Frequently Asked Questions
Your Downtown Chicago Irish Pub for Food, Drinks, Sports & Late Nights
Located in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, Emerald Loop is a neighborhood Irish pub and full-service bar & grill just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago Theatre, Millennium Park, and the city’s top hotels. Join us for happy hour, weekend brunch, late-night dining, daily drink specials, outdoor patio seating, private events, and every match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — all served with cold beers, craft cocktails, and classic Chicago pub energy.
Late-Night Food & Drinks in Chicago’s Loop
Are you open on holidays?
Yes! We’re generally open on major holidays, including St. Patrick’s Day, New Year’s Eve, the Fourth of July, and more. Hours may vary on certain holidays: we recommend calling ahead at (312) 263-0200 or checking our social media for holiday hour updates.
Are you part of a restaurant group?
Yes, Emerald Loop is part of Vaughan Hospitality Group, a Chicago-based hospitality company with multiple locations. Visit vaughanhospitality.com to learn more.
Are you showing the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Are you showing the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Yes! The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 through July 19, 2026, and we’ll be showing every single match on our screens. Whether it’s an early group stage game or the Final, we’ll have it on.
When does the World Cup start and when is the Final?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opens on June 11 and the Final is July 19. It’s a 48-team tournament with 104 total matches — the biggest World Cup in history. Games kick off at various times throughout the day. We open at 11 AM daily to catch early matches and our kitchen stays open late for evening games.
Can I book Emerald Loop for a private event?
Absolutely. We have a dedicated private event space perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, team outings, bachelorette parties, and more. Our team will work with you to customize food and beverage packages for your group. Contact Kailey at (312) 867-7717 or events@vaughanhospitality.com, or visit our Private Events page to download our party package info.
Can I book Emerald Loop for a private event?
Absolutely. We have a dedicated private event space perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, team outings, bachelorette parties, and more. Our team will work with you to customize food and beverage packages for your group. Contact Kailey at (312) 867-7717 or events@vaughanhospitality.com, or visit our Private Events page to download our party package info.
Can I see the menu before I come in?
Absolutely. Our full food and drink menus are available on our Menus page. You’ll find our main menu, lunch features, daily deals, and weekend brunch menu all in one place. You can also order online for food and non-alcoholic beverages via Toast.
Do I need a reservation to watch World Cup games?
For big matches — especially USA games, knockout rounds, and the Final — we strongly recommend calling ahead or making a reservation to secure your spot. Popular games fill up fast. Call us at (312) 263-0200. For large groups of 20 or more, contact our events team at events@vaughanhospitality.com.
Do I need a reservation to watch World Cup games?
For big matches, especially USA games, knockout rounds, and the Final — we strongly recommend calling ahead or making a reservation to secure your spot. Popular games fill up fast. Call us at (312) 263-0200. For large groups of 20+, contact our events team at events@vaughanhospitality.com.
Do I need a reservation, or can I just walk in?
Walk-ins are always welcome at Emerald Loop — we’ll do our best to accommodate you whenever you come through the door. That said, if you prefer to plan ahead, you’re always welcome to make a reservation. Call us at (312) 263-0200 or visit our Reservations page. For groups of 20 or more, reach out to our events team at events@vaughanhospitality.com.
Do I need a reservation, or can I walk in?
Walk-ins are always welcome! We’re a neighborhood bar at heart. That said, for large groups, weekend evenings, or major sporting events like World Cup matches, we recommend calling ahead to ensure we can accommodate your party comfortably.
Do you have a brunch menu?
Yes! We serve weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM – 3 PM. It’s a great way to start the weekend, especially if you’re exploring Millennium Park, the Riverwalk, or heading to a matinee at the Chicago Theatre
Do you have a loyalty or rewards program?
Yes! We have a Pub Rewards program. Visit our Pub Rewards page to sign up and start earning on your visits.
Do you have outdoor seating?
Yes! We have an outdoor patio available during warmer months. It’s a great option in the summer, especially with the World Cup running from June through July. Patio seating is available on a first-come basis and our full menu and bar service are available outside.
Do you have outdoor seating?
Yes! We have an outdoor patio available during warmer months. It’s a great option in the summer — especially with the World Cup running June through July. Patio seating is available on a first-come basis and our full menu and bar service are available outside.
Do you have weekend specials?
Yes! While our weekday happy hour is Monday–Friday, our daily deals run 7 days a week, all day long. On weekends, we also offer brunch from 11 AM – 3 PM, with a full brunch menu.
Do you have World Cup drink specials?
Our daily deals are available all day, every day throughout the tournament, including beer buckets, draft beer deals, and more. Weekday happy hour specials also run 3 to 7 PM Monday through Friday. Check our Daily Deals page for the most current pricing during the tournament.
