoy a restroom that will entertain me. About once a month they host PBR bingo, which is fun. You can win PBR-related prizes like shirts, socks, hats, and even free shots, free beers, or PBR soft-serve ice cream (which I thought I might hate, but actually wasn't that bad.)
(5)Arthur M.
Weird inside, in a good way. The TVs over the bar make up the viewfinder of a massive pair of binoculars.
(5)Sandra S.
I love this place. It gets crowded at night so get there early for a seat. Or it's perfect for gray, rainy day drinking (which is all we've had lately) with a big group too. Or if you want to get cozy they have smaller booths too. The pizza is delicious and I was pleasantly surprised at how good the [admittedly mundane choice of] grilled chicken salad was as well. So many places just use grilled chicken that came out of a bag. I could tell the kitchen had actually grilled a piece of real chicken on site. It's sad that now sets a place apart. But I digress...... I've had the same server every time I've been and he is A-1 top notch fantastic! I even enjoy the train announcements in the bathroom. If summer ever happens, I'll check out their patio too.
(4)KT P.
Loved it! You can't beat the PB&J(a choice of a slice, a PBR and a shot of Jameson on tap) for 7.50! The service was great. Our server brought one wrong slice so they gave us a free one! The purist is amazing. It is a great place for groups and I found the Metra themed restrooms amusing!
(4)jim w.
I must start with the fact that I am not a fan of the NY slice style of pizza, however this has nothing to do with the letdown this place was. Canned mushrooms guys? Really? I got a 26 dollar pizza and they couldn't splurge to use fresh? Sure, this is a big nit for me but I know it is from others as well, so you should know. Maybe at 12 bucks I would give this pizza a better rating but no way. I give it two stars because from what I saw inside the place, it looks like a cool room.
(2)Ryan H.
The pizza is not very good. The crust is too flimsy and covered in corn meal, the sauce was not very flavorful and the sausage and pepperoni weren't very good. My theory is the oven they use, which I believe is a roto-flex, allows them to cook more pizzas simultaneously than the traditional steel slab pizza ovens but results in a softer, less flavorful crust.
(2)Eric B.
Huzzah! Pizza slices have arrived in Logan Square. Our long national nightmare is ended. Its hard to believe I've lived in the hood for nigh 10 years yet have not been able to get a decent slice of pizza until a month ago. (Don't talk to me about Tony's!) This is the one area where Chicago has never been able to match New York City, where you can't throw a rock without hitting a pizza joint with a slice ready for your consumption. The pizza slices aspire to NYC style, and come close to meeting that high standard. However, het Boiler Room's fare is not quite prime time -- the base of the crust is a bit too flimsy to be proper NYC pizza. Despite that, the cheese and the pepperoni and the basil combine for a tasty slice that properly rolls up and can be eaten one hand, New York style. For patrons of a certain age, one slice will satisfy, but the twenties version of yours truly will need two or three slices to achieve satisfaction. Its good stuff, shortcomings notwithstanding. The location is great, as well, steps off the California Blue Line stop, perfect for a slice and a beer after work. The beer list is extensive, but they need to iron out supplies - I wanted a Lion Lager, yet they were out on my visit. Disappointing, but other appealing options were available. While I did not exhaustively inventory the bourbon collection, my boozer friends will be pleased to know that Buffalo Trace is available, which is likely indicative of other small batch selections, as well. The decor has a funky industrial vibe, and I mean industrial as in metal shop class, not Ministry. Its pretty cool, but practically speaking the bathrooms should have a higher capacity. I'd hate to see the line at 11 PM on a Friday. The bar has oval video screens installed behind it, which were broadcasting The Outsiders when I visited, at 7 PM on a Monday evening. Here's hoping that the double bill is Blue Velvet and Lost Highway on Friday nights. Heineken? F*ck that shit. Pabst Blue Ribbon! The clientele will LOVE it.
(3)Ashley R.
Went here the other day with a girlfriend. It was pretty slow when we got there which was nice. Our waitress was sweet and super cute. We both got the PB&J which was the best deal. Pizza, PBR and a shot of Jamo for $7? I'm sold. I also enjoyed the music and the Wes Anderson filmography playing at the bar. Will be going back ASAP.
(5)Angie C.
What can get better than a special which includes a piece of pizza, a tall boy, and a shot of Jameson straight off tap? I just moved into the Logan Square area and this is an amazing addition to the neighborhood. Like it's sister, Simone's in Pilsen, it has a great edgy, and hip decor and feel. The patio is a great place to hang out and enjoy drinks (just bundle up with the new nighttime lows). They have great tasting pizza, with eclectic and classic toppings. I've tried the purist (delicious), and the boiler room, and can't wait to come back and try the bbq chicken and buffalo chicken pizzas. They also have very interesting drinks which I really would like to try in the coming months. This is most definitely going to become a staple in my repertoire of Logan Square hangouts and I highly recommend you at least try it out. Their prices are just in my ballpark (most drinks are not over $8) and you get an amazing amount of food for your buck.
(4)naila t.
I like to call myself pizzagirl87, and this pizza rules! The crust and sauce is delicious and the cheese on the pizza has killer FLAVOR. Overall, you can't go wrong with the PB& J deal, $7.50! You can wait a while for a table on a friday night, but slices are always warm and fresh. GO PIZZA!!!!!
(4)Megan L.
I checked out Boiler Room last weekend - I'm always a bit hesitant to try places right after they open, but decided what the heck. The decor is cool - very industrial. Also very dark. Like, could be challenging for some people to read the menus dark. I like it, but I can see other people having issues. Also, I am obsessed with the painting that was behind my friend. Very cool art in this place. But you want to know about the food, right? It was solid. We only went for slices - my friend had the pepperoni and I had the Purist, which is fresh mozz, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic. Yum! The rest of the pizzas on the menu sounded good too, so we're looking forward to trying them. I was also pretty pleased with the food prices. I'm dinging a star for two reasons. One, they're cash only. I'm hoping they're planning taking credit cards and just don't have everything set up yet, because cash only places annoy me (I'm talking about you, Big Star). Second, the beer list was kind of limited. They had some really nice beers, for sure, but I know a lot of people who just want a Bud Light - and that's not an option. Nonetheless, Boiler Room is a very welcome addition to Logan Square!
(3)Shelden E.
I dig it. I'll admit right now I have to back. I went for the main reason it grabs attention: PB&J. And yeah, it's a deal. Tall can of PBR, shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza for $7. Also, Jameson on tap. I only had the pepperoni pizza slice, but it was still good. It was a good thin slice with the crust that was light and yet not soggy. It was somewhat flexible but still had it's crispy, crunch to it. And the end of the crust was nice, hollow, and thin. It wasn't that thick, greasy, bread filled Pizza Hut style. This is sort of gourmet style with seasonings thrown on after it's out of the oven with, and with nice cheeses. It's good because most Logan Square pizza sucks. But yeah, I'll have to go back and try other pizza types. Decoration was kind of cool there. Had the "Doors Closing" CTA voice when you go into the men's room. The part that sucked was that they didn't take credit card. CASH ONLY, even though they hand you the check in a credit card bill, book. Weird...
(4)megan s.
I love me some Boiler Room. Especially when the patio is open and I can enjoy a PBJ (Purist slice... yummm) and get some fresh air. I'll have to agree that the waitstaff here is consistently slow and sometimes not the friendliest. I'm usually able to overlook this, because whenever I come here I'm not in a hurry and am with friendly company. But, one instance when I was with a friend less patient then myself who complained about the wait, we were very politely apologized to (maybe by the manager?), comped an appetizer, and given a free round of shots. All is forgiven. All I'm saying is, at least from my experience - don't expect the most expedited service. Bring good company, have some drinks, eat some pizza.
(4)Nick B.
I've been wrestling with what I thought about The Boiler Room for two days now. I went on Friday night with a friend who came in from LA to visit. The place just opened, I've been feeling Logan Square lately, so I decided to check it out. We arrived at about 7PM and the place was already pretty packed. We found a spot in between two groups of people. The Boiler Room has a "communal seating" system, so you'll have to get used to eating with other people right up on you. At first, this was a little frustrating as the group next to us had way too many people and were standing around and blocking the walkway. No big deal. I went ahead and ordered vodka rocks and my friend got a vodka tonic. I'm not big into weird pizzas, so we ordered a regular cheese pizza and honestly...this was probably one of the best pizzas I've had in a long time. AWESOME. A full pizza cost $15 and was more than enough for two people. Loved it. My only other complaint was the service was a little off. Our server seemed a little stressed by all the commotion going on. I was bothered by the fact that it was a "cash only" place. Really? In this day and age? I got over it, but come on! With that said, I loved The Boiler Room. Food was great. 4 drinks and a full pizza and we only spent $20 each. Not bad at all! Plus, it was very nice to have, I believe the owner, offer a friendly good bye and tell us to come back soon. And yes, the bathrooms are CTA theme, and yes, it's pretty cool. Check it.
