CenterstageChicago.com Presents: Bars + Clubs

Brand-New Bars

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 CST

Need another reason to drink? How about a full roster of them? Just when you thought you had tabs on all the places to get a wet one, another Golden Tee machine is ordered, more Tanqueray is stocked and a new bar opens it doors. Here are some recent scene-joiners to add to your to-drink list, plus some that are on the way.

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Cubs bars | Sox bars

Bottoms Up!

Pay homage to The Shrine
Split into two entities, a stage and mighty loft of a dance floor on one side, and a VIP bottle-service lounge on the other, nightlife impresario Joe Russo aims to create a little something for everybody in the South Loop.

6 Degrees brings us all together
Away from the madness of the Wicker Park epicenter, this meetinghouse suits community-oriented folks preferring boutiques and eco-friendly businesses as neighbors versus the pop-up shops and hipster havens. The room is dim, not gloomy, rectangular and deep versus wide. Prettier than the average bar, attributes involve vases of fresh-cut flowers and a grand mirror netted with hardwood floors, French doors and cradling exposed brick.

Great views from Roof
Located on the Wit Hotel's 27th floor, Roof features an indoor bar and lounge clad in muted greys, whites and blacks, offset by an indoor fireplace and plush seating. If the indoor lounge is understated, it must be because Roof's view of State Street is the best you're going to get without a high-roller job, a helicopter trip or a pricey room in the Wit itself.

Square Bar & Grill fits in well
Giving new meaning to that age-old axiom "be there or be square," Square Bar & Grill is the place in Avondale for beer, burgers and baseball when you don't want to wait in line for 20 mintues (cough cough, Kuma's Corner).

Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery: Best "chestaurant" in town
When you're at a place where the card in the table tent has to remind you that "the food is good, too," your first priority probably isn't eating. This is most certainly the case at the Chicago outpost of the Tilted Kilt, a "chestaurant" more focused on serving an eyeful of cleavage and a gutfull of beer than a plate of haute cuisine.

Three Peas Art Lounge mixes art and booze
The South Loop's Three Peas Art Lounge is exactly what it sounds like: a small gallery that serves up cocktails and coffee to patrons as they peruse art. Founded to support up-and-coming visual artists and bring art collecting to the masses in a casual, comfortable way, Three Peas' small, cozy storefront cafe is lined with large paintings.

Good food, drinks on the way at Baza Sports Club
Once this Humboldt Park hang gets its liquor license, this will become the perfect tavern to watch the game and drink a cold one (it's currently BYOB). For now, the cuisine alone is worth the trip. Baza offers a global menu that includes Eastern European-specialties like borscht ($5), but also Asian items (pork pot stickers, $8) and comida Mexicana (mushroom-goat cheese empanadas, $7).

Foodies, winos unite at Rootstock Wine and Beer Bar
Webster's Wine Bar alums Tonya Pyatt, Johnny Hap and Jamie McLennan have joined forces with local foodies and winos to build this Humboldt Park bar on a mission to fight for sustainability, right that which is bland and serve all the best in beer and wine.

Get amped up at LaSalle Power Co.
The former Lalo's in River North has been refurbished by the owners of English as a tri-level trifecta of food, liquor and entertainment.

See the game and be seen at Market Bar and Restaurant
This snazzy West Loop restaurant and lounge with an outdoor patio, is partly owned by White Sox General Manager Kenny Williams, and the place is popular with Chicago sports stars (some live down the street) ? as well as sexy clientele.

Keep it friendly at Social Twenty-Five
The former Moda in River North gets a makeover, with a sportier edge, but the same trendy designs and chic clientele.

Fill your music fix at 3116 Club
This Garfield Park music club showcases jazz, rock, R&B, funk, reggae, swing, Latin, pop and paintings in a 4,500-square-foot space and is BYOB.

See you at The CrossRoads Bar & Grill
It may resemble a typical sports bar, but the inspiration behind this new West Loop drinking hole ? and the muse for the haunting painting behind the bar ? is an age-old tale of temptation and fate, sin, music and booze.

Moo-ve on over to Cattle Call
The unassuming storefront of this Andersonville bar belies the flamboyant dance/party activities occurring therein. Seven nights a week, themed events like country dancing and drag shows, oldies and retro hold court; providing a neighborhood gathering spot and nightclub in one.

Avila is caliente!
Named for the province of Central-Western Spain, Avila heats up River North with customary Spanish flair. The three-floor space formerly occupied by Club 720 has been redone with Old World charm and New World amenities.

Barely Buzzed

Murasaki
The Gold Coast's Cafe Shino gets new life as a karaoke bar.

The Ledge Bar & Grill
A reasonably priced menu and straightforward drink list highlight this new Bucktown neighborhood hang.

Clutch
Casual bar and cafe opens in an old car repair shop in West Town.

Still Sober

Dream
The former Krem gets new life in Lincoln Park, starting this week.

Mary's Rec Room
Microbrewery next to Hamburger Mary's in Andersonville opens this week.

The Rocking Horse
Beer is the name of the game at this Logan Square bar, which plans to open in early July. The place will have a dozen beers on tap and more than 50 more microbrew bottles.

Cedar Hotel
Summery Gold Coast bar in the old Melvin B's in mid-July.

The Red Canary
Expect a flashy decor and American-themed small plates at this River West lounge in the old Avenue M, expected to open in mid-July.

Division Ale House
Opening in mid-July, Division Ale House will feature a vintage Irish-inspired decor, a menu with Irish favorites and eight draft beers favoring Irish and English brews. You'll also be able to order individual 80-ounce table taps, good for groups.

Patty O'Fegan
This traditional Irish pub will open in the West Loop sometime in July.

Dirty
Ukranian Village's newest bar looks to clean up starting later this summer.

110 West
The beer's the thing here, with more than 100 of 'em on tap at this bar-lounge, set to open sometime this summer.

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Party After Pride

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:00:00 CST
With Chicago's Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade just around the corner (Sunday, June 28 at noon - and don't forget Pride Fest on Friday and Saturday), it's time to start planning the after-party. These local bars, clubs and parking lots (yes, parking lots) have already handled the details, now all you have to do is show up.

Beat the heat at Sidetrack
Established in 1982 with no signs and beer cases as seating, this Boystown bar doubled in size within two years; today it's one of the largest gay pubs in the city. The spacious, steel-clad interior boasts several sectioned-off areas including a swank outdoor patio and a rooftop deck. And while it's bound to be packed on parade day, it's still one of the few bars where your chances of carrying on a conversation are likely. That might have a little something to do with Sidetrack's lack of a dance floor, though the stageless interior has never stopped the club's slick crowd from busting a move. You can even beat the parade heat by watching the festivities from Sidetrack's air-conditioned interior (open at 11 a.m.) while slurping down one of its popular fruit-fueled, liquor-infused slushees.
Disco all day at Crew & Wild Pug
Located in Uptown next to the historic Green Mill, this gay sports bar is just far enough from the parade route to keep things (somewhat) calm. And because nobody wants to miss out on the festivities, Crew will wait to open its doors until after the parade at 3 p.m. To celebrate, the pub will be decked out in a disco theme, complete with dancing at the adjacent Wild Pug bar. But before you hit the dance floor, we suggest fueling up with a little something from Crew's menu, like pulled-pork sandwiches, mini corn dogs or beer-battered chicken strips. Those looking to stay fit for summer can opt for one of Crew's freshly made salads or wraps; we recommend the fire-grilled cobb salad with spicy-marinated chicken or the vegetarian's revenge wrap with grilled black bean patty, veggies and jack cheese on a whole wheat tortilla. But hey, no one's gonna blame you if you head straight for the booze, especially when Crew boasts more than 60 domestic and imported brews like Bell's Oberon, Blue Moon, Delirium and Red Stripe.
Fill your face at Big Chicks
Venture a few blocks north (and a little to the east) of Crew and you'll find Big Chicks, where plenty of men and women come to kick it on Sundays for the pub's infamous free buffet. This Uptown favorite is a bit removed from the parade route, making it the ideal getaway for those looking to escape the madness. But that doesn't mean you're in store for peace and quiet, as Big Chicks is almost always packed with loyal locals.

Bust a move at Berlin
We can't think of a popular gay bar where you won't find at least some trace of dancing, but this is the place to go if you're itchin' to show off some salacious moves?because at Berlin, anything goes. The club is known for bringing in some of the hottest names in DJing and its post-Pride party is no exception. Expect plenty of crazy lights and old school favorites, as the '90s dance show kicks off with a lineup of DJs, including The Lady Speedstick, Butch Cassidy, Lady Miss Navy Pier, Nina Ramone and John Twatters.
Get down with Girl Blast at Ann Sather (Belmont)
La Tache Owner Lynne Malec will host Chicago's biggest post-pride party for women from 1-10 p.m. in Ann Sather's parking lot. The 11th annual Girl Blast will feature burgers, hot dogs, cocktails and guest DJs all day long for just $12 (you could also win a seven-day Alaskan cruise). Guests can also head over to La Tache, where Malec will offer the restaurant's signature martinis, like the Andersonville (vodka, rum, pineapple juice) and the Riviera (vodka, Campari, orange juice, soda) for a measly six bucks each. In addition to the discounted drinks, a selection of French-inspired desserts will be offered at half-price, including a trio of gelatos, profiteroles, chocolate-raspberry layer cake and key lime pie.