Do you have World Cup drink specials?
Our daily deals are available all day, every day throughout the tournament, including beer buckets, draft beer deals, and more. Weekday happy hour specials also run 3 PM–7 PM Monday through Friday. Check our Daily Deals page for the most current pricing during the tournament.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes, Emerald Loop gift cards are available and make a great gift. Visit our Gift Cards page to purchase.
Do you serve food all day?
Yes, we serve food throughout our operating hours. Our kitchen is open until 1 AM Sunday through Friday, and until 2 AM on Saturdays, making us one of the best spots for late-night dining in downtown Chicago. We also offer lunch features Monday–Friday 11 AM – 3 PM, and weekend brunch Saturday–Sunday 11 AM – 3 PM.
Do you show sports other than soccer?
Yes, we’re a full sports bar and show games across all major sports including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, College Football, Boxing, and more. With multiple screens throughout the bar, we can typically accommodate fans of different games at the same time. Call ahead for major events if you want to confirm a specific game will be on.
Do you show sports other than soccer?
Yes — we’re a full sports bar and show games across all major sports including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, College Football, Boxing, and more. With multiple screens throughout the bar, we can typically accommodate fans of different games at the same time. Call ahead for major events if you want to confirm a specific game will be on.
Do you take reservations?
Yes. For in-house reservations, call us at (312) 263-0200. We recommend reserving a table for larger groups, busy weekend nights, and high-demand events like World Cup matches.
How are the burgers at Emerald Loop?
Our burgers are a serious highlight. Every patty is 8oz Angus beef, cooked to your preferred temperature, and served on your choice of pretzel bun, whole wheat bun, sesame seed brioche bun, or a gluten-free bun. We have six signature builds — from the Chirish loaded with Irish cheddar and Irish bacon rasher to the Big Hickory topped with smoked brisket, thick-cut bacon, crispy onion straws, and Guinness BBQ sauce. You can also fully customize with cheese upgrades like Irish cheddar, ghost pepper, and smoked gouda, plus toppings like avocado, fried egg, andouille sausage, ale braised onions, and fresh jalapeños. The combinations are nearly endless.
How are the wings, and what sauces do you have?
Our wings are a fan favorite. We serve bone-in wings or tenders in 8-piece or 15-piece orders, and every order is flame grilled for that char you can’t get any other way. Choose from seven house sauces: Sriracha BBQ, Spicy Curry, Mango Habanero, Korean Sweet Chili, Buffalo, Garlic Parmesan, or Guinness BBQ. Served with your choice of ranch or bleu cheese. Between the sauce options and the ability to mix and match on larger orders, there are over 100 combinations to work through — so you’ll always have a reason to come back.
How close are you to major Chicago attractions?
We’re right in the middle of it all:
- Chicago Theatre — steps away
- Chicago Riverwalk — 2 minute walk
- Millennium Park — 5 minute walk
- Magnificent Mile — 5 minute walk
- Cloud Gate (The Bean) — 5 minute walk
- Art Institute of Chicago — 7 minute walk
How large of a group can you accommodate?
We can accommodate groups of various sizes. For groups of 20 or more, we recommend contacting our events team directly for a private space reservation and customized package. Smaller groups can make reservations by calling (312) 263-0200.
Is Emerald Loop a good spot before or after a show at the Chicago Theatre?
It’s one of the best. The Chicago Theatre is literally steps from our front door. Pre-show, we’re great for a quick dinner and drinks. Post-show, our late closing time means you can stay as long as you like to debrief over a pint. We also have lunch features and happy hour timed well for matinee-goers.
Is Emerald Loop a good spot before or after a show at the Chicago Theatre?
It’s one of the best. The Chicago Theatre is literally steps from our front door. Pre-show, we’re great for a quick dinner and drinks without the rush. Post-show, our late closing time means you can stay as long as you like to debrief over a pint. We also have lunch features and happy hour timed well for matinee-goers.
Is happy hour available at the bar and at tables/patio?
Yes! Happy hour pricing is available throughout the bar, including at tables and on our outdoor patio (weather permitting). Just come in between 3 PM –7 PM Monday through Friday, and your server will walk you through the current specials.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there are several parking garages within a short walk in the Loop area. We recommend using SpotHero or ParkWhiz to find the best rates before you arrive. Given our transit access, rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is also a great option if you’re planning to enjoy a few drinks.
What are daily deals and when are they available?
Daily deals are specials available all day, every day. They’re a great option on weekends when happy hour isn’t running, or anytime you want a deal without watching the clock.
