In our efforts to thoroughly cover the Blackhawks playoff run, we hit three sports bars before Game 2 in search of fans preparing for what is hoped to be an extended post-season.
Hawkeye's on Taylor displays the Indian in the front window, and there were no shortage of fans just south of the United Center more than five hours before game time.
The Third Rail Tavern is located just east of the U.C., at 1133 W. Madison St. They advertise as being 'Hawks headquarters for the playoffs. On this particular night, they were offering fans half-price martinis- but I'm not convinced 'Hawks fans are really the martini crowd, but if it floats your olive, check it out:
http://www.thirdrailtavern.com
Then there's the old standby, the bar that remains the same despite the sport or the season- or the decade for that matter. It's the Billy Goat Tavern- this one conveniently situated on Madison and Ogden. Owner Sam Sianis shows up on big game days, for after all, in his words: "Remember..No Pepsi, Coke. No Fries, Cheeps. The Blackhawks are good to me!"
http://www.billygoattavern.com
What 'Hawks hangouts are good to you?
Where's the best place to head before or during the game?
