Came here for trivia, which was fine, but the food was awful. The Asian chicken salad was, no joke, the worst salad I have ever had in my life. It's some dry crumbled ramen with dry cabbage and no dressing. That was it. The Caesar salad was also not great. The greens that were in it were strange and bitter. It's unfortunate because the interior is actually pretty nice. The food...not so much. read more

I've lived in the neighborhood for a while but hadn't checked this place out yet. I finally did and was very pleased! We got the artichoke dip for an appetizer. Most places, it is really basic, but here they included roasted red peppers and other things to kick up the flavor. It comes with crostini and crudités, but we ate most of the dip with the crostini and snacked on the veggies. I got the Juicy Goosey, a turkey burger with brie and cranberry. It was delicious and moist, even for a turkey burger. My partner got the fried chicken sandwich and said it was great. The chicken was perfectly fried and had good toppings. I wish there had been a few additions to the menu, as it felt a little small, but what they do offer is still great. The cocktails are so delicious. Between the two of we had four or five, including the Spanish Gin Tonic, Manhattan, and the Shrub Cocktail. I would recommend all three, and would take a chance on any of the others given how good the ones we picked were. read more

My experience at Fat Cat on Monday, March 5, 2018. Approximately 6 pm. We were greeted by the Hostess and asked if we would like a high top table or a low top table. We requested a high top table, and asked if we could sit in the front window, 5 feet away. We were told that table was reserved for 3 or more guests, especially on concert nights. (Apparently, there are concert venues in the surrounding area to the restaurant.) I looked around the restaurant; it was not full, and I was puzzled as to why we could not have that table. But, OK. Off we went to the far back corner, nowhere near the window, in the "all sports TV/pool table room" and sat a a very small round high top. (Which not until later, did we realize the table was not large enough to accommodate the plates and apps we ordered. Something to consider when serving such large plates for apps and entrees.) OK, I guess. I do not prefer sports, so sitting in this location was not desirable. But, OK. The server greeted us, asking if we wanted beverages. I asked for a house white wine, and was told the only wine they serve is on the bar menu-a mediocre white for $10 a glass. (The entire bottle can be bought in many locations in the city for $10!) The server brought our drinks and asked if we wanted to order. We inquired about the "buy one app, get the second for half price". She replied that it was after 6 pm (6:04 pm, to be exact) and she would have to ask if we would still be able to take advantage of this offer. She left, went to the bar tender for approval, and we were told we could not take advantage of this offer after 6 pm. (Note: we were sat before 6 pm, and the server could have indicated this offer was nearly coming to and end, but failed to inform us of this offer.) Again, OK, I guess. We ordered two apps at full price, the Ruben Balls and the Caramelized Onion Dip w Vinegar Chips. Ruben balls were cold, but had decent flavor, and the onion dip was very cold. So cold that when attempting to scoop the dip out with the chips, the chips would break apart and fall back into the dip. (Think that through a bit better, Chef. The dip should be served room temp. Just a thought...). Once again, OK, I guess. The server then asked us for our dinner order. We indicated we were going to order the $5 burger special. She indicated they were not offering that special tonight because it is "concert night". Stunned by the sixth time we were told "NO", we replied, "That should be better communicated on your Facebook page, and your web page". (The web page clearly indicates "EVERY Monday night is burger night, without a disclaimer.) We ended up ordering the chicken pot pie, which was beautifully presented, but the dough was not cooked through. (There are few things more unappealing than uncooked pastry dough. As a matter of fact, its disgusting. Just the thought of uncooked pastry dough makes me gag. Again Chef, think this through a bit more thoroughly and cook the dough longer - or choose a substitute which will cook through.) Overall experience: We were told "NO" more than I care to understand; And the food, though good, was not up to par. I shared my experience with the Manager, who was kind enough to listen to everything about my experience. I inquired as to why they were not taking care of the guests in their restaurant, as opposed to the possible "concert goers" in the nearby area. He apologized, explained that is the policy (change that policy right now. Period.) and asked if I would like his business card. I said, "yes. That would be great!" He looked at me and explained he "did not have his wallet on him, and he would have to run back and grab me a card". (You are the Manager - have cards on you at all times. I don't make the rules.) As I was waiting for him to return, I noted a patron sitting at the very end of the bar, among all of the clean bar glasses, as if a space had been carefully pushed aside to accommodate his shot and cocktail. (Fairly certain this does not meet code to have a clients drinks alongside the clean glasses. That is disgusting! Nearly as disgusting as raw pastry dough!) I will not return. Under no circumstances. Actually, I should have left once sat at the high top in the "sports room". I do not appreciate being told no more than once, let alone, as many times as I experienced. I felt as if the potential "concert goers" were more important than I, and I was dining in the restaurant. THAT policy needs careful review. Immediately. Learn how to take care of your guests. (Ever been to Calo Ristorante? A FINE example of how guests are to be welcomed, treated, served, and fed. They set the bar in all of these basic service areas-and set that bar very high!) Went for a $5 burger and a drink (could have been less than $25 total). Spent over $60. NOT a good experience. read more