Current daily deals include:
- Beer Buckets
- Seltzer Buckets
- Draft Beer Deal
- PBR Cans
- Altos Tequila Shots
Visit our Daily Deals page for current pricing and any seasonal additions.
What are Emerald Loop’s hours?
Sunday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM
Kitchen Hours:
Sunday – Friday: Open until 1:00 AM
Saturday: Open until 2:00 AM
What are the current happy hour specials?
Our happy hour specials change periodically. Check our Happy Hour page for the latest deals.
What are the current happy hour specials?
Our happy hour specials change periodically. Current deals include:
• $6.50 Modelo Pints
• $8.50 Moscow Mules (Original, Grapefruit, Wild Berry)
• $8 Wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet, Rosé)
• $8 Flatbreads
• $7 Fried Pickles
Check our Happy Hour page for the latest deals, as specials are subject to change.
What Irish beers and whiskeys do you carry?
As a downtown Chicago Irish bar, we take our Irish drinks seriously. On tap we pour Guinness, Smithwick’s Irish Red Ale, Harp Irish Lager, and Magners Irish Cider. At the bar we carry a strong selection of Irish whiskeys including Jameson, Slane, Teeling Small Batch, Red Breast 12, Green Spot, Yellow Spot, Paddy Irish Whiskey, Egan’s Vintage Grain, and Midleton Very Rare for the whiskey enthusiasts. We also feature a signature Dublin Sour cocktail made with Teeling Small Batch.
What is your phone number?
You can reach us at (312) 263-0200. For private event inquiries, contact Kailey at (312) 867-7717 or events@vaughanhospitality.com.
What kind of bar is Emerald Loop?
Emerald Loop is a neighborhood Irish pub and full-service bar & grill in the heart of Chicago’s Loop. We’re known for cold draft beers, craft cocktails, pub food done well, and a lively atmosphere with traditional Irish-inspired decor. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick pint after work or settling in for a full meal, we’ve got the right vibe for it.
What kind of place is Emerald Loop — is it an Irish pub?
Yes — Emerald Loop is a true Irish bar and Irish pub in the heart of downtown Chicago. You’ll find classic Irish drinks on tap like Guinness, Smithwick’s, Harp, and Magners Irish Cider alongside Irish whiskeys, Irish fare like bangers and mash, corned beef, an all-day Irish breakfast, and the kind of warm, welcoming atmosphere you’d expect from a great neighborhood pub. We’re proud to be one of Chicago’s go-to Irish bars, right in the Loop.
What makes Emerald Loop a great late-night option in the Loop?
Not many spots in downtown Chicago are still serving food and pouring drinks at 1 or 2 in the morning — we are. As a full-service Irish pub and bar, we keep our kitchen running late and our taps flowing every night of the week. Whether it’s a late dinner, a post-concert nightcap, or a midnight craving for our burgers or wings, Emerald Loop is your go-to for late-night dining in Chicago’s Loop.
What types of events do you host?
We host a wide variety of private events including birthday parties, corporate gatherings, bachelorette and bachelor parties, team happy hours, holiday parties, sports watch parties, post-theater dinners, and reunion events. We also offer in-house catering for events in the 35 E. Wacker building.
What types of events do you host?
We host a wide variety of private events including birthday parties, corporate gatherings, bachelorette and bachelor parties, team happy hours, holiday parties, sports watch parties, post-theater dinners, and reunion events. We also offer in-house catering for events in the 35 E. Wacker building.
What’s the best way to get to Emerald Loop?
We’re well-connected by public transit. The CTA Red, Blue, Green, Orange, Brown, and Purple Lines all stop within a few minutes’ walk. The Wabash corridor is also served by multiple bus lines. If you’re staying at a downtown hotel, there’s a very good chance you can walk to us, we’re near the Chicago Marriott, Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand, Hotel Allegro, and many others.
When does the World Cup start and when is the Final?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opens on June 11 and the Final is July 19. It’s a 48-team tournament with 104 total matches — the biggest World Cup in history. Games kick off at various times throughout the day. We open at 11 AM daily to catch early matches and our kitchen stays open late for evening games.
When is happy hour?
Happy Hour is Monday through Friday, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. We do not currently offer happy hour on weekends, but we have daily deals available every day, see below!
When is the patio open?
The patio is open seasonally during favorable weather, typically spring through fall. Availability can depend on Chicago’s weather — give us a call at (312) 263-0200 to confirm it’s open before your visit.
Where is Emerald Loop located?
We’re located at 216 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601: in the heart of the Loop, inside the historic 35 E. Wacker Drive building. We’re steps from the Chicago Theatre, the Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park, and surrounded by some of the city’s best hotels. If you’re staying downtown, you’re probably already close.