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Sat / Apr 17
Party Earth Review Were it not for the large sign emblazoned across the stone façade and the two raised outdoor decks overflowing with boisterous patrons when the weather permits, The Galway Arms could easily be mistaken for a classy old... ... read full review
2442 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60614
Brown, Purple Express, Red Lines: Fullerton
773-472-5555
Bar M–Th 5pm–1:30am, F 4pm–2am, Sa 11am–3am, Su 11am–2am
Restaurant M–Th 5–11pm, F 4pm–midnight, Sa 11am–midnight, Su 11am–11pm
Lincoln Park, Chicago –
Were it not for the large sign emblazoned across the stone façade and the two raised outdoor decks overflowing with boisterous patrons when the weather permits, The Galway Arms could easily be mistaken for a classy old house.
Inside, this massive bar and restaurant opens into a collection of mini partitioned rooms, all replete with warm red walls, rich hardwoods, candlelit tables for blushing couples, and red leather booths for old friends who gather regularly near the crackling stone fireplace.
Worn wooden floors lead after-work businessmen to the back, where they chat over classic whiskeys beneath various family crests and long-retired fiddles, as casual students snack on the day’s specials, keeping one eye on the game on the muted TVs.
Originally two separate buildings, the venue is connected in the back by a handcrafted wooden bar, so guests can meander into another maze of rooms that offer more privacy, or spill out to the patio – weather permitting, of course – to enjoy their Smithwick’s and shepherd’s pie in the sun.
Brunch rounds out the weekend with classic Irish breakfasts and Bloody Marys, not to mention the live music jam session on Sundays that is sure to get the feets a-jigging.
Although traditional Celtic grub may never win any culinary awards, The Galway Arms is perfect for patrons in the mood for an authentic experience and a cozy Gaelic vibe.
DePaul University students, young couples on dates, Irish expats relaxing after work, and well-to-do but unpretentious Lincoln Park residents, 20s to mid-40s.
Live traditional Irish jam sessions on Sundays from around 8pm. Indoor and outdoor flats-screens tuned to sports and news, though usually muted save for big games like Manchester United or whenever the Bears are playing.
Trivia on Wednesdays with cash prizes. Ambient old-school Irish tunes with some down-tempo alternative rock, country, and jazz mixed in.
Oyster Festival in October and Rib and Blues festival in November.
Celtic fusion menu includes signature Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips, as well as burgers, ribs, and sandwich plates. Drink and meal specials daily.
Expansive upper level with separate bar and fireplace reserved for private parties. ATM on site.
Brunch menu $6–$11, appetizers $6–$11, sandwiches and burgers $9–$11, salads $8–$13, entrées $11–$19. Beer $4–$6.50, wine $6, cocktails $7, Irish whiskey and brandy $6–$23.
Casual dressy: loosened button-downs, sweater vests, cardigans, blouses, low heels, designer jeans.
Wednesday nights for trivia, Fridays for a fun crowd with lots of thick brogues, Sundays for the Irish jam sessions, or any sunny day to chill on the popular patios.
The Pasta Bowl (2434 North Clark Street) is only a short walk down the street, and takes patrons to Italy instead of Ireland with a menu of hearty but budget-friendly pasta dishes.
The Galway Arms User Reviews