(4)John M.
Made a return visit here with a friend following Lollapalooza. We were both hungry and he recently became a vegetarian, so cheese pizza was the natural compromise. As we ordered a whole pizza, it was piping hot when we got it. As thin as they are, we easily managed to finish the whole thing by ourselves. The service was quick and helpful. Even the regular cheese has a bit of basil on it, so I feel it's worth saving $3 to go for that instead of ordering the Purist with balsamic, which I previously found a bit sweet. I'm upgrading a star because I didn't have water dripping on me, the server was helpful, and the pizza was great.
(3)Becky M.
The food here is awesome. Anything I have ever ordered: pizza, salad, appetizer, etc. has been incredible. Also, try the soft serve with booze - it's awesome stuff. The everyday special of the PB&J for $7.50 is a hot deal; it's a PBR, shot of Jameson (it's on tap) and a slice of delicious pizza. Typically, it's fairly easy to find parking in the area. They have some outdoor seating, as well. It's not too expensive, but if you're trying to keep it cheap you should go with the PB&J.
(4)Kaitlin D.
If you can get over the scene (lookalike hipsters everywhere), I'd recommend Boiler Room to anyone looking for a good pizza and a great deal. $7 for a PBJ (shot of Jameson, PBR and a slice)?! Such a good deal! Plus they have Jameson flavored soft serve, how does it get any better than whiskey and iced cream combined?? Trick question, it doesn't.
(4)Jason P.
Pizza is by far my favorite food and while I am partial to the deep dish variety, I can still appreciate a nice thin crust from time to time. With apologies to Vito and Nick's which I have not yet been able to try, I feel like Boiler Room might have the best ny style pizza I have had in the city. The first thing you notice is that on the door they have a sign that says in just about every language you can think of that this place is cash only. The only thing that could make it more clear would be if they would link the clip below to play every time the door opened. youtube.com/watch?v=07G2… Now that you all want the last 30s of your lives back, I will get on with it. I had heard that this place had this place had the $7.50 PB&J special and had been intrigued. That quickly went away when I realized that first off, I didn't feel like a shot of Jameson, PBR only sounds good if that is the only beverage on the menu, and I needed a whole lot more than a slice of pizza to satisfy my hunger. The drink menu is actually pretty awesome, so it really boggles the mind why these hipsters wouldn't spend the extra dollar and get out from under the PBR cloud. Lets get to the food. Our party of 5 people housed 4 whole pizzas. I was probably the heaviest of the group too at a stout 160lbs so needless to say the shocked look on our waiter's face when we had downed all that pizza was priceless. The purist is really the way to go. It is simple with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a splash of balsamic that gives it a little bit of a bite. The ambiance is also interesting. The bathrooms are like L train cars, so you can get the experience of being homeless and pissing on the train.
(4)Sarah Z.
This place haunts me! Every time I get off the California Blueline stop I have to physically force myself not to grab a slice of delicious pizza. They have fresh ingredients with combinations I would never have thought of- not to mention the yucca chips! I love the yucca chips. There is an amazing selection of craft beers and specialty drinks. Every time that I have been to the Boiler Room I have had excellent service. The wait staff is not only attentive but good looking. I think some reviewers had some beer goggles on when rating- Joe H. it sounds like the waiter made an honest mistake. I enjoy the cash only- who needs the all the plastic anyway? With deals like PB&J you won't need more than $10! Bottom line- if you want good thin crust East coast style pizza come to the Boiler Room.
(5)Marie M.
Great selection of beer. They have Great White on draft! Perfect beer. Pizza was good, but do not come here if you are hungry, great late night snack though! Great location right of the California Blue Line.
(4)Rene P.
I never eat pepperoni pizza. Pepperoni is greasy and gross to me on pizza. However, the pepperoni here is so good, I dream about it. The slices are huge and it's so delicious. We also had their version of the Margherita and it was deelish too, but man, that pepperoni is so. darn. good. I also had a drink called the 1988 that came with a Cinnamon Toast Crunch side car. You won't be disappointed.
(4)Tiffany K.
I heard about this place through some friends and I was super excited to try the pizza here. I ordered a slice of pepperoni. The pizza itself tasted great, but I unfortunately got a really burnt slice of pizza so that was kind of a bummer. I also split some fries with friends, and the fries were seasoned perfectly and tasted great. They came out overflowing from a tiny silver bowl - maybe they should upgrade and use a platter or maybe a bigger bowl? I guess there might be no use in muttering away about what vessel the french fries come in, but it would be more sense. Our waitress was pretty nice, but she was a bit slow getting to our table and fulfilling out requests. It was a Saturday night but it wasn't crazy busy, so maybe she just didn't like us enough or something. Who knows. The decor is pretty cool, and it's a cozy place. I really love that you can get a "free" shot of Jameson if you use the ATM. The PBJ deal (Pizza, Beer, Jameson) is also pretty genius. I'll definitely come back here again and maybe order a full pizza for a full taste.
(4)Adri S.
There is mainly one reason this bar is amazing: the PB and J Special 1 slice of Pizza (a big slice and its delicious) 1 shot of Jamesson 1 can of PBR all for $7.00 The times I have been the service was great, it wasn't too crowded and the decor is kitschy. When you enter the bathroom, the door has a bell resembling the train, and it says You have reached the California Stop. Brilliant! This place is no Longman and Eagle but if you want a beer and a slice of pizza for a really great deal, this is the place to be! Definitely a hipster bar, not recommended for yuppies but they probably just go to Sluggers.....
(5)N N.
First all, this place just looks and feels awesome. I love the CTA decor! Apparently everything in there is recycled. So it's pretty cool looking. This is definitely a hipster place, which typically isn't my thing but "eh" - whatever. It's appropriate for the location. Second, the pizza. I really really love the pizza. They have amazing combinations that I was a little wary about at first (carnitas?) but upon tasting were really awesome. I love the crust, which is super thin and crispy. I have to say, even with all the fancy pizzas, a simple pepperoni is still the best, IMHO. The beer selection is pretty good too. And they have Jameson's on tap. I also like that - because it's a cash only place - if you need to use their ATM, you get a free shot of the Jameson's if you give them your ATM receipt. Makes paying that ATM fee just a little less painful. Just remember to tell the ATM you want the receipt - my husband always forgets! Service is good too. The barstaff seems very friendly and energetic. And they're on top of things. The servers are also very attentive. I guess the only things that didn't make me give it 5 stars are 1) it's a pretty small place so if you don't get there early, be prepared to wait... a while. And 2) the bar area is tiny, with only about 7 or so seats - which makes it difficult to have a drink while you wait for a table to open up. You can stand in front of the bar, but will have to continually step aside to let servers or other patrons through. If you do score some seats at the bar though, I recommend just eating there. Those bar chairs are really comfy! I'll continue going, the pizza just keeps bringing me back.
(4)Will C.
We went here the day after it opened and it was fabulous. The bar has a fantastic array of beers on tap as well as bottled. Their cocktail list is impressive as well; I tried the Ginger Snap and my wife tried the Toy Gun, both of which were great. The pizza was also great; we tried the Egg. The whole pizzas are huge; one was more than our group of three could handle. We will definitely be coming back here, and often!
(5)Christina M.
I was so upset about my last experience that I waited over a month to update my review. So what made me so upset? Well since was the only vegan at the table, I obviously have to order my own pizza (no big deal). When I received the pizza and bit into it, I noticed that the potato on my pizza was very undercooked (they were more like raw sliced potatoes). When we informed the waiter he just took my pizza back to the kitchen, so we thought they were fixing it -- and everyone else waited to eat their pizza so as not to be rude to me since I couldn't eat their pizza. After 10 minutes we asked him when the pizza was coming back and he said that it wasn't because he threw it away -- now perhaps I could have eaten the pizza and pulled the potatoes off (while they remove the charge from the bill) or perhaps he could have offered a new one... He sent the manager over, who did in fact solve the problem, but he quickly made it worse again. To give him credit, he had my pizza remade and removed the charge for a round of drinks. But my bf blurted out that I write Yelp reviews (which I was not happy about) and then the manager lectured us about how horrible he thought Yelp was and about how reviews by Yelpers weren't credible. I was so embarrassed that I informed by bf that he'd be lucky if he can get me to go back at all. And given the mistreatment (by both the waiter and the manager) I'm certainly not recommending Boiler Room to any of my friends.
