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# Bat 17 – A Premier Sports Bar and Restaurant in Evanston, IL

Bat 17, located at 1735 Benson Ave, Evanston, IL, is a vibrant sports bar and restaurant that offers a unique blend of American cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Known for its delicious sliders and extensive menu, Bat 17 has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a history rooted in community engagement and a commitment to quality, this establishment has evolved to cater to a diverse clientele. Patrons appreciate the friendly service and the inviting ambiance, making it a popular spot for gatherings and celebrations. Whether you're looking to catch a game or enjoy a meal with friends, Bat 17 promises a memorable experience.

## History
### The story of Bat 17
Bat 17 was founded with the vision of creating a welcoming space where sports enthusiasts and food lovers could come together. The establishment aims to provide a casual yet engaging environment, perfect for enjoying games and socializing over great food. Over the years, Bat 17 has become synonymous with community spirit and camaraderie, reflecting the values of its founders.

### Milestones and growth
- Relocation to a new building on Benson Ave
- Renovation to enhance the dining experience
- Expansion of the menu to include diverse offerings
- Establishment of a loyal customer base through community events

### Cultural and local influence
Bat 17 has played a significant role in the local culture of Evanston, serving as a gathering place for sports fans and community members. The bar's commitment to showcasing local events and sports teams has helped foster a sense of belonging among its patrons. By hosting various community events, Bat 17 has solidified its position as a cornerstone of local entertainment.

### Continuing the tradition
As Bat 17 continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of community engagement and quality service. The establishment frequently updates its menu and events to keep pace with changing tastes and preferences, ensuring that it remains a relevant and beloved destination for both new and returning customers.

## Community
### Community involvement
Bat 17 actively participates in community initiatives, often collaborating with local organizations to host events and fundraisers. This involvement not only strengthens community ties but also reinforces the bar's commitment to being a responsible and engaged member of the Evanston area.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Bat 17 as more than just a restaurant; it is seen as a hub for social interaction and entertainment. Many locals appreciate the bar's efforts to create a welcoming environment, where everyone can enjoy good food and sports. However, some reviews indicate that noise levels and service inconsistencies can detract from the overall experience.

### Events and gatherings
Bat 17 hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including game nights, live music, and special promotions. These gatherings not only attract regular patrons but also draw in new customers, showcasing the bar's vibrant atmosphere and commitment to community engagement. The establishment's ability to adapt its events to the preferences of its clientele has contributed to its ongoing popularity.

## Offerings
### What Bat 17 offers
Bat 17 boasts a diverse menu that includes a range of American dishes, from sliders to salads, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. The bar also features an extensive drink menu, including craft beers and cocktails, making it a go-to spot for both dining and nightlife.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Bat 17 is characterized by a casual yet lively atmosphere. Guests can enjoy their meals while watching sports on multiple screens, creating a unique blend of dining and entertainment. The menu features popular items like sliders, sandwiches, and salads, all crafted with fresh ingredients to ensure quality and flavor.

### Events and packages
Bat 17 offers various event packages that cater to groups looking to celebrate special occasions or host gatherings. These packages often include food and drink options tailored to the needs of the group, making it an ideal choice for parties, corporate events, and sports gatherings. The flexibility of the event offerings allows for a personalized experience for each group.

### Facilities and features
- Multiple large-screen TVs for sports viewing
- Full-service bar with a wide selection of drinks
- Outdoor seating area for al fresco dining
- Private event space for gatherings
- Friendly and attentive staff to enhance the dining experience

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Bat 17 reveal a mix of experiences, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the establishment. Many patrons praise the quality of the food and the friendly service, while others express concerns about noise levels and service inconsistencies during busy times.

### Compliments and strengths
Customers frequently compliment the delicious food, particularly the sliders and unique menu items. The bar's ambiance and friendly staff are also noted as significant strengths, contributing to a positive dining experience. Additionally, the establishment's commitment to community involvement is appreciated by many locals.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many reviews highlight the enjoyable food and atmosphere, some customers have reported issues with noise levels, particularly during busy game days. Additionally, there are mentions of service lapses, such as long wait times for checks or inattentive staff during peak hours. These contrasts suggest that while Bat 17 has much to offer, there are areas for improvement.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Bat 17 is regarded as a solid choice for those seeking a lively sports bar experience in Evanston. The combination of great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and community involvement makes it a popular destination. However, addressing service and noise concerns could further enhance the overall experience for patrons.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Bat 17 is situated in Evanston, a vibrant neighborhood just north of Chicago. The address, 1735 Benson Ave, Evanston, IL 60201, places it within easy reach of various local attractions, including parks, shops, and cultural sites. The area is known for its community-oriented atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a sports bar that values local engagement. Visitors to Bat 17 can enjoy not only the food and drinks but also the rich cultural landscape of Evanston.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Bat 17 serve** Bat 17 offers a diverse menu featuring American cuisine, including sliders, sandwiches, and salads.

**Is Bat 17 family-friendly** Yes, Bat 17 welcomes families and offers a casual dining atmosphere suitable for all ages.

**Does Bat 17 host events** Yes, Bat 17 hosts various events, including game nights and live music, throughout the year.

**What are the hours of operation for Bat 17** Bat 17's hours may vary, so it is recommended to check their website for the most current information.

**Is there outdoor seating available at Bat 17** Yes, Bat 17 features an outdoor seating area for guests to enjoy al fresco dining.

## Visit Bat 17 Today
Bat 17 invites you to experience its unique blend of American cuisine and a lively sports bar atmosphere in Evanston, IL. With a commitment to quality food and community engagement, this establishment has become a local favorite. Whether you're looking to catch a game, enjoy a meal with friends, or participate in community events, Bat 17 offers something for everyone. Come and discover why so many patrons rave about their experiences at this vibrant spot!

