Safe Restaurants/Bars around Soldier Field

Question

There is a small group of us traveling to Chicago for the Taylor Swift Concert at Soldier Field in early June. Some of us have tickets and some do not. In the event some are unable to get tickets, what is a nice and safe spot to hang out close to Soldier Field to wait for the rest of the group that is inside Soldier Field in the concert? Ideally, we would all travel down together before and after the concert - to and from our hotel on Michigan Avenue. Also, it will be a Sunday evening, so the restaurant or bar would need to be open on Sunday nights late. Thanks!

Answer

If you're looking for a safe and fun spot to hang out near Soldier Field while some of your group attends the Taylor Swift concert, you're in luck! There are several great restaurants and bars in the South Loop area, which is very close to Soldier Field. These spots are safe, welcoming, and open late on Sunday evenings, making them ideal for those who aren't inside the concert. Here are a few recommendations:

The Scout Waterhouse + Kitchen: Just a short walk from Soldier Field, The Scout is a laid-back bar and restaurant with a great atmosphere. They have a large selection of drinks and serve hearty American food. The space is comfortable and spacious, making it a perfect place for a group to relax and enjoy a drink while waiting. They’re open late on Sundays.
Mercat a la Planxa: Located inside the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, this is a tapas-style restaurant with a modern vibe. It's an excellent place for a casual hangout with a variety of small plates and drinks. They stay open late, so it’s an option for a longer evening out.
O'Leary's Public House: This is a popular sports bar right near Soldier Field. It offers a friendly atmosphere with plenty of TVs, so your group can catch up on the concert action or just enjoy some time together. The bar has a great selection of beers and classic pub food. They are open late on Sundays, so it’s a good option for a late-night hangout.
Bar Siena: A little further north, but still a short distance away, Bar Siena offers a lively ambiance with a great selection of Italian-inspired dishes and cocktails. It's popular for both its food and drinks, and it's open late, making it a good option for those waiting post-concert.

Additionally, if you’re looking for something with a bit more of a scenic atmosphere, the South Loop area has a number of rooftop bars and lounges that are open late on Sundays. These spots can offer a relaxing and stylish place to relax with a drink while still being close to Soldier Field.

ROOF on theWit: This rooftop bar has amazing views of the Chicago skyline and a trendy vibe. While it’s a little further from Soldier Field, it’s worth considering if you want a more upscale, scenic spot to hang out. It’s open late and perfect for a group looking to unwind in style.

For transportation, you can easily take an Uber, Lyft, or a short public transit ride back to Michigan Avenue after the concert, or simply walk if the weather is nice. Many of these spots are within a 10-15 minute drive of Soldier Field, making them convenient for your group to meet up before or after the concert.

All of these places are safe, welcoming, and offer a variety of options for drinks and food, so whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a drink with friends, you’ll have a comfortable place to relax while the rest of your group enjoys the concert.