The stalwart of Lincoln Park's watering holes, The Field House, isn't calling it quits just yet.
Previously announced to be closing permanently by its own staff via an Instagram post, the sports bar that has catered to Cleveland Browns fans for over three decades, will continue to pour pints under new ownership. Chicago's own Nick Ivey, current co-owner of HVAC Pub and a fixture of Wrigleyville's bar scene, has purchased the dive at 2455 N. Clark Street, as first reported by Chicago Eater. The bar was previously helmed by longtime owner, Patrick Maykut, who rejected offers from his own staff to take over the establishment,
While the doors will briefly close for renovations, the establishment known for its "cold beers and crunchy floors" will retain its essence, Ivey has assured. The planned refresh includes a new garage door and spruced-up space, with doors reopening for a St. Patrick's Day event. "It’s a dive bar — we’re not going to turn it into a nightclub or anything like that," Ivey said in a statement obtained by Chicago Eater. Despite intentions to maintain the bar's divey charm, a new cocktail menu is also in the works.
Ivey, who is partnering with 8 Hospitality Group's Carmen Rossi and one of HVAC's bartenders, Savanna Haugse, aims to give the staff new opportunities, according to the bar owner's plans detailed by Chicago Eater. "What we’re looking to do is totally the opposite," Ivey stressed, distinguishing The Field House's future from his music venue-oriented venture, HVAC Pub. Amid the shock, from the bar's staff over the change in ownership, community reception to the sale has been positive, with Ivey eager to keep the community meeting place’s momentum going.
Details on the duration of the closure and the extend of the remodel have yet to be confirmed, with more news anticipated in the weeks ahead. But for fans of The Field House and its uniquely divey atmosphere, it seems there's still life left in this beloved Lincoln Park sports bar.