I like this place, staff is very friendly & I like places that have that cool factor in it. Nice place to hang out have a few drinks something to eat. You will love it ...enjoy read more

All the food here was absolutely delicious. We ate nearly the entire menu and loved every bite. Sauces and dishes were homemade and fast. The beer and cocktail list is top notch. Couldn't recommend Fat Cats more. Our new favorite spot in Up Town. read more

My date last night took me to the Fat Cat before catching a play at Profiles Theater a few blocks south. The decor was nice but I agree with other reviewers that the music could be turned down a notch. I like my bars loud, but this place seems to be striving for a more relaxed lounge feel. I mean, if you're serving comfort food, the environment should be comfortable, too. The Braised Pork Belly Sammy has taken a lot of heat from other reviewers. I ordered it and loved it. It definitely does not bear any resemblance to a pork Cuban, but it didn't seem like that's what the chef was striving for. The combination of chili vinegar, pork fat and spicy aoli did indeed leave the sandwich dripping with oil, but the effect was succulent rather than repulsive on my palate. The hand cut french fries were top notch. My date ordered the Urban Turkey with brie and apple, which was also pretty tasty. The sidecar I ordered was way too sweet and severely lacking in citrus, so a big disappointment for one of my favorite cocktails. But the draft beer list was impressive and the Mad Hatter IPA that I washed down my french fries with was welcome. I don't find myself in Uptown often, but I would definitely go back. read more

I don't usually find myself wishing that a bar was larger, but that's the case here. Fat Cat's a damn good bar that has a tendency to get insanely crowded, especially when there are shows around the corner at the Aragon or the Riv. Service of course tends to suffer at those moments. Beyond that, not much to complain about: A fine selection of microbrews, decent decor, and above-average (if not spectacular) bar food from a menu that's not too large. I've not experienced the 'tude from servers or bartenders that some other reviewers reference; they're not over-the-top cheerful (or fake about it), but they are efficient and friendly. read more

Things I love about Fat Cat: -perfect french fries -tasty bean burger -extensive and constantly updated beer list -pool Unfortunately, despite all of this, and a generally great atmosphere, the service I've experienced is completely hit or miss. It's often slow, regardless of how busy they are/how many servers are on, and on occasion I've had servers who are a little ditzy or less than friendly (or some combination of the two.) I've had great service, too. This is including but not limited to a friendly bartender who described Red Streak cider in a way that made it sound like my ideal beverage and, lo and behold, after the first sip I had a new favorite cider. Thanks, friendly bartender man. Moral of the story: Fat Cat is a great neighborhood place all around, and if service were a little more consistent I'd have no complaints. read more

