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Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview
Master Critic Review
Cheesie's Pub & Grub - Lakeview
8.2
Cheesie’s Pub & Grub in Lakeview is Chicago’s original grilled cheese bar, staying open until 2 a.m. most nights and even later on weekends. Arcade games, a full bar, and over-the-top sandwiches like The Mac and The Tenderizer make it a staple for post-show, post-bar, and late-night comfort-carb runs.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Mac grilled cheese, The Tenderizer grilled cheese, Fried Mac N' Cheese Bites
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A late-night grilled cheese bar with arcade games, cocktails, and indulgent sandwiches.
Who should go: Groups and bar-hoppers craving cheesy, over-the-top sandwiches.
When to visit: After 10 p.m., especially weekends when the bar scene peaks.
What to order: The Mac, The Tenderizer, and a round of fried mac ’n cheese bites.
Insider tip: Split a couple of specialty sandwiches and load up on sides to taste more of the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily metered and residential street parking; availability becomes tight after evening bar hours and on weekends. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual — bar attire and jeans are standard; no formal dress expectations.
Noise level: Loud late at night with music and crowds; conversation can be difficult during peak bar hours.
Weekend wait: Often 20–40 minutes after 10 p.m., especially Fridays and Saturdays when nearby bars let out.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait when open earlier in the day; service pace depends on event and school-night traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Many options — several sandwiches and melts can be ordered meat-free or built around cheese and fries.
Vegan options: Very limited — menu is cheese-centric and most items include dairy.
Gluten-free options: Limited — most sandwiches are breaded or fried; cross-contact is likely in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Best for a playful, late-night, not-too-serious date — it’s energetic, messy, and bar-style rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in; expect to queue during late-night rushes and be flexible with seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier hours can work for teens and older kids, but late night is bar-oriented and not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Over-the-top grilled cheese, fun group energy, and late-night hours when most nearby kitchens are closed.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, lighter or vegan-leaning food, or a polished, sit-down dinner environment.