FitzGerald’s

Came here randomly for a concert I wanted to see. It was a little confusing figuring out where to enter because there are multiple entrances to different buildings all located in the same vicinity.
My friend and I arrived super early and were pleasantly surprised by how big the show room was. We ended up grabbing something to eat at the strip mall right by Fitzgerald’s and by the time we got back the place was packed. We stood all the way in the back but still were able to see the band performing pretty well.
Not sure if I will ever have a reason to come back here but I wouldn’t mind if I had to. They do have a parking lot but it was full when we got there; plenty of street parking.

Definitely had a great meal wonderful people’s and great misic. This is the place to be.

Been here for a couple shows — nice intimate setting (although there is a pillar about ²⁄₃ of the way back in the room that can lead to a blocked view if you sit in the back). Super cheap drinks (3 beers, one old fashioned, 25 dollars…), nice vibe.

Out enjoying some rock and blues before my big gig down the street @ Waffles and Peace! Really loving this space, acoustics, massive bar, and night out. Two birds with one stone tonight for the win!

Ok so I grew up in Oak Park and this past Friday wanted to listen to some music so suggested Fitzgerald’s to my friend. After a $ 20 Über ride from Hinsdale, we hung out in the side bar for a bit and then went to check out the main bar and was greeted by the bouncer who I now cringe at the thought of. We were hesitant to go in because it was a $ 20 cover and did not know of the band but he put on the hard sell, talking about the great band Lonnie Brooks that was going to be playing and assured us that if we couldn’t find a seat, he’d help with that. He wouldn’t take a credit card (wondering, hmm, is he pocketing it?) and my friend didn’t have cash so I paid for both of us, now up to $ 60 before the night even really got started. We wandered around looking for a seat unsuccessfully and then asked this bouncer if we could pull up a couple of stools to the bar since it was completely empty and he said no because they leave the bar open for people to get drinks, kind of strange we thought, but he brought us over to a few bar stools in the middle of the room with some coats on it and told us we could sit there. Ok so far so good. So the band started and they were great and we were having fun dancing and the band makes an announcement for requests. So I went up and requested Uptown Funk, to which they replied no and then Play that Funky Music White Boy which also got a no. Ok I’m 54 so maybe even though these songs to me are fun to dance to, maybe not their thing. So I texted my son in NOLA and asked him for a suggestion of a great jazz/​blues song and he texted me one and now, and in hindsight to my great regret, when the song the band was singing ended went up and asked them for this one. They again said no and I went back to my seat since I had just ordered my second glass of wine for the evening when all of a sudden the bouncer is standing next to me and in front of a room full of people and tells me «You are disrupting the performance.» Now I go to black ties and fancy galas regularly and will admit this bar scene is a little new for me (in the middle of a divorce after 27 years of marriage) so I was instantly totally shocked, hurt and kind of confused and super humiliated. So after a moment’s thought I say «Hey, just so you know, the band asked for requests and that’s what I was doing.» He replied with «You know I’m the one who got you these seats. You don’t even care about the show, you are talking on your cell phone.» Was it because we were dancing and having fun and not sitting in our seats that he approached us? There were certainly other people also dancing. Were we blocking the view of the people sitting behind us? Then why do they put a dance floor in front of the seats? Why not just put a big sign when you enter that there is no dancing allowed! We would definitely have walked away. At this point I just wanted to get out of there, I was so embarrassed at my age to be reprimanded by a bouncer for «inappropriate behavior??» Then I said to him that we would be leaving and he rudely replies «That would be good» and walks away. So we left there and left my $ 9 glass of wine ($ 7 plus tip) on the counter. I spent almost $ 100 for an evening at Fitzgerald’s to basically be humiliated. The band asked for requests, I didn’t go up there uninvited. I wasn’t talking on my cell phone, I was just texting my son to get a name of a fun song to request. There was no sign that said «No dancing during performance.» So I would basically say that if you are an outgoing person, don’t go here. If you like to dance to great music, don’t go here or sit in your seats quietly, that’s ok too, just not for me I guess. They eliminate the opportunity to socialize by removing all the bar stools and leaving just tables. Use your cell phone with caution. And by all means if the band asks for requests, DON’T DO IT!!! The band won’t play your requests and the bouncer is watching and waiting to embarrass you in front of everyone if you do make a request.

I’ve been here a couple of times to see shows, and I love the throwback vibe that makes it feel like you’re going home to the place you grew up in. But this weekend, we had a chance to attend a wedding (yep, ring, officiant, the whole thing!) and reception at FitzGerald’s. First time I’ve had a rum and coke in my hand DURING the wedding ceremony,
I really like the 21^st century, things are changing for the better (in some ways)! But I digress…
It was open bar the whole time we were there for beer, wine and well drinks. Which means, of course, I over-​served myself. Fortunately, the reception dinner we had was OUTSTANDING. So I was able to build a base that prevented a serious hangover the next day.
Everything from the bruschetta to the fried calamari to the pasta to the tiramisu cake and almond cookies for dessert was delicious. Staff was on their game, and I think everyone had a great time.
I highly recommend putting FitzGerald’s on your list of venues if you are planning something special.

Coming as I did from the city it was quite a trek to get here on the Blue Line. This was more than redeemed by the top-​notch experience that I had at FitzGerald’s for the launch of Tony Fitzpatrick’s collected columns and artwork, Dime Stories. Organized by Curbside Splendour Publishing, the Sunday (funday) afternoon blowout included hot dogs by Hot Dougs, book signings and a chance to schmooze with the author, and live jazz. Not only that, but wine and beer were on the house, courtesy of the author. The service was friendly and there is even an outdoor patio area in addition to the traditional setup indoors. The seating is plentiful and the venue feels less like a nightclub or lounge and more like a rec room or friend’s home that just happens to feature musical entertainment and a well-​stocked bar. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and will remember this venue favorably for the next time an event is held here.

My first time there. I went to see a show. The American music festival. The show was in the tent. I’m glad it wasn’t too hot out. The sound was good. The drinrks were pricey for the size and strength. You know it’s weak when you can’t taste any gin! I would go back under the right conditions. Bring Sarah Potenza back soon!

I have to say I’ve never seen a bad show at Fitzgeralds. They bring in a great variety of top acts in the area. And, their drinks are inexpensive, great waitresses (who will bring you a water with no attitude), lots of seating, comfy nightclub/​with a few bars. Always feels homey. Frequently, you’ll see the singers– after their show – go join an act in an adjoining place… like you’re in New Orleans or something and they jam. Where else would that happen? They have 3 possible performance places-​Sidebar, Main Bar, and another side bar area that is next to Sidebar. They also frequently set up heated tents (nice ones) for events. Street parking but usually you can find a space. Capri Restaurant next door is great and you can bring food in since Fitzgeralds does not serve food.
I like it – a great value and the owner is frequently present.

I have been at Fitzgeralds about a half-​dozen times now and each time it gets better. The place has a friendly vibe. The stage location puts you up close no matter where you are in the room. There is also a very quaint back bar that we recently discovered that is worth checking out. There are a few other bars on the Roosevelt Road strip in Berwyn like Friendly Tap that are good to stop at for a pre-​fitz cocktail.

If you are a fan of well made classic cocktails, definitely check out Side Bar on Wednesdays. I believe they offer their classic cocktails most nights but Wednesdays encompasses classic cocktails and some pretty awesome Jazz. The staff is awesome and the bar is normally populated with friendly people and quiet ambiance.

I had the pleasure of going to Fitzgerald’s last week for their open mike night in the, «Club». What a great time! Some of the musicians were just outstanding. The audience was polite and cordial. The staff was great, and the sound guy was phenomenal!
Even better, was that the owners had no problem at all letting us video our performance! What a riot!
Thanks Fitzgerald’s, I can’t wait to come back !!!

I’ve been here once to see a pretty popular surf guitar act and the place was pretty cool. Parking wasn’t too bad but from what I here it can be rough sometimes.

FitzGerald’s got me all nostalgic with the fact that the «Suds Bucket» scene from A League of Their Own was filmed there. I was really excited to head out to see my oldest friend perform in their monthly «Singer Spotlight.»
We were able to easily find a parking spot on Roosevelt. The entrance was a bit tricky, we ended up in the «bar» and not the «nightclub.»
A few things about FitzGerald’s:
1. You can’t tell that A League of Their Own was filmed there. Still cool though.
2. They do not serve food.
3. That’s about it.
Nothing to write home about, but I was excited to be out celebrating and cheering on a friend!

Long time local customers and plan on never going back.
Bottom line were sick and tired of getting tickets only to find that at the last minute they pulled all the seating and tables out. Many of the groups we see are geared for the 50 up crowd. They never mention that on there webpage and I have seen more then one couple only to walk in and see nothing to sit on.
We were just there last weekend and a older couple was really in pain just leaning against the wall that is nuts!
When you ask the help you get the typical so what, or you should of called? What kind of BS answer is that especially when you buy your tickets in advance.
Its insane that the expect you to stand from 7 on till the group comes on usually at 9 or so till the group is over.
Service is bad if you want the food from next door stay away from there as its also not good.
To us the highlights of Fitzgerald’s is there clean washrooms and that is it. The Music Venue is pretty well run down and really in need of a makeover!
From now on were plan to frequent Wire up the street, that has options of buying a ticket that guarantees you a seat if you wish. Plus a very courteous waitstaff and spotless venue

I’ve been a Berwyn resident for many years and have been in once or twice before. In the past, my experience was nothing stellar but nothing poor prior to this weekend. As a person in the performing industry myself, I can really appreciate any bar that supports musicians. And my friends/​family and myself are all passionate about supporting other artists. That’s why my husband and I thought this would be a great place to take our friends and family out to in our neighborhood last weekend. But Fitzgeralds MAJORLY disappointed. Not only was the service incredibly slow but the cover was quite high for later in the evening when we had missed most of the entertainment. And by later in the evening, I mean 9:30 pm. Because that’s when the place starts winding down on a Saturday night. But worst of all, it felt like an exclusive club that outsiders were unwelcome too. The evening ended on a very sour note with one of the owners (in my opinion) discriminating against one of the members of our group for being a little too joyous due to an incident. I spoke with him and explained that not only was the incident an accident, but that we’ve lived in the area for many years and are mostly artists ourselves who are passionate about supporting places like his. I did not want to leave a venue like that feeling so upset. But he LITERALLY shrugged his shoulders at me and said our friend needed to leave and proceeded to tell me that he didn’t care if any of us returned to his establishment. SO…1) a warning to other artists out there. Beware. I can’t imagine that an owner who treats his patrons that way is going to treat his artists any better. 2) If you are under the age of 50 and/​or of any «different» type of demographic, be prepared to be treated poorly and have to wait a very long time for service.
The owner doesn’t have to worry about us returning because we won’t. I’m not sure how they hope to continue growing their business if all young people and anyone who may be deemed as «different» are treated poorly or less deserving of service. I won’t support an establishment run by someone like that. Really disappointing…

After all these years (17) my first time inside Fitzgerald’s was for a school fundraiser, but it will not be another 17 years until my next visit.
The staff here is great and I do mean great. The Bartenders the manager, had occasion to interact with all of them and they are … great. But the draw to this place is the bands they pull in and the great music they offer. I’m a fan.

What a great place! I stopped in to check out trumpeter Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers. $ 25 cover, 9pm show. The venue is standing room only with a House of Blues type feel. It would comfortably hold 250 people but I suspect it was closer to 350 in there. It was packed but a ton of fun.
For anyone who has heard his music, you know he is an awesome entertainer. He plays songs he has written but he throws in songs he may have heard on the radio that day, songs by other artist and even impersonates playing styles of other Nola jazz musicians. When he played «Hey Now» a New Orleans classic & Mardi Gras fav, the crowd went wild. He also played the The HBO series Treme theme song. The melody makes you move. Kermit also brought on Nayo Jones, a singer originally from Chicago but currently living in New Orleans. Nayo sang Living My Life Likes Its Golden, Funny Valentine and At Last. Her voice was amazing and selections covered the spectrum. If that wasn’t enough, the drummer also led a few hits which got the crowd pretty hype. The show was 3 hours long with only one 20 minute break.
The bar carried everything, but most importantly, Angry Orchard. Can beers were $ 3 which is pretty cheap by my standards. The bartenders were attentive and quick on their feet. If you needed a break or space, there’s an outside patio with chairs and tables. And in front, a guy was grilling sausage and barbecue.
I am so happy I gave this place a try. I had a blast and will definitely return.

Visited FitzGerald’s over the weekend to attend their music festival. First reaction entering the venue is it is much nicer than what I had expected. I don’t know what I had in mind, but old dive bar is what I expected.
Everyone seemed to have a smile on their face and I thought service was very good.
The one disappointment I had was with the size of the crowd. I was there from 8pm to after midnight on saturday and although there was a decent size crowd, it thinned out significantly after 9:30−10pm. I don’t know if it was the $ 30 cover. which i thought was steep for the caliber bands they had or the ‘older’ demograhpic of the crowd but it never reach fun festival vibe for me.
I would recommend going to FitzGerald;s if there is a band you know is playing but otherwise I would pass on a random Friday or Saturday night.

After all these years of hearing how I simply *must* check out a show at Fitzgerald’s (and me scoffing at the thought of driving to Berwyn), I finally did just that.
I never really saw much of a reason to drive to the ‘burbs to see a music show; I mean, the City has a ton of great places, right? Well, a recent Tributosaurus show that was a must-​see for me that was only playing at Fitzgerald’s was as good a reason as any.
I’ve foolishly always had it in my head that any place in the suburbs takes at least an hour to drive to, so we arrived at Fitzgerald’s a half hour before the show was to start. Apparently Berwyn isn’t as far away as I’ve led myself to believe. Who knew?
I really ended up liking Fitzgerald’s. Maybe it was the show itself, but I thought the crowd was quite diverse –not a bunch of old fogeys, but also not a bunch of young’uns. And even though this place is not small, it felt quite intimate.
Now I’m certainly no expert, but I thought the acoustics were fantastic. Even while the show was going on, you could still talk to your neighbor without shouting above the din.
Drinks are fairly priced and the service is friendly to boot. Street parking was easy enough as well.
Now that I know how convenient Fitz’s is, I will never turn my nose up again at seeing a show here, and since it’s a pretty regular venue for my favorite band, I’m sure I’ll be back sooner rather than later.