You know that feeling when you walk into a place and just realize everyone there is actually watching the game? Like, really watching it. Not just glancing at a screen while picking at a lukewarm appetizer. That’s the vibe at Play Book Ultra Sports Bar. It’s tucked away in the Roseland neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, specifically at 348 West 115th Street. Honestly, it’s one of those spots that feels like a neighborhood secret even though the secret has been out for a long time.
If you're looking for a sterile, corporate environment with neon signs that look like they were bought in a "sports bar starter kit," keep driving. This isn't that.
The Reality of Play Book Ultra Sports Bar
Most people find this place because they’re tired of the downtown price gouging. They want a place where the sound is actually turned up for the Bears or the Bulls. But there’s a nuance here that most generic reviews miss. It’s an "ultra" bar, which in Chicago parlance usually means they’re trying to bridge the gap between a gritty corner tavern and a polished lounge.
It works.
The interior is surprisingly sleek. You’ve got these deep blue lights and polished surfaces that make it feel more upscale than your average South Side dive. But the heart of it is still the community. It’s the kind of place where the person on the stool next to you has a very strong opinion about the coaching staff, and they aren’t afraid to share it.
What You’re Actually Eating
Let’s talk about the food because, let’s be real, a sports bar is only as good as its grease factor. The menu at Play Book Ultra Sports Bar doesn't try to reinvent the wheel. You aren't going to find truffle-infused foam or deconstructed tacos.
What you will find are wings that actually have a crunch.
The "Playbook Wings" are the standard bearer. They aren't those tiny, sad wings you get at some chain spots that feel like they came off a pigeon. These are substantial. People swear by the lemon pepper and the buffalo, but the real ones know to ask for them "hard fried" to ensure that skin stays crispy even under the sauce.
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Then there are the burgers.
They’re thick. Juicy. Usually served with fries that actually taste like potato. It’s comfort food designed to soak up a few rounds of drinks while you’re yelling at a referee on a 70-inch screen. Is it healthy? No. Is it exactly what you want on a Sunday afternoon? Absolutely.
Why Location Matters Here
Location is everything in Chicago. Roseland has its reputation, sure, but Play Book stands out as a beacon of the local business scene. It’s a Black-owned establishment that takes pride in its footprint. You see it in the security—they take it seriously. There’s a dress code sometimes, especially on weekend nights, which keeps the vibe "grown and sexy" rather than chaotic.
They have a parking lot.
In Chicago, a dedicated parking lot is basically a love letter to the customers. It removes that 20-minute ritual of circling the block, hoping you don't accidentally park in a permit zone and end up with a $75 ticket from the city.
The Game Day Experience
If you’re planning to go during a playoff game or a big rivalry match, you have to get there early. This isn't a suggestion. If you show up at kickoff, you’re going to be standing near the door.
The layout is intentional. Screens are everywhere. You don’t have to crane your neck or squint.
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- The main bar area is the high-energy zone.
- The booth seating offers a bit more "private" viewing if you’re with a group.
- The audio system is loud. Not "I can't hear myself think" loud, but "I can hear the pads popping on the field" loud.
The "Ultra" Side of Things
Where the "Ultra" part of the name really kicks in is after the sun goes down. On Friday and Saturday nights, the energy shifts. The sports might still be on the TVs, but the music turns up. It becomes more of a social hub.
They do events. Comedy nights. Live DJs. It’s a chameleon of a venue.
One thing that surprises people is the drink menu. Usually, at a neighborhood sports bar, you’re looking at a choice between three light beers and a basic rail drink. Play Book Ultra Sports Bar pushes a bit further. They’ve got a solid selection of cognacs and tequilas that you’d expect at a much more expensive lounge in the Loop.
Things to Keep in Mind
Look, no place is perfect. If you’re coming from the North Side or the suburbs, the drive is a trek. You’re committing to the trip.
Service can be a bit slow when the house is packed. That’s just the reality of a popular local spot. The staff isn't a bunch of robots; they're people managing a crowd of hungry, thirsty fans. If you’re in a rush, don’t go on a Friday night. Go on a Tuesday for a random regular-season game when you can actually chat with the bartender and get your food in fifteen minutes.
Also, check their social media before you head out. They’re active on Facebook and Instagram. They’ll post about private events or specific cover charges for big fight nights (UFC or Boxing). Nothing ruins a night like driving 30 minutes only to find out there's a $20 cover for a pay-per-view event you didn't want to watch.
Navigating the Menu Like a Pro
If you want the "insider" experience, don't just look at the pictures on the wall. Ask about the specials. They often have drink deals tied to whatever local team is playing.
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- The Catfish: Surprisingly good for a sports bar. It’s seasoned well and doesn't feel like it’s been sitting in a freezer since the 90s.
- The Cocktails: If you aren't a beer person, their "strong" pours are legendary. You get your money's worth.
- The Sides: The okra. Seriously. If you like fried okra, it’s a sleeper hit on the menu.
Actionable Takeaways for Your Visit
If you’re ready to check out Play Book Ultra Sports Bar, here is the play-by-play on how to do it right.
Plan your arrival. For NFL Sundays, arrive at least 45 minutes before the noon games start if you want a table with a clear view of your specific game.
Respect the Vibe. Follow the dress code. Generally, this means no excessively baggy clothing or work boots on weekend nights. Keep it clean, keep it sharp.
Bring a Group. This is a social venue. It’s okay to go solo and sit at the bar, but the energy of the place is best absorbed with three or four friends who care about the score as much as you do.
Check the Calendar. If there is a major boxing match or a UFC card, expect a crowd and likely a cover charge. If you just want a quiet beer, avoid those nights.
Tip the Staff. These folks work hard in a high-volume environment. Being a "regular" here starts with being a good customer.
The reality of the Chicago sports scene is that many places have become overpriced tourist traps. Play Book Ultra Sports Bar remains one of those few spots that feels authentic to its neighborhood while offering a level of quality that justifies the "Ultra" in its name. It’s loud, it’s proud, and the wings are worth the drive.
Stop by the next time the Bulls are playing or when you just need a solid meal in a place that feels like real Chicago. It’s worth the trip to 115th Street. Just make sure you’re ready to cheer—or vent—depending on how the fourth quarter goes.
Your Next Steps
- Verify the current hours: Before heading out, check their official Google listing as hours can shift based on seasonal sports schedules.
- Follow their social media: Look up "Playbook Ultra Sports Bar" on Instagram to see their daily food specials and event flyers.
- Coordinate your transport: If you plan on diving into that tequila list, ensure you have a ride share app ready, as the South Side can have longer wait times for pickups than downtown.