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Categories: Beer, Wine & Spirits, Irish
Neighborhood: LakeviewPaulina (Brown)
Mon-Fri. 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Sat. 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 a.m.
Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
I have always enjoyed Wilde somewhat, but found the atmosphere to be a bit oh I dunno stuffy? I also feel like the menu is lacking a certain something that I cannot put my finger on. Lucky for me Beckett's entered the picture and needless to say they did something right! The menu has the best things from Wilde along with many new additions that are right up my alley, the atmosphere was friendly and lively, while still relaxed and very welcoming. I love the decor of this place from the high ceilings, to the brick, to the massive light fixtures. I also really dig the low tables in the back and definitely want to sit at one on my return visit. All of this and half price beers every Monday will definitely call me back, though I would not hesitate to return any day of the week. My one complaint really is not their fault, but more a question of appropriate behavior of parents. There was a group that had several small children (isn't this a bar?!) and the parents were letting the kids run around, climb on the tables and brick separating wall, and blow out the candles on the tables. The more I think about it though, I am surprised the staff didn't do anything about this, it was definitely affecting my experience, and I am sure it was not enjoyed by those at the tables that the kids were running around and on. This will definitely not deter me from a return visit but if it is a regular occurrence I think it needs to be addressed.
*Update 11/19: I was just informed by my buddy who lives in the neighborhood of a sign on the front of Beckett's "Kid's Eat Free" Seriously?? It's a bar, the one place you can go to to get away from children! I considered taking off a star just for that but decided that it was unfair. It will however deter me from going to Beckett's during normal meal hours. Jeez is nothing sacred?
My friend at I came to Beckett's on a quiet Monday night after hearing about the half price beer. I had a wonderful experience and already can't wait to go back.
This bar is BEAUTIFUL -- no design detail was overlooked. The furniture is dark wood, the walls are exposed brick, and the black and white photos on the walls are all worth a closer look. We settled in the back area next to the fireplace, surrounded by several bookshelves and a portrait of Beckett himself. Books range from very old, falling apart, nice smelling, and yellow paged to James Patterson novels with the dust cover removed. The cozy chairs and low tables reminded me of being in a library. Huge lamps hang from the ceiling and complete the feel of being in a study.
Our server was a very attentive girl who kept a nice watch on us without hovering. The volume of the place was perfect for a Monday night. We didn't have to scream over the music to hear each other, and conversation from other tables wasn't echoing through the high-ceilinged place because they did their acoustics right. The drink menu features many versions of the Black and Tan, and while I haven't drank a Guinness in years, I discovered my taste buds liked it again. We ordered an appetizer of hot wings, and while the sauce was good, the wings were tiny! That's the only complaint I have about the place. Get some bigger wings!
I'm sure this place gets ridiculously packed like Wilde does on a Friday or Saturday night, and while I wouldn't mind going then, I really enjoyed the quiet, chill atmosphere of a weeknight. The bar is gorgeous and relaxing, and it feels like a place where you could get some writing done.
The last time I was in Beckett's it was Belly's, and I swore to myself that I would never return to that godforsaken place.
Over the summer though I noticed that Belly's had quietly (and thankfully) disappeared and that new place...Beckett's, was apparently taking its place. Although change was welcome I had little hope, the corner of Lincoln/Belmont/Ashland was rapidly transforming into Lincoln Park North and/or Wrigleyville West, and I was hesitant to investigate.
All that changed a few weeks ago when at Wilde, I noticed 15% off coupons for Beckett's. Upon learning that they were sister bars, I decided I had to go, as on the whole Wilde is a real solid bar. Instead of hosting Monday Night Football as usual this week, I opted to invite friends to Beckett's, and I couldn't have made a better choice.
In place of Belly's dirty & disgusting interior was a clean, sharp, rustic lounge. Exposed brick, immense overhead lamps, a radiating fireplace, and stocked bookshelves full of some incredible vintage finds.
The service is ever-present and happy to answer any and all questions. The menu is extensive, with some of the best items from Wilde making the trip over (notably the Shepherds Pie and Wilde Burger). Mondays are half price night, although that does little for this bourbon drinker, but works well for my friends.
