The Parent’s Guide to Stress-Free Dining on Game Days
The Parent’s Guide to Stress-Free Dining on Game Days
If you're looking for a spot where the kids are truly welcome (and not just tolerated), these four restaurants stand out. They offer the perfect mix of family-focused perks and great vibes for watching the Super Bowl, the Olympics, and other major sports events.
Cheesie’s Pub & Grill – Lakeview
Esquire Magazine recognized Cheesie’s for serving the best grilled cheese in America and Tokyo, solidifying its reputation as a top-rated Chicago comfort food destination.
If you want the ultimate comfort food while catching the game, Cheesie’s is it. While it’s not the place for a light salad, it’s a paradise for anyone craving serious grilled cheese, mac n’ cheese, or crispy fries.
The Vibe: High-energy, nostalgic, and totally casual.
Why it’s Family-Friendly: The "order at the counter" setup is perfect if your kids struggle with sitting still for long service. It’s loud enough that extra kid-chatter won't bother anyone, and the walls are filled with fun memorabilia.
The Kid Perks:
The "Retro" Meal: Kids' meals come with a Capri Sun for a fun throwback.
The Sweet Finish: Kids 12 and under get free ice cream.
Game Day Fun: The Lakeview location is a 49ers home base, making it a high-energy spot for little sports fans.
Other locations: Garfield Ridge, Wrigleyville, Crestwood, Tinley Park, University of Chicago campus (2 spots), and their mobile food truck.
Sweetwater Tavern & Grille is a family-friendly sports bar on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, featuring over 20 HD TVs and a spacious layout ideal for watching sports on TV.
Located right on Michigan Avenue, it offers an upscale-casual environment that feels more sophisticated than a standard pub while remaining fully accessible for parents. It transitions smoothly from a daytime family lunch to a lively game-day crowd.
Spacious & Accessible: The restaurant is notably large and open, making it one of the easiest downtown spots to navigate with a stroller or a large group.
Dining Perks: They offer a dedicated kids' menu for those 12 and under, which includes a drink and sides like fresh fruit or fries.
Prime Viewing: With over 20 large HD TVs strategically positioned, kids can stay entertained by the action from almost any booth or table.
Outdoor Adventure: During warmer months, the massive sidewalk patio is perfect for enjoying Michigan Avenue’s energy, though you’ll want to head inside to be closest to the screens.
Northwest Suburb Options (Schaumburg)
Located near Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Stonewood Ale House offers an elevated sports bar experience with 20 TVs, 50 craft beers, and a dedicated gluten-free menu for family dining.
With 20 HD TVs, surround sound, and an extensive wood-grilled menu, this is a premier spot for any game. The menu has everything from steak and salmon to a variety of microbrews.
The Vibe: Comfortable, roomy, and "suburban classic."
Why it’s Family-Friendly: The layout features large booths—a lifesaver for containing younger kids. It also includes "must-haves" like high chairs and changing tables in the restrooms.
The Kid Perks:
Varied Sides: The kids' menu includes a drink and choices like fries, tater tots, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables.
Entertainment: The multi-TV setup ensures there is always something to look at if the table conversation gets a bit too "grown-up."
Westwood Tavern in Schaumburg is a premier sports bar offering a diverse menu of sushi, flatbreads, and burgers, featuring table-side beer taps and large screens for a high-energy viewing experience.
Westwood is the answer when your group can’t decide on one cuisine. Their variety is massive, ranging from fresh sushi and salads to hearty flatbreads and nachos.
The Vibe: Large, lively, and great for big groups.
Why it’s Family-Friendly: This place is massive. You won't feel like you're on top of other diners, even with a stroller. The outdoor seating features fireplaces, which is a fun "adventure" for kids in nice weather.
The Kid Perks:
Shareable Bites: While the kids' menu is simple, the "adult" appetizers like nachos and flatbreads are huge and perfect for kids to share.
Watch the Planes: Because it sits in the O’Hare flight path, you can often see planes flying low on their final approach—a built-in "show" for kids.
Note: They offer dining-in and pickup only (no delivery), making it the perfect excuse for a quick family outing!
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