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Where to Watch the White Sox

Sun, 07 Jun 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia; pictured: Jack Schaller of Schaller's Pump

If you've never visited Sox country, you need to know one thing: It ain't like Wrigleyville. The bars land more than a pop-fly distance from the Cell; you can actually park your car outside the stadium; and the shine of the World Series trophy has just started to fade (to be replaced by another one this year?). Whatever happens, it won't keep Sox fans from their favorite pre- and post-game watering holes. Win or lose, we'll get you good 'n' sauced while cheering on the "good guys."
Do you bleed Cubby blue? Check out these bars instead.
Schaller's Pump
This legendary Bridgeport bar, with many Chicago mayors practically making it a second City Hall, steeps with political history. Like a century-old campaign promise (Schaller's has been open since 1881), they'll serve you cheap beer and chow with cheer. The building screams serious Sox territory: A huge mural decorates one side, proclaiming "Welcome White Sox Fans" to the rallying crowds of diehards that pack the place during every game. Inside, nary a mention of the local National League team is uttered, so order a plate of corned beef hash and bask in the revelry of your fellow fan.
Cork & Kerry
We couldn't spew a discussion of Sox bars without mentioning an Irish pub. This Irish-to-the-core Beverly bar hides pure black-and-white baseball beneath its green veneer. And even though you'll have to trek a fair distance from the park, its promise of a warm, wood-paneled interior, beautiful beer garden and TVs broadcasting the Sox makes it worth the haul. For your trouble, you'll score $7.50 buckets of five domestic beers on Tuesday and Sunday, draft beers like Guinness, Harp, Bass and Smithwicks and access to one of the area's largest selections of Irish whiskey. If you need another reason to go, we strongly suggest you reconsider your affiliation. Shinnick's
Another old-school Bridgeport boozer, Shinnick's takes fanaticism so far it posts a White Sox tribute on its website. If you want to view clips of the stadium opener or a three-minute film covering the tavern's World Series insanity, shinnicks.com covers it. Alas, if you want a drink, you'll have to stop by in person. Family-run for three generations, the pub's solid offerings include barbecue eats and baggo (AKA beanbags, cornhole or whatever you want to call it). Bottles cost $2.50, and don't expect fancy-pants specials or quality brews. With liquor setting you back no more than $4, what else could you need? Perhaps, some change for the jukebox. We're willing to bet it stocks Journey's "Don't Stop Believin."
Seven Ten Lounge
This Lincoln Park bowling outpost hints at being a tried-and-true Sox bar in its description of upcoming events: "During all the White Sox Games and St. Louis Cardinal games, we show all games at all times on the MLB package!" Notice the gaping hole of coverage where the Cubs should be. Rolling strikes while the struggling Sox try to find the strike zone couldn't be more fun, plus $3 Coors Light and $1 hot dogs and chili dogs during the games will keep you sated. In the off-chance you see a Cubs game playing, track down the interloper who requested it; despite its North Side locale, Seven Ten makes it clear that Cubbie blue sits firmly in the minority here.
Shoeless Joe's
Legendary Black Sox Joe Jackson can't get into the Hall of Fame after all these years, but at least you can hoist a drink at his namesake bar. It's not a Sox bar, per se, but the owner bleeds black and white, so that's good enough for us. Sure, it sponsors trips to Wrigley and the Cell, and wines by the glass top the drink list rather than brewskies, but we must recognize that not all baseball fans are so segregationist in their sports leanings. Some fans can appreciate fine vintages and teams from both sides of town.
Ricobene's
You can work up an appetite watching all this playoff action. Head to a secluded spot right next to the highway (you actually park under the Dan Ryan) for the famous breaded steak sandwich, a meal in itself. If it takes you awhile to finish (and to clean up the red sauce on your fingers), don't worry; the game will be on any of several TVs scattered around the dining room.
Catcher's Inn
Everywhere you look in this small neighborhood bar you'll find reminders of its proximity to U.S. Cellular Field (it's about four blocks away); from the mini pennants and posted schedules to the black and white checkered ceilings, you're sure to feel at home here if you root for the Sox. Daily beer specials abound, and there's the occasional open mic night in case you get the urge to belt out some Journey after a win.
Cobblestones Bar and Grill
Serving a typically older crowd of Sox fans since 1990, Cobblestones brings some New Orleans charm to the South Side via its muffaletta sandwiches, served in a classic bar outfitted in plenty of dark wood. If you're tired of battling traffic, make the bar a part of your game-day experience; come in for a meal or drink before the game and you can park in the adjoining lot (just a short walk to the ballpark) for free.
Kroll's South Loop
The Chicago version of this Green Bay institution (the original is located directly across the street from Lambeau Field) smartly steers away from football. And even though both baseball teams are represented with memorabilia, it's clear from the crowd that the Sox are the main draw. During game time, you'll be able to watch Mark Buehrle and others on the more than 20 flat screens lining the place. Any other time, you might see them in the flesh, enjoying Kroll's burgers and beers.

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Where to Watch the Cubs

Sun, 07 Jun 2009 12:00:00 CST

Is this the year, Cubs fans? Whatever happens to the Cubs this year, you'll want to be there to watch it. Here are some of our picks for the best places around Wrigleyville to watch the game (and even grab some good grub while you're at it):
More of a Sox fan? Check out these bars instead.
Vines on Clark
Brought to you by the same owners as The Cubby Bear, Vines on Clark, the hood's only rooftop dining venue, is a dressier way to enjoy the Wrigley Field experience. Trade the Old Style draft for a pink lemonade martini made with Svedka citron, Triple Sec, cranberry juice and sour mix, sit back and take in the cries of the crowd. On non-game days, take advantage of the free parking lot and watch all the playoff games on one of four flatscreen HDTVs that show any game broadcast on Comcast or DirecTV.
This American trattoria is staffed by alums from top tier restaurants like Spiaggia, Everest and Osteria via Stato and, consequently, specializes in Italian eats (try the garganelli with proscuitto, peas and red peppers). Paninis and salads provide fare for more the red, white and blue crowd.
Full Shilling
We've got just three words for you: free hot dogs. Yes, the Shilling serves 'em up before and after games (with a drink purchase, of course). And they're amazingly fresh and good. While you can expect a full-on party atmosphere, they do their best to keep it in check and keep the drinks flowing for all. A standing special of $4 big cans of Old Style is the way to go, and they also serve a pretty good menu for a ballpark bar. But admit it, we had you at "free hot dogs," didn't we? Redmond's
Located just a few blocks from Wrigley Field, Redmond's is a world away from its rowdier, raunchier neighbors. A neighborhood pub with the requisite long, wooden bar and sometimes-sticky floor, it is home to Wrigleyville's more sophisticated beer drinkers. Even on game days, the crowd remains somewhat reserved, seated at booths and opting for import drafts rather than the Pabst-drenched gauntlets found around the corner. It's got Bud Light, but also serves Blue Moon (and 11 other beers on tap). Instead of dripping bottles served from tubs by indifferent bimbos, Redmond's offers at least 25 different types of bottled beer slid across the bar by some of the friendliest bartenders in town.
Mullen's on Clark
This is a sports bar in the classic sense: Five TVs and two big screen projectors play the game, while beer-drinking patrons play foosball, Golden Tee and darts (the real kind, with metal tips, so watch out!). Music plays at a raucous but not deafening volume, making Mullen's as suited to friendly conversation as it is for a little friendly competition. The backyard beer garden consists of several tables set up in the alley, offering a better chance of finding a seat and a smaller chance of having beer spilled on you.
Trader Todd's
Perhaps best known for being co-owned by Don Gibb, who played Ogre in the "Revenge of the Nerds" movies, Trader Todd's is more Animal House than nerd-fest. Parked out front is the "Tiki Transit," a converted minibus that acts as a free shuttle from Trader Todd's to Wrigley Field and back on game days, in case you can't make the three-block walk. Trader Todd's namesake beers are brewed in Wisconsin and include lager, red and pilsner varieties. A couple more mainstream beer varieties are available as well, but none are endorsed by "Ogre" himself.
Harry Caray's Tavern
A relative newcomer on the scene, Harry Caray's took over for the old Hi-Tops just before the season and has been going strong. If you're lucky enough to get a table, sit back and enjoy a plethora of TV screens everywhere you look -- including a 10-foot HD TV in the back of the bar. They take the bar food menu up a notch with a burger bar that has plenty of options for all. And the chicken vesuvio is a favorite at all of the HC locations.
Captain Morgan Club
You can't get much closer to the ballpark than this. Opened just this year, this bar/restaurant is actually connected to Wrigley, meaning you can enter the park through the bar's indoor patio. As for the place itself, expect ballpark fare (hot dogs, burgers, Italian beef) brought to you by the Harry Caray's people across the street. On a nice day, you can hang out in the outdoor patio, or come inside if the weather's not cooperating.
Not in Wrigleyville? There are sports bars throughout Chicagoland sure to be showing the game.