(2)D W.
Was there yesterday late afternoon after having a nice salad at The Logan next door. The Logan was warm, sunny, and comfortable, and Boiler Room was the opposite. Without a doubt the design and use of industrial materials was quite impressive, and unique. Liked the chairs at the bar which is where we sat. Though I was impressed, and would return, I was not impressed enough to come back too quickly. We had some glasses of wine, whisky, and a couple slices of pizza. The pizza slice was reasonably priced at 3 dollars, though I thought it was a bit cold, and somewhat greasy. The fact that you cannot use a credit card I found to be somewhat strange and not convenient. Dont know what they are trying to "prove" with this, other than that it prevented me from ordering more from the menu or bar. Though my check was around 22 dollars, and I put down 40 dollars, the bartender asked me "if i wanted change"... Thought he was joking, or simply arrogant. Afterward we went to Lula cafe for a couple drinks at their bar. What a contrast...
(3)Ben P.
Let's get right down to the most important info: The pizza is rad. Good beer is on tap. The space is comfortable. The first few times I came here it was OK, but nothing special. I have since been back many times and they have fully found their bearing. The pizza's crust is awesome. It's a little chewy towards the middle, but the cornmeal adds a great texture and the edges are so light and crispy. Their sauce is flavorful and toppings are excellent - always very fresh tasting. The interior is clever without being obnoxious. The only problem that I have is with the tables along the north wall - they're repurposed school desks and I have a hard time getting my legs underneath. But the booths are comfy, as are the large tables in the middle. I've never had a problem with the service - sure it gets slower as the place fills up, but that's not a problem specific to this place. All the servers that I've dealt with have been friendly and attentive. Big ups, Boiler Room, I'm glad to have you in the 'hood.
(5)Lisa F.
Decent beer selection, although unfortunately with prices to match. Pretty friendly servers, actually, which was nice. The Purist pizza is quite tasty; that balsamic drizzle really makes it. The house special pizza (The Boiler Room) is pretty good too. But fair warning: eat that shit up fast, like competitive eating fast, because the second it's not piping hot, it's kinda gross. Also, this makes me sad because I was excited a pizza place had finally opened up so close to my home, only to find that bringing it home is not recommended, and ordering for pickup results in standing around awkwardly at the bar for a long time while the kitchen gets around to putting a slice in a box. The music, oh the music. It hurts. All the skater boys from my high school would've loved this place. Cash only. The "free" shot of Jameson you get from using their ATM covers up the fact that you've just paid their ATM fee and your bank's--and don't forget to keep the receipt or you won't get the shot.
(3)Shauna D.
Try the Jameson Soft Serve! It's cheap and very tasty, perfect for a hot afternoon on the patio. Service was a bit inconsistent. Our server was by a lot when we first got there, but by the time we were a couple of rounds in, and even added another person to our party, her stops became much less frequent and we found ourselves going to the bar for drinks. Yes its cash only but you get a shot of Jameson when you use their ATM. And yes, pricey pizza but they do have a great special that includes a beer, a shot, and a slice and the slices are a decent size. The patio is out the back so its not one of those completely packed places that people drive by and stop at just because they see outdoor seating. Bonus. But the minus, they don't make the most of the space. Instead of smaller tables of 2 and 4, they have picnic tables. So we walked out to find parties of 2-3 people occupying entire picnic tables. I didn't see a party of more than 4 people all afternoon to warrant these tables and feel like its an odd choice. It was strange to look out on a patio that at first glance seems empty, with maybe 10 people, yet still have nowhere to sit. Other than that we had a great afternoon and I do recommend!
(4)Chris S.
The pizza here was ok, but I've had better. We've been here a few times and the service is a bit snobbish, the pizza came lukewarm another time and we were overcharged for our food. In chicago, it is very easy to find many other great pizza spots.
(2)Gamaliel E.
I checked this place out with some friends and was happy to find that it wasn't overly crowded. Guess we got lucky, because I can see this place being packed in the future. We walked in and were told to sit anywhere. There are large picnic tables where you can sit at, which could have you sitting with strangers. There are booth style tables as well. My only suggestion would be that they seat people here, only because I saw some larger booths with only two people seated at them, leaving groups of 4 looking for a table that wouldn't break them up. The pizza was really good, and the crust reminded me of that at Grimaldi's in NYC. Thin, but still a bit chewy. The slices were a decent size, but not huge. It was a solid pizza, and I like that you can order by the slice. I ordered the North Sider drink, and my guests had the ginger snap and 1988. The 1988 was along the lines of a white Russian that came with a shot of cinnamon toast crunch. Both were good...but on the smaller side. I found the beer selection to be very unique (Mexican craft beers, etc) but not very vast. Hopefully the selection will increase in the near future. The back area is not open yet, but has a bunch of picnic tables which will make for great dining on nice summer days. Hit up the ATM, because I don't think they accept cards here. Oh....one last thing that I thought was cool, was the men's bathroom. It looked like a CTA Blue line car inside with actual audio from the train. "Next Stop...California". I like this place a ton and will be back for sure. It's a great new addition to the area, and you can tell the owners put a lot of thought in the decor.
(4)Matt S.
There's nothing like hearing the sultry sounds of the "El" guy announcing the next step while you pee. Confused? You aren't if you've ever been to the Boiler Room and taken a break to use the loo. Every time the door--which is made out of recycled Chicago El train cars--the audio from the blue line stop is pumped in. This is just one of the many neat things about Boiler Room, a Logan Square pizza place a group of friends and I tried for my partner's birthday. The best deal at Boiler Room is the PB&J--no not peanut butter and jelly--but rather a slice of Pizza, a can of Pabst Beer and a shot of Jamison for about $7. Having ordered this my first time there, I'd actually recommend sticking with their fine selection of ales rather than slumming it with a Pabst. (Don't hate me for comparing Pabst consumption to slumming.)
(4)Bryan W.
I was immediately impressed with the decor of this place and loved the music and overall vibe. The pizza was delicious and it was definitely a NY inspired pie. I loved the touch of corn meal on the bottom to prevent sticking to the pan. The beer and cocktail selection was also noteworthy although they did advertise a few beers that they didn't actually carry. The waitress explained they were in the process of changing menus. My only complaint to this establishment would be the cash only aspect and the waitstaff. Our server was pretty slow despite being a relativity slow night and was rather snarky when telling our party the cash only policy. Neither of these minor complaints would prevent me from going back. If your looking for a fun place to enjoy a slice of pie with a few friends I highly recommend this place. Oh yeah be sure to check out the bathrooms ;-)
(4)Santiago A.
Okay, here's the deal, I'm not here to waste your time. Okay, I certainly hope you're not here to waste mine, so I'm gonna keep this short. Order PB&Js, and you will be tipsy after 3 of them. Okay, I'm gonna repeat that, order the Pizza, PBR, and Jameson and you will be feeling good after 3 of them. There's no question as to whether you become a repeat customer here. The only question is, how many times over. You think I'm joking....I am not joking. I am a Boiler Room regular. It's a weird thing to hear, right? Lemme tell ya, its a weird thing to say: I am a f*ckin regular. And guess how old I am...29, you know what that makes me here? A f*ckin senior citizen. This bar is entirely comprised of people your age, not mine. Lucky for me, I happen to be very f*ckin good at ordering PB&Js or I'd run out of them. You guys are the new blood. You are the future swinging dicks of this bar. Now you all look like you'd enjoy drinking a 1988 and that's good. Anybody who tells you that a cocktail mixed with cereal is the root of all evil, has never f*ckin drank any. They say credit cards can't buy happiness. Well, here they are right, BUT you get a free shot if you show them your ATM receipt. Look at the f*ckin smile on my face! Ear to ear baby! You want details, fine. I take the Blue-line to the California stop. What's up? (side my CTA card across the table) They have a ridiculously awesome bathroom that looks like an El stop. They have booths with the backrests made of seat belts. And best of all, their drinks are liquid. So now you know what's possible, let me tell you what's required. You are required to drink your f*ckin ass off at this bar. We want winners here, not pikers. A piker walks at the bell. A Piker asks how many calories their beer has. Calories? People come to drink at this bar for one reason, to become sloppy drunk, that's it. We're not here to make friends, we're not saving the f*ckin manatees here guys. You want to watch calories, go drink a MGD 64 on your couch. Okay, first three visits to this bar are as a trainee, you'll pay $7.50 for each round of PB&Js. After you've done training, you might expand to the rest of the menu and all their great pizza combinations. Your friends will probably order you forty PB&Js before you start ordering for yourself. After that, the sky's the limit. A word or two about being a trainee, your friends, parents, other customers, they're gonna give you shit about it, it's true, $7.50 for a slice, shot and a beer, that's not a lot of money. Pay them no mind. You need to learn this business and this is the time to to do it. Once you pass this test, none of that's gonna matter. Your friends are sh*t. You tell em you had 25 PB&Js last month they're not gonna f*ckin believe you. F*ck them! F*ck 'em! Parents don't like the life you lead. F*ck you, mom and dad. See how it feels when you're making their f*ckin Lexus payments. Now go home and think about it. Think about whether or not this is really for you. If you decide that it isn't, listen, it's nothing to be embarrassed about. This is not for everyone. But if you really want this, you meet me in Logan Square and we'll talk. Just don't waste my f*ckin time......Okay, that's it.
