Some bars in Chicago are new and shiny, but one corner spot in Old Town has been pouring drinks and serving food since 1888. It has a tin ceiling, a mahogany bar, and a founder’s passport tucked into the wall.
The menu leans German and Austrian, but one humble side dish keeps stealing the spotlight. A single order of the homemade chips can be big enough for a whole table of four.
Keep reading to learn the story behind this tavern, what to order, when to go, and why it is worth a stop.
A Corner Tavern Where Old Town Begins
Some addresses carry more history than others, and this one carries plenty. The Glunz Tavern sits at 1202 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, in the state of Illinois, United States.
The building stands near the corner of Division and Wells, right where the Old Town neighborhood starts. That makes it an easy stop for anyone exploring the area on foot.
On paper, it is listed as an American restaurant. In practice, the kitchen leans toward a European-style menu with German and Austrian dishes.
The official description sums it up well: drinks and elevated eats in historic digs. The setting matters just as much as the plate here.
Inside, guests find a tin ceiling, a mahogany bar, and hardwood floors. Nothing feels staged or overly polished, which gives the space an honest, neighborhood character.
Locals pass it on their way home from work. Travelers often seek it out because of its long story.
Either way, the place has earned a strong 4.4-star standing from about 300 opinions online. Not bad for a tavern that opened before cars filled Chicago streets.
Roots Stretching Back to 1888
History is not just a talking point here. It hangs on the walls.
The tavern has been part of Old Town since 1888, and it is often called the oldest pub in the neighborhood. The founder brought artifacts from Germany, and many of them are still on display.
One of the most talked-about pieces is the founder’s original passport, set into the wall. Nearby, an original menu shows items priced at ten cents.
The ceiling is said to be as old as the building itself. That detail alone turns a quick lunch into a small history lesson.
Staff members often share stories about the business with curious guests. Some have even offered mini tours, pointing out photos and interesting items around the room.
The tavern is also connected to The House of Glunz, described as one of the oldest wine shops in the country. The family name runs deep in this part of the city.
For history fans, it is worth asking a few questions at the bar. The answers might take longer than the meal.
The Famous Chips Built for a Crowd
Here is the headline act, and it is a potato. The homemade potato chips have built a small fan club of their own.
They often come alongside sandwiches and wraps, such as a Caesar wrap. Yet many guests treat them as the main reason to order.
The portion is the real surprise. One serving has been enough for a group of four to share.
That makes the chips a smart move for groups. Order one basket for the middle of the table and let everyone dig in while deciding on mains.
They also fit the tavern’s relaxed style. Nothing about them feels fussy, and that is part of the charm.
Fans describe them with plenty of enthusiasm. It seems the kitchen knows how to turn a simple spud into a crowd favorite.
Tip for first-timers: ask your server how big the order is before getting one each. Chances are, one will do the trick.
Pretzels, Brats and Schnitzel Sandwiches
Chips may be the sharing star, but the German side of the menu pulls its own weight. Pretzels are among the most mentioned items on the menu.
The pretzel with beer cheese has been called fluffy and nicely salty. It makes a natural partner for the chips at a group table.
The schnitzel sandwich also earns frequent praise. So do the bratwurst and other authentic wursts.
Smoked sausage gets special attention too. Staff have explained that the meat comes from a popular local meat shop.
A cheddar dog in the Käsekrainer style is another nod to Austrian tradition. Potato pancakes show up on the list of favorites as well.
Beyond German classics, there are options like a beet salad with grilled chicken, a chicken sandwich, burgers, and chicken noodle soup with homemade noodles.
Opinions on the mains are mixed, and portions of some sides have felt small to certain guests. The appetizers and sausages tend to win the most fans.
A Drink List With Serious Depth
The drink menu is where this tavern really flexes. Its selection gets more mentions than almost anything else.
The wine list is described as inspired, with bottles that can be hard to find elsewhere in Chicago. That makes sense, since the tavern is attached to The House of Glunz wine shop.
There is also a big liquor collection, with a strong focus on whiskey. Cocktails are on offer for those who prefer something mixed.
Beer drinkers can find a mix of drafts and bottles. Austrian and German options appear, though draft choices change, so it helps to ask what is pouring.
Tuesdays bring a popular deal on wine bottles at half price. Happy hour also earns warm words from regulars.
The staff tend to know their list well. A quick chat at the bar can lead to a pick that suits nearly any taste.
Neighborhood Vibes and the People Behind the Bar
A great room only goes so far without the right people in it. At its best, this tavern feels like a neighborhood living room.
Bartenders have been praised for treating newcomers like old friends. Other patrons are often welcoming as well, which helps strangers settle in fast.
The decor is old-timey but not precious. Guests can relax without feeling like they are in a museum.
It works well for friends meeting up after work, small groups splitting chips and pretzels, and travelers exploring Old Town. History lovers get an extra bonus.
Service experiences can vary, though. Some guests have noted slow attention on quieter nights when staff are juggling bar and table duties.
Being patient and friendly with the team usually goes a long way. Speaking up early about a reservation or a split bill can also keep things smooth.
When the crew is on, the place shines like the polished mahogany bar.
Hours, Prices and Patio Seats
Timing a visit takes a little planning, since the schedule shifts through the week. Mondays are closed.
Tuesday through Thursday, doors open from 4 PM to midnight. Friday runs from noon to 2 AM.
Saturday is the longest day, from 10 AM to 2 AM. Sunday goes from 10 AM to midnight.
Prices generally fall in the $10 to $30 range per person. Food costs have risen in recent years, and the tavern has adjusted its menu prices.
Outdoor patio seating is available, which is a nice perk on mild days. It gives a good view of the Old Town corner.
Groups may want to make a reservation. The kitchen sometimes runs a limited menu, but crowd favorites are kept available.
For more details, the tavern’s website at glunztavern.com is a handy place to check before heading over.
Worth a Seat at the Old Mahogany Bar
Plenty of Chicago spots serve food and drinks. Far fewer can say they have done it since 1888.
The Glunz Tavern blends real history with a relaxed, neighborly feel. The founder’s passport, the old ceiling, and the ten-cent menu give it a story worth hearing.
The food has its highs, especially the pretzels, sausages, and those generous homemade chips. Mains get more mixed opinions, so starters and German classics are a safe bet.
The drink list, particularly the wine, is the tavern’s strongest suit. Tuesday wine deals make it even better for groups.
Service can swing from wonderful to slow, so a bit of patience helps. On a good night, the staff make the visit memorable.
The best plan is simple. Bring a few friends, grab a table, and order one basket of chips for everyone to share.
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