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Where to Watch the Blackhawks

Tue, 26 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: Sun-Times file photo

The Blackhawks are in the conference finals for the first time in more than a decade, so now is as good a time as any to hop on the Hawks bandwagon. 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 game 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're lucky enough to get a ticket to the game, you can ride their free shuttle to the UC and back. Or just hang out in the restaurant and watch the game with other die-hard fans. Daily specials include $15 Miller buckets on Tuesdays and half-price appetizers on Fridays.
Moretti's (West Loop)
It may be known for it's 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 South 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) for all games.
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. And, like just about every other bar in the area, there's a free shuttle to the game for the lucky saps who have tickets.
Stretch Run
Chicago's favorite OTB bar has Hawks fever, too, and its symptoms are strangely punny. Celebratory menu items include Lord Stanley's Burger, Nikolai's Nachos and Redwing Special. On the drink side of things, you'll find the Blackhawks Black & Blue (Guinness and Blue Moon), Kane's Red Cocktail (vodka cranberry) and the Chicago Crush (orange juice, amaretto and grenadine syrup). John Barleycorn
Both the Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville locations are getting in on the action, offering $15 Bud Light buckets during all Hawks-Red Wings games.
Moe's Cantina
Grab $15 buckets of Bud Light at the Wrigleyville sports bar.
Murphy's Bleachers and Trinity Bar
Watch Game 5 at either of these bars and meet the Blackhawks Ice Crew. You also get a chance to win Blackhawks tickets and gear.
Jerseys Pizza & Grill
Stop by this Hoffman Estates sports bar for "The Chi-Nadian." Even though over half of the Blackhawks' starting roster hails from Canada, they are still playing with a Chicago attitude in the playoffs, and Jerseys celebrates with this thin crust pizza, which is covered with black olives, red onion, bacon and melted cheese. You can also take advantage of daily $13.75 domestic buckets and beer specials that rarely top $3.
Bennigan's (S. Michigan)
The newly 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.

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Where Can I Sing Karaoke in Chicago?

Mon, 18 May 2009 12:00:00 CST

Fancy yourself the next American Idol? Maybe you should start by practicing in front of an audience that's a little more forgiving than Simon Cowell. These bars offer plenty of karaoke fun, so warm up those vocal cords and take to the stage. Jedynka
Karaoke happens every Wednesday at Jedynka, where you can pick from thousands of songs in Polish and English. There's no cover, and you could even head home with more money than you came with: Jedynka gives away special prizes for the first singers on stage, and $100 in cash is given out to the winners at the end of the evening. The party starts at 9:30 p.m.
Star Gaze
The karaoke fun begins at 8 p.m. every Sunday at this lesbian dance club and restaurant. Bonus? It's free. The take-the-stage line is manageable, so even though it gets pretty crowded, you're not going to be too old to sing by the time your selection is called.
Moretti's
Moretti's is more than a pizza place/sports bar/pub. It's a destination for fun. And every Wednesday the karaoke party starts at 10 p.m. Since there's no cover, pool your moolah and get a large pizza to split with your friends, who will no doubt encourage you to sing something relatively embarrassing.
Sidekicks
This place is super-serious about its karaoke; after all, it offers it seven days a week. It's free, and on weekends, even if your vocals aren't "Idol" quality, you'll find a rousing crowd high-fiving and applauding your, ahem, talent. You can even pick your jam beforehand by downloading a list of songs from Sidekicks' website. Choose from thousands of songs, including tunes by The Andrews Sisters (bet those get a lot of play), Steely Dan and Bob Marley.
Charlie's Chicago
A 4 a.m. Boystown bar known for its affinity for line dancing, Charlie's hosts karaoke every Tuesday and Sunday night. Karaoke is free, and it starts at 9 p.m.
Friar Tuck
As if the barrel-shape entrance didn't tip you off, Friar Tuck's is all about fun, which is why it's no big surprise that the karaoke scene is particularly rowdy here. Get your sing on each Wednesday and Thursday night, starting around 9 p.m. Like baskets of good stuff from the popcorn machine, it's free (pitchers of beer are just $10).
Trader Todd's Adventure Bar
Want to sing every night? Trader Todd's has your karaoke (and tropical-drink) needs covered seven days a week from 8:30 p.m. until close. Call early to reserve a table, and if they're missing your song, you can email in requests. If you and (at least) 19 of your best friends want to host your own multi-round "American Idol," you can rent a private room, with bar packages starting at just $8 per person per hour.
O'Malley's West
There's no cover to participate in karaoke on Wednesday nights. The singing happens from 9:30 until close. When you feel ready to upgrade from canned to live music, check out its live-band karaoke, which happens once a month.
Hidden Cove
Sing your heart out 'til 4 a.m. every day. The karaoke's free and it starts at 8 p.m. If your date isn't into the singing thing, not to worry. Catch the game (pretty much any game) on one of the many TVs in the place, including two big plasmas and two projection screens.
Mutiny
Feel like flexing those vocal chops after a long day in the office? Stop by the dive-o-riffic Mutiny for karaoke every Tuesday night from 5-8 p.m. Pair it with $1.50 pints of Old Style Light and make a night of it.
Gilhooley's
Thursday is karaoke night. It's free, and you can sing from 9 p.m. 'til midnight. Interestingly enough, Gilhooley's was donated to St. Xavier University in 2004, so it shouldn't come as any big surprise that this bar caters to the student crowd (with wi-fi and nachos, how could it not?) along with sports enthusiasts. Sorry kiddies, it's 21 and over after 9 p.m.
Blue Frog Bar & Grill
While not the largest bar by a long shot, Blue Frog is big on character. The kitschy venue pays homage to the 1980s, from its decor to the board games it offers. Try Connect Four, Battle of the Sexes and childhood favorites like Chutes and Ladders. Karaoke starts at 10 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. No cover. It can get pretty popular, so if you don't want to wait (and sweat) for a good hour, get there early.
The Original Mother's
This late-night bar has it all: a huge dance floor, live bands and karaoke and ladies' nights. Check out Mother's "all-access Wednesdays," when you can enjoy local bands and take advantage of sweet drink specials. But if you're more interested in being a rock star, come by for live-band karaoke, which kicks off every Thursday at 10 p.m. If you don't like to be near drummers, come back every other night (except Sunday and Monday) for good old regular karaoke.
Triad
Triad is best known for its sushi and sake. But there's more. After dinner, why not have karaoke for dessert? The fun (and by fun, we mean the vocal-diving into the 1,000-song library) starts around 11 p.m. on Saturday nights in the lounge. The karaoke is free, but it's for dining customers only.
Morgan's Bar and Grill
Karaoke takes place every Tuesday night (Girls Night Out at Morgan's), and is free. There's typically not a long wait to sing...but if a Sox or Bulls game is on, expect your vocal stylings to take a backseat to the on-screen entertainment. Sports is this bar's big draw, and it has TVs everywhere you look, including a projection screen. There are almost 20 beers on tap; of-age college students should be on the look out for drink and food specials.
Spyners Pub
There's no sign sporting the name at this dive bar, so you'll have to keep your eyes peeled. Karaoke starts up at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. There's no cover, but the wait to sing varies each night so come early just in case. If you're lucky, sometimes karaoke will just spontaneously start up on a Sunday afternoon.
La Puebla
Whether you want to rock the mic in English or Spanish, you can sing your heart out here on Friday and Saturday nights. Need some liquid courage before hitting the stage? Try the margaritas. Most noted for being open 24 hours, this Mexican restaurant offers up tasty burritos, tacos and the like.
Hamburger Mary's
Billed as "the most fun you can have with your pants on," Hamburger Mary's offers MaryOke every Sunday and Wednesday night at 9 p.m., when you can also enjoy $3 well drinks and "Lite Drafts" all night. If you need a little fuel to get you going, it (shockingly) serves nearly a dozen creative burgers, along with a hefty selection of salads, sandwiches and brunch food.
Christina's Place
Christina's Place is your typical after-work dive bar. What makes it different? $2 pints of Guinness all day, every day...and free karaoke on Saturday nights. The singing starts around 10 or 11 p.m, but the bar is open 'til 4 a.m.
Piece
Piece offers the best of both worlds. On Thursdays regular computer karaoke starts around 10 p.m., but if you really want to rock the house, sign up for a song on Saturday nights at 11 p.m. with live-band karaoke. Three bands rotate?The Karaoke Dokies, Liquid Courage and Hootenanners?each with its own long list of songs from different eras and genres.
Louie's Pub
Whether you want to sing, play pool or darts, blast your favorite songs from the jukebox or just toss back a cold one, this is the neighborhood pub for you. Feed your karaoke craving every Tuesday through Sunday; the singing starts at 9 p.m. each night.
Karaoke Restaurant
Too embarrassed to sing in front of a bunch of strangers? That excuse is no good here, thanks to the private karaoke rooms. Rates start at $5 per person per hour. Guests operate the karaoke machines themselves, so don't forget to ask how to use them. Note: Despite the name, the food's not a major selling point.
Holiday Club
Monday and Wednesday are karaoke nights. There isn't a cover, and you can sing-sing-sing from 10 p.m. 'til 2 a.m.
Four Treys Tavern
This bar has been open so long it probably predates its song list. Four Treys is friendly to the max, and welcomes dogs (indoors!) along with your questionable singing prowess. On Saturday nights, crowds have a ball with karaoke and $6 Bud Light pitchers.
Red-I Lounge
If you like karaoke and you like dancing and you like Chinatown, then you're three-quarters of the way to really liking Red-I. If you also like the color red, then you're about to be very happy. VIP rooms are available for private parties and singers who'd rather not share their talent just yet, and the change is made from karaoke to dance at 10 p.m. Entry is free during karaoke hours (expect to hear karaoke-friendly songs like "I Will Survive"); later on you might have to pony up $5.
Lincoln Karaoke
This isn't your average karaoke night at some dive trying to get a few more bodies inside. Entirely devoted to those flashes of self-delusion wherein you imagine having the pipes of Celine Dion or the leather-clad cool of Joey Ramone, this place adds a twist to the experience: You can rent a private room for $25 an hour. Each room features couches, a plasma TV, gigantic remote controls and a selection of American, Korean and Chinese tunes. There's also a good menu of Korean food to get your energy up.

