The drinks and the vibe are awesome, we keep coming back for those alone. It's an amazing wine menu, the cocktails are well made, some creative cocktail options but mostly just really well executed classics. The food just feels very average. Have tried a couple other things on the menu and they're all just a bit average. I'll keep trying things because we do like the spot, but still looking for that reliable menu item that really drives me to return. read more

Great service... good food! If you are looking for a cool bar to have a snack stop in at the Monkey's Paw. I need to go back to try some of the other menu itemsz read more

What a cute spot! Me and my friends just stopped here to sit on the patio for a quick bite to eat and were very impressed! Think elevated/better bar food that's what you get here and I love. The patio is dog friendly and the staff loved the pup we brought all stopping to pet him which was so sweet. They have dog treats entering too to keep your furry friend happy while you dine. I got the chicken sandwich and the size of the chicken was massive it was delicious. If you're in the Lincoln Park neighborhood this is a must try. read more

I recently visited Monkey's Paw for Sunday brunch. "The Monkey's Paw" by W. W. Jacobs is 1 of my favorite short stories, so I was already intrigued by the name. Ambiance: The place has a lot of character and charm. It was spacious, with seating up front, in the back, and at the bar. Service: I arrived shortly after they opened so the crowd wasn't that big yet. I was encouraged to sit wherever I liked, so I parked it at the bar. I was greeted immediately by the bartender, and he checked on me multiple times while I was there. Great service! Beverages: I came for the $15 bottomless mimosas - $15 is a steal in this city! The mimosas were pre-made/pre-mixed, so my initial glass was flat. I saw the bartender mix a new carafe, so my subsequent glasses were better. He was attentive and made sure to keep my glass full. Even after I paid my tab, he made sure I had that 1 final glass before I departed. I told you the service was great! Food: I ordered the Breakfast Poutine, which was breakfast potatoes, sausage gravy, cheese curds, and eggs. I ordered my eggs over medium. The sausage gravy alone is enough to make me return. Unlike most places, their sausage gravy was well-seasoned, flavorful, and FULL of sausage! I will say that with the potatoes, gravy, cheese curds, and the runny yolk, the dish was hearty and rich. I needed some acid to cut through the heaviness, so I was thankful for the bottle of Tabasco on the bar. Given the area, parking may be a little tough, but thankfully, I was able to find a spot on the side street. I parked on the residential side, and surprisingly, there wasn't any permit-only parking signs, so that was a win. I plan to return! #ImNotAFoodie #ImJustAGirlWhoLovesFood #YelpEliteSquad read more

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What a gem in the heart of Lincoln Park! The Monkey's Paw strikes that perfect balance between cozy neighborhood pub and elevated dining experience. The ambiance is warm and intimate without feeling cramped--perfect for date nights or catching up with friends. We started with their full spread charcuterie (a must!) and followed it up with the signature Monkey Burger--cooked to perfection, juicy, and layered with creative toppings that didn't overpower. Their rotating seasonal cocktails are a treat (highly recommend the seasonal gin & tonic). Service was knowledgeable and genuinely friendly--our server offered thoughtful recommendations without being pushy. You can tell there's real pride in what they do here. This place has officially earned a spot on my "Chicago favorites" list! read more

We came here for a Bears game and brunch. The food and atmosphere did not disappoint. To my surprise they had plenty of games on and the brunch menu was to die for. I got the pulled pork eggs Benedict. It was to die for. The server was very nice as well. He continued checking on us and refilled our champagne flutes. We will be back for brunch read more

If you're looking for classic brunch food and a $15 bottomless mimosa, then this is the place for you! The service is great and vibes are perfect. The Monkey's Paw is a great place to spend a Sunday with friends. read more

I've been here twice and loved it both times. It's an ideal gastropub if you're in the area. I've tried the mac and cheese, fish and chips, Cobb salad, and brussel sprouts, all of which were delicious. Service is also warm and lovely. read more

It should be a 4-5 star review, but the Manager (dinner shift) at this place was rude and lacked customer services skills. 5 stars for the Brunch shift. They were friendly and attentive. The food was decent and the mimosas kept coming. It's a $15 unlimited mimosa until 3pm. read more

Stopped by The Monkeys Paw on a Friday night for dinner & drinks with friends. It's tucked into a quiet corner of west lincoln park and has casual neighborhood vibes. We had made a reservation for patio seating outside, which was nicely set up along the sidewalk. I also noticed they were dog friendly, as some had brought their pets. My friends and I started with the seasonal G&T cocktail, which was just ok - the blackberry sour next ended up being the crowd favorite. For food, I split the wedge salad with one other person and it came out split for us on separate plates, which was a nice touch. I also got the mussels, which were a-okay. Overall, the food and drinks were good but nothing extraordinary - bumping to 4 stars because the service was fantastic. Our waiter was awesome, and everything ran very smoothly. If I lived in this neighborhood, I would be a regular. read more

