Mad River Bar & Grille: User Reviews

The bouncers are a joke.
By Wrigles from Wrigleyville, June 1, 2009

Overall rating:

If you're looking to be treated rudely by bouncers from the beginning of the night to the end feel free to check this place out. Recently went there for a bar package for a friends birthday, the bartender was extremely friendly and she made decent drinks (the only reason this place gets any stars at all). The bouncers on the other hand either really hate their jobs or are on a monster power trip. The end of the night was my favorite, while waiting outside after close to hail a cab we were told to leave so of course we explained we were waiting for a cab - they responded with "you can get a cab down the street" (umm public sidewalks). They gave us attitude up until we finally got a cab. We did nothing to deserve to be treated the way we did. This was in addition to the 'tude we got while we were inside the bar throughout the night. This is only the second review I have written after living in Chicago for 5 years, my friends and I will not return to this ridiculous bar unless they either teach these bouncers some manners or hire new one's.

Good times!
By Choconut76 from River North, January 10, 2009

Overall rating:

Went here last night for the first time. They played a variety of fun music - which I think is key. We got there early and by the place was packed by 10:30. Their Waffle fries were awesome (and mini burgers were tasty too). Will definitely go back:)

There is no way its better than 1
By steveinlakeview from Lakeview, October 10, 2008

Overall rating:

Service is BAD...i dont just mean bad - i mean....my friends tried to warn me and I was still suprised by how bad it was. Not to mention its a U of M bar.

Great Neighborhood Spot
By Maggie from Lakeview, June 18, 2008

Overall rating:

Big Place and very cool ski-lodge decor and good vibe. I was there on Thursday night and the place was crowded but comfy. We all had a great time because of the DJ and the dancing! They do a nice job of keeping the younger crowd out at the door and although we had to wait in a small line-I will be back. I didn't eat but the food looked yummy.

Don't waste your time
By CMikes from West Hollywood, June 2, 2008

Overall rating:

With the huge array of bars in this neighborhood, don't waste your time with this one. Weak drinks and the worst type of bouncers are the name of the game at Mad River.

Awesome
By keithbecks from lakeview, October 28, 2007

Overall rating:

What a great spot. I have been here quite a few times over the past month or so, and I recommend going for sure. During the week, this place is the best bar to grab a drink with friends or a date. Such a relaxed atmosphere. On the weekends, the line can be kind of long, but with such cute doorguys I'm not complaining!!!! This place rocks!!!

Fantastic Experience found in lincoln park
By DSW from Lincoln Park, October 9, 2007

Overall rating:

Couldn't ask for a better weekend hangout. Patrons are good looking and (including the bartenders) and out to have a good time. Find Rodney or Erin if you want to make it a truly memorable experience. Highly recommended.

LONG LINES___________________________I HATE BEING USED...
By Too Bad from Chicago, IL, June 7, 2007

Overall rating:

LONG LINES___________________________I HATE BEING USED BY DOOR GUYS TO MAKE MY BAR LOOK "COOL" EVEN THOUGH THERE IS NO ONE THERE!!! TOTALLY BOGUS! Bad service and weak drinks---and i mean weak--not even an ounce! Skip this bar and skip the line!

Lots of fun! I love...
By Kerry from Chicago, IL, May 10, 2007

Overall rating:

Lots of fun! I love the mid-week at Mad River. I'm there for trivia night on tuesdays. lots of good prizes and a fun time. Excellent wings and also love the salads.

I have been coming into...
By Bill from chicago, il, May 8, 2007

Overall rating:

I have been coming into Mad River over the last few weeks. I usually come in with friends and watch a game and grab a bite. I think the food is really good. My only complaint is that the place gets really crowded. It is really popular and gets alot of volume especially on the weekends. Overall I think it's a solid place to catch a beer and games-the place is HUGE and has plenty of TV's and big booths to chill.