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Chicago Cinco de Mayo Events

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

Cinco de Mayo fiestas.
OK, so technically it's not Mexico's Independence Day (that's in September), but Cinco de Mayo is no less reason to celebrate. Fiesta the day away at one of these hot spots, offering Mexican-themed deals throughout the day (all events on Tuesday, May 5, unless otherwise noted).
Nacional 27
6-9 p.m.; buy tickets here
Nacional 27 is offering a $27 "ultimate party package" that includes margaritas, sangria, passed tapas and dancing to the beats of DJ George Perez.
Carnivale
May 5-6
On Tuesday, Carnivale celebrates Cinco de Mayo with $5 guacamole, five specialty margaritas ($8.50-$12), $5 valet, $5 Mexican beers (Pacifico and Negro Modelo) and other Mexican-themed food specials like posole, tacos de lengua and flan. Keep the fiesta going on Wednesday with Margaritas 101, a hands-on class taught by Carnivale mixologist Victor Beheza (6:30-8:30 p.m.; $25).
Zocalo
5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Zocalo celebrates Cinco de Mayo with a cinco dolar ($5) menu: $5 margaritas, $5 chef's choice taco bar and half-off all appetizers in the bar from 5-7 p.m.; $5 shots of Cuervo Traditional, Cuervo Silver and Cuervo Flavors. Zocalo will host raffles all night, and a DJ will spin beginning at 6 p.m.
Twisted Lizard
11 a.m.?midnight
The lively Lincoln Park restaurant is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with its famous El Jimador margaritas for $6, along with live mariachi band music.
Smoke Daddy
11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
Enjoy $2 Corona and Corona Light bottles, in addition to $5 nachos (two layers of tortilla chips, pulled pork, chicken or brisket, Division Street chili, monterey jack cheese, sharp cheddar, white onion, tomatoes, cilantro and Smoke Daddy's famous BBQ sauce) and BBQ Smoked Chicken Enchiladas with coleslaw and fries, $10. Beginning at 9 p.m., Nigel Mack will rock the stage with free tunes.
Dunlays on the Square
Sip $2 Pacificos and $5 margaritas while enjoying Mexican-themed specials, such as fish tacos ($12), steak tacos ($10), guacamole and chips ($8) and ceviche ($9). A $7 Don Julio premium tequila flight will also be featured. Tuesday's 20 wine bottles for $20 promotion will also be valid.
O'Donovan's
Food specials, available from 4-10 p.m., include queso fundido, chipotle shrimp with tequila cocktail sauce, Acapulco salad, frisee salad with chorizo and roasted garlic, and Caramel Flan for dessert. Drink specials, served all day, include Milagro shots ($4), margaritas and frozen margaritas ($5-$7), micheladas (Dos Equis on the rocks with lots of lime, dash of Bloody Mary spice and a salted rim, $5) and homemade horchata ($3, or $6 with tequila).
Park 52
5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Drink $3 Coronas to go with an appetizer/cocktail combo: the chicken quesadilla with roasted salsa and a Jose Cuervo Margarita on the rocks for $15.
Moonshine
6-9 p.m.
Celebrate "Cinco de Moonshine" with a traditional live mariachi band as well as the Las Chicas Cazadores. Enjoy $7 fiesta nachos and $2 steak tacos, along with a variety of tempting Cazadores margaritas. All-day drink specials will include $5 Cinco de Moonshine margaritas, $6 green-eyed Mexican margaritas, $6 El Toro margaritas, made with fresh strawberries, $20 Cazadores margarita pitchers (all flavors) and $3 Corona and Corona Lights.
She-nannigans and The Original Mother's
May 2, 3 p.m.; May 5, 7 p.m., $8, buy tickets here
The Fifth Annual "Cinco Divison" kicks off on May 2 at She-Nannigan's, with Dickey Pimpkins and a special guest performing live. This free show will jump-start Division Street as partygoers enjoy $4.50 Corona and Corona Light and $5 shots of Sauza Tequila. Throughout the event, roaming Mariachis on unicycles will amaze and entertain everyone at all the famous pubs and clubs on the strip. Then come to The Original Mother's on May 5 for live performances from the Blink-182 tribute band, Blank 281, and the evening's headliner, Smoking Popes. $4.50 Corona and Corona Light and $5 shots of Sauza Tequila will be featured all day and night.
Rockit Bar & Grill
Executive chef James Gottwald will give guests his spin on Mexican classics, including a pizza with chorizo, roasted bell peppers, diced tomatoes, green onion and pepper jack cheese ($12) and soft tortillas with chicken and pico de gallo ($14). If your celebrations generally include more alcohol than food, you can stock up on $2 Tecate and $5 Ranch Margaritas (Sauza, Cointreau, orange juice, sour, lime juice).
Bull & Bear
The financial district hot spot will offer authentic freshly made chili rellenos, to wild twists on old favorites, like wild boar tacos, with $5 Sauza margaritas to help wash it down.
Timothy O'Toole's
Timothy O'Toole's Irish Pub Chicago will celebrate Cinco "O' Mayo" with $4 Dos Equis draft beers and $18 Corona/Corona Light/Pacifico mix n' match buckets, which include Chef Sean O'Brien's chips and salsa (with bucket purchase). Corona Beer gets patrons in the summer spirit as they host a Cinco de Mayo event from 6-8 p.m. Corona will raffle off a "Beach Package" that includes beach chairs with cooler, beach ball, towels and more.
Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
5:30 p.m.-2 a.m.
Kit Kat's mixologists will shake up half-price margaritas and martinis, while Chef Matt Stovey serves an array of Mexican-influenced dinner specials. Kit Kat will serve tequila samplings and award $500 worth of raffle prizes and giveaways, courtesy of Hornitos Tequila. The "Divas" will perform throughout the night beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Joey's Brickhouse
Call (773) 296-1300 for reservations
Co-owners Joey and Greg Morelli promise a real fiesta. In addition to the regular menu, specialties include: tableside guacamole made by Joey; flaming Mexican cheese with tortilla crackers; veggie southwest gazpacho with chipotle, poblano chilies, lime and cilantro. Top it off with Ibarra chocolate mousse with drunken berries.
Kohan
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with all day drink specials and themed signature rolls, including $3 Coronas, $5 mai tais and rolls like the Mexico City (tomato over tuna, salmon, yellowtail, avocado, cilantro, and jalapeno with wasabi mayo & lime juice; $14) and sombrero roll (baked salmon over a crab meat with tangy ponzu sauce; $14).
Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar
Arrowhead will be featuring Hispanic cuisine and beverages specials throughout the day, all with a $5 theme, including a margarita bar and an all-you-can-eat taco bar.
Stretch Run
Enjoy $3.50 Coronas, $5 margaritas and $3 tequila shooters all day. And guests who visit between 5 and 7 p.m. will receive a "mystery envelope" from one of the Corona Girls. Each envelope will contain a betting voucher worth up to $100, as well as other prizes.
Citizen Bar
The River North bar opens up its new patio on Friday, May 1. Celebrate the introduction of fresh air to your drinking routine on Tuesday with $15 buckets of Corona and Corona Light, $3 Sauza tequila and free chips and salsa.
Red Bar
Starts at 4 p.m.; for reservations, call (847) 696-1234, ext. 6545
The Hyatt Regency O'Hare's hotel lounge will feature steak tacos for $12, chips and salsa with guacamole for $5.00 and Corona beer buckets ($20 for five bottles.) Red Bar will also serve the Mexi-tini, a delicious cocktail with orange vodka, orange juice and Reposado Tequila ($7), and the Paloma, a citrusy blend of Blanco Tequila, grapefruit and lime juices, and Sierra Mist ($6). Free valet parking is offered.
Kroll's South Loop
The Corona Girls (don't act like you don't know) will be on hand Tuesday, offering chances to win Corona's "Get Ready for Summer" beach pacakge, which will include beach chairs, coolers, beach balls and other summer gear. Even if you don't win, you win with $2 bottles of Corona, Corona Light and Pacifico, $4 shots of Jose Cuervo Silver and chicken mojo and quesadilla specials.

