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Best March Madness Drinks and Eats

Posted on March 21, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
The Iowa Hawkeyes' Caitlin Clark and Illini's Makira Cook

How will Iowa star Caitlin Clark fare in the tournament? (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)

Wondering where to cheer on your alma mater during March Madness? Chicago bars have you covered with special deals throughout the tournament.

The West Lakeview bar kicks off the tournament with a tip-off party this week, Sweet 16 happy hour next week, and an Elite 8 party at the end of the month. Be sure to grab the $25 Corona buckets, $4 drafts and $5 house wines.

Stop by the Hyde Park sports bar for hot honey sliders, blackened chicken sandwiches, and more.

Spend your lunch break at the Fulton Market food hall catching the latest games and ordering from different vendors.

University of Illinois Fighting Illini guard Terrence Shannon Jr.

University of Illinois Fighting Illini guard Terrence Shannon Jr.

The Brighton Park pub is sharing food and drink specials Thursdays to Sundays throughout the tournament. If you went to the bar earlier this week, hold onto your poker chip representing one of the competing teams! You could win a prize — even a consolation one.

Through April 8, head to the New Orleans–inspired pub in Wicker Park for $45 po’boy platters, $25 buckets, and $4 Old Styles on game days.

Tired of bar food while rooting for your favorite teams? The Little Italy restaurant is serving up different lasagna specials this week. Eat a bolognese or sausage lasagna.

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