Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Chicago, IL

North America

United States

# Tommy's On Waukegan – Dive Bar and Restaurant in Chicago, IL
Tommy's On Waukegan is a beloved dive bar and restaurant located in Chicago, IL, known for its casual atmosphere and hearty American fare. With a focus on burgers and traditional bar food, Tommy's has been a local favorite for years. The establishment is recognized for its welcoming environment, especially on lively nights when the bartender Carla adds a personal touch to the experience. Despite some recent challenges, including fluctuating food quality and service issues, Tommy's remains a staple in the community, attracting both regulars and newcomers alike.

## History
### The story of Tommy's On Waukegan
Tommy's On Waukegan was founded with the vision of creating a neighborhood gathering spot where locals could enjoy good food and drinks in a relaxed setting. The bar has a rich history that resonates with the community, serving as a backdrop for countless memories and social interactions over the years.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a local dive bar, quickly gaining popularity for its burgers.
- Expanded menu offerings to include a variety of traditional American dishes.
- Became a go-to spot for sports fans, featuring multiple TVs for game days.
- Experienced ownership changes that impacted food quality and service.
- Recently faced challenges with maintaining its reputation amidst rising competition.

### Cultural and local influence
Tommy's On Waukegan has significantly influenced the local culture by fostering a sense of community among its patrons. The bar often serves as a meeting point for friends and families, contributing to the social fabric of the neighborhood. Its presence has encouraged other local businesses to thrive, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the area.

### Continuing the tradition
Despite facing challenges, Tommy's strives to uphold its tradition of being a welcoming dive bar. The establishment continues to host events and gatherings that bring the community together, ensuring that it remains a cherished spot for both old and new patrons.

## Community
### Community involvement
Tommy's On Waukegan actively engages with the local community by hosting events and supporting local initiatives. The bar often features live music, trivia nights, and special promotions that encourage community participation and foster a sense of belonging among its patrons.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Tommy's as a quintessential dive bar, characterized by its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff. While some patrons have expressed concerns about recent service and food quality, many still appreciate the bar's charm and the sense of camaraderie it fosters.

### Events and gatherings
Tommy's regularly hosts events that cater to a diverse audience, from sports viewing parties to themed nights. These gatherings not only enhance the bar's social atmosphere but also provide an opportunity for locals to connect and enjoy their time together, reinforcing the bar's role as a community hub.

## Offerings
### What Tommy's On Waukegan offers
Tommy's On Waukegan offers a range of food and drink options that cater to various tastes. The menu features classic American dishes, with a particular emphasis on burgers and bar snacks. The bar also provides a selection of affordable drinks, making it a popular choice for casual outings.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Tommy's is characterized by its no-frills approach, focusing on hearty portions and comfort food. While the quality of food has seen fluctuations, many patrons still rave about the burgers and the generous servings of sides, such as fries and tots. The casual setting allows for a relaxed dining experience, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

### Events and packages
Tommy's offers various event packages for groups looking to celebrate special occasions. Whether it's a birthday party or a casual gathering with friends, the bar provides customizable options to accommodate different needs, ensuring a fun and memorable experience for all attendees.

### Facilities and features
- Casual dining area with bar seating
- Multiple TVs for sports viewing
- Outdoor seating (if applicable)
- Friendly and welcoming staff
- Regular events and themed nights

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Tommy's On Waukegan reveal a mix of experiences, with patrons highlighting both positive and negative aspects of their visits. The bar's atmosphere and community vibe are frequently praised, while concerns about service and food quality have emerged in recent feedback.

### Compliments and strengths
Many reviews commend the friendly staff, particularly the bartender Carla, who is noted for creating a fun and welcoming environment. The affordability of drinks and the generous portion sizes of food are also frequently mentioned as strengths, making Tommy's an attractive option for budget-conscious diners.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
On the flip side, some reviews indicate a decline in food quality and service, with patrons expressing disappointment over smaller portion sizes and inconsistent service. The bar's ambiance, described as a classic dive, may not appeal to everyone, leading to mixed feelings among visitors.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Tommy's On Waukegan remains a popular dive bar in Chicago, known for its community atmosphere and affordable offerings. While it faces challenges in maintaining food quality and service consistency, the bar's charm and local support continue to draw patrons looking for a casual dining experience.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Tommy's On Waukegan is conveniently located at 9005 Waukegan Rd, Morton Grove, IL, just a short drive from downtown Chicago. The surrounding neighborhood features a mix of residential and commercial areas, contributing to the bar's local appeal. Visitors can explore nearby parks and shops, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring the area.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Tommy's serve** American cuisine with a focus on burgers and traditional bar food
**Is there outdoor seating available** Yes, Tommy's offers outdoor seating for patrons
**What are the bar's hours of operation** Tommy's typically closes early, so check local listings for specific hours
**Does Tommy's host events** Yes, the bar regularly hosts events and themed nights for the community
**Is parking available nearby** Yes, there is parking available in the vicinity of Tommy's

## Visit Tommy's On Waukegan Today
Experience the charm of Tommy's On Waukegan, a dive bar and restaurant in Chicago, IL, known for its hearty burgers and friendly atmosphere. With a rich history and a commitment to community involvement, Tommy's offers a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy affordable drinks, classic American fare, and a casual environment that makes it a perfect spot for gatherings and celebrations. Whether you're a longtime patron or a first-time visitor, Tommy's invites you to come and enjoy all it has to offer.

