Where to Watch March Madness in Chicagoland

It's that time of year again when sports lovers and basketball enthusiasts alike gather around the TV for March Madness. Though it started on March 13, there's still plenty of time to head out to join other sports fans before it ends on April 2. 

While you can watch the basketball tournament from the comfort of your Springs apartment, it's also fun to watch the game with a group of people in a high-energy setting. Here are the 5 best places around Chicago to catch March Madness:

1. Oak Street Restaurant and Bar

They say Oak Street is where "food and sports collide" in North Aurora, which makes this the perfect spot to catch the game and enjoy a good meal. The restaurant prides itself in serving quality food at affordable prices and features a number of specials throughout the week, such as half-price burgers on Mondays. Oversized TVs take over the bar area, so there's not a bad seat in the house to watch the game. 

2. Pub 56

Pub 56 is loaded with oversized high-definition TVs and offers a selection of more than 40 different domestic and craft beers. Favorite specials throughout the week include $0.59 wings on Mondays, half-price pizza on Wednesdays and $2 drafts on Thursdays. If you're on a budget, subscribe to their email newsletter for a $10 coupon. 

3. Benchmark

Benchmark has one of the best covered patios in Chicago, making it a great destination to catch a daytime game. The creative twists on your favorite bar food pair well with the casual atmosphere that Benchmark offers. If you're meeting up with a large group, call ahead to reserve a private room featuring flat screen TVs and accommodating up to 25 seated guests. 

4. Dark Horse Tap & Grille

This bar is a big gathering spot for Maryland fans living in Chicago to watch the tournament. The Dark Horse is known for its beer garden (covered and heated) and offers 24 beers on tap. The restaurant has great deals throughout the week, such as $0.50 wings on Tuesday, $2 tacos on Wednesdays, and half-priced appetizers on Thursdays. With prices like that, it makes sense to venture out to catch the game at Dark Horse. 

5. Mongo McMichaels

Mongo McMichaels is one of the best sports bars in suburban Chicago and is a great place to watch any local sports team. Mongo, the owner, is a member of the 1985 Bears team and is there just about every Sunday. Big screen TVs are located throughout the restaurant, which gives patrons a good view of the game from just about any seat in the house. The pizza, burgers and wings are sure bets for a good meal. 

Where is your favorite place around Chicago to watch the March Madness tournament? Please leave your suggestions in our comments section below.

Editor's note: This post was originally published on 3/6/17 and the content has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.