Bar: Mother Hubbard’s Sports Pub
Address: 5 W Hubbard St, Chicago IL, 60654
Score: 8.4/10
If I had to build my ideal sports bar from scratch, it would look very similar to Mother Hubbard’s in Chicago, IL. I first stumbled upon this bar about three years ago and have been back every time I visited Chicago. This bar is centrally located in downtown Chicago’s river north area. This is such a busy area as it pulls in locals and tourists to one location. Since I do not live in the city I’m typically playing tourist and I try to go outside of river north for some true historic places within the city, Mother Hubbard’s and Rossi’s are two of the bars that are exceptions to this rule.
From the outside of the bar, Mother Hubbard’s screams dive. The outside of the building is painted red and has logos for all respectful sports leagues, letting you know they are all about sports. When you walk in, typically you are going to get a packed bar. I went on a CFB Saturday and the place was popping. Somehow I managed to snag the last stool at the bar and camped out there for hours.
Most of the bars we review have a wow factor, have character that cannot be matched, or a feature so memorable that it makes you come back. For me, it’s the character at Mother Hubbard’s. The decor and signage is nothing out of the ordinary for a Chicago sports bar, but they have everything you’d want to see. Signage for all Chicago sports team covering every inch of the walls, tvs galore, brick and wood paneling on the walls, and some of the nicest clientele you’ll be around at a bar. Simply, they just do all the little things right. Having a good sports bar does not require rocket science. Have a shit ton of TVs, good bar food, and allow the patrons to decide what games they want to watch. Mother Hubbard’s does all of these. No pushing back if you want to watch an obscure game, great full wings (you never see this anymore), and a perfect tv angle no matter what spot you have.
Mother Hubbard’s did not just show up overnight, they built the reputation and have maintained it since 1993. Along with all the great features I mentioned, of course they have cold beer and a large selection of it. If sports aren’t your thing, this bar probably isn’t the one for you, but I’d encourage you to still go because the atmosphere is great and they also have pool tables available to pass the time.
Everytime I come here I have an absolute blast, that is truly all I look for in my sports bars. If you want a good atmosphere, plenty of TVs, and great service, then this is your bar.
Price: Fair for the area, river north is pretty expensive.
Decor: Awesome decor. All sports memorabilia and signage, it is the absolute best.
Service: This bar was so packed, they had 3 bartenders and they were hustling. They made it work and the service was prompt and steady.
Atmosphere: Maybe the best atmosphere I’ve been in for a sports bar. Bold claim, but it may be true.
High Life Bottle?: No, did not see any.
Bonus Points: No.