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Horrible service we sat down at 6:30 with a reservation and didn't get asked for a drink order or even water till 7:15. We had to ask someone for drinks and then again to order food which took another hour and half. 4 different people served us as we had to get the attention of any staff that walked by. The food was even worse, read more

Great upscale bar, Great wine List, Great Food. A pleasant surprise. This is quite the nice place. Typical in layout in that could be a normal Chicago bar but much much nicer in all respects. Prices were reasonable. the staff attentive the service great! Highly recommended read more

Meh. Poor service and cold, semi-tasty food, won't go back. Didn't seem too busy, took forever to get waited on. Waiter wrote our order down, but on his hand. You do you, but not good when he had to come back to confirm a drink order and our cocktails came out about 10 minutes apart (the reconfirmed one was vodka rocks, seems like that could be quickly made to recover and bring them out together regardless of the ordering system). We had the pretzel app and the burger and chicken sandwich, fries and most of the food was room temp/cold, flavor was so-so. We didn't bother saying anything after the service we'd experienced. Our first time there. No need to go back. Unfortunate, this place is within walking distance. read more

Did not expect this good of a meal from this corner bar. There was an overabundance of young children, and I don't know what they ate. It is definably a popular place for families. What we had was good. My main meal was steak au poivre and it was done well. There was a section of fatty meat, and the sauce needed a tinge bit more pepper, but the overall taste was good. About 75% of the way there. The dining room layout is confusing. Some open tables in the front. More communal tables in the back. Two seaters midway through the building. We would go back to Monkey Paw. read more

Great food, lovely ambience and truly superb people. We love the chicken Pot Pie, the fish n Chips, and all of the appetizers. They have a tremendous collection of whiskeys and a lovely outdoor vibe in the summer. But it's really the folks who work there who make it special. The owner, Matt, has assembled a great crew of fun and smart staff. We always have a fab time there. read more

Fun bar in the neighborhood that is ideal for a small group, dates, and colleagues after work. I have only ordered from their drafts and cocktails menu, but it seems they have good food options (based off the quick glance of their food menu). Would recommend at least one visit if you are in the area! read more

I went to monkeys paw for the Wednesday half bottle of wine deal and am HOOKED! I love the cozy vibe of the inside but I also loved the outside patio seating. It is so neighborly and what is even better is you can take the wine home if you done finish it!(I usually finish it no problem) I am a sucker for a pretzel and this pretzel and beer cheese did not disappoint! I also am usually not a huge chickpea fan but my friend was and highly recommended the crispy chickpeas and I loved them so much I tried to make the recipe at home!!! read more

The Monkey's Paw - Pretzel and Beer Cheese - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Ended up at Monkey's Paw when the place around the corner didn't have any tables available. A pleasant, cozy place to have a drink and a bite. The interior is pretty spacious and well lit with warm light - had no issue reading the menu (as compared to other "moody" bars). Sizable drink menu with something for everyone. (Bottles of wine are half-off for Wine Wednesday!). I had a draft cider (dry, $7) and tried their gimlet ($12). Both were solid and fairly priced. Shared 2 appetizers here as well: Brussels sprouts + crunchy chickpeas. Both were $7 I believe, and quite tasty. A little oily but I did not mind. I enjoyed. The service was great. Our server was very attentive and nice, and another server was very friendly and had some jokes to share. Overall my experience at Monkey's Paw was positive. I am glad we ended up here, when a last-minute pivot could have had us anywhere. Last thing I'll say: the vibe at Monkey's Paw is very much what you make of it. Bring good company. read more

Cute neighborhood comfort food bar. We started with a design your own charcuterie board with a few delicious cheeses and prosciutto. Then we shared the roasted vegetable salad ( pretty good) and a grilled Cesar salad (great menu item). Friendly service. If in the neighborhood great choice for casual comfort food ! read more

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My friend and I discovered this gem right after she moved to the neighborhood, and we were looking for a bite to eat on a patio. The Monkey's Paw is the cutest neighborhood bar/restaurant, and I wish I lived closer so that I could become a regular here! The staff is so friendly, and they were so helpful when reviewing the menu. The Panzanella salad was perfect for a hot summer night, and the buttermilk chicken sandwich was so delicious! The drink selection is also excellent! I can't wait to come back and try more items on the menu! read more