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Chicago Kentucky Derby Events

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

The "Run for the Roses" is considered horse racing's most prestigious event. But just because it's in Louisville doesn't mean we can't celebrate here in Chicago. A number of local restaurants, bars and race tracks will be offering Kentucky Derby specials throughout the weekend (events are on May 2, unless otherwise noted). Via Ventuno
4-6 p.m.
Chef Jim Kilberg has created a special bar menu, including Benedictine tea sandwiches with ramps, deviled eggs, oyster po' boys with remoulade and fried okra with truffled honey, all for $5 each. Pair that with a Derby-themed cocktail menu that includes Maker's Mark mint juleps ($6), "Belle of the Ball" (peach-macerated bourbon, cognac, absinthe, muddled brown sugar, bitters, $8) and the "Old Gray Mare" (Via Ventuno's spin on the Old Fashioned, $6). Bluegrass and Dixieland jazz will set the sounds of the soiree.
Moonshine
3-7 p.m.
Maker's Mark and Moonshine present Down 'n Derby. Sample special menu items like $9 hot brown sandwiches, an open-faced, hot turkey sandwich with bacon and cheese; $9 fried green tomatoes and a $14 fresh crab cake salad. Sip on mint juleps or any Maker's Mark drink for $4 (all day). Festive attire and fancy hats are encouraged.
Stretch Run
Friday, May 1 at 9 a.m.; Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m.
Guests can place their wagers starting on Friday and join Stretch Run for a pre-Derby Day and Ladies/Fillies Day celebration. All ladies who stop in on Friday between 4-8 p.m. will receive a complimentary rose and chocolate covered strawberry. Saturday guests will indulge in mint juleps ($6), mojitos <$4.50) and hot dog stations set up throughout the venue. Get a 2009 Kentucky Derby glass for $10. Additional food specials will be available on the main floor all day.
The Pony
1:30-5:30 p.m.; $40
Celebrate Derby Day for a good cause at The Pony's fundraiser event, benefiting Equestrian Connection. Guests can bid on horses from local charity Equestrian Connection, while enjoying an open bar and Southern spread of traditional food. The Pony will also feature specialty cocktails such as $5 mint juleps.
Hawthorne Race Course
11 a.m.; $50 ($4 without food/drink)
In celebration of 100 years of family-owned racing, Hawthorne is hosting "Chicago's Biggest Kentucky Derby Party," featuring live music, an outdoor barbecue and beer fest, a charity chili cook-off, and tent lounges with dozens of high-definition flat-screen TVs so fans can watch and wager in style (gates actually open at 8 a.m., so the real fans can come and watch the first races indoors beginning at 9:15 a.m.).
David Burke's Primehouse
Noon-6 p.m.
Watch the Derby in style at The James, David Burke's Primehouse's lobby bar. Complimentary appetizers from David Burke's will be served, including firecracker duck Rolls, mini burkers and dry-aged sirloin tacos. And of course, no Kentucky Derby party is complete without the classic libations, including mint juleps and mimosas. Specialty cocktails also include a host of David Burke's fresh spring drinks perfect for Kentucky-style toasting, such as The Kentucky Kiss ? bulleit, grapefruit and sparkling wine; and The Flowering Meadow ? lavender Bombay, lemongrass and honey.
Timothy O'Toole's
4 p.m.
The Streeterville pub will hold two viewing parties in one evening: the Kentucky Derby race will be shown with sound on all 47 television screens, followed by the Pacquiao-Hatton fight. In addition to special mint juleps, Chef Sean O'Brien has created special menu items, like the Derby Burger (Kentucky pimento cheese and bacon served with a side, $8.99) and Kentucky Burgoo (slow-cooked stew of chicken, beef, potatoes, onions, cabbage, tomatoes, okra, butterbeans and green peppers, with a freshly baked biscuit, $10.99).
Citizen Bar
The River North bar's popular rooftop patio opens up on Friday; what better way to celebrate than with some mint juleps ($6) and mojito pichers ($20) on Saturday? While you're at it, try some of the new menu items, including spicy corn chowder, thin-crust pizza and several different kinds of wings and burgers.

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Chicago Earth Day Events

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

You've got a whole world of deals in your hands on Earth Day.
If you forgot to show your support of our planet by switching off lights and electrical appliances during Earth Hour last month, you get a second chance. April 22 marks Earth Day, an event launched in 1970 to raise social awareness of our environment. These days, the world-wide "holiday" boasts all kinds of festivities, including an event on the National Mall in Washington, DC, that draws hundreds of thousands of people. Here in Chicago, you can show your support by volunteering at various sites around the city and stopping by one of these Chicago restaurants and bars to celebrate Earth.
Farmerie 58
April 17-25
The new-ish River North restaurant is paying its respects to Earth for a whole week, offering a three-course prix-frix menu for $33. Diners can enjoy a selection of sustainable and locally grown dishes from Chef Nathan Kosakowski, produced with such ingredients as Miller Poultry Amish chicken, local honey and spring peas. The green-friendly menu will include such dishes as grilled ramp soup, wild mushroom salad, Great Lakes perch, Amish chicken breast, Pacific halibut, honey panna cotta and a chocolate tart.
On Earth Day, Farmerie will be donating partial proceeds from the evening to Friends of the Parks, a designated park advocacy organization whose mission is to preserve, protect and improve the city's parks and forest preserves.
Sweet Cakes
April 21-26
Stop into this Ukrainian Village bakery to receive discounts and giveaways as the place "renews its vow" to maintain a green business. Already utilizing compostable and biodegradable cups, plates, utensils and straws, Sweet Cakes would like to encourage all customers to become a little greener. The bakery will have a week-long collection for the Alliance for the Great Lakes, an organization focused on maintaining clean lakes through education, habitat recovery and improved water quality.
La Madia
April 22
Customers stopping into this contemporary pizzeria on Earth Day will dine by candlelight and be offered the Late Night Fixe, which includes a salad and pizza of your choice accompanied by a glass of the wine of the week or select beer for $27.
Opera
April 20-26
The South Loop Asian-fusion eatery will celebrate Earth Day with a special menu consisting of organic Asian green salad, 5-spice-crusted lamb rack and organic lemongrass and agave sorbet.
Stretch Run
April 22
The sports-crazed River North bar offers environment-themed drink specials including the $4.50 Red Mountain Range martini (vodka, triple sec, Rose's lime juice and cranberry juice) and the $4.50 Starry Night shot (Jager and Goldschlager).
Cityscape Bar
April 22
Head to the 15th floor of Holiday Inn Mart Plaza to get a great view of Earth's (ok, mostly man's) creations and celebrate the holiday at Cityscape. Organic drink specials are on the menu for Earth Day with all Tru organic vodka and Tru organic vanilla vodka drinks going for $5.00. You'll also find $4 bottles of Peak organic amber ale and $5 glasses of Clos Du Bois chardonnay and organic sauvignon blanc.
Hard Rock Cafe
April 22, 9 p.m.
Local rock band Maggie Speaks kicks off its 2009 Listen Green Tour with a $10 show at Hard Rock Cafe. In addition to performing, the band will educate the audience on all the methods it'll be using on tour, including reusable water bottles, low-wattage lights, a more fuel-efficient van and more. All of the proceeds will go toward Keep Chicago Beautiful, a non-profit organization that works with the Chicago area's business community, schools, neighborhoods and government agencies to improve the environment through education, public awareness and community involvement.

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Cool Concoctions

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

The Pineapple Express from Martini Park
As much as we love Irish coffee, glogg and hot toddys, they just aren't as enjoyable during the warmer months. Now that the sun is out, we've moved on to these crisp, cool libations. Have a blockbuster-inspired cocktail at Martini Park
We're not sure if Martini Park's Pineapple Express was named after the meteorological phenomenon or the blockbuster comedy, and we really don't care. The drink could've been named after our former governor and we'd still give it two thumbs up. But hey, we're suckers for glow sticks and this fruity cocktail (a mix of pineapple vodka, Hipnotiq and pineapple juice) just happens to get garnished with one. If you prefer drinks that don't light up, try the lemon-garnished Fountain of Youth (Veev liqueur, blueberry puree and pomegranate juice), or the flirtatious Spring Fling (rum, coconut water, strawberry puree, pineapple and lemon juice), $8 each.
Line up for lemonade at Silver Cloud
This 1940s-themed neighborhood diner offers one of the city's most extensive seasonal cocktail lists with more than 10 Spring-inspired libations. We recommend the appropriately named Bucktown lemonade, with orange and raspberry vodkas, lemonade and 7-Up, or the less appealing swamp water (we promise it tastes better than it sounds) with Parrot Bay Pineapple, Blue Curacao, orange and pineapple juice, $8 each. And of course, all of Silver Cloud's spring coolers taste better when enjoyed on the restaurant's sidewalk patio.
Sip a classic Cosmo at Duchamp
Also located in Bucktown, Duchamp has its own discerning list of cool libations (sorry, no glow sticks here). First, there's the Paradise with Hennessey, ginger, orange slice and orange bitters, served over ice, $11. Next up is the Suzanne, also served over ice, which brings together vodka, St. Germaine Elderflower, housemade ginger syrup, fresh lemon and club soda, $10. And because cosmos never go out of style (at least not since Carrie Bradshaw brought them back), Duchamp is offering its own version of the popular drink with cranberry-infused vodka, fresh lime and Cointreau, $12.

