The focus may be on billiards at Surge, as staff took a relic of a pool hall and modernized it. But ownership created a welcoming spot where patrons are no longer judged for watching TV or typing on their smartphone. There's coffee, specialty drinks, and pub food.

Years from know, historians will point to the Brickhouse as the one of the catalysts that transformed the area around Wrigley Field. The interiors pay homage to the Cubs with plenty of trinkets and awards. While the beer selection isn't vast, the food is tasty and dependable.

Kentucky fans know about the Pony, a festive spot to root for the Wildcats. The decent bar menu and fan-centric drink specials make this a good choice for sports fans.

This Wisconsin and Kansas bar in Bucktown is always packed. It's also a popular setting for TV's Chicago Fire. Ownership is the Pioneer Tavern Group, which is responsible for Frontier and Ina Mae Tavern.

Illinois fans know about this multi-story, cavernous venue. It’s big on table reservations, so impress friends and reserve one to catch the action. The place morphs into more of a club vibe with live music at night. There’s a lot of good people watching. This is not an intimate spot.

Bounce Sporting Club wants to mix bottle service with sports, and it’s brought a formula that's been successful from New York to River North. It don't take itself too seriously with Flaming Hot Cheetos-dusted chicken wings and other eccentric items.

The ownership behind John Barleycorn has evolved with a quirky spot in River North that lets customers throw darts while eating whimsical pub food. Point and Feather is not what customers expect in the buttoned-up River North area.

This classy Hubbard Street bar encourages table reservations with loyalties to Georgetown and Kansas. One of those teams is relevant. Theory's got a tasty menu and wonderful service.

Table tennis and brackets make for a fun time in the Loop at AceBounce. The downtown location has plenty of screens to watch the games and food with a global influence.

This gastropub offers an extensive beer list for thirsty fans that love college, but don't want to eat or drink like they're still a student. No cheap ramen or red plastic cups here.

An expansion of the mini chain from the DC/Maryland/Virginia area, customers know this spot is serious about the tournament because of the name. Locals are fans of the chicken wings here.

Hopefully one’s favorite team is feeling the luck of the Irish at this popular Beverly Irish pub. Irish-inspired bar food with popular Irish beers will have patrons feeling the luck as well as this little joint will be airing the most popular games.

Jolly Pumpkin, a popular Michigan brewery, has left its mark on Hyde Park with its sours and pizzas. It's only been open for a few months but it feels very welcoming.