I was very impressed by my first trip to Beckett's. Sitting by the fireplace, surrounded by bookshelves, exposed brick, and good friends was a fantastic way to spend my night. That being said it was a Monday night, and I can only imagine what would await me were I try to reprise that trip on a weekend. But for a quiet weekday early evening bar/restaurant, I feel as if I may have found a new spot.
This neighborhood is in desperate need of some good bars, so I was happy to hear that the owners of Wilde were putting up a new bar in place of Belly's. I love the feel of the bar from the cozy lighting, to the fireplace in the back, and the books on the shelves (not that I looked through them but it looks fun by the fireplace).
it's a nice change from Belly's. It's a place you can go to and actually hear each other while you eat dinner, drink, and watch whatever game is on TV. I LOVED the beer selection, and will be back shortly to try out a few more on there that I had never heard of (although they are insanely pricey).
The food was just okay for me, but I only had the mac and cheese so I don't know if I'm allowed to really review the food. :) But I will say it wasn't very good--no flavor to it. I did see that they do have a small breakfast/brunch menu so I'll be back to check that out.
I can see myself really digging this place. It no longer resembles Belly's but rather a nice, evening of lounging, drinking and eating yummy food establishment. The cozy interior is inspired by a manor's library complete with a fireplace that will be awesome in the winter!
Now the important stuff, the food. Since being in a group of 6, we were able to sample an ample amount. The food is really good. I am not talking bar food good because it is better than bar food. It is a mere step below The Gage in the food category. I couldn't concentrate on what I wanted to order because I wanted more than 3 things! They had a selection of fries that sounded as good as the next: curry fries, sweet potato fries, beer cheese fries. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered and agreed this place will be a hit with us.
Don't expect $1 bottles or $3 all you can eat hamburger night at this place. It is classier than that. Even though it just opened, I am looking forward on how much more than can improve already on this already great place!
Beckett's is the brand new place in Belly's old spot, and as a nearby resident, I hope to hell they succeed nearly as much as I hoped that Belly would not.
They've put a big emphasis on the decor here, perhaps a bit much in some areas. I've never had the urge to pick up a book in a bar, even when alone (there's some serious zen in solo boozing), and the purposely incomplete brickwork is kind of tacky. But besides that, it's an inviting spot. They must have spent a fortune remodeling this place, and between the woodwork, fireplace, and mirrors, it looks fantastic.
Now on to more important things, drinking and eating. I had the shepherd's pie. This is a dish that's pretty difficult to ruin. No worries; they did not do so here. It probably could have been baked for a few more minutes; you gotta have that potato crust on top to say you've really done it right.
Beer was rather expensive. If you want to go native and order a Guinness, it's $6.25. That's more than I've paid for one anywhere in the city. That figure also leaves you in an uncomfortable tipping situation. For starters, you never, ever leave change alone for a bartender. And you sure as hell don't want to carry change in your pocket, because you're not 10 anymore. This means you're dropping 8 bucks a pint. Guinness is good and all, but this could keep some folks away.
Do not forego dessert here. Try the apple crumb. Not only was it spectacular, it was about the biggest goddamn dessert I've ever had put in front of me. Dinner here was Sunday and I still have apple crumb leftovers three days later.
I haven't been impressed with any of the bars in the neighborhood, but Beckett's has a lot of potential. If they keep playing the Pogues and the Dubliners on their stereo, they've got a regular in me.
Came here on a casual Saturday afternoon with a friend for a few beers and a little catch-up.
It's a nice little place with attentive staff and a pretty nice selection of beers and other drinks.
They had college football on but not blaring like other places so we were able to actually hear each other.
Thanks to the bouncer at The Pony for suggesting this place when we immediately ducked out of there after hearing the game on surround sound.
I am glad Belly's is gone; their clientele was loud and obnoxious. We'll see if Beckett's can class up the block a bit. So far, they are on the right track.
The husband and I ventured here on a Saturday morning to scope out the brunch options. He had the Irish Breakfast and I had the Bangers & Mash. The portion sizes were very large and the food satisfyingly delicious. I hope the rest of their expansive menu is just as good.
