The Cubby Bear, a renowned fixture in Chicago’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene, offers a menu as dynamic and exciting as its live music and energetic atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the menu at The Cubby Bear promises a delightful culinary journey that complements the venue’s iconic reputation.
Known for its hearty American fare with a twist and an extensive drink selection, the menu caters to diverse tastes, ensuring every guest finds something to savor. The Cubby Bear’s offerings go beyond mere sustenance; they celebrate the communal spirit of sharing great food and unforgettable moments.
At The Cubby Bear, the emphasis on quality ingredients and bold flavors shines through each dish. From classic appetizers that kickstart your evening to satisfying entrees and indulgent desserts, every item is thoughtfully crafted.
The menu also features seasonal specials and crowd favorites, inviting guests to explore new tastes while enjoying familiar comforts. Whether you’re here for a pre-concert bite or a leisurely dinner, the menu’s versatility and depth make The Cubby Bear a culinary destination worth returning to.
Appetizers to Ignite Your Appetite
The Cubby Bear’s appetizers set the stage for a memorable dining experience. Designed to be shared or enjoyed solo, these starters offer a blend of flavors that awaken the palate and prepare you for the main course.
From crispy, golden bites to rich, savory dips, the appetizer selection balances classic comfort with creative flair.
Signature starters like the Loaded Nachos and Buffalo Wings are crowd favorites, combining bold spices and fresh ingredients. The menu also features vegetarian options, ensuring inclusivity for all dietary preferences.
Each appetizer is prepared with attention to detail, showcasing the kitchen’s dedication to quality and taste.
Popular Starters
- Loaded Nachos: A generous pile of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, black beans, and a choice of chicken or beef, served with salsa and sour cream.
- Buffalo Wings: Crispy wings tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce, accompanied by celery sticks and ranch dressing for cooling balance.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and tangy, served warm with pita chips for dipping.
- Fried Pickles: Crunchy, tangy pickles coated in a seasoned batter, perfect for snacking.
“The appetizers at The Cubby Bear are the perfect introduction to a night of great food and music – bold, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.” – Local Food Critic
Hearty Entrées for Every Craving
The Cubby Bear’s entrée menu showcases a rich variety of hearty dishes, crafted to satisfy hunger and delight the senses. Whether you prefer classic American staples or something with a unique twist, the entrées provide a fulfilling centerpiece to your meal.
From juicy burgers to succulent ribs and fresh seafood, the kitchen ensures every plate is packed with flavor and quality. Each entrée is paired with complementary sides, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The menu also offers gluten-free and vegetarian options, highlighting the venue’s commitment to accommodating diverse dietary needs.
Signature Entrées
- The Cubby Burger: A half-pound beef patty grilled to perfection, topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and The Cubby’s special sauce, served with fries.
- BBQ Ribs: Slow-cooked and slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, accompanied by coleslaw and baked beans.
- Grilled Salmon: Fresh salmon filet seasoned and grilled, served with seasonal vegetables and rice pilaf.
- Vegetarian Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of fresh vegetables sautéed with savory sauces over jasmine rice.
| Entrée | Main Protein | Recommended Pairing |
| The Cubby Burger | Beef | Craft Lager |
| BBQ Ribs | Pork | Amber Ale |
| Grilled Salmon | Fish | Chardonnay |
| Vegetarian Stir-Fry | Vegetables | IPA |
Sandwiches and Wraps: Quick, Tasty, and Filling
For those seeking a more casual dining option, The Cubby Bear’s sandwiches and wraps offer a satisfying combination of flavors wrapped in fresh bread or tortillas. These items are perfect for a fast yet flavorful meal, whether dining solo or sharing with friends.
The menu features a selection of classic and inventive fillings, catering to meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Each sandwich and wrap is served with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad, ensuring a balanced and complete meal.
The Cubby Bear’s attention to quality is evident in the fresh ingredients and house-made sauces that elevate these simple dishes.
Top Sandwiches and Wraps
- Philly Cheesesteak: Thinly sliced beef with sautéed onions and peppers, smothered in melted provolone cheese on a hoagie roll.
- Chicken Caesar Wrap: Grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing wrapped in a soft tortilla.
- Veggie Delight: A colorful assortment of grilled vegetables, hummus, and mixed greens in a whole wheat wrap.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: Slow-cooked pork shoulder tossed in barbecue sauce, topped with coleslaw on a toasted bun.
“The sandwiches at The Cubby Bear strike the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making them a go-to choice for a quick yet delicious meal.” – Frequent Patron
Salads: Fresh and Flavorful Choices
The Cubby Bear’s salad offerings provide a refreshing counterpoint to the heartier menu items. Each salad is crafted with crisp, fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, suitable for those looking for a lighter yet satisfying option.
