The Cubby Bear is a renowned Chicago hotspot known for its lively atmosphere, excellent live music, and a diverse menu offering mouthwatering food and drinks. Whether you’re planning a casual night out with friends or attending one of their famous concerts, understanding the menu is key to making the most of your visit.
This guide will take you through the Cubby Bear’s menu, highlighting the must-try dishes, drink options, pricing, and other unique features. The menu is designed to cater to various tastes, from hearty appetizers to full entrees and refreshing cocktails.
Overview of Cubby Bear Menu
The Cubby Bear’s menu is split into several categories: appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, entrees, and desserts. Additionally, the bar menu offers an array of craft beers, signature cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages.
The food is predominantly American bar-style with some twists to keep things interesting.
The menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and generous portions. Many items are perfect for sharing, which complements the social vibe of the venue.
Prices are reasonable, making it accessible for both casual diners and concertgoers.
Why Choose Cubby Bear?
“Cubby Bear offers not just food and drinks, but an experience that combines great taste with great music and atmosphere.” – A frequent patron
From classic comfort foods to inventive twists on bar staples, the Cubby Bear menu ensures there is something for everyone. The combination of quality, quantity, and ambiance makes it a top choice in Chicago’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Appetizers
Start your meal at Cubby Bear with one of their delicious appetizers. These dishes are perfect to share or enjoy solo while waiting for the main course.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Loaded Nachos | Tortilla chips piled high with melted cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and your choice of chicken or beef. | $12.99 |
| Buffalo Wings | Spicy wings tossed in buffalo sauce served with celery and blue cheese dressing. | $11.99 (6 pcs) / $18.99 (12 pcs) |
| Fried Pickles | Crispy battered pickle slices served with a tangy ranch dipping sauce. | $8.99 |
| Spinach & Artichoke Dip | Creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheese served with toasted pita chips. | $10.99 |
| Onion Rings | Thick-cut, beer-battered onion rings served with a spicy aioli dip. | $7.99 |
Each appetizer is crafted to complement the social atmosphere. The loaded nachos and buffalo wings are crowd favorites, especially during game nights or concerts.
Salads
If you want something lighter or healthier, Cubby Bear offers fresh, crisp salads made with quality ingredients.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Caesar Salad | Romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese. | $9.99 |
| House Salad | Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and your choice of dressing. | $8.99 |
| Southwest Chicken Salad | Grilled chicken breast on a bed of greens with black beans, corn, avocado, cheddar, and chipotle ranch dressing. | $13.99 |
Salads can be customized with protein options such as grilled chicken or shrimp. They make an excellent choice for those looking to balance indulgence with nutrition.
Sandwiches & Burgers
The Cubby Bear excels at hearty sandwiches and burgers that are perfect for a filling meal. Everything is served with your choice of fries or side salad.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Cubby Burger | Half-pound beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and house sauce on a brioche bun. | $14.99 |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich | Slow-cooked pulled pork smothered in BBQ sauce with coleslaw on a toasted bun. | $13.99 |
| Buffalo Chicken Sandwich | Crispy chicken breast tossed in buffalo sauce, topped with lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese dressing. | $13.49 |
| Veggie Wrap | Grilled seasonal vegetables with hummus, spinach, and feta cheese wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla. | $11.99 |
Pro Tip: Upgrade your fries to loaded cheese fries or sweet potato fries for an additional $2.50.
Entrees
For those wanting a more substantial meal, the entree selections at Cubby Bear deliver robust flavors and satisfying portions.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | 12 oz ribeye cooked to order, served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. | $24.99 |
| Fish & Chips | Battered cod served with fries, tartar sauce, and lemon wedges. | $17.99 |
| Chicken Alfredo Pasta | Grilled chicken tossed with fettuccine noodles and creamy Alfredo sauce topped with Parmesan. | $16.99 |
| Vegetarian Stir-Fry | Fresh seasonal vegetables sautéed with tofu in a tangy Asian sauce over steamed rice. | $14.99 |
The entrees reflect a balance of classic American fare and dishes with international influences, designed to suit multiple palates.
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with Cubby Bear’s tempting dessert options.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Rich chocolate cake with a molten chocolate center, served with vanilla ice cream. | $7.99 |
| New York Cheesecake | Creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust topped with fresh strawberries. | $6.99 |
| Apple Crisp | Warm baked apples with cinnamon and oat topping served with whipped cream. | $6.50 |
A perfect dessert pairs well with one of the specialty coffees or after-dinner drinks available at the bar.
Drink Menu Highlights
The Cubby Bear boasts an extensive drink menu featuring craft beers, signature cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic options. Their bar is known for creative mixes and classic favorites served in a vibrant atmosphere.
Craft Beers & Drafts
| Beer | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Goose Island IPA | India Pale Ale | $7.00 (16 oz) |
| Revolution Anti-Hero | American IPA | $7.50 (16 oz) |
| Lagunitas | Pale Ale | $6.50 (16 oz) |
Signature Cocktails
| Cocktail | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Cubby Mule | Vodka, ginger beer, lime juice, garnished with fresh mint and lime. | $10.00 |
| Chicago Old Fashioned | Bourbon, bitters, sugar, orange peel, and cherry. | $11.00 |
| Berry Mojito | White rum, muddled berries, mint, lime, and soda water. | $10.50 |
Wine Selection
Cubby Bear offers a curated selection of red, white, and sparkling wines by the glass or bottle. Choices include popular varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Rosé.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- House-made Lemonade
- Fresh Brewed Iced Tea
- Soda Fountain Classics
- Virgin Cocktails (Mojito, Pina Colada)
Specials and Happy Hour
Cubby Bear features daily specials and a well-loved happy hour that offers discounts on food and drinks. This is an excellent time to try some of their signature appetizers or sample craft beers at a reduced price.
Happy Hour Times: Monday to Friday, 4 PM – 7 PM
| Special | Details |
|---|---|
| Half-price Appetizers | Selected appetizers including wings, nachos, and fried pickles. |
| $5 Draft Beers | Rotating selection of draft beers. |
| $7 Signature Cocktails | Discounted price on featured cocktails. |
Dietary Accommodations
The Cubby Bear is mindful of dietary needs and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. Staff are happy to assist with customizing orders to accommodate allergies or preferences.
- Vegetarian Options: Veggie wrap, salads without meat, vegetarian stir-fry.
- Gluten-Free: Grilled proteins with vegetables, certain salads (ask staff).
- Allergy Awareness: Notify your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
Customer Experience & Ambiance
Beyond the food and drinks, the Cubby Bear experience is defined by its vibrant energy and welcoming atmosphere. The venue frequently hosts live music ranging from local bands to renowned artists, creating a dynamic environment.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, ensuring timely service and recommendations. The menu pairs well with the entertainment, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
“The Cubby Bear is the perfect place to enjoy a great meal while catching some amazing live music. The menu has something for everyone.” – Food & Music Blogger
Location and Hours
The Cubby Bear is located in Chicago’s Wrigleyville neighborhood, a hub for sports fans and music lovers. Its proximity to Wrigley Field makes it a popular stop before or after a Cubs game.
Address: 1059 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613
Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Summary
The Cubby Bear menu offers a comprehensive selection of delicious, well-priced food and drink choices that complement its lively Chicago atmosphere. From shareable appetizers to hearty entrees and creative cocktails, the menu caters to a wide variety of tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite before a concert or settling in for an evening of food, drinks, and entertainment, the Cubby Bear promises an unforgettable experience. Its combination of quality, value, and atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination.
Plan your visit today and dive into the flavors of the Cubby Bear menu!