Cozy neighbor bar experience. A very nice draft beer selection. Wednesday's are 1/2 off wine bottles. read more

The Monkey's Paw - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Had a wonderful experience here before going to a concert at the Athenaeum down the street. We started with fried pickles and brussel sprouts which I highly recommend. Then had the artisanal grilled cheese (with bacon of course) and tomato soup, which was the perfect comfort food that I needed. They also have a nice selection of local beers on tap and a fun list of cocktails as well. Our server was also incredible!! Super attentive, kind, and gave great recommendations. Will be back for sure! read more

The Monkey's Paw - a sign for a restaurant - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great spot for Sunday brunch. Bottomless mimosas for $15 and laid back rustic vibes. Took longer than expected for food to be served given that we were one of few patrons at the restaurant initially, though it wasn't a problem since the mimosas were flowing. The chicken and biscuit sandwich was delicious though the biscuit was a bit dry. Breakfast potatoes are cooked to perfection - crispy golden. Portions are generous. Solid choice if you're looking for brunch, came because its located near the Apollo theater. read more

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I love coming here!! The service is amazing, all the waiters are so attentive and friendly, the food is so amazing. I love ordering the warm pretzel, burger, and the butter noodles, they are all so tasty and filling! The music is always very nice, and there is always sports playing on the TV's. (March madness, baseball, etc.) read more

The Monkey's Paw - Tacos - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My poor rating is strictly based on how the hostess and one of the staff who brought food to the tables was to our complain oh how cold our table was. We were sat by the window and away from the main door, so not like we are getting draft coz of that. Overhead duct throws heat towards the bar, nothing towards the windows. There are clear cracks or they haven't done tuck pointing in who knows how long. We were ok over the table, but our legs were freezing the entire time. Everyone sitting by the windows were wearing layers and I overheard people say the same. We asked if we could get another table, hostess said she didn't have anything and few minutes later she moved a group behind us to another table, fine she got a bigger table where she could move them to. But at least acknowledge or be kind. Our server was indifferent when we told how cold it was. On our way out we brought it up to another guy who seemed like higher in the chain, but he completely ignored us and looked away, like who cares, you paid, you're leaving, get the F out. I sarcastically said, "Thank you for caring ", he told us, wear socks next time. WTF! It felt borderline racist to be treated that way. Whatever, not going back. Food and drinks were good but if they don't know how to treat customers being in hospitality, screw that!!! read more

Always a great experience, the service is great and the food never disappoints. I try and get something different every time I come here. This visit it was chicken piccata, and it was delicious. The chicken was tender and juicy, the sauce absolutely amazing and loved the home made tagliatelle pasta. Highly recommend the dish and this place! read more

Everything on the menu is amazing. I've had the chicken sandwich, fish and chips, meatballs, Brussels, shepherds pie, chicken pot pie. Skip the chicken pot pie for the shepherds pot pie. Want to come back and try the chicken piccata and meatball sandwich!!! read more

I ate here twice outdoors during the summer and both experiences were great. First time was for brunch and was surprised by how quickly the patio filled up! I ordered the Morning Fix, which was essentially an eggs Benedict on French toast, and it was delicious! The service was a bit slow due to light staffing during COVID, but well worth the patience to support great food at a local business. The staff followed all COVID precautions and I felt comfortable eating here during the pandemic. read more

The Monkey's Paw - Morning fix: French toast, poached egg, sausage, feta, hollandaise and syrup - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Finally made it in person and the foods even better right out of the kitchen! Mac and cheese is still the best, the burger was delicious and did a wedge salad with steak - cooked effect and very pretty to look at! Also it was 1/2 price wine bottles (Wednesdays) so obviously got a bottle too! Great night! And patio is dog friendly so our little guy got to enjoy everything with us! read more

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This was an unexpected find. We went here for a drink and appetizer before a dinner we had planned, and ended up getting much more than we bargained for! The place is really cute, and on a hot summer night it's a great spot to eat outside or eat next to their open windows up front. It also happened to be 1/2 priced bottles of wine. We got the buffalo chicken flatbread and it was a hit! Just be prepared that the sauce in it's entirety is buffalo sauce, but we loved it (LOTS of bleu cheese on this bad boy). Also it was huge.... We also got the meatballs which were delicious. Parking was a little difficult, but this was a really wonderful/quiet spot just a few blocks a way from the bustling shops and restaurants. We will definitely be back! read more

The Monkey's Paw - Meatballs - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Location is fine. I would not go here for a destination but it is okay if you need to pick up food swinging by. The food is not too bad. It is pretty tasty but a little too heavy for my liking. I did love the fried options but I didn't feel great after so I would prefer a crispy option without so much grease. The food was pub-American style option that is good if you are looking for something a little heavier. read more