Service was great; the hostess was very friendly. One downside were all of the tv's but I suppose that is to be expected, at least they weren't turned up loud.
Restaurant-wise, Beckett's is a nice addition to my neighborhood. I will edit this review after checking them out in a pub capacity.
I got invited to opening night, and it ain't too bad! They have an excellent beer selection, the free passed apps looked fresh and tasty, and the music was great. There are lots of tv for you sports fans and plenty of seating. The interior is a more casual (but still quality) version of Wilde.
Keep up the good work, guys!
Love it. Been here many times, and if it seems to you that it's very similar to Wilde, that's because it's Wilde's sister to the West! Same owners, and same great execution of a great pub. The food is delicious and the staff is extremely friendly. They have an awesome brunch and great drink specials every day. Definitely stop by with a group of friends. I can say no wrong about Beckett's. That is all.
Drinks: A+ / Food: B- / Service: C-
Absolutely awesome Bloody Marys here. The Zing Zang mix is a great start, my favorite, then they add some house mix on top with spices and Guinness.
The fried cod fish sandwich was really great. Perfect beer battered crispiness served on a pretzel roll. The Chicken wrap had way too much sauce on it. And I don't really like how the ranch, bbq and caramelized onions were blending. Too many directions for what could be a simple and tasty wrap.
The bartender was very slow and forgot she was getting things for us from time to time. Said bartender did have a good understanding for how to describe the beers they had and made up for being slow by buying the group a round of shots.
The place as a whole has a good decor. If you're looking for a place to grab a drink and relax or watch the game this could definitely be it.
I couldn't agree more, Beckett's is just what this neighborhood needs! I went there the first Friday night they were open for some dinner and drinks. The waiter was really friendly and knew the menu very well. he told us this was their "soft opening" and that there drink/food specials will be starting very soon. Score.
They have some great beer options, wasn't expecting that so I was pleasantly surprised. The food was good, I had a regular ol' chicken sandwich that was tasty, as were the fries, yumm. The rest of my group had the burgers which they said were really good. Overall the scene was great, a little dark, but perfect for a cool fall night. They could use a few more TV's if they want to draw in game day crowds. A major step up from Belly's!
Anyone familiar with Wilde on Broadway will certainly appreciate this gastro oriented Irish pub. We stopped in during a weekday and were greeted warmly by the host at the door. Grabbed a seat at the bar and were again welcomed by a real Irish woman! Nice bit of authenticity there. One glance at the beer taps tells you they take the beers seriously, and their bottle selection has a few nice surprises as well, leaning towards the Belgians as well as some additional English/Irish faves.
Food menu was quite impressive-a blend of Isles inspired comforty offerings with a few more exotic items thrown in. We ordered some apps including the whiskey wings (cant remember the exact name), the garlic fries and chicken tenders. All arrived hot. Tenders were outstanding - crispy, not too heavily breaded. Fries were good as well. Based on the description in the menu, I felt the wings kind of fell short flavor-wise.
The decor is warm, and inviting, with the traditional low chairs for session pinting in back! All in all, this is a very welcome addition to the neighborhood. I will go back!
watered down verson of belly's...
thank goodness! the interior looks exactly the same except for an added bookcase and fireplace in the back. our server was such a sweetheart - all smiles and very patient as we were too busy chatting it up to make any sort of decisions on food. there aren't any daily food specials which is a shame but 4 of us shared artichoke dip, mushrooms, sweet potato fries and chicken wings. the shrooms were garlicky good-- lightly breaded with panko-crumbs. everything else was just average but maybe their entrees/meat options are better (given it's irish food). my jack and diets were pretty weak. i give this 4-stars for the service, atmosphere and a chance to clean up their drink consistency.
I like Beckett's. The decorate is nice, very warm and inviting. Lots of wood, slate/navy paint, plenty of tables. We were seated immediately and our waitress was very attentive. The menu is good sized, lots of good beers for the bf, about 7 martinis for me and Kara to choose from, lots of food options, dessert, and even brunch.
