ZipPicks Awards
Best French Fries in River North
Best Happy Hour in River North
Master Critic Review
No Vacancy
7.7
No Vacancy is a sleek, sports-forward bar where the NV Burger, fried chicken sandwiches, and wraps all land with generous portions of curly russet fries. Open late with plenty of screens, it’s a modern hangout for game nights when you want bar food that treats fries as a core feature, not an afterthought.
Must-Try Dishes:
NV Burger with curly fries, Side Chick fried chicken sandwich with curly fries, Loaded curly fries with sauce
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 6.3
What makes it special: A new-school sports bar where curly fries anchor burgers, wraps, and late-night snacking.
Who should go: Groups watching games who prioritize curly fries and drinks.
When to visit: Evenings for games or weekend late nights with full crowd.
What to order: NV Burger with curly fries, fried chicken sandwich, loaded fries.
Insider tip: Grab a high-top near the bar for quickest fry refills during big games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce in River North; expect to use nearby paid garages within 1–2 blocks. No regular valet service reported.
Dress code: Casual and game-day friendly — jerseys, jeans, and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Loud during major games and weekend nights; conversation is easier earlier in the evening or outside peak events.
Weekend wait: 20–45 minutes during big games or late nights; shorter waits outside marquee events.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait when open; check hours as daytime service may vary.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some workable options (fries, select appetizers, salads); menus lean meat-heavy overall.
Vegan options: Limited — fries and a few sides may qualify depending on preparation; confirm ingredients and fry oil on arrival.
Gluten-free options: Limited — no dedicated gluten-free fryer and possible cross-contact with breaded items; ask staff before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both into sports-bar energy — it’s fun and lively, but the noise and big-screen focus make it better for casual hangs than intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — most seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive before kickoff or between game windows for the best chance at a high-top or bar seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Earlier hours can work for older kids and families, but late nights and game rushes skew adult-oriented with louder crowds and bar traffic.
Best For
Better for: Game nights with lots of screens, late-night bites, and hearty bar food anchored by curly fries and big portions.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, refined cocktails, or chef-driven dining — choose a calmer sit-down restaurant instead.
Hours
Monday4:30pm - 2am
Tuesday4:30pm - 2am
Wednesday4:30pm - 2am
Thursday4:30pm - 2am
Friday4:30pm - 2am
Saturday4:30pm - 3am
Sunday4:30pm - 2am