(5)Tiff H.
One of my former roommates moved into the area and has claimed The Boiler Room as his local bar. So naturally, for an ex roommate reunion, we came here. I was excited to give it a whirl since I had heard so much about this place...mostly from cheap hipsters who raved about the $7ish for a slice of pizza, a shot of Jameson, and a PBR. Sadly, the cheapness in me didn't get to experience the deal. I let my roommate order...and here's how it broke down. -The service was lovely. -I had some type of Jameson cocktail...it tasted like cough syrup that was too sweet. Yech. -We had the sausage pizza...it was ok. The cheese just fell off my pizza slice when I went to eat it. It tasted like something I'd get from a Brooklyn dinner...good when you're drunk...but not sober. -Yuca chips needed salt and the black bean dip it was served with was pretty watery. -Wings were mediocre. -Atmosphere was so cute and great. I'll come back for beers only next time...the pizza isn't worth a PBR and a Jameson shot. I didn't get a chance to look at the bill but for the evening, it probably would have been around $25ish with tip, I think. Sorry, Boiler Room. I tried to like you. I'd give you 2.5 stars if I could have but I'm usually in the habit of rounding up.
(3)Jon D.
Awesome pizza, good atmosphere. 5 stars if they lost the pretentiousness.
(4)M M.
The pizza is good. I like the Buffalo myself. They have a decent craft beer selection. It's cute and funky with a hipster vibe. The crowd is on the young side. It's worth going with a few friends for drinks and pizza.
(4)Zach R.
After being convinced to go back because of a change in staff/management over a year later. I did. Much better service than the first couple months open.
(5)Alan W.
Here is why you should go here: gourmet pizza Amazing selection of beer Great atmosphere (Bathrooms are modeled after the EL dining area is repurposed airline baggage materials) Jameson on tap Inexpensive Reasons people are angry with this place Sometimes arrogant wait staff (you can feel the smug if you aren't wearing the right clothing) expensive beer list (even if it is good)
(5)Anneli H.
"when you haven't been drinking the decor is hard to take, it;s like fucking rainforest cafe for hipsters" "the only time i've been in there i was three sheets to the wind, the doorman had to tell me to stop wobbling or the bartenders would kick me out. Needless to say, i didn't really notice the decor." The pizza rules.
(4)Alexis K.
Effing awesome. As everyone else mentioned, hell yes, PB&J/Jameson ice cream/$3 shots. Pizza is wonderful, service was decent if not awesome, great atmosphere/vibe. Made me miss my hometown and wish they had this place in Buffalo!
(4)Stephanie M.
This is hands down, one of my absolute favorite places to eat in Chicago. The PB&J can't be beat, and the pizza here is ridonkulous. They have great vegetarian/vegan options for those weird friends of yours who've decided to make life extra difficult for themselves, and the atmosphere cannot be beat. I hosted my birthday here last year, I have brought countless amounts of out-of-town friends here, and all have come away satisfied. The staff are super nice, which I actually always find surprising, being that this place is so trendy, and the surrounding area is hipster central. I have yet to try the Jameson ice cream, but I hear it burns going down, just like a good ol' shot of Jamo. I warn you, they are a cash-only type o' place, *BUT* there is an ATM, and if you remember to save the ATM receipt, as a 'thank you,' and, I would assume, to make up for the irritating charge that comes with using some random ATM, Boiler Room will give you a shot of Jameson on the house. My roommate and I like to purposely 'forget' to bring cash so that we can close our night out with one more shot of Jamo. Love this place. Love love love LOVE. Yes, minus one star for being cash only. Even though I appreciate the shot of Jameson, it's a pain in the ass, and sometimes the ATM is down, or won't print receipts.
(4)Sunny J.
the pizza is great, the beers are cheap, and the jameson ice cream is outrageous!
(5)Brian C.
Stopped by a few nights ago, this place is located right across the door of the California blue line stop, amazing location!! The first thing we ran in to is a woman in a pink wig with a mustache... apparently Thursday nights are theme nights, good idea. The inside is huge but homey. We got what everyone gets.. the PB&J; PBR tallboy, slice of pizza and a shot of Jamison whiskey. As for the PBR and the whiskey, they are what you expect old standbys that always live up to their names. The pizza is great in my eyes, really reminds me of NYC pizza, if you are looking for some heat try the Boiler Room pizza it will get your taste buds going. As a reminder, this place is CASH ONLY, if you use the ATM inside show the bartender your receipt and you win a free shot for the trouble. If you are looking for a good place for a few drinks and a snack for a great price, and want to be somewhere close to the blue line stop by the Boiler Room, you wont be disappointed.
(4)tracy j.
They have great beers on tap like dogfish head, 3 floyds and lost coast. The pizza selections ranged from the Boiler Room (with Italian Sausage and Giardiniera) and the Logan (which I think was pulled pork and fried onions) to basics like pepperoni, cheese or sausage. The crust is generally thin and crispy on the bottom and the slices are a big size. The decor is really cool and the layout works well. It's not too casual, but not overly trendy.
(4)Valerie R.
I'm between 3 and 4 stars. If the pizza crust was better, it would definitely be a 4-star review. It's just not crunchy enough. I had a slice of the purist, and it was pretty tasty. $4 for a decent sized slice. Service is good, the people there are friendly. The bathroom is cool- only 2 stalls for the women though, so I can imagine the line might get a little long on busy nights, especially once the patio is open for drinking. BR has affordable food and beer... and they serve Robert the Bruce! Ok... I'll give 4 stars now, just because of the RTB.
(4)Kristi T.
Went to the grand opening on Wednesday. Can't blame them for the one in one out rule, although I thought being 25 and with a bunch of cute friends might help, there was still a bit of a wait. No worries, its a blast once you're in! $2 Beer + $2 Pizza =$10 dinner with a 4:1 Beer : Pizza ratio... classic! The pizzas were really interesting, although I must say the plain pepperoni slice was still my fave! The pizza dough is really light, the perfect thickness, and has a great texture. The bathrooms sound like you are getting on or off the el at "California is Next... Doors open on the left at California"... so cute! The architecture of the exposed ceilings were especially interesting. Great crowd, fun staff, and good deals. I will definitely be back!
(4)Elizabeth V.
I live pretty close so I go there whenever I'm in the mood for pizza and beer, If you live far then it's really nothing special for you to make the drive. Beer selection is good and the decor is pretty cool. I don't think I have ever had bad service at this place.
(3)John G.
I read a story a while back in the Redeye about the amazing caliber of pizza, paired with a pretty effin' sweet atmosphere in a bar off the blue line. While its a bit of a hike on public transit back to my 'hood, this place will always have a special place in my heart. And after a couple of drinks in Bucktown/Wicker Park, what night can end properly without a trip in for their best bargain menu item? What I consider to be their signature menu item is the PB&J (Tall Boy PBR, Shot of Jameson, Slice of pizza) for $7.50. The pizza choices are out of this world, as they serve your generic "pepperoni, cheese, sausage" slices, or you can choose from a huge variety of more gourmet slices for your exploratory palates. This bar also serves one of the best effing dirty martinis in the city. Perhaps in the midwest. If you have a table, please order the drink from the bar and tip that bartender generously. And the bathrooms. Holy +++. In most cases, you shouldn't base a rating off the standard of the bathrooms, but this is a unique case. The bathrooms are set up like Blue Line Train cars, complete with handles over the urinals. Motion sensors over the door announce "next stop California. this is a blue line to the loop." It seems so fitting that they chose a train car for a bathroom theme, as most late night trains generally smell and function as, well, you can make the connection. Only complaint? Cash Only. Atm surcharge: 2.50.