The Cosmo from Duchamp
Get botanical at Between Boutique Cafe and Lounge
Some people get streets and universities named after them. Others, like Between Boutique Cafe & Lounge co-owner Lu Lu Anderson, get cocktails. The drinkable version of Lu Lu is a mix of St Germain Elderflower and Hendrick's Gin, topped with sparkling Prosecco and violet liqueur. To keep in line with the restaurant's swanky atmosphere, the botanical cocktail is created tableside in a champagne saucer. If you're up for something a little spicy, check out the honeyfruit martini, made with Ukranian honey-pepper vodka, fresh grapefruit juice and ginger liqueur, garnished with flecks of black pepper. And if you've got room for one more, we recommend finishing with the white chocolate raspberry, a rich combination of Godiva dark chocolate, Chambord and vodka, topped with a frothy blanket of Godiva white chocolate ? perhaps a bit heavy for spring, but too good to skip.
Try a tongue twisting cocktail at Lumen
This late-night lounge, located in West Town, has become something of a destination spot for local socialites. The sleek decor and ample space (5,000 square feet) may have something to do with that, but it's the bar's innovative cocktails that keep the crowd coming back. Lumen's spring-inspired drink menu starts with L'Orange Crush, a mix of Grey Goose L'Orange, Campari, Amaretto, orange juice and seltzer. The fruity concoction, served in a highball glass and garnished with an orange peel, is a definite win, but it's nowhere near as fancy as the La Poire Golden Fleur with Grey Goose La Poire, St. Germain Elderflower, lemon juice and sparkling champagne. (Note: Bring your own glow stick.)

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Rooftop Revelry

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

courtesy of Bridget Cicenia; Citizen Bar
When the weather gets nice in this city, you'd better enjoy it. What better way than to get high...at one of Chicago's rooftop bars. Check out these watering holes where the breeze is free and the brew comes with a view.
Chaise Lounge
Even though it feels like South Beach in Wicker Park, don't expect your server to show up shirtless, sporting a hemp puka-shell necklace and linen pants. But do take advantage of its alfresco options: It not only boasts a rooftop patio but a sidewalk one, too. The drink list includes custom libations like the frozen Berry Spike ($7), a mix of Black Cherry Effen Vodka, mixed berries and yogurt. The rooftop, with its white booths and low tables tucked away by white curtains, creates the perfect setting for sipping.
Citizen Bar
Don't bother bringing your passport; everyone can claim citizenship at this River North bar, though the outdoor patios will make you want to take up residency. Enjoy the company of the city and take your glass of wine and three-cheese panini out onto the 2,000 square-foot patio or rooftop deck. Weekday specials, like $5 salads and half-price bottles of wine, sweeten the sight.
NoMI
Less intense than the main space, an upscale French restaurant at the Park Hyatt Chicago hotel, NoMI's rooftop lounge serves lighter, seasonal fare and a variety of NoMI's signature cocktails made with freshly squeezed juices. The 2,000-square-foot garden, with lush landscaping and sweeping city views, sits on the hotel's seventh floor.
Rock Bottom Brewery
Sure it's a chain, but this River North microbrewery's in-the-thick-of-it view of the Chicago skyline solidifies its status as a killer rooftop hangout. The vista's no well-kept secret, though; show up early as it gets crowded quickly. The rooftop has its own bar, making it easy to grab a cold Chicago Gold (pale ale) to cool down on hot days. As expected, the atmosphere and decor feel corporate, but to score refreshing brews and reasonably priced pub grub, you could do worse than hitting Rock Bottom.
Sidetrack
As Chicago's biggest and most popular gay bar, Sidetrack has become a mainstay of the Halsted scene. Indulge in some fun, frozen drinks like the highly popular Ketel One Crush, a grape-flavored tart concoction, on its sleek rooftop deck, which has its own bar and seats 350. If you're looking for a place to meet that special someone or just hang out with friends, add this one to your summer roster.
Pegasus
Get the best view in Greektown on the rooftop patio (open Memorial Day to Labor Day), which accommodates 160 people and boasts a full bar, live music and a spectacular view of the skyline. The al-fresco menu features an extensive selection of tapas-style appetizers and desserts.
SushiSamba Rio
A haven for chic Chicagoans, this clubby sushi bar offers a rooftop lounge perfect for people watching. Enjoy a mojito or one of SushiSamba's many signature drinks like the Lemon Samurai (Stoli Citros vodka, muddled lemon, sugar, apple liqueur, peach and guava juices), but make sure your 'do can stand the elements ? you're sure to be the recipient of gratuitous ogling.
Twisted Spoke
It may not feel quite like cruising on a Harley, but visitors to the Twisted Spoke's rooftop patio can catch some rays while their hair blows in the breeze. With picnic tables and umbrellas to accommodate about 60, the casual second-floor patio at this biker-themed hangout is the perfect spot to waste away a beautiful day. The Fat Boy, a big honkin' half-pound burger topped with your choice of cheddar, swiss, grilled onions, bacon and barbecue sauce, holds court as the restaurant's most popular menu item. Bonus: It serves Jim Beam on-tap.
Vines on Clark
Round up the troops post-Cubs game and head on over to this outdoor anomaly: Vines rules as Wrigleyville's only rooftop-dining venue (if you don't count the lucky fans grilling out on their squint-and-you-can-see-the-field roof decks). The patio can also be rented for private parties on non-game days, when Lakeview locals capitalize on the quiet time to enjoy a Honey Weiss or Willy Wonka Martini mixed with light and dark Godiva.
Zed 451
With a sweeping 2,300-square-foot rooftop, this carnivore's paradise has already become a popular hang. With non-stop visits from chefs wielding large skewers of steaks, chicken and fish (for a fixed price), patrons are sure to get their fill while they bask in the sun and sip a seasonal cocktail. A large fireplace, grass, foliage and a copper-roofed clerestory add to roof deck's ambiance.
Bottom Lounge
You're probably here for the music, but don't forget to scope out the rooftop deck before you leave. Located on the second-level, the outdoor locale is an extension of Bottom Lounge's tiki-themed bar, the Volcano Room. Sip a freshly muddled mojito while taking in the cityscape view.
Plymouth Restaurant and Bar
The topper on this three-story Loop landmark is the rooftop bar. Grab a pint and head up for a view of the copper gargoyles on the Harold Washington library and the weathered brick of the Old Colony building. This has quickly become one of the better drinking spots in Chicago.
C-View
The rooftop lounge at Affinia Chicago hotel offers something most hotel bars in the area don't: a killer view of the city's skyline. And just in case you forget where you are, the bar shakes up a cocktail to remind you. This signature "29th floor" tipple is mixed just as elegantly as the lounge's posh crowd. When hunger hits, head downstairs to Affinia's C-House restaurant.
Like to drink outside, but afraid of heights? Check out our roundup of Chicago beer gardens and sidewalk patios .