I had the Gunnison Grilled Cheese, which was great! The fries had a kick to them and were a little over seasoned. The food alone I would have given 4 stars. However, my bill was 8.76 and I paid with a hundred. I apologized when doing so because as a server I know it can be a pain in the butt to break a hundred. The server returned with only $88 and then disappeared. No coins or anything. I don't care what the restaurant is or how busy it is but you always give the customer their fl change! The food was good but the service was very inattentive and that mixed with change incident will keep me from going back. read more

I love this place! Great bartenders Great servers Great food A nice neighborhood bar and wonderful selection of craft beers and good good food read more

Love the rotating craft beer here at Fat Cat. I'm a sucker for their new happy hour specials and always stop by after a show at the Riviera, Aragon, or Uptown Undergroud. They have a great staff here. It's like they know when I need an Underberg. read more

Fat Cat - Love the rotating craft beer at Fat Cat. I'm a sucker for their new happy hour specials and always stop by after a nearby show. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Weekly spot for dinner and trivia. Ciders are solid, especially the Sea Cider Prohibition. Food can be hit or miss. The duds: goat cheese, zucchini, & onion flatbread, pork belly nachos, and the blackened tilapia. The delicious: fried mac and cheese, the Reuben balls, and the short rib with polenta and onion straws. Will continue to work my way through the menu! read more

Fat Cat - Short Rib, with creamy polenta, crispy kale, and onion straws. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The hot mess burger is a must. The poutine hits the spot everything time I want something savory and comforting.

This is my neighborhood bar and I'm so glad it's here. Great beer selection, great patio, awesome service. A little bit classy but a lot of laid back. read more

I came here for their Thursday night weekly special of Martinis & Mussels! Where the Mussel pot is only $10 & their regularly priced $11 Martinis are only $5; such an amazing deal! Everything was so good: the Mussels were plump & plentiful and that broth I could drink like water, it was seasoned perfectly! The two Martinis I had (um yeah I said 2 on a weeknight b/c they're really good and only $5!!): a gin dirty martini (my fav!) with the blue cheese stuffed olives was heaven in a glass (I've been craving one for a minute and this one hit the spot!) And their popular The Riviera made with elderflower liqueur with a champagne float on top was something special - I can see why it's popular! Allie, my server, is amazing, friendly with a great smile & made me feel so welcome! I even had to let the manager, Melissa, know how pleased I was with Allie & my first time experience! I will definitely be back! read more

This is long overdue - but this place is great. I used to work in Uptown and had always wanted to check it out - finally made it here while waiting for traffic to subside after the Black Keys show in January. Cool atmosphere, good beers and the food was excellent - we went with the wings and Reuben balls. Our bartender was super friendly despite the place being pretty packed after the show. However, the entire staff is amazing. You see, I may have had a few adult beverages at the concert, and another couple at Fat Cat, so it wasn't until I was halfway home that I realized that I left my concert poster behind in the bar's vestibule while waiting for my ride. I do collect posters, so needless to say I was not happy with myself. Gave Fat Cat a call and Cy answered, and she was kind of enough to go and find the poster. She began giving instructions on how to pick it up, but realized halfway through I was trying to memorize it but in no state to do so. She laughed, ordered me to open the notes app on my phone (which I obediently did) and gave me instructions on who to ask for and where it was going to be stored. Fast forward two days, and John was kind enough to grab my poster for me from the top shelf in the liquor room office. Was kind of blown away by the whole thing, everyone was so nice and helpful. So, what I am saying is when things return to normal and you want good food and service in a cool atmosphere give them a try! In the meantime it's a good place to support, I just ordered their take-out Mother's Day Brunch and Bubbles for this Sunday. 10/10 would recommend. read more

