Will's Northwoods Inn

On Wisconsin!! This is the closest you are going to get to being in a Wisconsin Bar without actually being in Wisconsin. The food is great, the beer is cheap and game days for the Packers or Badgers are like none other. Be prepared to be cheek to cheek with the best fans in all of sports as it tends to get packed. I recently waited outside in 20 degree whether with more than 100 other people for almost an hour to get in when the Packers made the playoffs. This bar is more than worth the wait. If its a big game be prepared to arrive at least 6 hours early if you want to guarantee yourself a bar stool or table. Will's is definitely a little piece of God's country in the heart of Lakeview.

This is my go to favorite bar. Haven't been to any of the Packers events but my BF is a huge fan, so it's inevitable.

The food I've had there.
BLT - Great.
Tater tots - Great.
French fries - Great.
Chicken sandwich- Not...great...pretty bad. Probably just an off day...?

Today i decided to go in and try the southern food they have. A Wisconsin bar in Chicago, wasn't expecting TOO much.

Chicken gumbo - Surprisingly actually really good. I prefer seafood gumbo but not being in NOLA or actually in the gulf, chicken is a good idea. The flavors were great, not TOO spicy but a nice bite, tasted authentic enough! My only complaint is there's too much STUFF in it, peppers, onions, celery, large chunks. If they made it the same but smaller dices, and less stuff, it'd be amazing! Served with the rice on top too. I was pleasantly surprised with it's flavor and authenticity.

Fried pickle spears - I've had better. They were still pretty great (how can you go wrong?) But the pickles were a little shriveled and there was too much breading.
Still good.

Next up, must try the poutine!!!

The service has always been decent-good. No complaints!  Came in with my dog and they didn't allow dogs inside (understandable) but did on the patio. Despite it being January, they served me out there (it was 52 degrees though!) And were nice. It was actually great sitting out there, just me and my dog, with a pipping hot bowl of gumbo, popcorn, a beer and control of the flat screen tv. Love this place. Love love love the free popcorn.

The place to watch Wisconsin sports.  Cutesy vibe and friendly staff.  At halftime they have a fun raffle.  Totally reasonably priced and reasonable, inexpensive food.  However be prepared for the crowds which is probably stating the obvious - as in make sure you never go to the bathroom, which is obviously a challenge, or someone will take your seat.  Also the drunk shenanigans at the end of the game are a bit much unless you are absolutely annihilated.  Don't go out of your way to come here if you aren't watching sports.