Theory - Chicago

American, Vegan, Wine
Menu
Full menu with pictures, prices and categories.
Reservation
Reservation request for Theory.

Theory

Theory
4.5 / 5 (6468 reviews)

Description

Theory, located in the heart of Chicago, IL, is a vibrant American restaurant boasting an impressive rating of 4.2 stars. Open daily from 11:30 AM to 11:59 PM, it’s the perfect spot for a delightful meal. To ensure you secure a table, be sure to call ahead at (312) 644-0004 for reservations. If you'd prefer to enjoy your meal at home, you can conveniently order from Theory through OpenTable. Don’t miss their enticing happy hour drinks that add to the experience. If you're exploring similar dining options, consider visiting Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub or El Hefe Chicago. We’d love for you to share your dining experience with us! Leave a review!.

Last update: 06.04.2026 from: Omar

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★ 4.5 / 5 from 6468 reviews
adam-g-chef7953
04.11.2023

Wow my first time at 'Theory ' in River North, and I 'm very pleased. That was just about the best tomato soup and grilled cheese that I 've had. Three types of cheese, tomato and onion, thick, fresh bread... yum! My wife had the Southwest salad and she loved it. The pineapple cider to drink was delicious too! The Cookie Skillet for dessert was enough for four to share a hot cookie and cold ice cream make for a pretty amazing combination! My wife and I had the kids with us for dinner, and the music was a touch on the loud side but it is a bar, after all. Prices are reasonable, but a touch on the high side for some items. Wonderful service we all loved our server, and hope to see her again the next time we 're in River North!

jay-w-mechanic5211
04.11.2023

We were in Chicago for the weekend and wanted to watch the Iowa Hawkeyes play football vs Minnesota Gophers. So happy we found Theory! This place was rockin!! Full of Iowa fans. We had pulled chicken quesadilla and couple of drinks. The staff was so darn friendly and into the game also. It was as if I was in Iowa City and not downtown Chicago!!

t-teacher3
04.11.2023

Great Sports bar to watch fights. Plenty of Big screen televisions everywhere. Good food. Bar food served after dinner.. Full bar up downstairs.

omar-sultan-3
01.03.2026

Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

mandile23
01.03.2026

Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Price per person: $20–30 Recommended dishes: Boneless Wings, Sliders, Tater Tots, Quesadillas, Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Wings, Fries, Buffalo, Tots, Theory Burger, Grilled Cheese Parking options: Paid street parking

Menu

  • Shared Plates

    Mini Pretzel Bite Platter
    Mini Pretzel Bite Platter

    with queso

    $25.4
  • Passed Plates - One Bites

    Kill Bill Shrimp (20)
    Kill Bill Shrimp (20)

    crispy shrimp tossed in a bang bang thai chili sauce / buffalo

    $45.7
    Caprese Skewers (10)
    Caprese Skewers (10)

    fresh mozzarella; cherry tomatoes; basil pesto

    $20.3
  • Food Menu

    Mask Melter
    Mask Melter

    cajun grilled chicken; grilled jalapeño; avocado; pepper jack cheese; romaine; brioche bun

    $15.2
  • Rbi's Slammin' Specialty Apps

    Chips Homemade Guac
    Chips Homemade Guac
    $25.4
  • Burger And Sandwiches

    Theory Burger
    Theory Burger
    $16.3

FAQ

A little farther located is CTA-Lake, where you can also access the public transportation.

The restaurant offers free WLAN for its customers.

You can watch major sporting events on a screen / TV right in the restaurant.

The restaurant and its rooms are wheelchair accessible and thus usable with a wheelchair or physical limitations.

You can also pay for your meals with the common credit cards.

More information

Suggested nearby restaurants.