526cacc0-a991-4dcf-b6b8-784b0b78da22

The bartender Carla makes it a fun experience on Thursday n Sunday nights! From Football, Hockey and she plays fun music by asking customers for their favorites!! She makes everyone feel welcome!!

f8a3cf27-b407-4517-b4ca-465d47fc6539

Solid spot I like this place. Food isn't bad, and fun to hit for dive bar drinks. Real blackhawks horn inside the bar. Lot of old alcoholic weirdos though in there 6.5/10

c90b4144-d6ee-4ce2-887c-cf344b6e074f

Ok food,stay away from the slots they are extremely tight! 100 hundred max bet spins one losing bonus and a 20 dollar bonus are very common here.

3c703f1f-bd78-44f8-bef1-348053956864

Tommy's was our fav neighborhood dive bar for years. Amazing burgers and reasonable beer prices. But lately it has taken a dive and not in a good way. Beer prices have climbed up. The waitstaff has also suffered from incompetence. The new cook who replaced Tony is inadequate. He merely goes through the motions when creating the sandwiches. Maybe the owners have told him to scale back the quality. The burgers have shrunk in size and lost their appeal. The fries are 1/3 of the portion that they used to serve. Even the pickles spears are cut into slivers from the previous serving size. Sadly we will find a new hangout and take our business elsewhere.

70fbad8d-905c-4308-9262-b4f802e8075b

Good food good service just the building needs some remodeling Good ppl I highly recommend this place

48aedeb4-8179-49cf-a8bf-96c276712153

Went here with two really good friends. They invited me last minute and this place is so close to my house that It went unnoticed by me for the longest time. Overall the place is a HUGE dive. It lacks any design or appeal what so ever. Went here rather late and only 1 bartender was serving 2 people at the bar and us three seated at a table. Other than the rude waitress the kitchen closes at around 10pm. The waitress lacked emotion for her job and failed to mention her name. In my opinion choose a different bar and keep driving passed this place as if it never existed.

46aa3dba-3841-4f77-acd5-0bb08ce888fc

Vert Kind staff. Chill spot for drinks and get togethers. Open late which is great.......

83aba414-3cbf-4d81-b46c-324804d3393c

Tommy's is definitely a locals only type of bar. Walking in feels like you're peering into the window at Cheers. Although you'd assume that the service would be average at best for newbies, our server was very friendly and helpful. We ordered a BLT, which was much larger than expected and the cole slaw was shockingly good, plus they included a crap load of tots with our sandwich. The drink prices seem lower than average and I can't I can't believe that they were offering $3 16 oz cans of Miller Lite on a Saturday. If you're looking for cheap drinks, decent bar food, and a couple of TVs to catch the game on a Sunday afternoon, then Tommy's is certainly the place.

c14a2bdf-d2dd-479a-97a6-7e48d40f9f15

What a terrible bar! First of all, this place is always super empty. My friends and I (3 middle-aged moms) went last night after having a few drinks at our place first. It was only before midnight and we walked to the bar since we live a few blocks away. It took a while for the bartender to even acknowledge us although there was only three customers in the bar. On a Saturday night. At 11:30. She then proceeds to say she can't serve us because she thinks were too intoxicated and she's pretty certain one of us drove there, which we did not! Completely ridiculous. Yes, we did walk in with beer cans that we walked over with, but threw them away when we got there. Yes, we were loud when we came in, but we were looking to have fun, not experience such rudeness. No wonder this place is always empty! How do they even stay open?

0a0007bd-f4fd-4642-8c29-aa4f321e37b7

Great food here. Bu dont expect to stay late. They close early with half a dozen people in the bar.

Discover Tommy's On Waukegan in Morton Grove, Chicago for delicious local cuisine. Experience a cozy dining atmosphere and enjoy your meal today.

Tommy's On Waukegan - Top Restaurant in Morton Grove, Chicago

Morton Grove

Tommy's On Waukegan

Illinois

Enjoy a memorable meal at Tommy's On Waukegan in Morton Grove, Chicago. Savor unique dishes and friendly service near local attractions. Book now!

Experience Delicious Dining at Tommy's On Waukegan, Morton Grove

Learn about Tommy's On Waukegan in Morton Grove, Chicago. A cozy spot offering delicious food, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Discover more!

About Tommy's On Waukegan, Morton Grove, Chicago

Opening hours for Tommy's On Waukegan, Morton Grove. Find opening hours for Tommy's On Waukegan, Morton Grove on 9005 Waukegan Rd.

Tommy's On Waukegan Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Tommy's On Waukegan

Friends House Bakery & Restaurant

Thick Chick

Las Fuentes Restaurant