What a hidden gem! Stopped by Monkey's Paw awhile back for dinner and I gotta say I was impressed! While it kinda just looks like a regular neighborhood bar from the outside, once inside you'll find a somewhat cozy and low key gastropub with a seasonal menu, unique draft list, and even more extensive whiskey selection. We shared the fresh burrata & citrus beets to start, which were fantastic! Loved the citrus bits and as a collective bite, each ingredient complimented each other so well! For entrees, I did the Monkey's Paw Burger ~ two patties, american cheese, balsamic onions, butter pickles, aoili and served with a side of fries. Excellent. I'm becoming more convinced Chicago should be known for their burgers. Just another one to add to the list of places offering an amazing burger! My wife had the braised pork ragu which was yummy as well from the few bites I stole. Anyways, nothing but praise for this one. They do take reservations if you're looking to lock something down. It actually makes for a nice, low key date night spot. I'll definitely be back around. 'Til next time, cheers! read more

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Came here with a girlfriend for light bites and a cocktail and and maybe I didn't order the right items but the food and drinks were off. Although the broth was delicious, the texture of the mussels were squishy and the meatballs were just dry. Very offputting. Our cocktails (I got the Irish Tears) weren't very balanced--they put way too much lemon juice in mine, it was very acidic. I can't speak to their whisky offerings as that's what they specialize in, but can't say I recommend this place for the cocktails or food. read more

This is in a quiet part of Lakeview but definitely a fun spot. For starters, the waitstaff was awesome & they made sure we had a good time. I thought the food was delicious. The BLT & E sandwich was sooo good and the potatoes were nicely crisp & seasoned. The bottomless mimosa deal is only on Sundays & runs $15 a person. Can't wait to come back again read more

The Monkey's Paw - Weekend Brunch: BLT + E sandwich with crispy potatoes - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Nice ambiance/vibe and drinks are always good. Last couple times I went, the food was.....eh. The burger and chicken pot pie are pretty good, I suppose. read more

My favorite restaurant in the area. The Vibe- Both indoor and outdoor seating. Great place to go in the summer. Never packed to the brim, but I would make a reservation for brunch. The Eats- Great menu with plenty of deals throughout the week. Amazing burger. The brunch menu is also super solid. The Dranks- Best bottomless mimosa brunch in the city. Just $15 + an order off the brunch food menu. The food is great so that's not even an issue. And when I say bottomless I mean bottomless. The waitstaff are constantly on hand to fill up your glass. If you're going with the intension to get blitzed on a fine Sunday morning, they'll get the job done. I'm not a big whiskey drinker but they have an extensive selection. Half price wine bottles on Wednesday. Top notch stuff. How's that service?: Phenomenal. Great people. Jen is the mimosa queen. The bottom line: Hands down the best spot in the area. You won't be disappointed. Moving out of the area shortly- will definitely be the spot I'll miss the most. read more

Nice northside neighborhood joint. Decent sized indoor space and some outdoor space, city style, with tables right next to the parked cars on the street. It's on a quieter street so not a ton of traffic, car or otherwise. The food is perfectly fine, if not somewhat unmemorable. It's a nice place to hang out, have a drink and some food. read more

An unassuming spot, but great place to stop in! We were able to grab a spot on the patio outside, which is on the side street, but they do open the windows inside on nice days as well, I believe. We went on a Wednesday, which they do run a great half priced wine by the bottle deal, but we decided to have some beers. They were cold and delivered quickly which is all you really need, but on top of it, they had a decent selection to chose from. We went simple and just got some cheese curds, and they were fried really nicely and came with two sauces. A great snack with the beers. Definitely a nice neighborhood spot, great for a low key date, or a girls night for with some wine and charcuterie! read more

Nice place second time here wasn't sure what to order so I ended up with the chicken Caesar...it wasn't what I expected got turned off right when I saw the eggs...they weren't cooked. read more

The Monkey's Paw - Gastropubs Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I'm writing this as a parent taking their kids to eat during the kid friendly hours that the Monkey's Paw is open. This place is great for them during the week around 6pm. Its mostly families with kids and not very crowded at that time. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. They have a good kids menu and a a surprisingly good adult menu for a bar. My kids have enjoyed the mac and cheese and fries while i've eaten an outstanding chicken Caesar salad (chicken was grilled to perfection). The beer and wine menu is pretty extensive and they had excellent local options on tap. They definitely have earned a new, happy, repeat customer. read more