The Foundry may just be the ultimate sports bar. Housed in a former movie theater, the enormous space contains "Great Wall" of 18 12-foot projection screens, small TVs at individual booths (which diners have control of), off-track horse betting, shuffleboard, pool, darts, outdoor sand volleyball, and of course, alcohol and bar food. It's the perfect place to post up for a day with multiple sporting events (think March Madness or NFL Sundays). The bar/restaurant also hosts live bands on some weekend nights, which can mean a $5 cover charge.
The Foundry is located on the Naperville-Aurora border just west of the Fox Valley Shopping Center. It has multiple levels and seating areas that make it possible to bar hop without ever walking outside. On the lowest level, right near the "Great Wall," there's the Foundry Bar. This is the most active area, and the big screens are front and center. Just up the stairs, you'll find the Foreman's Platform, which feels a little more like a restaurant with a bar, tables and the TV-equipped booths. And finally, the upper level is home to the classy Trio Room, which features a copper-top bar, nice furniture and a gas fireplace. But no matter where you choose to sit, there's no escaping the Wall.
The food and drinks are a bit pricey, but how else do you expect this place to pay its gas and electric bills? You can get a basic burger or chicken sandwich for $7, but appetizers like spinach artichoke dip and nachos come in at $9. If you're a sports nut who lives in the area, it might be a good idea to buy into the mug club for $15. The giant take-home mug can be filled with Miller Lite for $4 or Guinness for $8.
Centerstage Reviewer: Jim Collins
