🍽️ What to Order

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
The Green Door Burger
Half-pound Angus beef, classic fixings, toasted bun—Chicago’s no-nonsense burger done right.
 $15.00
Reuben Sandwich
Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and house-made Thousand Island on rye. A local favorite for decades.
 $16.00
Fried Pickles
Crispy, tangy, and perfect for sharing—served with a spicy dipping sauce.
 $9.00
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Crispy fried chicken breast tossed in Buffalo sauce, blue cheese, lettuce, tomato, toasted brioche.
 $15.00
Impossible Burger
Plant-based patty with classic burger toppings—vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
 $16.00
Fish & Chips
Beer-battered cod, hand-cut fries, house tartar—classic pub fare with a Chicago twist.
 $17.00
House Mac & Cheese
Rich, creamy, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust—comfort food at its best.
 $13.00

Signature Dishes & Menu Highlights: The Green Door Burger is the star here—juicy, perfectly seasoned, and consistently ranked as one of the best pub burgers in River North. The Reuben Sandwich is another top pick, praised by regulars for its generous portions and satisfying flavors. Fried Pickles and House Mac & Cheese are go-to appetizers for groups, while the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich delivers classic bar comfort with a spicy kick. For plant-based eaters, the Impossible Burger is a legit crowd-pleaser, offering a hearty alternative without compromise.

Expert Analysis: Research shows that guests value the straightforward, well-executed American pub classics—nothing pretentious, just solid food that pairs well with a cold pint. The Fish & Chips is a sleeper hit, and portion sizes are generous across the menu. Prices are moderate for the area, with most mains in the $13–$17 range, making The Green Door Tavern a strong value given its history and downtown location.

Dietary Options & Allergen Info: While the focus is on classic comfort food, vegetarian options like the Impossible Burger and salads are available. Vegan choices are limited, and gluten-free diners may find most options contain wheat (especially breads and fried items). Ask staff for ingredient details—visitors report they’re knowledgeable about allergens, but the kitchen is not certified gluten-free or nut-free.

Takeout & Delivery: Takeout is available daily, and delivery is offered via major platforms including UberEats, DoorDash, and GrubHub. Online ordering is straightforward, but note that late-night delivery hours are limited.

Reservations & Wait Times: No reservations—first-come, first-served only. Expect a wait during peak evening and weekend hours; solo diners and small groups may snag a bar seat faster.

Payment & Tipping: All major credit cards are accepted, but mobile payment (Apple/Android Pay) is not. Standard tipping practices apply; service is attentive and tips are appreciated.

✨ The Experience

🏛️
Historic Pub Ambiance
The Green Door Tavern is the real deal—creaky wood floors, vintage photos, and walls steeped in Prohibition-era lore. The dim lighting and memorabilia create a cozy, nostalgic vibe that’s hard to fake and impossible to forget.
🍻
Friendly, No-Nonsense Service
Service is classic Chicago: direct, efficient, and genuinely welcoming. Staff are pros at handling busy crowds and large groups, keeping drinks full and orders moving without fuss or frills.
🎉
Lively Crowd & Nightlife
Expect a bustling crowd—locals, out-of-towners, after-work groups, and history buffs all mix here. The bar gets especially lively on weekends and during events, with noise levels matching the energy.
🪑
Flexible Seating & Layout
Seating includes classic bar stools, high-tops, and a handful of booths for small groups. The main floor is open and social; for a unique twist, head downstairs to "The Drifter" speakeasy for intimate, themed seating and live entertainment.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Green Door Tavern family-friendly?
While children are permitted during daytime hours, the atmosphere is geared toward adults—especially in the evening and at the downstairs speakeasy. Families are welcome for lunch, but it’s best known as a pub and bar destination.
Does The Green Door Tavern accept reservations?
No, all seating is first-come, first-served. During peak hours (especially Friday and Saturday nights), expect a wait—arriving early or with a small group can help you snag a table or bar seat faster.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options available?
Vegetarian options like the Impossible Burger and salads are available, but gluten-free choices are very limited. The kitchen is not certified gluten-free or allergen-free—always check with staff if you have dietary restrictions.

📖 About The Green Door Tavern

The Green Door Tavern has been a cornerstone of Chicago nightlife since 1921, making it one of the city’s oldest continually operating bars. Surviving Prohibition and decades of urban change, it’s famous for its crooked walls, vintage memorabilia, and the legendary green door—a subtle nod to its speakeasy roots. The tavern has always served as a gathering place for locals, artists, and history buffs, and today it continues to blend old-school hospitality with a lively, modern edge.

What sets The Green Door Tavern apart is its authenticity. You’re not just getting a meal—you’re stepping into a living piece of Chicago’s story. The addition of The Drifter, a speakeasy-style basement bar with nightly entertainment, keeps the spirit of the Roaring Twenties alive. Whether you’re here for a burger, a pint, or to soak in the ambiance, The Green Door Tavern is a true local institution that remains relevant, welcoming, and fun.