By Jenny FukumotoPLAY Writer
When people think of friends going into Chicago, they’re probably thinking girls armed with their credit cards cabbing it to the Magnificent Mile. Clearly, it’s time to explore some options for the men.
So here are some of the manlier things to do in Chicago – except for strip clubs; you’re going to have to do that research yourself. All are accessible by El train and are guy approved. Go out with your buddies or, if you have an adventurous girlfriend, plan a date.
10-Pin Bowling Lounge
330 N. State St.
Ever wondered what it would be like to enjoy a tasty pulled pork sandwich or even strawberry shortcake in between bowling turns? You can at 10-Pin Bowling Lounge, which is right off the State/Lake Red Line El stop.
This 20,000 square foot, 24-lane bowling alley offers great food, top-shelf booze, good music and, of course, fun bowling. Brightly colored bowling balls and a 128-foot HD video wall (8 huge TV screens) will bring out the kid in you.
And 10-Pin is a great place for guys to go and hang out, with or without lady friends.
“This isn’t like a nightclub where there are three guys to every girl. (Guys) just come in and hang out with their friends,” said Chris Todd, bar manager.
And you even have seating options – chair or soft couch. Yeah, I’d pick the couch, too.
If this alley doesn’t seem pimped out enough for you, there are even options for bowling shoes. Not fond of the standard, can-I-get-athlete’s-foot-from-wearing-those bowling shoes? Upgrade to a premium, shiny pair for $1 more – you know, just to be on the safe side.
One restriction is that 10-Pin is 21 and over from 8 p.m. to closing on Friday and Saturday. Not legal? Enjoy shots – of milk – with your cookies.
Does this all seem likes it’s going to break the bank? Chances are it’s not. Call 10-Pin ahead of time and find out the deals because they always have them.
So get out of Evanston to do the dirty deed – bowling, that is.
ESPN Zone
43 E. Ohio St.
Guys, if you have yet to go to an ESPN Zone, you’re missing out. The 18 and over ESPN Zone, a few blocks away from the Grand Red Line stop has two stories of food, bars, arcade games and merchandise and recently had over 60 HD flat screens added to its collection. That means you can get your air hockey on while watching the game in HD – multi-tasking at its finest.
And if you’re looking to find a sports-coherent lady, don’t hesitate because you think it’s going to be a sausage fest.
“You’d be amazed at how many fans who come here are women,” employee Latinya Smith said.
On a game day, tables can be packed only an hour after the start of the game. However, while you’re waiting to be seated, you can mosey on up to the second floor where they have a bunch of sports arcade games.
A downfall is that some of the higher-end games can cost $2 to $3 a pop, but what are a few bucks when your alternative is playing that ancient ski-ball game? (For the record, I love skee-ball.)
First-timer Brant Daugherty, a student at Columbia College, said he was impressed with the ESPN Zone.
“It’s a lot busier and bigger than I thought it would be,” Daugherty said.
Take it from Brant – this place is definitely worth checking out. Just make sure to get there early enough to snag a table.
Joe’s Bar
940 W. Weed St.
If you’re 21 or have a good fake, Joe’s Bar is an experience to be had. This bar is a hangout spot for men and women alike.
Joe’s caters to all types of sports fans with its 120 televisions strategically located throughout the bar. Not convinced? There are also three pool tables, 10 satellite dishes, dance floors, darts and other games.
What is unique about this bar is its 200-seat outdoor beer garden.
Chicago’s Bar Guide, www.pubclub.com, named Joe’s the “Best Sports Bar.” According to the Web site, “What makes us high on this place is the outdoor beer garden with TVs. The live band at night makes this a haven for singles on the prowl.”
So it’s rumored that this place has a good singles crowd; what’s more, with Price Appetizer Mondays and Quarter Beer Nite Tuesdays, this bar is affordable. If I know guys at all, I do know that cheap food can be the selling point.
Generally, bars are not the best places to have dates. Joe’s, however, can be fun on nights a band is playing. Just don’t buy her the cheap stuff.
If the weather permits and you’re willing to ride the El to the North/Clybourn Red Line stop, this place is calling for you. When else in your life will you be able to say you went to the Best Sports Bar in Chicago?
Medill sophomore Jenny Fukumoto is a PLAY writer. She can be reached at [email protected].
