Who We Are
Locally owned and operated since 2008, our passion has always been to serve our customers well. We appreciate your patronage for the past decade and look forward to taking care of you soon. Meet our staff!
sport. dine. lounge.
How it all came to be…
Theory is a sports lounge that prides itself on being better than your typical sports bar when it comes to food, service, and comfort.
Theory has a life of its own that matches the pulse of the River North neighborhood around the clock. During the day, meet colleagues and entertain clients in our generous yet cozy space. After work, gather here to catch the big game, or chat with friend old and new.
As a sports lounge, we pride ourselves on superior food, service and comfort, all while providing a great view of the game from every seat in the house.
9 W. Hubbard
Theory was established in 2008. Joel’s dream of a neighborhood upscale sports lounge became a reality after years of hard work and determination.
Meet our staff!
Joel Sorinksy
MANAGING PARTNER
An entrepreneur at heart, Joel Sorinsky has seen it all in Chicago nightlife. A DJ by the age of 15, he worked as a professional DJ during his college years at The University of Iowa. Joel returned to Chicago to manage a popular sports and music venue upon completing his degree in communications.
After years of shaping his business plan that started from the window of his DJ booth, Joel opened the doors to Theory in December of 2008. A regular presence in the bar, he considers many customers his friends.
A Northbrook native, Joel married his high school sweetheart. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and attending sporting events. Although he is an avid Golden State Warriors fan, Joel remains loyal to all Chicago sports teams. Theory is his first of many lounges to come.
Joel’s theory on what makes Theory great:
“It’s important to me to make a connection with every customer, so they know I care about their business.”
Holly Weidow
EVENT COORDINATOR / MANAGER
With a degree in communications and journalism from the University of Iowa, Holly dove right into her career in event management. Before coming to Theory, Holly worked for a large restaurant group handling events for 8 different restaurants and bars.
Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, Holly thrives on Chicago’s dining scene. Her approach to hospitality is decidedly Midwestern: offering service that is per-sonalized, customized, flexible and built on client relationships.
In the summer, she can be found working Theory’s booth at various street festivals or volunteering for several non-profit organizations.
Holly’s theory on what makes Theory great:
“I know that people who walk in this door are going to be treated extremely well. There is no judging, no pretension.”
Jared Johnson
GENERAL MANAGER
Jared’s first foray into the restaurant world was busing at a Greek family restaurant at the age of 16. Since then, he’s served in almost every role in the industry, and can’t imagine doing anything else.
A Michigan State grad with a degree in general business, Jared has managed bars in Lansing, MI and Chicago’s Wicker Park. A native of West Bloomfield, MI, Jared still roots for all teams from his home state
Jared’s theory on what makes Theory great:
“Theory is unique, we play to the interests of our customers. It’s basically like throwing a party every single night of the week.”
Brian Houle
MANAGER
Hailing from Lawrence, KS, Brian got his start in the restaurant business by serving and cooking in the kitchen. He gained experience and moved up to manager at a local country club.
Brian decided to move to Chicago to pursue a degree in music. He describes himself as a “music junkie” that enjoys working on music and going to concerts. In addition, he also has past experience managing at a music venue.
As the late night manager at Theory, what Brian loves most about his job is the sports vibe of the lounge and meeting new people every night. In his spare time, Brian also likes cheering for his Kansas Jayhawks, playing golf, or a night out on the town.
Brian’s theory on what makes Theory great:
“There is a sense of family here with the staff and customers… I love introducing new, younger customers to the lounge.”
Steven Silva
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Steven was raised in New Jersey. He moved to Chicago and attended Kendall College for culinary training. Shortly after, he decided to take an opportunity to move to South Carolina to help open up a restaurant and sports bar. Eventually, Steven moved back to Chicago where he seemed destined to work at Theory.
As an Executive Chef, he loves the creative freedom he is given to change the menu. Steven prides himself on perfecting a variety of brunch options, appetizers, and American cuisine.
Steven also proudly served 4 years in the United States Air Force, completing 2 tours of duty in Iraq. Despite being a lifelong Yankees fan, he also supports the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks.
Steven’s theory on what makes Theory great:
“We treat everybody that walks through the door like family. Pair that with great food, drinks, people, atmosphere… and you have a place to be proud of coming to work to every day.”
Job Openings
Now hiring for all positions. Fill out the quick form on the right or give us a call at (312)644-0004.
Wait Staff
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Bar Tender
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Line Cook
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Host/Hostess
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Security
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Food Runner
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Bus Person
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Cashier
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Cocktail Server
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Quick Application
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OUR LOCATION
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