🍽️ What to Order

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
O'Neil's Signature Pizza
Hand-tossed, classic Chicago tavern-style pizza with a crispy crust and house-made sauce. Choose from sausage, pepperoni, veggie, or build your own.
 $10.95–$16.95
Wells Street Wings
Jumbo wings tossed in your choice of Buffalo, BBQ, or house-made sweet chili sauce. Served with celery and ranch or blue cheese.
 $12.50
Classic Patty Melt
Angus beef patty, grilled onions, Swiss cheese, and house sauce on marble rye. Served with fries or side salad.
 $11.95
South Loop Salad
Fresh greens, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and shredded cheddar with a choice of dressing. Vegetarian option available.
 $10.50
Fried Pickles
Crispy, tangy pickle chips battered and fried golden. Served with house ranch dip—perfect for sharing.
 $7.95
Gluten-Free Veggie Pizza
Gluten-free crust topped with mozzarella, mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives, and fresh basil.
 $13.95
Draft Beer Flight
Four 5oz pours of rotating local and regional craft beers. Great for sampling Chicago’s beer scene.
 $10.00

O'Neil's on Wells is known for its classic Chicago tavern-style pizza—thin, crisp, and topped generously, making it a local favorite whether you’re a purist or a creative builder. The Wells Street Wings consistently get rave reviews for both flavor and size, and the crowd-pleasing patty melt is a must for burger lovers. For lighter fare, the South Loop Salad offers a hearty and fresh option, and the fried pickles are a house specialty that’s perfect for sharing during games or happy hour.

Prices are budget-friendly, with most main items under $13, and shareable appetizers ideal for groups. The bar’s rotating craft beer taps and affordable flights make it a solid spot for sampling Chicago’s brewing scene without breaking the bank. Vegetarians will appreciate the salad and veggie pizza options, and the gluten-free pizza crust is a thoughtful touch for those with dietary restrictions. While vegan options are somewhat limited, the menu is accommodating—just ask, and the staff will do their best to adjust ingredients.

Dietary accommodations: Vegetarian and gluten-free items are clearly marked. Staff are knowledgeable about common allergens and can provide ingredient details upon request. Note that the kitchen handles wheat, dairy, and nuts, so cross-contamination is possible for those with severe allergies—always inform your server of any concerns.

Takeout & Delivery: O'Neil’s offers both takeout and delivery via major third-party platforms (UberEats, DoorDash, GrubHub), making it easy to enjoy their pizza and pub fare at home or the office.

Reservations & Wait Times: No reservations—first come, first served. Wait times are usually short outside of peak hours (weekday lunch rushes and major game nights can get busy). Arriving before 6pm or after 8pm helps avoid crowds.

Payment & Tipping: All major credit cards accepted. Tipping follows standard Chicago bar/restaurant custom (18–20% is typical for good service).

✨ The Experience

🍻
Neighborhood Bar Vibe
O'Neil's blends the best of a classic Chicago pub—think exposed brick, vintage sports memorabilia, and rock 'n' roll playlists—with the energy of a downtown sports bar. The atmosphere is lively but never overwhelming, making it a welcoming hangout for after-work drinks, game nights, or casual dinners.
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Friendly, Fast Service
Research and visitor feedback highlight O'Neil’s staff as both efficient and genuinely friendly. Even at peak hours, orders are taken promptly and food arrives hot. Bartenders are happy to recommend both beers and menu favorites, fostering a community feel that’s rare in the Loop.
📣
Lively, Diverse Crowd
Expect a cross-section of downtown professionals, sports fans, and neighborhood regulars. The noise level is moderate—enough buzz for excitement, but plenty of space for conversation. Families are welcome, especially during daytime hours, and the crowd skews friendly and inclusive.
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Flexible Seating & Patio
Seating options include cozy booths, high-top tables, bar seating, and a small outdoor patio (prime in warmer months). The layout feels intimate but not cramped, with easy access for those with mobility needs. Groups of all sizes can usually find a spot, though solo diners and couples will feel just as comfortable.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does O'Neil's on Wells accept reservations?
No, O'Neil's operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not take reservations. Arriving early or during off-peak hours is the best strategy to avoid waiting, especially on game days or during weekday lunches.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options on the menu?
Yes—vegetarian choices like the South Loop Salad, veggie pizza, and fried pickles are available, and a gluten-free pizza crust can be substituted on most pizzas. Always inform your server about allergies or dietary needs for the most up-to-date ingredient info.
Is O'Neil's family-friendly?
Absolutely. While O'Neil's is first and foremost a bar, families are welcome, especially during daytime and early evening hours. High chairs and booster seats are available, and the menu includes kid-friendly options.

📖 About O'Neil's on Wells

O'Neil's on Wells has anchored Chicago’s Loop for over three decades, building a reputation as a true neighborhood institution. Family-owned and operated, the bar is rooted in Chicago's hospitality tradition—serving downtown workers, sports fans, and visitors with the same welcoming spirit since day one. Its walls are lined with Chicago sports memorabilia, local art, and nods to the city’s deep musical heritage, creating a space that feels both timeless and uniquely local.

What sets O'Neil's apart is its commitment to community. The bar regularly hosts game-day gatherings, charity events, and neighborhood celebrations, doubling as a social hub for regulars and newcomers alike. The food menu reflects both comfort and quality, with signature pizzas, classic American bar fare, and plenty of local beer on tap. Despite the prime downtown location, prices remain some of the most accessible in the area, reinforcing O'Neil's reputation as a “local’s local” in the heart of the city.