Inside Park & Field, A Vintage Sports Club in Logan Square

The opening buzzer at Park & Field, a rare sports bar in Logan Square, should sound soon. It’s a neighborhood that’s not exactly known for athletics. While the handlebar mustaches and hipsters have recently overrun the community, ownership is confident that a combination of elevated bar food, bocce courts and a vintage gym aesthetic will fill a void, bringing together families, sports fans and even vinyl collectors.

Ownership is stressing they’re a club, which not only implies more exclusivity, it also distances itself from typical sports bars and bro-holes. It’s like walking into a giant trophy case — everything, including the names of the drinks, tie in somehow into a nostalgic sports memory, with memories of pommel horses, unitards and too-short basketball shorts. Owner/chef Dave Nalezny formerly cooked at Luxbar in the Gold Coast, and he’ll serve comfort foods and modern spins on bar staples.

But it’s not just about celebrating the past, as there are 10 TVs so fans can root on the present. The seating is made up of communal tables and couches, and the space will also feature a fireplace and a 6,000-square-foot patio with bocce ball courts. The outdoor section will be optimized for next year, though guests have enjoyed the fire pit during friends and family services.

Nalezny is working with his brother Dan and wife, Kitty Izzo. Izzo pulled together an assortment of racquets, trinkets and other goods via eBay, Craigslist and other sources to design the space. They’ve already solicited guests for a New Year’s Eve blowout, and for many it will be their first chance to tour the venue in person. For those who can’t wait or have already booked plans, check out the photos below. They’re still waiting for a city permit, but Park & Field could open as early as Friday at 3509 W. Fullerton Ave.

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