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The Crossroads Bar & Grill
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Crossroads Bar & Grill
8.0
A neighborhood sports bar a short walk from the United Center, The CrossRoads is known for broasted jumbo wings alongside burgers, sandwiches, and game-day snacks. TVs on every wall and a long tap list make it a go-to for watching Chicago teams over rounds of wings and beer.
Must-Try Dishes:
Broasted Jumbo Wings, Buffalo Wings, Garlic Parmesan Wings
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Broasted jumbo wings served in a true game-day sports bar setting.
Who should go: Fans wanting wings, big screens, and tap beer together.
When to visit: Evenings for Bulls, Blackhawks, or weekend football games.
What to order: Broasted jumbo wings, Buffalo wings, garlic parmesan wings.
Insider tip: Show up early for major games; bar seats fill fastest for wing orders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood, but it can be competitive on United Center event nights. Allow extra time or consider rideshare during big games.
Dress code: Casual and game-day friendly — jerseys, jeans, and comfortable clothing are the norm.
Noise level: Loud during games with crowd reactions and TVs throughout; quieter during non-peak times but still bar-like.
Weekend wait: Often a wait of 20–45 minutes on busy game nights; walk-ins are still common.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with easy seating at tables or the bar.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, apps, and some meat-free bar snacks are available.
Vegan options: Limited — options are minimal and substitutions may be required.
Gluten-free options: Some items may be adapted, but it’s best to ask staff about fryer and prep practices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for casual, sports-friendly dates where conversation is less formal — but it’s not ideal if you’re looking for quiet or romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in friendly. Arrive early on major game nights to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes earlier in the day and early evening, especially for families grabbing wings or burgers. It feels more adult-oriented later at night and during big sporting events.
Best For
Better for: Game-watching with hearty wings and beers in a true sports-bar environment close to the United Center.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, upscale dining, or a wide range of refined or dietary-specific options.
The Crossroads Bar & Grill
8.2
The Crossroads Bar & Grill is a sports-bar staple on Madison known for burgers, wings, and game-day crowds, plus a sizable front patio that welcomes dogs. It’s less about chef-driven experimentation and more about reliably satisfying bar food, cold beer, and TVs everywhere when you want to catch a game without leaving your pup at home.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crossroads Classic Burger, Buffalo Wings, Chicken Tinga Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Easygoing sports bar with hearty bar fare and a truly dog-welcoming patio.
Who should go: Game-day crews who want TVs, beer, and space for dogs.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before big games to secure patio seats.
What to order: Classic burger, buffalo wings, chicken tacos.
Insider tip: On busy game days, arrive early and ask specifically for a front patio table with shade for your dog.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the West Loop is available but can be tight during games and weekends; paid garages are within a short walk.
Dress code: Casual and sports-friendly — jerseys, jeans, and hoodies are totally fine.
Noise level: Loud during major games; otherwise moderate with TV sound always present.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes during big sports events; shorter waits outside peak times.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, especially mid-week.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options — veggie salads, sides, and occasional meat-free entrées.
Vegan options: Limited — possible to modify salads or sides, but choices are few.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be adapted; ask staff for gluten-free recommendations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you both like sports and casual vibes — it’s relaxed and lively, not intimate or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are common, but arrive early on game days if you want the patio or prime TV views.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — kids are welcome during daytime and early evenings, though it can feel rowdy during big games.
Best For
Better for: Game-watching with a group, hearty bar classics, and bringing your dog along on the patio.
Skip if: You’re looking for chef-driven food, a quiet dinner, or a romantic setting.