Skip to main content

Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
$ · Wings

41 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
Are you the owner? Claim this business

ZipPicks Awards

Best Wings in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville Best French Fries in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville Best BBQ Ribs in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville Best Happy Hour Wings in Magnificent Mile & Streeterville

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Jake Melnick's Corner Tap 8.9
River North
Vibes: Sports Bar Central Group Dining Gatherings Happy Hour Hotspots Comfort Food Classics
Jake Melnick's Corner Tap is a Near North sports bar best known for its long-running, competition-tested wing program, from Firecracker and Poncho wings to the XXX heat challenge. Since 2002, it’s been a go-to just off the Magnificent Mile for big game days, tap beer, and shareable wing platters.
Must-Try Dishes: Firecracker Wings, Poncho Wings, XXX Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.5 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 9.2 Atmosphere: 7.2 Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A longtime Magnificent Mile sports bar where an award-winning wing program is the main draw.
Who should go: Wing fans who want TVs, beer, and big portions.
When to visit: Evenings and game days when the room is fully buzzing.
What to order: Firecracker Wings, Poncho Wings, XXX Wings sampler.
Insider tip: Ask for a mixed-sauce combo to try multiple wing styles in one order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Downtown location — street parking is limited; most guests use nearby paid garages or rideshare.
Dress code: Casual — jerseys, jeans, and game-day attire are totally fine.
Noise level: Loud during games; conversational but active at off-peak times.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes on busy game nights; faster if you’re flexible with seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait except during major events or conventions.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options — salads, sides, and select non-wing items depending on specials.
Vegan options: Very limited — best to confirm ahead if strict vegan dining is required.
Gluten-free options: Yes — some sauces and wings can be prepared gluten-conscious; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both into sports or casual bar food — it’s energetic, social, and wing-focused rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are common, but expect waits during big games and weekends; bar seating is often easier to snag.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early evenings — casual seating, sharable food, and a lively environment; later hours skew more bar-centric.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, sports viewing, big-portion wing platters, and variety across heat levels and sauces.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, upscale dining, or a menu that isn’t centered around wings and classic bar fare.