(5)Jim B.
This is a great new addition to the neighborhood. The decor is worthy of writing about, vintage wood booths, tables made on top of old metal school desks, reclaimed lighting, and very fun bathrooms. It is a very cool place that reminds me more of an older NY than Chicago. Speaking of New York, the pizza is fantastic! Somehow these fine people learned how to cut a pizza like a pizza, and made a super fine cheesy, greasy slice that I remember from my youth. Chicago pie is good, but this is a fantastic representation of what the east coast has to offer. The beer selection was good if you want to avoid the PBR of the PBnJ. The staff was great, especially the door man. It looks like they will even have a hip little back patio area where you can eat, drink, and soak up the sun one of these days. I will return.
(5)Deyf F.
Pros: Service, beer selection, tall boy PBR for cheap, Jameson, unique foods, compensation for ATM fees with a shot of Jamo, decor (seriously, it's pretty fucking cool), music (Catch 22 was playing a lot last night, a personal favorite), movies (Red Dawn, always a win), close to the train, close to the bus, free parking available like a block away. Cons: Cash only (but see above for compensation), The Logan Pizza, rather startling L recordings in the pisser. I will be back, and I will have a different pizza. The Logan is pork, mole and fried onions. Like deep fried beyond all onionness. Funyuns, really. The pork is totally over powered by the mole, which is so freaking hot, and missing all chocolate flavor. So they salted the pork. My mouth felt like someone had burned the bajeezus out of it and then packed it with wool. Between 5 people we could not finish a single pizza. OK, so I didn't like that pizza, I think it was a miss, but an excellent idea. I will still go back and try another. I have cooked enough things in my life to know that sometimes those really awesome shots in the dark work out awesomely, and sometimes fail miserably. The app we had was awesome (sausage, mustard seeds and applesauce) and everything else more than made up for that pizza. Go there, skip the Logan, get a PB&J or two. Rock out.
(4)Heather K.
Boiler Room is an awesome addition to Logan Square. Situated right off of the Blue Line this bar/pizzeria is industrially decorated with straps, seating, and the CTA automated train voice playing in the bathroom. I'm a sucker for gimmicks. The pizza is tasty and fast as was the Caesar salad with sun-dried tomatoes. They have an awesome beer list and their cocktails were creative and only 8 dollars. A steal! Sadly, they we're out of their Jameson ice cream which I was itching to try but a perfect excuse to return.
(5)Sophie F.
Their vegan pizza (Daiya. Seitan. Lots of veggie options.) is HUGE and DELICIOUS. One of the best vegan pizza spots in the city. That's all I have to say for now.
(4)Michael S.
Staff was friendly. Atmosphere was really great. And the vegan pizza was the best vegan pizza I have had to date. You might say, vegan pizza is terrible by it's very definition... and often it is. But not at the Boiler Room. Seriously, no compromising, delicious vegan pizza! So glad to have found this...
(5)Kory K.
Our waitress was quite unprofessional. She was visibly upset when we ordered water, rather than drinks, and the situation quickly deteriorated. Unfortunately, we walked out when she became argumentative when she returned to take our order.
(1)Cara T.
I had a forgettable experience. The pizza was okay, the appetizer dip special was okay. I literally just can't think of anything to say...good or bad. In this case,I think being speechless is a bad thing.
(2)Thomas P.
After moving to Chicago from The Bronx in 1972 I've always found The Windy City to be a pizza wasteland. With their skimpy crusts, overabundance of rubbery cheese, a lousy teaspoon of sauce, and ridiculous little squares in stead of real slices it's been disappointment after disappointment. But last night, at my sons' suggestion we met at The Boiler Room for pizza and beers. All I can say is MADONNA! Finally, a place that knows how to make ABEETZ!!! Tasty crust with a good bite, a lovely homemade tomato sauce and fresh toppings. And Hallelujah! it was cut into actual slices. Like a pie. You know, as in "pizza pie". A side order of fries completed our excellent gastronomical experience. We drank mostly stouts and porters but the beer list had a nice variety for everyone's taste. Al fresco dining on the back patio was a pleasure and for those of you who smoke (yuk) it's allowed there. A pretty good music selection piped in at a fairly comfortable volume so you can carry on a conversation without difficulty. Our lovely waitress was friendly, attentive and had a pair of legs that could make a Bishop kick out a stained glass window. What more could you ask for in a restaurant? I give The Boiler Room 5 stars and will recommend it to every one I know. Hell, I'll recommend it to strangers too. :-)
(5)Kelly B.
I love this place. Perfect location, awesome 7.50 PB&J special, laid back decor. Oh, and I could eat a whole Purist pizza by myself. Service is kinda slow on busy nights... but it's a bar so whatever. Dear fellow Boiler Room patrons, THEY ONLY TAKE CASH. When they get busy, it'll take a while for your server to give you your bill. Then it takes a while for your server to come pick it up... if you have a credit card out or if you don't have the right change, it's gonna take double the time to settle your tab. Just sayin'.
(4)Don B.
I never ate or drank inside here, I can only speak for the pizza. I've picked up pizzas "to go". For East Coast style pizza, this place is legit. It's Top3 along with Piece and Santullos. If you like the old style pizza with the poached egg in the middle, try Boiler Room's Egg pizza... It's got 5 or 6 eggs on top of the large pie. I'm pretty tough critic when it comes to good East Coast Pizza (because it's so hard to find in Chicago), but their pizza is among the best. The only problem is that they do not deliver. Hopefully that will change in the future.
(4)Eric L.
good pizza for chicago (f*ck deep dish), cool atmosphere, great bar, salads are average, but hey, its a pizza joint, so that's my own fault. awesome crowd, cool outoor patio. get the PBJ.
(3)S.Y. D.
I recently went here for the 2nd time with a larger group of friends. The service was excellent. I know it's not the easiest thing to do to handle a large group. Our server was attentive and was able to keep up with the fast pace of our drink and food orders. We tried the pepperoni, egg and cuban pizzas. We also had the meatball appetizer. I personally found the egg pizze to be amazing. If an egg can make a burger better, why not pizza? As for the atmosphere, it had a great vibe. I thought the music was just the right volume, not too loud to interfere with conversations but loud enough to enjoy the nice playlist they had going. It's also conveniently located right underneath the California blue line stop. I would definitely come back here again.
(4)Lin-z C.
Maybe it's because I went here the first day it opened, but even then, I'd expect them to be on top of their game. I'm gonna break it down: Decor: Interesting and hip on first glance (the TV screens are awesome), but the bulky chairs n' benches don't really hold many people and are a bitch to move. And the bar is tiny. And why oh why was I hearing the CTA dude in the bathroom? I have to hear him enough on my commute, and hearing his creepy voice in the bathroom is my limit. Service: The only dude that was on top of his stuff was the guy re-filling my water. Everyone else was looking confused and presenting us with pizzas that we didn't order. And OH MY GOD, Cash Only! Argh! Boiler Room, you're posh enough for a freakin' credit card machine! Pizza: We got the Logan, because pulled pork sounded good. The pork was bland, the mole sauce had no flavor, and the chihuahua cheese was non-existant. But after seeing an array of pizzas, I wouldn't mind coming back to try some more. Some with cheese. Overall, since I live in the neighborhood, I'll be back because it's pizza (and I love pizza) and they have Jameson on tap for 3 bucks (AND WHO DOESN'T LOVE THAT?!)!
(3)Christy F.
Love this place..been there 2 times in the last couple of weeks! Love the atmosphere & artistic/creative use of recycled materials! Love the PB&J special - hooked on the slice of sausage...the slices are pretty good sized & very flavorful. My husband usually gets 2 slices. Great location. Good service. Beer selection was ok..nothing to rave about. Just a fun, cozy place to meet friends! Definitely added to my rotation of places to hang!
(4)Anna P.
