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The Welcome Back Lounge
Master Critic Review
The Welcome Back Lounge
8.0
The Welcome Back Lounge is a late ’70s and ’80s-themed cocktail bar where discounted shots-and-a-beer combos and approachable mixed drinks headline a weekday happy hour. An outdoor bus bar, backyard games, and bar-food staples make it as much about playful nostalgia as serious cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Best Burger in Logan Square, Hot Tots, Cancun Fried Chicken Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Retro cocktail bar with a backyard bus bar and shot-and-beer happy hour deals.
Who should go: Friends seeking playful cocktails, cheap happy hour drinks, and patio games.
When to visit: Weekday 5–7pm for strongest happy hour pricing and lighter crowds.
What to order: Best Burger in Logan Square, Hot Tots, a lavender lemonade cocktail.
Insider tip: Head straight to the patio bus bar on warm evenings for faster rounds.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; usually available on nearby residential blocks but can be tight after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and playful — jeans, sneakers, and relaxed bar attire are common.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours — conversation is possible on the patio, tougher indoors on busy nights.
Weekend wait: Usually no formal waitlist, but seats can fill after 8pm on warm-weather nights.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service — evenings typically have easy walk-in availability before 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — bar snacks and sides typically include 2–3 vegetarian-friendly options.
Vegan options: Limited — most items skew bar-food style; ask staff about modifications.
Gluten-free options: Informal accommodation — some items can be ordered without buns or breading, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual or playful dates — the retro theme, backyard games, and patio seating help break the ice, but it can feel loud for more intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it operates primarily as a walk-in bar. Arrive early during warm evenings for the best chance at patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly adult-focused — better suited to 21+ groups and evening hangs; not designed with children’s menus or family amenities.
Best For
Better for: Casual happy hour drinks, playful patio hangs, and nostalgia-leaning cocktails at approachable prices.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft-cocktail precision, a quiet date-night environment, or a full dinner-focused menu.