From classic Caesar to inventive seasonal mixes, the salads incorporate a variety of textures and tastes. The dressings are made in-house, ensuring every bite is flavorful and balanced.
Protein options like grilled chicken or salmon can be added to enhance the nutritional value without compromising taste.
Featured Salads
- Classic Caesar: Romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Southwest Chicken Salad: Grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty chipotle dressing.
- Seasonal Harvest: Mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, cranberries, pecans, and goat cheese with a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, red onions, feta cheese, and oregano dressing.
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories (approx.) |
| Classic Caesar | Romaine, croutons, Parmesan | 350 |
| Southwest Chicken | Chicken, black beans, avocado | 480 |
| Seasonal Harvest | Mixed greens, squash, pecans | 420 |
| Greek Salad | Olives, feta, cucumbers | 370 |
Beverages: Crafted to Complement Every Dish
The beverage menu at The Cubby Bear is as thoughtfully curated as the food offerings. Featuring a wide range of beers, cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic options, it’s designed to enhance your dining experience and suit every preference.
Local craft beers are a highlight, showcasing Chicago’s rich brewing scene. The cocktail list includes classic favorites and inventive house specials, crafted by experienced bartenders.
Non-alcoholic choices range from fresh juices to artisanal sodas, ensuring everyone finds the perfect drink.
Drink Highlights
- Chicago Craft Beer Selection: Rotating taps featuring local breweries such as Revolution Brewing and Half Acre.
- Signature Cocktails: The Cubby Mule, Spicy Margarita, and Old Fashioned with a twist.
- Wine List: Carefully chosen reds, whites, and sparkling options to pair with various dishes.
- Non-Alcoholic: Freshly made lemonade, iced teas, and specialty sodas.
“A great meal deserves a great drink – The Cubby Bear’s beverage menu never disappoints with its variety and quality.” – Beverage Expert
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Perfect Nights
No meal at The Cubby Bear is complete without indulging in one of their delectable desserts. These sweet creations offer a satisfying conclusion, pairing well with coffee or a nightcap from the bar.
The dessert menu features traditional favorites reimagined with rich ingredients and artistic presentation. Whether you crave something chocolatey, fruity, or creamy, there’s a dessert to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Portions are generous, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Popular Dessert Choices
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, gooey chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- New York Cheesecake: Classic creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and fresh berry compote.
- Apple Crisp: Baked apples with cinnamon and oats, topped with whipped cream.
- Seasonal Sorbet: Light and refreshing, made from fresh seasonal fruits.
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Recommended Pairing |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Chocolate, flour, eggs | Espresso or Stout Beer |
| New York Cheesecake | Cream cheese, sugar, graham cracker | Sweet Riesling |
| Apple Crisp | Apples, cinnamon, oats | Hot Tea or Bourbon |
| Seasonal Sorbet | Fresh fruit, sugar, water | Light White Wine |
Specials and Seasonal Features
The Cubby Bear regularly updates its menu to incorporate seasonal ingredients and unique specials. These limited-time offerings provide guests an opportunity to experience new flavors and chef-inspired creations that reflect the changing seasons.
Specials often highlight local produce, sustainable seafood, and inventive recipes that showcase the culinary team’s creativity. These dishes invite patrons to explore beyond the regular menu and enjoy fresh, exciting options that enhance their visit.
Seasonal Highlights
- Summer Grilled Corn Salad: Fresh corn, tomatoes, basil, and feta with a lime vinaigrette.
- Fall Pumpkin Ravioli: House-made pasta filled with pumpkin and ricotta, topped with sage butter.
- Winter Braised Short Ribs: Slow-cooked ribs with root vegetables and rich gravy.
- Spring Asparagus Tart: Flaky pastry with asparagus, goat cheese, and herbs.
“The seasonal specials at The Cubby Bear are a testament to their commitment to fresh, local ingredients and culinary innovation.” – Chef’s Note
Conclusion
The Cubby Bear menu offers a rich tapestry of flavors and dining experiences that perfectly complement its lively atmosphere. With an emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and a wide variety of options, the menu caters to every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re indulging in hearty entrées, sharing flavorful appetizers, or savoring a sweet dessert, each dish reflects the venue’s passion for great food and memorable moments.
The thoughtful pairing of beverages and the rotating seasonal specials further enhance the dining experience, keeping the menu vibrant and inviting year-round. The Cubby Bear is not just a place to eat but a destination where food, music, and community converge.
For anyone seeking a welcoming spot to enjoy delicious fare alongside a lively crowd, The Cubby Bear’s menu stands as a shining example of culinary excellence and spirited hospitality.