While visiting a couple of friends in Chicago we stumbled upon The Boiler Room. Thank GOD! I've been craving their pizza on a daily basis ever since. The atmosphere is unique and insanely awesome! Our server was super friendly despite being pretty busy. Fantastic beer selection, great music, just an all around good vibe. And last but certainly not least, Jameson Ice Cream. Soooooooooo good. If you're in Logan Square -- don't skip a trip here! :-)
(5)Alison H.
My first trip to Boiler Room was on the suggestion of a co-worker who had been there. We went on a Sunday night shortly after they opened and sat at the bar. The two bartenders were very friendly and kept us entertained with conversation and good service. The bar also shows movies (no TVs, which is refreshing and disappointing because I love to watch sporting events, but alas, we'll hit up another bar for the big game). We ended up staying through 3 awesomely bad movies which added to the ambiance and livened the conversation with the bartenders and other patrons. We tried the Boiler Room pie and several different beers on tap. The pizza was awesome! And their delicious craft beers were offered at a fair price, even a bit lower than other neighborhood bars. The best part of Boiler Room, besides the friendly staff and delicious food, is the decor. It's unique and industrial looking. I love the repurposed look of the bar and seating, and the bathrooms are just plain fun. Designed to look like El cars, there's even a louspeaker announcing your arrival to Logan Square when you open the door. Our 2nd visit, we opted for a table and had a great experience. The waiter was friendly and helpful in deciding what beers to order. We tried the Purist pie (balsamic, basil and mozzarella medallions). It has become our favorite! Definitely a neighborhood favorite and worth returning!
(5)Masha G.
I am surprised I have not left any comments for this place yet!!! It's hard to judge the place that is close to your home has food available after all other places are closed and has a good atmosphere. I say it's good. Since I live down the block right now - BR is a savior and a last stop during many nights out in the city. It has good pizza, though I think they should change up their classics sometimes, something like "seasonal" pizzas or each year introduce one new pizza to the basics menu. P.B. and J. deal is always good way to start off the night - cheap, and fulfilling. Other drinks are decent, good beer selections! So if you are hungry - be sure to go there before midnight - then you can get a table and enjoy the meal. If you'll show up after midnight - be ready to be standing, this place gets crowded fast.
(4)Kaybee K.
first visit here, i LOVED it. so much so, that my sister came in to town and specifically requested we go again. and we were so incredibly & sadly disappointed. our first visit we ordered a full pizza - which is apparently the way to go. our second trip we we ordered slices - so not the way to go. the slices of purist we got were burnt, uninspiring and straight up bland. it was heartbreaking. we skipped on the booze this time and got some diet cokes which were super flat. it all just seemed like a complete waste of a meal. perhaps you were just having a bad day, boiler room. you went from one of the best pizza's i've ever had to one of the worst. maybe one day i'll visit again, but i think for the time being, i need my space.
(2)John M.
I think 3.5 stars would be more in line. That said, I do in fact like this joint. The pizza is pretty good and the atmosphere is fun. The PBJ special is a good deal as well. The decor of the men's room may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but use it more than once and it's pretty annoying (DOORS CLOSING).
(4)Kristen H.
This place is great! The food is delicious - the cuban pizza is a favorite along with any of the salads. The decor is real industrial and they have a great group of staff. I went here for a casual meeting and it ended up being PBR bingo night which was awesome! It was so fun to play bingo and win prizes from PBR. This is a great place to come with a group to have some good beer & food. I can't wait to go head back for bingo!
(5)Dionisio A.
The Boiler Room has wonderful service and pizza. We were a party of 20 or so on a very busy Saturday night, and the servers were both gracious and accommodating. I loved their sour beer which was surprisingly on tap. They are cash only but they have an ATM inside. If you show the bartender your ATM receipt they will give you a free shot of Jameson Whiskey which is also on tap. The pizza is great and delicious. I greatly recommend this Logan Square hangout.
(5)Katie H.
Go ahead. Piss and moan about gentrification in Logan Square. You are one of the following: A. A hood rat. I couldn't give two craps and a stroke how long your family's been in the neighborhood. That's what happens in cities. They evolve. You want things to stay exactly as they are? Move to fucking Lee County. Hang out at the Steward Inn for the rest of your life. Enjoy the Keystone and the tots. B. A secret proponent of gentrification. You may or may not know it or ever freely admit to it. Just like the vast majority of hipsters can't bare to come to terms with themselves and their label. "I'm kinda Indie I guess." Let's not split hairs here. I've freely accepted what I am and will continue to enjoy flat bread pizza and slightly overpriced beer that taste like banana bread. Hooray for self-actualization. Both times I've been here I've been very, very pleased. Our server, Austin, was speedy, friendly and good enough to inform us of the heated smoking tent out back. Hooray. I'll definitely be back to stuff my craw and enjoy Horchata cocktails. They come with a side of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. They're even open to today! During Snowpocalypse. The Great Storm of aught eleven. That earns them the fifth and final star.
(5)John M.
this is my favorite artesianal-style pizza in the city (besting piece). while it is not NY-style, it certainly fills in nicely in a pinch. i especially like the semolina/cornmeal dusting under the crust. it lends a very sumptuous taste to the pizza. the drink selection here is great too, as are the prices. the atmosphere is unique as well and the early 80's movies playing by the bar always take me back. go early or late as there can be a bit of a wait sometimes. we asked one of the staff if they delivered and they said "not yet." i hope this means they are planning on doing so in the near future but for now it's eat-in or carry-out. if you are a pizza snob definitely add this place to your list. cash-only!!
(5)Ryan B.
Okay first off just read a review that really pissed me off.. Yes they card you at the door.. It is a bar they do that. I have been there a couple times when the service wasn't necessarily fantastic, I have also been there when the service is amazing I guess it depends on who you get, but the food is great! Caesar salad amazing, spinach and artichoke dip superb and obviously the pizza is good.. And they have a good list of beers on tap that will quench your thirst well. Also Jameson infused ice cream creative and fun.
(4)Coyote D.
My home away from home! Super friendly waitstaff, awesome pizza, and well-curated beer list...love it. Conveniently located beneath the California blue line stop, Boiler Room is a great destination for a date, a night out with the fellas, even the inevitable parental visit. I'm counting the days til it's warm enough to hang out on the outdoor patio. One of my favorite spots in Chicago, for sure. Be sure to try the Jamison soft-serve!
(5)Tricia M.
Not only does this place having amazing brick oven, thin crust, crispy goodness but the PB&J special has a special place in my heart. PBR, and chilled shot of Jameson, and a slice of pizza? Man, this place was made just for this Jersey girl. The crowd is unpretentious most of the time, and the vibe is for the people who grew up in the 90's I feel like. Which, c'mon, the 90's were amazing!
(5)Deepika T.
When will I be allowed to do half stars, because this was definitely 3 1/2. I'll echo everyone else's sentiment about the decor as well. Very unique, and the restrooms deserve a special mention! We hardly ate, so I don't have much to say about the food. The drinks were good though.
(3)Jen B.
I love this bar. I know it's all about the beer but the cocktails are incredible. I love the white russian-y one that comes with a shot glass of cinnamon toast crunch. The place is decked out in vintage TVs and computer and transit stuff which gives it a steampunk-ish vibe. The bathroom stall doors are retired CTA train doors and when you walk in, a recording of the Blue Line "This is California. Doors open on the right at California" plays while you pee away your delicious drinks. They have Jameson ice cream and give you a free shot of Jamo when you use the ATM -- cuz it's cash-only.
(5)Mark C.
So I grew up on the east coast, about 20 minutes from New Haven, CT. The closest I've gotten to getting a Worcester Street (Peppy's Sally's etc.) style pizza here in Chicago has been Piece. Granted I haven't been searching high and low, but I miss the Brooklyn style east coast slice of my youth. I'm talking about a thin slice of pizza, crisp on the bottom but not like a cracker and cut into tiny squares. A nice big triangle slice, with a crust that's a bit charred and you can hold onto. This is pizza heaven. That having been said, this is the closest I've come to Brooklyn/New Haven style east coast pizza here in Chicago. They make the pie right in the window while you watch, everything is fresh and the sauce! And the cheese! It's really good. Every time I order once slice I find myself wanting another before I even finish the first. Being a block away from my house is also a massive bonus. As soon as I walked in and saw that they had Golden Monkey on draft (9.5 % - no joke), and Jameson on tap, I was sold. I recommend getting the PB&J after work for a quick fix, a slice, a shot, and a tall boy for $7.50. You can't beat the prices. I love the film selection they play at the bar, everything from Crouching Tiger to Creep Show to Dancer in the Dark.. they're not afraid to show it up on those screens. They only thing that kind of annoyed me was the music, mostly sort of alterna-punk. I wish they'd mix it up with some speed metal, local indie stuff, etc. But after two shots and a slice of that awesome pizza I can't even say I really notice. And some of the bands I heard totally fit the vibe they've got going on. The bathrooms were a nice touch too. Really good prices, super nice staff, and as far as I'm concerned the best pizza slices this side of the east coast. Give it a try.
