Seemor
The VIG Old TownB+Worth Trying
1527 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
· Restaurant, American restaurant, Bar
· 4.7/5 Google (3605 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Old Town spot with strong cocktails, popular burgers and salmon, upbeat service, and clubby energy; good happy hour value but noise, reservation friction, and an added 3% fee can frustrate.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The VIG Old Town delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by well-executed burgers and salmon, paired with attentive service and a lively Old Town setting. However, inconsistent execution and operational friction during peak hours—crowding, host interactions, and noise—prevent a higher grade. Worth visiting for cocktails and pre-show dining, though expect variable experiences depending on timing.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a polished bar, DJs, and screens for the game. Guests praise upbeat servers and bartenders, noting, "Service anticipated what we needed without hovering." However, noise climbs fast and some host interactions feel rough at peak. The cooking leans elevated American comfort with creative accents: a well-loved house burger, crisp fried chicken, and salmon cooked right. Global notes like harissa, peri peri, and kimchi yogurt pop up, signaling a modern bent without full-on experimentation. Cocktails are a draw, though prices reflect the prime Old Town address. Families can make this work thanks to kid-friendly staples—burgers, fries, chicken parm, and mac—plus salads and a vegan torta for diverse tastes. That said, the lively volume and evening DJ scene may be intense for very young kids; earlier visits are more relaxed.
At a Glance
- Lively pre/post-show spot with strong cocktails
- Burger and salmon earn consistent praise
- Loud music and crowded bar during peak hours
- 3% surcharge appears on some checks
- Seating/host friction reported on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- happy_hour_oyster_deal
- pre_show_location_advantage
- bar_program_with_classic_cocktails
What People Love
- Energetic vibe that feels like a night out
- Bartenders who guide drink and food choices
- Happy hour deals that feel like a win
- Comfort food delivered with polish
Points of Concern
- Noise and DJ volume can be high; not ideal for quiet conversation
- Host/booth placement disputes and reservation wait friction at rush times
- 3% surcharge reported by multiple guests; ask before paying
- Isolated but serious complaints about service attitude and alleged profiling—management awareness needed
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose burger or salmon for reliable mains
- Leverage HH tacos, eggs, and oysters for value
- Vegan diners: try Mexicali Torta and cauliflower steak
Perfect For
- Pre-show dinner near The Second City or Zanies
- Friends night with cocktails and shareables
- Casual dates that do not need quiet
- Happy hour grazing at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Historic Old Town corridor with busy nightlife, comedy clubs, and young professional crowds.
Safety: Generally active and well-trafficked; late-night bar energy can feel rowdy to some.
Nearby: Near The Second City, Zanies, bars and boutiques; strong pre- and post-show traffic.
Old TownOld Town is characterized by its charming historic architecture, boutique shops, and a lively dining and nightlife scene. The area offers a mix of casual and upscale restaurants, attracting a diverse crowd looking for trendy eateries and classic Chicago experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–00:00
Tuesday17:00–00:00
Wednesday17:00–00:00
Thursday17:00–02:00
Friday12:00–02:00
Saturday10:00–03:00
Sunday10:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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