We ate here before a concert at The Aragon. Thought we would not be able to get in since we were within an hour of the concert start but we were seated immediately and served timely. They have a limited concert menu which allows you to get in and out with time to spare. I had the Southern Chicken Sandwich and loved it and the fries. The sandwich and fries were portioned on the hearty side with the chicken being breaded perfectly, IMHO. My husband had the chicken wings and pretzel sticks. They were standard fare and good. The prices were reasonable and the service good. I think we spent ~$60 here, including tip. That included my sandwich, the chicken wings, the pretzel sticks, a non-alcoholic drink, and 3 alcoholic drinks (2 beers, one whiskey). Not too bad for a big city restaurant. Solid food and a good place to eat if you need to get to the Aragon to see a show. read more

Went to Fat Cat last night after a concert at the Aragon. Great place and no cover! Plenty of room to spread out. The bouncer was approachable and friendly, and the bartender, who was dressed as a banana (it was Halloween) was awesome and attentive. You could tell she was really enjoying herself. There's also a pool table and shuffleboard. Go check it out! read more

Great spot! Awesome beer selection and menu. Staff is incredibly helpful, friendly and attentive. Went on Monday to find out the do weekly $5 burger nights. Certainly worth the visit. read more

So glad this bar is still open during COVID. Great drinks, food, & service! The mess burger and crispy chicken salad are worth a try. The old fashions are always on point. read more

I always go for $.25 wings on Tuesdays and they are pretty solid wings, although not boneless. The drinks are a little pricey, but I really like the interior to the place. The staff is always very friendly, although not always the most attentive. To be fair, though they can get busy at times. Their beer selection is really good and I give them props for introducing me to Holy Moses beer. read more

First, every page of my menu was completely stuck to the next and I had to peel them apart to read through it. Then, all the plates and silverware were dirty and we had to request clean ones. We literally wiped greasy groime off a scummy plate. The new ones they brought weren't very clean either and another member of my party refused to eat off of them all together. Next, the food was not very good, and seemed to be mostly prepared from cans and/or mixes from GFS. Nothing tasted fresh or homemade. The chicken skewers were gelatinous and inedible. No one in our party of 8 would eat them. The portions were much too small (not that we minded, since nothing was very good), and the plates, themselves, were too complex and fancy for such uninteresting fare. We ordered an array of appetizers and received more mayonnaise and dipping sauces than actual food. But that's not all! I had a terrible stomach ache from gas all night, and into the next morning, even though I ate very little. That is very rare for me to experience. If the dishes are any indication of the kitchen conditions, then I don't doubt it was Fat Cat causing my illness. Overall I thought the service was good, and the servers were pretty friendly. BUT, one of the servers was very inappropriately dressed. Not only was she falling out of her top (which was way too small and barely on her chubby frame), but she was constantly adjusting her clothing to keep it from falling off her body. She was touching her skin, clothes, and hair, then touching food and drinks! Gross! She looked too obscene to be at any job other than the strip club. I question the quality of the management at any restaurant that allows their employees to work looking the way she did. My drink "The Big H" was very good, though, and the beer selection is also good. BUT, they don't have every beer that is listed on their menu, and substitute one for another. Finally, I thought the prices were pretty steep for all of these problems, and food from a box. I feel like my money is going to pay for the expensive decor and customized plates to each dish. It certainly isn't going to quality ingredients for good food and/or clean conditions. Overpriced and overhyped. I will never go back. read more

Fat Cat service and food is a box of chocolates -- you never know what you'll get each visit. If you go ask for Teresa. She is the only waitress worth a salt. Some of the food is solid but other times they will wait 40 minutes to inform you that they ran out of your order. For NFL games they are very accommodating to get your game. They'll even try to get the sound on in the back. If your not into the overly crowded bars on Clark, give it a try....just ask for Teresa. read more

Two words: Moose Drool. The only thing better than Moose Drool in a can would be Moose Drool on tap, preferably in the Union Club in Missoula, Montana, and me being 20 again and also in Missoula, Montana and drinking Moose Drool. I am a huge fan of their beer selection. Otherwise, the bar is rather loud and the atmosphere is uninspiring. read more

Fat Cat has always been a favorite of mine, I've been coming here for two years and just wanted to write a quick thank you note to the service staff! A large group of us (about 10 people) came in to watch the first Blackhawks game of the playoffs. I assumed they would have playoff games on with sound, but they told us they wouldn't do that until later in the series. As a group we decided to stay for the first period and then switch to another bar for the rest of the game. Our waitress communicated this to the manager and they were super thoughtful and offered to put the sound on for us in the back after the first intermission. We ended up leaving anyway, the Hawks were losing badly and we're a superstitious bunch, but I will for sure be coming back! They are very considerate and conscious of their customers. P.S. The dipping sauce that comes with the fries is impossible to resist. I basically eat it with a spoon every time. read more

Love it here. Best Bloody Mary in the whole world. Their brunch is also a treat. Come here for late night bites or for dinner

If you're looking for a great bar with better than average food, draw yourself a seat at Fat Cat. The drink menu is rather deep so there's no chance you won't find something to like. The BBQ tacos were a hit with myself and friends so that gets top marks on my recommendation list. read more

My friend and I came here for brunch and had a great experience! Our server was really great (brought us drink refills promptly etc) and the food was tasty. We will definitely be back. read more

Went here on a Saturday morning a few weeks back for bunch-- it was Easter weekend. This could be why the restaurant was completely empty; literally my friend and I were the only ones in there at 11:00 AM. Despite the empty atmosphere, the biscuits and gravy were pretty tasty and one of the best scrambled eggs I have eaten (besides the homemade ones my Grandma cooks). I also tried the mango mimosa and it was delicious. read more

Excellent restaurant/bar conveniently located near the Riv, Aragon, and the Green Mill. Great use of space, which can accommodate groups of almost any size. Food is good, service is fantastic, and the vibe is fun. They even have a limited concert menu if you're hoping to eat quickly before your show. Lots of vegetarian options, too. We split the Reuben balls, crispy mac n cheese, calamari, and beet salad. Calamari was just OK, but the rest was good. We had a 6:00 reservation for a show with doors at 7:00. Perfect timing. I'll definitely go again. read more

This place was our go to during COVID and the people are so nice that they along with the cheese curds were a bright spot during an otherwise dark time. They were our first outing when things opened up and the attentive service, well mixed cocktails and did I mention the tempura battered cheese curds were a great return to normalcy. You can't go wrong with any of the martinis. The poutine, cheese curds and the impossible burger I can all personally vouch for (I would like to say I branch out but when you try it you will understand). And the one and only time I have ever had any issue management and other team members stepped up to hit out of the park. If you are looking for a place with great drinks, can't miss food, and a place worth your time and money in COVID, this one is worth it read more

Place was a chill spot to watch Sunday night football. Wasn't packed and the server was super chill and helpfully and where to go in Chicago. I had the burger with pretzel bun. And I added an egg. Omg it was super good !!! I didn't care for there mustard on it tho. It tasted like horse radish read more

I've been here when there was a concert at Aragon and on a regular Saturday night. I'm clearly a fan of this place. The times I've visited, I've tried something new and the food is good! Definitely recommend this place if you're in the area read more

We waited one hour for our check to be redone. They tried charging us for a drink we didn't order and it literally took them one hour to take it off. Please either hire more waitresses or work on customer service. I'm giving two stars because the food was good. read more

One of the best bars in Uptown. Food is excellent and one of the best craft beer menus around. I've been going to Fat Cat for years and every experience has been amazing. Marcus and Amanda should be in the running for Chicago bartenders of the year. read more