Kara and I ordered martinis which were just okay (it's no suite lounge) but I'd be willing to try their other ones. I ordered the meatloaf. It was awesome!!! It had great gravy and mashed potatoes, peas and carrots, and great seasoning. My boyfriend loved his chicken pot pie, I thought it was just okay but he liked it so that was good.
My only complaint was that the bartender tried to make one of our vodka presses with a splash of coke. What the hell? Never seen that in my life, ever, but I asked her about it and she remade them and apoligzed so no problems there. The only thing that I'm questioning is this whole dance floor thing. On the sign when you walk in they advertise the bar as a dance spot. I would love it if there was an awesome dance spot in the neighborhood and I know they want to bar to turn out that way but it just doesn't strike me as that kind of place. They were playing some good rock music during the dinner hours and then pop/top 40 after 11. The waitress told us they all want the bar to be a late night dance spot which explains the DJ but they didn't clear the dance floor area ( which is surrounded by books so it seems again bizarre to be shaking it to Lady GaGa). I was tempted to try and start the dancing myself but wasn't quite drunk enough. Either way I'll be back.
I agree with 1st reviewer. This 'hood needed something just like this. I went last night -- great beer and wine list and the comfort food menu is perfect for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Unlike many Irish pubs or "gastropubs" the portions were totally reasonable and not overwhelmingly huge. I had the Shepard's Pie, and it was very very good. Nice chunks of parsnip and carrot and lots of peas. The meat was not greasy at all and I'm pretty sure the menu said it was ground sirloin, so kind of a healthy choice! They did a beautiful job with the decor and the bar. I will be back often!
If you are a fan of the food at Wilde, Beckett's cousin in east lakeview, you will be happy with Beckett's. Some of the same items including the mac and cheese and fish and chips are available. Normal-priced beers are a bit expensive, but they do have specials. Authentic Irish(wo)men working there. The clientele mirrors that of Roscoe Village: an occasional family earlier in the day with kids walking around and some groups of testosterone-driven dudes. All-in-all, Beckett's is much welcomed to the neighborhood for it's solid food and Irish warm wood interior. Cheers!
This neighborhood has been hurting for a decent pub, and Beckett's is the real deal. Lots of delicious beers on tap, great wine list, cozy and big so there will be plenty of room on weekend nights or during Cubs games, and the food is pretty good too -- mostly American comfort and some of the expected Irish dishes. And real Irish people work here. Nice build-out with huge bar, fireplace, old books and a brick half wall that divides the front of the room from the back. Several TVs but all of them on mute so you can watch games but they aren't too interruptive. All in all a nice place. I recommend it -- can't wait for karaoke Mondays.
Owned and designed by Irishmen and it clearly shows. Not a snap together Irish bar owned by an American or a 50 year old Chicago dive with an Irish name. The meatloaf was incredible and the beer selection is outstanding. Could not be more pleased.
To be fair, I haven't yet eaten here. A friend and I came for drinks just to check the place out. We ended up staying from around 2pm until the Bears game ended. There's a corner with a fireplace and bookshelves filled with books! The atmosphere is so cozy and inviting, and everyone around us was having a great time. They also have a back bar (which didn't look busy, but it was Sunday) and a very nice selection of draught beers and bottled beers.
I don't know what Brenden S. is talking about, though. Everyone, myself and friend included, had a drink on front of them at all times. Our bartender always asked if we wanted another before the previous one was finished and I remember hearing a table behind us remarking on how great she was. If it took you more than five minutes and three trips by the bartender, who was very patient with you despite YOUR slowness, to pick a bottled beer, then that's your fault. You're not the only one at the bar, and I think she bought your friends shots for their anniversary or something like it. I agree that she knew a lot about the beers, but she was also very nice and fast. I would come back if the place didn't look so nice just to see her. Keep up the good work Beckett's! I want to come back for dinner soon.
BECKETT'S is going to be awesome! Owned and designed by the same people as "Wilde" The ambiance is AMAZING, the perfect balance of pub/sports bar/comfort/class. Beckett's will be a success, and the food is amazing!
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