69a8f177-c5d1-45cc-9017-407528830341

Great sliders and huge portions, had a very nice time with my friends, and my handsome boyfriend

6a66a05d-b2d2-42de-9d30-131ea0ad9ff5

Horrible place. Noisy until 2am, constantly people smoking on the sidewalk by the door, the worst neighbors, very anti-community EDITS AT OWNER'S REQUEST: owner says I called the police. I did not. Owner is lying. Owner says I called to threaten them. I did not. Owner is lying. Owner rented space and allowed rentees to break multiple ordinances. Owner is rejecting consequences of their choice. Owner is an irresponsible business owner. Bad owner, bad.

7d7307f8-ced0-4969-80a5-fa789e88542c

In short, the food was great, but I wouldn't come back here. Why? We came on a hot day and there weren't many other patrons at the time. I suppose the staff felt like this gave them free reign to just...not work? The entire time we were there, one guy was yapping away, swearing, making fun of someone, ragging on a colleague who was going to be late because of the extreme heat, and generally being obnoxious. He (behind the bar) and the guy he was talking to (friend? Colleague? Unclear) were also SO loud that my fiance and I couldn't even talk to each other! Ridiculous. When we finally wanted the check, the waitress had vanished; I got up and found her chatting in the hall with two other girls. I get that when there aren't many people in your workplace you probably don't feel like working, but all this honestly killed our experience of dining out that day. Again, the food we had (breakfast sliders, wedge salad and and a sandwich) were good, but the service/ambiance were so off-putting that we wouldn't return.

9b2806b4-cbee-4d26-b922-3b74c9f3423d

Bro. They sent me a burned vegan chicken sandwich... And some red potato salad. I am 48 years young, and I have never in my life seen red potato salad. What the fuck???

333c36c2-09d1-494a-a2b3-09621cbbced4

Bat17 was a little disappointing on our most recent visit. We wanted a sports bar at to watch a Big10 basketball championship game. We remembered Bat 17 from previous visits and had really liked it. Since then, it relocated down the street. New location is fine. A bit more sterile. We sat in the side room, hoping for sound. No sound on their tvs so that's a bummer when you actually care about the game. Maybe it was like that before, too? The food is still good. We split the Roadhouse Chicken sandwich and, as before, they let us each choose our own side. Appreciate that. Our server was very friendly when she came around, but there were times we were waiting to be checked on, etc. We also had a weird interaction with the bus boy. The other bummer is that they used to have tons of beers on tap. Now just 4. I'd say the food is still good but other factors made this a miss for me.

c3a86d23-5df6-4abd-bf51-c44433f706cb

Back in Evanston and back at Bat 17. They moved several buildings to the North on the same street fyi. The taking care of business is hands down the best thing here but we tried the Brooklyn Bambino and the Tyler Durden cheesesteak as well. The Bambino was ok but the cheesesteak is my second favorite thing on the menu. Sweet potato fries and Tots were good also.

eca39f21-2e2f-473e-b746-200d83247112

Used to come here all the time when i lived in Evanston and adored this place. I came back while in the area to check out their new location and the renovations look amazing. It used to give college sport bar but now they really snazzed up the place, as the interior is gorgeous and it feels more like a sit down restaurant. Don't get me wrong, they still have plenty of TVs and a bar if you want to watch games here. I got a classic, as I started with the pig skins. You can never go wrong with these - The skins of the potatoes are so crispy and they are loaded with toppings. The BBQ sauce and ranch that come with them compliment them well. The K2 burger was good - the meat was juicy but a small complaint is that there could've been more toppings to match the patty. The bacon was extra crispy and i'll give them some points for that. The sweet potato fries are waffle style and are great. The staff was attentive and so friendly. After awhile they started i think open night mic or a singer was performing - not 100% sure. While in concept I love this - live music is wonderful for the community. In this instance, the mixing was pretty rough and the girls microphone was way too loud. We finished our food and we're going to chill a bit but it got to the point where we decided to leave due to the issues. So while I hope they continue this, the sound really needs to be tested beforehand. (This was last month i dined in so this could've been fixed by now). I appreciate the update Bat17 has done and will continue coming back here for a reliable meal in the future.

7cdfb020-0a21-4dca-af9a-f3d8267ce11b

Call yourself a sports bar? With a Bears game on your TVs, you decided to have 90's 2000's pop music playing softly instead of the game call. Why?

4c18525b-4367-44c1-bab6-6aa774387c68

Drink great food, food like big in Texas no joke so true. Staff are amazing, great and has value. It can get loud on game day overall you can enjoy watching a fun game.

1df91610-9d7e-44bd-938d-017f07aa825f

The cocktails and food were one of the best I've had. Nice ambiance, good service and great food.

Discover Bat 17 in Evanston, Chicago—an inviting restaurant offering delicious food in a cozy setting. Book your table now for a memorable dining experience.

Bat 17 in Evanston, Chicago - Cozy Dining & Delicious Food

Evanston

Bat 17

Illinois

Enjoy a fun-filled visit to Bat 17 in Evanston, Chicago. Savor delicious food, watch sports, and relax in a lively atmosphere. Book your experience today!

Experience Bat 17 in Evanston, Chicago - Unique Sports Bar & Dining

Learn about Bat 17 in Evanston, Chicago. A popular spot for sports fans and food lovers alike. Discover our story and what makes us special.

About Bat 17 in Evanston, Chicago - Your Local Sports Bar & Eatery

Opening hours for Bat 17, Evanston, Chicago. Find opening hours for Bat 17, Evanston, Chicago on 1735 Benson Ave.

Bat 17 Menu Overview

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Experimenta el Menú en Bat 17

Downtown Evanston

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