Seemor
First DraftB+Worth Trying
649 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60605
· Restaurant, Bar, Bar & grill
· 4.5/5 Google (1555 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Printers Row sports bar with strong beer lineup, crowd-pleasing pub food, and energetic game-day vibes; service can be inconsistent and noise high at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
First Draft delivers reliable pub fare with standout comfort-forward dishes like wings and fried pickles, supported by a strong beer selection and lively sports atmosphere. However, inconsistent execution during peak times and space constraints on game nights prevent higher performance. The South Loop location and loyal following make it a solid neighborhood choice for casual dining and sports viewing, though it lacks the polish or distinction of grade A establishments.
Restaurant Summary
This South Loop hangout feels warm and bustling, the kind of spot where screens glow in every direction and servers hustle between pitchers and wing baskets. One guest summed it up: "We came for the game and stayed because the staff kept us smiling." On big match days it can tip toward raucous energy, so expect a lively crowd, music, and the occasional wait for a table. In the kitchen, the approach stays classic: comfort-forward bar food with dialed-in crowd favorites. Wings get love for bold sauces, fried pickles land consistently crisp, and the beer cheese soup scratches that Midwestern itch. Burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas carry the load; most plates are hearty and well-priced, though a few diners note the occasional dry bite or bland dish when the rush hits. Families do fine here off-peak thanks to kid-ready staples like burgers, mac and cheese, chicken, fries, and pizza. During major games the room gets very loud, so plan earlier hours for a kid-friendlier window. No formal kids menu is called out, but the menu has plenty of simple, familiar choices.
At a Glance
- Lively sports-watching atmosphere with many TVs and a deep draft list
- Standout fried pickles, wings sauces, and comforting beer cheese soup
- Service can slow or feel curt during peak sports events
- Very high noise on game days; seating can be scarce
- Expect charged refills on some non-alcoholic drinks unless clarified
What Sets It Apart
- deep_draft_beer_lineup
- game_day_atmosphere
- crispy_fried_pickles
What People Love
- Electric game-day vibe with lots of screens
- Crispy fried pickles and saucy wings
- Generous portions and weekly specials
- Friendly staff interactions on many visits
Points of Concern
- Noise and crowding spike during major games, making conversation tough and tables hard to get
- Service inconsistency reported; attentive on good nights, slow or dismissive on others
- A few severe cleanliness allegations exist but are isolated against many positive visits
- Pricing is moderate overall, but non-alcoholic refills may not be included
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Fried Pickle Spears ($8) or Pretzel Sticks ($9) to share
- Pair Classic Mac & Cheese ($8) with a side of sweet potato fries ($6)
- Choose a mid-size pizza like South Loop ($13/$19) for groups
Perfect For
- Watching big games with friends
- Pre-concert meals near Soldier Field
- Casual weeknight wings and beer
- Solo bar bites and a pint
Location Insights
Area: Energetic South Loop/Printers Row corridor with students, professionals, and event-goers heading to museums and Soldier Field.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked commercial strip; busy on game and concert days with heavy foot traffic.
Nearby: Near universities, Loop offices, theaters, and Soldier Field; pre- and post-event crowd common.
Printer's RowPrinter's Row is a historic district within the South Loop known for its converted printing warehouses and loft apartments. The dining scene here is a blend of casual eateries, trendy cafes, and upscale restaurants catering to both local residents and the daytime office crowd. The atmosphere is lively during workdays and more relaxed in the evenings, with a focus on quality dining experiences in a historic setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–02:00
Tuesday11:00–02:00
Wednesday11:00–02:00
Thursday11:00–02:00
Friday11:00–02:00
Saturday11:00–03:00
Sunday11:00–02:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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