(5)Angelica E.
PB&J!!!! Nice size slice of pizza, shot of jameson, and a pbr...only $7! Cant beat that! Plus the whiskey ice cream is really good! The main reason I give it a 3.....its a hipster spot (a little bit out of my element). They played alot of emo and rock songs (dont get me wrong I can dig rock but emo...not so much) and the waitresses are a bit slow. Again I will be back because of the PBJ.
(3)Donna T.
We went on week two and had a very good time! We had a rotating group of about 8 and took over most of the bar area. I liked the beer selection and the seasonal beer was even garnished with fresh chilled blue berries. I tried a slice of the Purist and my tried my boyfriend's Boiler Room which was topped with pbr meatballs. Both were really good and I loved the crust, which I'm not usually a fan of. We are used to almost always sitting at the bar when we go out because everyone is always moving around. I think next time we'll try sitting in the table area. There are a few small tables, but more long tavern tables. I think these were a great idea to still allow for some mingling. I like the decor, recommend the pizza and the staff took very good care of us. Their patio will hopefully be open soon and will be another excellent reason to stop by.
(5)Emily H.
I LOVE to hang out here. The staff and manager are really nice, the food and beer are tasty, the music is eclectic and cool, random movies on in the background, and you absolutely cannot beat the PB&J. I love the specialty slices (my all time fav had beets, zucchini, and goat cheese) and the rotating taps. The cocktails look great too, but I just can't get past the beer and whisky! Very casual, fun place to grab a slice on a weeknight or before a big outing, or grab a table and make a night of it. Not to mention it's steps from the train. Wins all around!
(5)Katie P.
Picked up a pizza on my way home from work - fresh off the el at California, cross the street and you're there. Decided to order a pizza based on a recommendation. Super good. New York Style. When I called to get an idea of how long it would take to make the pizza (trying to time it out), I was told it'd take about 10 minutes [for a full pizza]. I asked her to wait 10, then put it in. On a Friday after work, it took about 25-30 minutes. I suppose it didn't really matter, but I find it interesting how much she underestimated the time to make a pizza. Either way, I'm definitely ordering again. Great pizza.
(5)Soft Pie N.
The stars are for the unique drinks they serve. I have agreed to come here again and again because of the excellent drink choice. But to be honest with myself, I hate it here, and next time im invited il decline. First thing, the music. They play punk pop and Flogging Molly crap. I would have been thrilled about this when I was 15. Second, the service. Sit at the bar if you want to get served. Last time I came with my boy and we sat at a table it took forever to order are first drink. And when we tried to order a second round, well she took my boyfriends drink order and then immediatly walked away without looking at me. Then when she brought his drink she slammed it down and scurried off real quick so I still couldnt order....
(2)D D.
The pizza was excellent with some truly unique varieties - try the Fu Manchu for the Thai take on pizza. I also sampled the Logan and found it above average, with plenty of toppings and a golden crust. Awesome interior - everything is refurb and has a subway vibe, it's an assault on the senses. The men's room was really cool - I can't speak for the ladies' room however haha I was impressed to see a computer monitor in the back that tracks the power output of the solar panels on the roof - cool, feels good to know that the place leans environmentally friendly The Boiler Room has Jameson on tap - need I say more?
(5)Audrey K.
Two stars for the unique design and drinks/beer selection. Why only two? See below: Made our first stop here along a Logan Square bar hop in order to impress a few friends that hadn't experienced what is now Logan Square. Five of us walked in and got seated at one of their community tables, leaving one chair at the end open for two more that were on their way. First, the waitress directs my seated friend to move and sit in the open spot and we had to explain that we were waiting for two others (of which arrived not five minutes later). After being told to "pick one" while ordering our drinks, said waitress walks up behind two of my friends who were talking to each other and instead of saying "excuse me" in a kind manner, as they didn't see her standing there, she busts out with a rude valley-girl-like "hello...!" in order to hand them their drinks. She disappears for a long while, place isn't big or packed, so not sure where she went, but my friend and I get tired of waiting and we order our next two drinks at the bar. When walking back to our seats, she suddenly appears out of nowhere and yells at us saying, "you have a tab here, if you're going to order from the bar then you'll have to give up your seat here." Understood - had we not waited forever for service from an already offensive server. She immediately drops our bill off and the total is ten dollars more than it should be. Inquired about this, as we did not want to leave a gratuity (having been a server myself: great tips reserved for excellent service, no tips happen once or twice, if ever, for service you'd expect from a mule). Discoverd the extra was for a tip, at the same time receiving a "what more do you want, I'm giving you everything you asked for" response from our server. I later asked to speak with a manager. First person, said "okay" and continued to clean the tables next to us. Thinking we were getting Punk'd, I attempted to ask a second person who replied, "okay, I'll be right back" then proceeded to come back and tell us he in fact could help us. After explaining the situation he took the tip off and briefly apologized. Needless to say, awful service from someone who obviously thought she was too good for her job and certainly not what I've come to love about Logan Square.
(2)Serena L.
Dear Boiler Room, You. rock. 1) Thank you for sponsoring just about every event I've been to thus far this summer in Logan Square. More businesses here should act like you. 2) Thank you for compensating for the ATM fee at your cash-only establishment with a shot. 3) Thank you for the fact that I didn't have to wait ages for a table for six on a Saturday at 8 pm, while also being crowded enough that I didn't doubt how great your food was. 4) Thank you for the delicious birthday shot: German chocolate cake--howww???? 5) Your pizza. Stellar. Had the Purist and the Bizmark and was thrilled by both. 6) Thank you for not being like Longman and Eagle. Haaaaa... 7) Thanks for the patient, attentive, thoughtful service. 8) Again... that pizza. Drooooooooool.... All you party people, get your hungry selves over to the Boiler Room. Stat.
(5)ReRe A.
I was trying to impress a dude and suggested this place. The food was average and expensive. The cheese pizza with an oil based sauce we ordered was $24. The staff was not terrible, but certainly affecting the hipster indifference that is so common to the area (Think Daria--the late 90s MTV animated show). The most frustrating occurrence came at the end when the waitress said that they do not take credit cards...SAY WHAT?? Cash only...But there is the ATM, she says, and if you show us the receipt you get a free shot of Jameson...I wonder who owns that ATM in the corner that charges a 3.00 service fee? Something tells me the very same folks that own the Boiler Room... Amidst a sea of horn rims I felt very stupid.
(2)Erin H.
we were in town and had wanted to give revolution brewing a try, but big surprise, there was no getting in. one of our friends said he knew of a good place around the corner, so we headed there. well hello, boiler room! it's nice to meet you. the wait wasn't long, considering we had six people and it was a weekend night. we got drinks and waited by the bar. they have a semi-decent beer list for chicago (coming from a beer-spoiled wisconsinite). the cash only thing usually pisses me off... but clearly the owners of this establishment understand this sentiment, because you get a free shot of jameson when you show the bartender your ATM receipt. (I'm not even a whiskey drinker, buy that's pretty damn cool.) while we were waiting, the smokers of our group ventured out to the beer garden. it was march, so it was cold, but this area seems really spacious and I bet it kicks ass in the warmer months. we were seated at one of the center booths. I know it sounds nerdy, but I really liked the inventive use of materials in decorating this place. something about the lighting reminded me of star wars (in a good way). our server was great and kept the drinks coming. I'm not gonna lie and say this was the best pizza I've had, but it was decent and enough for three people. I dig this place and will be back, for sure.
(4)Ray S.
Love this place! When my husband or I have a rough day at the office, we meet here for the PB &J special. There is no better cure for a bad day than the Boiler Room slice, and ice cold PBR and a shot of Jameson.
(4)eric f.
maybe the pizza here is not that good + its inconsistent. i think its supposed to be nyc style slices/thin crust (santullos 'za is better). e.g. my 1st slice was tasty, my 2nd was so burnt i asked for a new one. the place has a kitch-pop aesthetic that's reminiscent of steam punk-meets-fraggle rock-meets-star trek. and the bathrooms mimic the experience of pissing on the cta. that said, they have a great special: slice, pbr, shot of jameson for $7.50. and there's a lot of space (including a patio) ::: in my opinion this isn't a pizza place with a bar, its a bar that serves pizza...which is a good thing.