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Opening Day Deals

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

With baseball season upon us, Chicago bars kick it into high gear to draw in fans and non-fans alike, offering cheap eats, drink deals and plenty of flat-screen TVs. If you're not heading to the game, celebrate Opening Day the cheap way at one of these spots. The Cubs kick off the Wrigleyville season April 13 at 1:20 p.m.; the White Sox opener is today, after getting rained out Monday.
Just want a place where you know the game will be on? Check out our favorite White Sox bars and Cubs bars.
Jefferson Tap & Grille
Celebrate MLB's opening week on Tuesday with the Chicago Baseball Museum with a free hot dog and nacho buffet from 3:30-5:30 p.m., $2 domestic drafts and a raffle drawing with plenty of prizes. The event costs $25 at the door and all proceeds will benefit the Chicago Baseball Museum. Prizes include tickets to Cubs and Sox games, as well as autographs from Jermaine Dye, Ron Santo and more.
Finley Dunne's Tavern
The Lakeview bar will host a White Sox home opener party (yes, you read that right), complete with $15 Budweiser and Bud Light buckets and garlic cheeseburgers for $7.
Timothy O'Toole's
The Streeterville bar will air the Cubs' home opener on 45 TV screens and provide a handful of drink specials, including $15 Old Style buckets, $6.50 Smirnoff Twist martinis, $7 baseball bombs (Jagermeister and Red Bull) and $14 select bottles of wine.
Stretch Run
If 45 screens aren't worthy of your attention, try 240. This sporting club boasts more than that actually, and can guarantee you won't miss any of the upcoming Sox and Cubs action. The bar will be offering drink specials for both teams' home openers, including $4 20-ounce drafts and a special Black & White Sox on the Rocks drink (Blue Curacao, raspberry liqueur and Black Cherry Effen garnished with a float of cream in a rocks glass over ice, $4.50). For the Cubs opener, Stretch Run will have $3 bottles of Bud Light and a $4.50 Blue Cubs on the Rocks drink (Blue Curacao, Bacardi Limon and Sprite garnished with grenadine and a maraschino cherry).
Reggie's Music Joint
The popular South Loop spot will open up at 10 a.m. for the Sox opener, offering $1 tacos, 50-cent wings, $3 draft beers and vodka cocktails and $4 bombs, along with bus rides to and from U.S. Cellular Field.
Full Shilling
The return of baseball season means one thing for this Wrigleyville bar: free hot dogs. The dancing Full Shilling Hot Dog Man will once again be handing out complimentary all-beef Red Hot Chicago dogs complete with all the trimmings. The free eats are offered one hour before and after every home Cubs game, with the purchase of one beverage. Free hot dogs begin at 11 a.m. on April 13. The bar also offers Cubs game -ay drink specials, including 24-ounce cans of Miller Lite, Bud Light and PBR for $6. The bar is equipped with more than a dozen HD plasma TVs that will broadcast all Cubs home and away games along with all other Major League Baseball games.
Lottie's Pub
The Bucktown neighborhood bar will serve 25-cent wings and $5 20-ounce Miller Lite and Coors Light drafts throughout opening day for the White Sox.
Ann Sather (Belmont)
As the Cubs take on the Colorado Rockies in their home opener (April 13), Ann Sather's Belmont Avenue location will show its support for the home team by offering a deep-dish Chicago-style omelet that will replace the Denver omelet in its regular menu line-up. Baked like a frittata, the Chicago omelet will be prepared with premium locally-grown ingredients procured at Green City Market, including eggs from TJ's Free-Range Poultry Farm in Piper City; cheese from Prairie Pure Cheese Co. in Belvidere; and Italian sausage from Twin Oaks Meats in Fairbury, Ill. The Chicago omelets will be available from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and cost $9.75.
The Lodge
If you really, really want to be at Wrigley when the first pitch of the season is thrown, but you don't have a few hundred bucks to spare, head to The Lodge on Opening Day. The Gold Coast bar will be giving away a pair of rooftop tickets (including catered food and unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks and water) during an 11:30 a.m. raffle. Even the losers are winners here, as there will be free hot dogs and $3.50 Bud Light drafts all day at the bar.
Merkle's Bar and Grill
Can't wait for "next year" to begin? Merkle's Bar & Grill is offering an $85 ultimate bus package that includes a ticket and bus transportation to the Cubs' April 11 game against the Brewers in Milwaukee, as well as a food and beverage tailgate. There are only 50 tickets, so work fast if you want to go.

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Let's Go Alfresco

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:00:00 CST

photo: courtesy of Clifton Henri, pictured: Volo

'Tis the season to fire up the grills, pack the picnic baskets and dodge eating inside whenever possible. Whether you're looking for a noisy beer garden or a secluded and serene patio, we've found some of the city's best alfresco options.

Beer Gardens
Sheffield's
The beer garden here, spacious and generously shaded by a towering cottonwood, is a Lakeview legend. Dig through the bar's stash of board games (Scrabble, anyone?), and then grab a seat at one of the many picnic tables or high-tops. You could spend countless days here trying to land on triple-word squares and browsing through the 34-page almanac of microbrews. It might take you awhile to find the perfect ale to pair with your pulled-pork sammie or grilled cheese.
Montrose Saloon
How many other Chicago beer gardens can offer games and plenty of space for kicking back? Montrose's patio, which is twice the size of the no-frills inside, feels more like a drunk uncle's side yard in the sticks than anything urban. You'll find a tent and grill for parties, tables built on tree stumps and a horseshoe pit where veteran regulars school rookies in the art of pitching. Games are free every day on a first-come, first-served basis; if the pit is crowded, hit the Sox vs. Cubs-theme bean bag toss instead.
Happy Village
The main room of the Happy Village isn't much to look at: a bar, a juke and some runaway patio furniture. But, behold the beer garden! Glowing with kitschy, garden party ambiance, with room for up to 100 patrons, it's bordered by a row of dense hedge. The space, which has a pond, wooden arches draped with greenery, plenty of flimsy plastic chairs and dowdy cement angel statues, stays open until the neighbors start to complain.
Cody's Public House
Sure, you've heard of BYOB, but what about BYOM? That's Bring Your Own Meat, which you can do at this West Lakeview tap, where patrons get free reign of the beer garden's grills. Tall trees loom overhead, vines wrap around the fence and white metallic patio chairs give the patio a sense of grace. Leashed pups bark at bad bocce ball tosses as they fall outside the regulation-size court. If you're lucky, one of the friendly regulars from the bar will step outside for some fresh air and chat you up.
Justin's
In the summer, you won't find a better spot to imbibe outside than the beer garden at this Southport spot. Almost as large as the main room inside, it offers plenty of shade and a comfortable feel. Though large and small tables, benches and bar stools scatter throughout, on most summer nights, and especially after Cubs games, it's standing room only. A separate alfresco bar serves the garden, which means you won't be holding an empty glass while your waitress treks inside to fill your order.
Village Tap
A self-proclaimed neighborhood bar, the Tap is proud of its off-the-beaten-path status ("i.e., where you can still park" its Web site proclaims). Still, it registers on the radars of many fresh air-mongers: It's no secret that the beer garden here is one of the city's best, if for no other reason than it's open year-round. When you're climbing up the walls of your shrinking apartment in the dead of winter, head out and grab a seat at a picnic table in the covered, heated environs. There's even a flat-screen to keep you company.
Moody's Pub
This Edgewater favorite's two-tiered garden has ample seating for couples and crowds, privacy from the road, waterfalls, wall ivy and plenty of silver maple trees, making this a hands-down winner for summertime socializing. It doesn't hurt that the bar food is above average and the beer is reasonably priced.
Resi's Bierstube
Almost everyone knows this Lincoln Square spot as a great place to get almost any German brew you could want, but its awesome beer garden is a slightly better guarded secret. Two enormous trees shade the fenced-in backyard, whose flowers and foliage make this quiet corner a scenic place to share a sausage plate or sample one of Resi's 150 imported bottled beers (Resi's was supposedly the first to offer weiss beer in Chicago, and offers more than 20 weiss beers today).
Nick's Beer Garden
Come on, this place has beer garden in the title, how could we not include it? Don't worry, it doesn't make the list on name alone - the large outdoor seating area is covered, which makes it a good bet in almost any weather. And with Nick's generally amiable crowd and good beer selection, it makes for a nice retreat from the overly hip spots surrounding it in Wicker Park.
Fizz Bar & Grill
If you're gonna serve a full menu of tiki drinks, you'd better have someplace people can enjoy them outdoors. And this Lakeview bar comes through with a huge, half-covered space perfect for lounging with your cocktail (or beer, or pizza) for hours. It's not totally secluded, so you can also catch a glimpse of busy Lincoln Avenue while you imbibe.
Cleo's
This West Town spot is one place that actually pays attention to the "garden" part of "beer garden." Flowers and plants bloom in the expansive space, and when the walls aren't covered by leaves, art takes its place. It all makes for a nice, relaxing place to cap off your night in the area - and a welcome respite from the tight confines of the Matchbox down the street.

