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Finley Dunne's Tavern
Master Critic Review
Finley Dunne's Tavern
8.3
Established in 1996 near the Paulina Brown Line, Finley Dunne's is a neighborhood Irish-leaning sports bar where jumbo wings and the Ryan Burger share the menu with flatbreads and bar snacks. Wings come in classic flavors and show up heavily in reviews, making this a go-to for casual games, beer, and big plates in West Lakeview.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jumbo wings (BBQ or garlic parm), Chicago Fire wings, Ryan Burger
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Long-running Paulina Station bar where jumbo wings rival the famous Ryan Burger.
Who should go: Sports fans wanting big-screen games, beer, and real wings.
When to visit: Game days and Wing Wednesdays for peak energy and specials.
What to order: Jumbo wings (BBQ or garlic parm), Chicago Fire wings, Ryan Burger.
Insider tip: Grab a table near the bar for quickest refills during busy games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in West Lakeview; typically manageable on side streets but can be limited during game times near Paulina Station.
Dress code: Casual — jerseys, jeans, and bar-casual wear are the norm.
Noise level: Loud during games; conversation is easier outside peak sports events.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during major games; shorter outside peak times.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; seating generally available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options (flatbreads, salads, appetizers), but menu is wing- and pub-food focused.
Vegan options: Very limited; most items include meat or dairy and modifications are minimal.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free program; some wings and salads may be adaptable but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, sports-forward meetups than a quiet first date — it shines when you’re watching a game or sharing wings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in; arrive before kickoff or halftime on game days for the best chance at a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally adult-leaning sports-bar environment; earlier hours are fine for families, but late nights and big games skew 21+ in vibe.
Best For
Better for: Big, flavorful jumbo wings, game-day energy, and a neighborhood pub feel where locals watch sports with full-size plates.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or a more polished, sit-down dining experience.