Seemor
Peckish PigB+Worth Trying
623 W Howard St, Evanston, IL 60202
· Gastropub, Bar, Brewpub
· 4.4/5 Google (1565 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively neighborhood gastropub with creative, crowd-pleasing plates, strong brunch, house and guest beers, and a great patio; value is fair-to-good with occasional service inconsistencies.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Peckish Pig delivers reliable neighborhood gastropub dining with strong food quality anchored by excellent brunch and creative small plates, though consistency shows occasional variation that prevents a higher grade. The patio and welcoming atmosphere create genuine appeal, but service can be uneven during peak times, limiting it to a solid local favorite rather than a destination worth traveling for.
Restaurant Summary
The scene skews warm and bustling—a neighborhood gastropub where house and guest beers meet creative comfort food. Staff are often friendly and on it, and that back patio becomes the hangout once the weather cooperates. One diner summed it up: "A lively spot where charcuterie, burgers, and a pint just work." The cooking leans elevated pub fare with global nudges—think chicken tikka flatbread, kimchi hash, and Thai curry mussels alongside ribs and fish and chips. The culinary approach is comfort-forward with creative twists: satisfying plates, not fussy artistry. Brunch shines—house scones and warm donuts earn raves—while small plates like bacon-wrapped dates are easy wins for sharing. Families do well here. There is a true kids menu (mac, noodles, grilled cheese, fish and chips) plus approachable mains like burgers and fries. Even with inventive dishes on the main menu, there are plenty of familiar options for cautious eaters, so parents can relax while still ordering something fun for themselves.
At a Glance
- Lively patio and welcoming neighborhood vibe
- Strong brunch and shareables with generous portions
- Solid beer program with house and guest taps
- Service can lag during peak or event times
- Some perceive certain items as overpriced (e.g., wings, substitutions)
What Sets It Apart
- seasonal_patio_with_events
- creative_pub_brunch
- house_and_guest_beer_program
What People Love
- Bacon-wrapped dates that disappear fast
- Warm scones and cinnamon donuts at brunch
- Creative flatbreads like chicken tikka
- Relaxed, lively atmosphere with trivia and events
Points of Concern
- Service delays and inattentiveness reported during peak times; smoother on off-peak
- A few dishes run inconsistent (fish and chips crispness, ribs texture)
- Upcharges for side substitutions caught some diners by surprise
- Pricing on certain small plates (e.g., wings) feels high to some guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with bacon-wrapped dates and a house beer flight
- Order the chicken tikka flatbread for the table
- Brunch: scones to share, kimchi hash or Full English as mains
- Kids: mac and cheese or grilled cheese fingers at $9
Perfect For
- Weekend brunch with friends
- Casual date with craft beer
- Family dinner where kids have options
- Group hangouts on the patio
Location Insights
Area: Mixed residential-commercial border of Evanston and Rogers Park; relaxed neighborhood vibe with student spillover.
Safety: Generally safe with normal urban awareness; active foot traffic during dining hours.
Nearby: Near Howard CTA corridor, apartments, small shops; patio draws locals in warmer months.
West EvanstonWest Evanston is a diverse and dynamic neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. The dining scene includes casual eateries, ethnic restaurants, and trendy cafes, attracting a blend of Northwestern University students, local families, and professionals. The area is generally safe, walkable, and well-connected by public transit.
Howard Street CorridorThe Howard Street Corridor is a bustling commercial strip featuring a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. It serves as a social hub for the community, especially popular among Northwestern students and young adults looking for diverse dining options and nightlife.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:30–21:00
Tuesday16:30–21:00
Wednesday16:30–21:00
Thursday16:30–21:00
Friday16:30–21:30
Saturday10:30–14:30, 16:30–21:30
Sunday10:30–14:30, 16:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →