The Blackhawks are back in action, and excitement for the season is high - for once. Even if you think a face-off is a bad Nic Cage/John Travolta movie and the blue line is how you get to Wicker Park, you can still enjoy the games (and drink specials) with other fans at one of these bars:
WestEnd Bar & Grill
Part of the Four Corners Tavern Group, WestEnd is a pre- and post-game United Center favorite. If you don't have tickets, you can just hang out in the restaurant and watch the game with other die-hard fans. Daily specials include $4 margaritas on Tuesdays and $6 X-treme fries on Saturdays.
Moretti's (West Loop)
It may be known for its authentic Chicago-style pizza, but on game days Moretti's is sports central. Catch a shuttle to the game, or stay in the huge viewing room full of TVs to catch all the action just blocks from the UC.
Hawkeye's Bar & Grill
Just a stone's throw south of the United Center, Hawkeye's is the Near West Side's sports central. Take a free shuttle to all games, or hunker down for $7 Miller Lite pitchers (along with plenty of other daily specials).
Beer Bistro
You're not drinking the hockey-fan standard cheap light beers here. No, you're trying one of the 130-plus brews on the huge drink menu. Wash it down with $2 burgers on Tuesday and you've got yourself a great pre-game meal.
Bennigan's (S. Michigan)
The recently renovated South Loop restaurant has a much sportier theme and promises the best views on Michigan Avenue from its 22 flat screens. Come in anytime for $15 Coors Light buckets.
Palace Grill
Although you're not going to watch the game here, there's no better place for a quick bite to eat before or after the game. Located just blocks from the UC, the Palace has been around longer than all of us, and serves up some of the best diner food around.