Steps away from the best pho and (one of the best) jazz clubs in the city, Fat Cat has become my neighborhood haunt. The decor is nothing special, but the staff is a lot of fun and the food is decent. Pros: - Trivia Wednesdays with Adam Export (a $50 gift card is at stake, people!) - 12 Beers of Christmas - Sunday Country Bingo - The Fries - Large (and awesome) beer selection - Pineapple Vodka (don't hate until you try) - Bloody Mary cart Cons: - Y U NO EVER HAVE BUD LIGHT OR MILLER LITE? Sometimes I wanna get my cheap drunk on. Don't make me do it at home! - Food menu isn't that expansive or creative. - ONE TIME THE MS. PAC MAN MACHINE BROKE... but they fixed it. - Very crowded during concert nights at the nearby venues. And when it's a concert night, their food menu gets even more limited. Le sigh. Verdict: While it has an impressive beer selection, the food isn't anything special. If anything makes it great, it's the awesome, friendly staff and the numerous regulars. read more

Wasn't a fan at all. Nice people, normal service. cool bar I guess. They sat us really tight I can hear the people next to us, their whole conversation. Food was not good at all anyone who says it is obviously doesn't have good taste. I know it's "bar food" but I've been to plenty of other places that have "bar food" and is way better then this. For what it is it was pricy as well. read more

What's not to like about this place. Prices are fair, the place is clean and nicely decorated. The times I've been there its been fairly empty, which for me is a plus I hate crowded places. They also have shuffleboard so thats a huge plus. Bartenders and staff are very friendly. The only criticism is that the first time I went they were out of a lot of draft beers but I'm sure I just caught them right before they restocked. I'll definitely be swinging back here with friends read more

Yes... I am giving Fat Cat a four point five stars. Why? It is an "Oh Crud" bar, (I cleaned it up for you Yelp). By that I mean, "Oh crud... I came here and now I will be craving to come back here all the time." I came here with fellow yelper Valerie L. I had been wanting to come here for about a month, after spying it with my little eye, I was intrigued.... and excited. A little retro hip vibe flowed from here, walking in, spacious, plenty of tables, great set up at the bar and a laid back vibe to boot. Valerie and I sat at one of their tables by the window on this sunny April day and perused the menu. Wow. Impressive beer list. Plenty of bottles and some good taps. Looking at their specialty drinks, some good choices, but what really caught that eye of mine is the fact they had blue cheese stuffed olives. From what I hear, not a rarity in the hood, (thanks for the tip Erika G), but a pleasant find for me. We settled on two beers and after ordering our second and last round looked and ordered food. Some really nice and not your typical bar foods. Thumbs up to having grilled chicken strips, for me it is happiness. Yet I did not go for that, I went with the pulled chicken buffalo chicken sandwich, with jack cheese and blue cheese crumbles. Tasty. I also asked our waitress for a side of the aoili... I think she brought me ranch, le sigh. Valerie got their Thanksgiving turkey sandwich which she said she thoroughly enjoyed. The prices aren't a steal, but they aren't a rip off either. The service was really good, a little laid back, but nothing I worry about. One plus, they have the events listed on a board in front, Bulls game, Cubs games, DJ's... oh wait... what is that on Monday night!? Holy Frick an' Frack... swing dancing lessons....., (note I do not know if this is an every Monday night thing),.... score. Will I be back? Crud... of course I will. P.S. Check out the faucets in the bathroom... read more

Despite residing in the worst location ever (I hate Uptown) on a shady street (not in a good way) with no other good bars within a reasonable distance, Fat Cat is pretty much cursed with being a total destination bar. And in order to be a destination bar, you have to be serving up amazing pub grub, deliver amazing service, come through with insanely cheap drink prices or just be really cool. Too bad for you, Fat Cat, that you aren't really delivering. While I appreciate the lifesized Jenga game, good outdoor seating and clean inside, I'm just not sold on Fat Cat. Drink and food prices are a teensy bit on the expensive side, again, not making it a destination bar. Foursquare does offer 1/2 off appetizers when you unlock the special (may be first time only, so please double check) and the waitress gave me serious attitude about cashing in on it. Rude waitress + not cheap beer is not greater than Jenga + outdoor seating read more