(3)Marge K.
this used to be my go-to pizza place in logan square but i am so over it. that is most likely because the staff acts like THEY are so over it. on friday our server told my dinner date that there was "no way" they would add any additional topping to a slice of the purist. a simple, "no" would suffice. they charged 50 cents extra for ranch dressing. my food was cold and i had to ask the busser to send it back because our server didn't return to our table ONCE after delivering our drinks. bottom line? crap service. decent pizza. get it to go.
(2)Liz C.
I did it, I moved closer to Armitage. And now I get slices to go from the boiler room all the time. I have to say as much as I love them the food quality has gone down in general - the purist just isn't as good, the cheese isn't as good, there isn't much basil, etc. However, the daily slices are very inventive and sound tempting every time I walk by - these might be the way to go. I've had some pretty dried out slices at 2 am, though I'm so happy something is open I can hardly complain. As to the cash situation, we got cash one time and to our surprise got a free whiskey shot. That's their compensation for having to pay an atm fee. Works for me.
(4)Kristin L.
I'm a little heart broken to be giving The Boiler Room only 3 stars. I've been going there for awhile and I must say the experiences for me just keep going down and down. In the beginning, I loved this place. Great pizza, Jameson for only 3 dollars and nice staff. Sadly the last few times I've been there have not been a good experience. At first I thought they were just having an off night, but the last 3 times I've been there, I've left annoyed. Let me say their pizza (when cooked consistently) is outstanding. But the last few times I've been there I've notice their pizza is either burnt or way undercooked. Not good eats. I'll say their prices are decent but what I cannot get over is their super slow service with a side of bitchy attitude. I understand with your recent popularity, you've been busy. Well it's time to get yourself a new wait staff, or at least get some new people who don't mind doing their job. Our waitress last night made me want to scream She took forever with our drinks, even forgot a few. Took a good solid 15 min to take our pizza order and never came back to see how we were doing. Her dirty looks and condescending attitude seriously made me want to leave her a 50 cent tip. But I cannot bring myself to do that, so she only got 15% which was way too much. I think I'm going to pass on going back anytime soon. Hopefully next time I do decide to go there, their staff has gotten a big attitude adjustment.
(3)Kimberly L.
If you're looking for a place with a hipster vibe without the hipster 'tude, you must put the Boiler Room on your "check it out" list. The staff is friendly, the space is fun and creatively designed (love the old Chicago el doors in the restrooms), and the pizza is pretty darn good. I went with a friend and we shared a pepperoni pizza, which could have served 4 people easily. I was not delighted with the salad but that's probably my own fault (why, oh why, did I agree to sharing a salad with beets--ick). Cash only but they'll give you a shot of Jameson's to soften the blow of the exorbitant ATM fee the vendor charges. Mosey on up to the bar and show them your receipt and you'll get a free Irish whiskey.
(4)Mally S.
We just moved away from the 'hood, but I wanted to add my two cents. Convenience is key because this place is right at the California Blue Line stop. The price of the PB&J is fabulous (read other reviews - love the Jameson on tap!). The pizza is pretty good, it just takes forever to get a slice. Word to the wise, just go ahead and order 2 slices because they aren't huge and you will still be hungry after one. I loved the purist pizza with its drizzle of balsamic. When we first started going, the staff was fantastic and really helpful. The last time we went, it was not so fantastic. Too bad, because I really liked the beer menu and the pizza was good even after the 20 minute wait. The cash-only policy still sucks even with the free Jameson shot if you use their ATM. Get with it, guys.
(3)Jenna C.
As mentioned, the PB&J special is pretty rad. The atmosphere is cool. Minus a few stars for the exceptionally lousy music.
(3)erika s.
this place has really pulled it together since i went the first time. i've been here a few times since and their pizza has gotten increasingly better. decided the slice is the way to go. they've also added an alcoholic soft serve ice cream to the menu--what's in there i'm not sure, but it is intriguing. the back patio is pretty killer--one of my favorite things about the logan area is how many of these are just hidden around. ps the pb&j just can't be beat if you're on a budget. yep.
(4)Natalie J.
i'm glad this place is in logan square, i have to say. pizza by the slice is a rarity in this town but boy do i find pizza to be one of life's essentials. we started off with a sausage appetizer with sauteed apples. the first bite was really good but then the apples seemed overly sweet. i got the buffalo chicken slice and my boyfriend got the meatball giardiniera disaster. we actually ended up switching slices but both slices were....nothing short of gross really. it was seriously confusing. like they opened this restaurant and never had their staff sample the food and tell what they thought about it. so much giardiniera, it overwhelmed the sparse meatballs and also overloaded the thin crust pizza. anyway, that being said, i knew the crust was delicious, they just got the toppings wrong. so we choked those slices down then ordered a pepperoni and a purist/margarita and those slices were delicious! pizza i've been waiting for! good beer selection! awesome bar! just stick with the normal stuff, if you want my advice.
(4)Jeffrey H.
Great Pizza Slices and Salads. The pizza crust is the perfect amount of softness and crispness. The PB&J is a deal! Great Beer Selection and interesting venue. So glad to have new places opening in Logan Square. Be warned, the pizza slices are large and the place is filled with hipsters.
(4)Jona W.
Ok, disclaimers are in order. I realize that we visited on the first Friday night that the place was open, so it's totally understandable that they still couldn't accept credit cards (that takes a while to set up), could only serve booze inside (that's City of Chicago for you), and didn't have a plan in place for getting people seated. I get it. If any of that stuff continued, I'd say thanks but no thanks, Boiler Room. But that's opening weekend-we-need-to-start-paying-for-this-place kind of stuff, everyone, so get the golden fork of high expectations out of your ass and give them a break. Okay, so they probably should have figured something out for seating...wouldn't you guess that you'd be busy on opening weekend? The no-host thing seemed like less of a simple oversight and more of an invitation for hipster chaos. To their credit, the waitstaff did work together to keep their eyes open for seats for us, because walk-ins snagged spots out from under us right and left by standing right next to tables full of annoyed diners. But on to the food. I give Boiler Room three stars because they do have simple things on the menu, like a cheese pizza, which I wish to all that is holy that we'd tried instead of what we got. Unfortunately, the menu is small and, probably in the interest of preserving some all-important aspect of graphic design, helpful descriptions of the food are nowhere to be found. Therefore, when you order a "Buffalo" pizza, (described only as "chicken, bleu cheese, ranch"), the onus is on you to ask the waiter "Is this going to be like Satan shitting fire down my throat?" Here begins the debate over whether I should have known that "buffalo" meant "spicy as all fuck." Apparently, the entire planet is divided on this one. In my day (which was fully stocked with sweet barbecue buffalo chicken wings), "buffalo" meant sweet barbecue, MAYBE a little spicy tang. At Boiler Room, Buffalo means that the crust is covered in thick, spicy, brown gravy-style salsa, loaded down with chunks of chicken and chopped carrots, drizzled with bleu cheese dressing. But when your mouth goes numb from the hotness, your eating experience becomes seriously limited to anything but the spicy gravy. By the time you are actually aware of having feeling in your stomach lining (because it is no longer flame retardant), you'll be begging the waiter to bring you the ice water they only place on every other table. I'm not usually one to complain about a little heat. I don't go ordering things extra spicy, but I've never had to hobble out of a restaurant and crawl into the 7-11 on the corner for a jug of half & half to put out the fire. I guess if you're one of those people who likes ridonkulously spicy foods, or just likes to cry at dinner like your stepdaddy brought a shotgun to the table again, by all means, order the buffalo pizza. +3 stars because you could argue that we did it to ourselves, in not asking pointed questions about what we were ordering. Plus the beer was good and the wait staff really stepped up and found us a seat with a quickness. -2 stars because I really would have had a much better experience if they had gone the extra mile and compromised on the menu's aesthetics in order to include a little bit of helpful detail. We will be back, Boiler Room, armed with more questions than Planned Parenthood. Prepare for an interrogation. Because contrary to popular belief, I do like to know what I'm putting in my mouth, thank you.
(3)Audriana V.
Gotta love a pizza place with vegan options! When I'm craving New York style pizza, I go to the Boiler Room. What's better than some 'za, a PBR and a shot of Jameson?
(5)