Outdoor Dining
Jane's
This enchanting house-turned-restaurant sits tucked away on a tree-lined side street. For a truly romantic dining experience, lovebirds can reserve one of the seven tables on the deck. The menu here pleases gourmet palates: New Orleans-style black grouper with sake-ginger sauce and, for vegetarians with refined tastes, goat cheese, vegetable and tofu burrito served with pico de gallo and avocado mousse.
Orso's
When the weather is warm, this authentic Italian restaurant's Wells Street sidewalk patio offers prime people watching, or you can visit the secluded garden out back, which sets the perfect scene for enjoying a glass of wine or a hearty dish of lasagna Bolognese. The grapevine overhang will keep you cool, lest you polish off a few too many bottles of vino.
Marigold
Sit among the marigolds on this elegant Indian restaurant's patio in Uptown. Located in front of the business, the small outdoor area, which seats about 20 people, is surrounded by mahogany planters filled with?you guessed it?marigolds. Enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine while you sit back, take in the contrasting urban atmosphere of Broadway Avenue, and dig into a plate of tandoori-style chicken. Jimmy's Grill
Jimmy's huge outdoor patio located at a busy intersection in downtown Naperville makes for the best people watching west of the city. Go during the day, and you'll see families taking their dogs for a stroll. Go at night, and this intersection turns into a lively nightlife scene full of college kids and young suburbanites hopping from one bar to the next. Plan to arrive early or you may have to wait in line for a seat.
Hackney's on Harms
Though its sister locations (including one in the South Loop) have respectable patios, this Hackney's boasts one of the best outdoor dining environs in the Chicagoland area. Towering silver poplars line the stately restaurant's backyard. Order a pint of Stiegl, a legendary burger served on rye and a thick-as-a-brick fried-onion loaf. If you feel energized after eating, the North Branch Trail runs right across the street; take it seven miles north to the Chicago Botanic Garden for the perfect end to a warm, sunny day.
A Mano
As close as it is to the Loop, this slightly subterranean spot attracts its fair share of office workers. But A Mano's terrazzo will in no way remind you of your building's cafeteria, thanks to a bounty of lush greenery and bright orange and green cafe tables. The food's better, too: Chef John Caputo offers up an array of regional Italian cuisine, from wood-fired pizzas to handmade pastas, to go along with an extensive Italian wine list.
Art Institute's Garden Restaurant
From late spring to early fall, this shady courtyard, with tables set up around Carl Mille's gurgling "Fountain of the Tritons," offers alfresco dining for art lovers. With salads, sandwiches and entrees costing $10-$15, The Garden isn't a cheap lunch date, but the seasonal menu of contemporary American cuisine sets it apart from more popular Loop lunchtime spots. If visual art just isn't your thing, though, you?ll still come to appreciate live music on Thursday and Friday nights.
Cafe Selmarie
There's no shortage of delightful Euro imports in Lincoln Square. Every block in the neighborhood lands you steps from a stein of Spaten or a freshly baked baguette. But on any given summer night at Cafe Selmarie, you can relax on its sprawling patio on the ped mall and watch locals learn to tango. It just doesn't get any more Euro than that. Part bakery, part restaurant, Selmarie dishes up homemade pastries and rich bistro-inspired fare. Grab a chocolate hazelnut butter cream torte and a glass of red to feel like a Parisian in no time.
Crust
Seasoned entrepreneur/chef Michael Altenberg is the sustainability-conscious mind behind Chicago's first certified organic restaurant. Crust's back patio offers seating for 120 in a closed-off space safe from street noise. Take a seat at a wrought-iron table and dig in to Altenberg's individual-size flatbreads ($10-$14), which look like thin-crust pizzas but have a more refined attitude. Wash 'em down with a lemon- and lemongrass-infused Rain organic vodka on the rocks.
El Nuevo Mexicano
Do you look back on Spring Break in Cancun and wish you could go back? If so, grab your sunglasses and hurry on down to this authentic Mexican restaurant with high-quality, hearty dishes and a killer patio. Nestled into a row of residential backyards, the garden seating affords a certain amount of privacy for couples playing footsy and drunken men loudly reminiscing about their college days. Since nothing goes better with sunshine than tequila, be sure to order a pomegranate margarita?or two. Just stay away from any body shots.
Volo
This wine bar's backyard turns a gussied up, 100-year-old patina barn into a cocktail space, replete with cabana beds, an organic garden and wine tasting events. Enveloped by trees, sprinkled with fountains and huddled into a row of homey buildings on Roscoe, it couldn't be a more perfect oenophile oasis than if a river of pinot ran through it. Go on Monday, when bottles of wine are half-price, though any day will do for munching on a cheese plate and a sweet pea pizza.
Palmer Place
From American microbrews to Australian ales, just about any beer under the sun can be had at Palmer Place in downtown LaGrange. This spot even carries a beer from Nambia! As if a copious amount of chilled brews wasn't enough to draw in the summer crowd, a double-decker outdoor patio really seals the deal. Bonus points for the sunshine-perfect menu of barbecue, brats and gourmet burgers.
Coco Pazzo Cafe
Want to live like an Italian? That's what this Streeterville Tuscan restaurant has in mind with its Afternoon Alfresco menu, served daily on its popular patio from 2:30-5 p.m. Chef Eric Hammond offers small plates like mini panino with fillings like prosciutto and arugula, and bruschetta topped with asparagus, parmesan, mushrooms and truffle oil. Wines by the glass are served as well. If you're more of a late eater, the patio stays open all evening.
Piccolo Sogno
There are a ton of Italian restaurants in Chicago, so you've gotta find a way to set yourself apart. This River West restaurant, which replaced Timo in 2008, has a built-in advantage: a beautiful, secluded back patio. No matter what you're eating, you're sure to have a relaxing, romantic meal in the lush atmosphere, which is filled with garden plants of several varieties. The patio is the attraction at this spot - so much so, in fact, that even some of the indoor seating looks like it was meant for outdoor use.
Lucia's Ristorante
A far cry from this Wicker Park spot's busy deli up front (it's a great place to grab a sandwich, by the way), the restaurant's secluded back patio is all about relaxation and comfort. Even more comfortable than the atmosphere is the price; Lucia's is BYOB, so all you'll be paying for is your pasta.
More of a high flier? Check out our guide to Chicago rooftop bars.

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Dart Bars

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST
At some bars, darts is more than just a game; it's a way of life. The players at these spots don't need to leave an ID at the bar for collateral, because they've brought their own equipment. All they need are opponents - are you up to the challenge?

Sidekicks offers more than your average dart room.
Sidekicks
Sidekicks is popular for two reasons: karaoke and darts. The amateur singing begins the moment you walk through the door, but the dartboards, thankfully, reside in their own private sanctuary. The dart room features six boards to choose from and makes for an ideal practice space. Once you've worked up an appetite, order up some standard pub grub like a foot of onion rings (served with three different dipping sauces), breaded mushrooms or mozzarella cheese sticks. On tap you'll find favorites like Honker's Ale, Guinness and Stella Artois, while bottles make room for your typical domestic lineup.
Mulligan's Public House
In the Windy City Cup of "Best Dart Bars," this one would surely take first place. Not only does the place have lockers for its league players, but it's got all the accoutrements: a glass case with replacement flights and shafts for sale, a throwback whetstone for sharpening darts (instead of those minuscule cylindrical sharpening contraptions). In fact, Mulligan's is so serious about darts, that you'll notice the focus remains on the sport, rather than the actual bar area. Consider it Chicago's mecca for darts. Leagues play here on Monday and Tuesday evenings, and even the patrons put serious stock into the game. Play it safe and practice at one of the other joints and then put your best foot, er, dart, forward at Mulligan's.
Six Penny Bit
If there's one thing we love with a game of darts, it's Irish folk songs, thick accents and pints of Guinness. And that's exactly what you get at this North Side neighborhood pub. Rather than the expected lot of frat boys found in most Irish bars, this one is home to a select group of regulars, most of them natives of the old country. You may feel a bit out of context at first, but after a round or two, you'll fit right in. The lads here mean business when it comes to darts and billiards (both located in a separate party room), so you'd better have some serious skills.
Blarney Stone
Aside from its large bar crowd (standard for Wrigleyville), the Blarney Stone has all of our favorite things including cheap booze, a kitchen that stays open late, friendly staff and plenty of dartboards. The cramped playing area is less than ideal, but that doesn?t seem to bother professional leagues like the Windy City Darters, who play here regularly. And when you need a break from the board, you can throw one down at the billiards or foosball table.
Claddagh Ring
If there's one thing we've learned from our excursion, it's that Irish pubs are a surefire bet when it comes to a serious game of darts, and Claddagh Ring is no exception. It's no coincidence, either, that the majority of these places are plotted on the North Side, as that's where the largest population of Chicago's league players resides. Claddagh Ring keeps the guys comin' back with its spacious playing area, cheap bar food and its regular lineup of imported brews on tap.
Just in it for fun? Play for free at these dart-friendly bars:
Burke's Web Pub
Will's Northwoods Inn
Brisku's Bistro
Parrots

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Chicago Earth Hour Events

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

This Saturday night, cities across the world will go dark for one hour in honor of Earth Hour, an international event organized by the World Wildlife Fund. From 8:30-9:30 p.m., businesses and households will be encouraged to turn off all lights and electrical appliances in order to conserve energy and perhaps make the world a little greener. This year, a handful of local restaurants and bars are doing their part in raising awareness of global warming by offering eco-friendly environments, food and drink. So instead of sitting alone in your candlelit apartment, bike or walk to one of these spots to share in the green festivities.
Between Boutique Cafe & Lounge
Head over to this Wicker Park international spot for Chef Radhika Desai's Earth Hour special, a dish created without the use of any energy or electricity. From 8:30-9:30 p.m. the restaurant will also go dark, serving only by candlelight.
Markethouse
Also forgoing the use of electricity and heat is the brand-new Markethouse, which will offer a "Green Hour" menu from 6-10 p.m. Diners can sip martinis made from Rain Organic vodka while enjoying a menu of non-cooked items, including seared tuna with balsamic-glazed treviso salad, the Markethouse chop salad with tarragon-mustard dressing, chilled poached shrimp, tomato gazpacho, beef carpaccio and more. Cocktails will be served from 4-11 p.m. An acoustic set from guitarist Joe Tortorici and vocalist Victoria Kubina will take place from 7-9:30. Markethouse will donate 10 percent of its sales to the World Wildlife Fund.
Nacional 27
River North's Nacional 27 is showing its love for Earth with a candlelit lounge and dining room, a minimally-lit kitchen and even a limited use of water. Instead of washing bar glasses in the usual commercial dishwasher, the staff is opting for the three-compartment sink. The restaurant will also be putting its entertainment to the green test, showcasing trumpet player Victor Garcia on only a single amplifier rather than in full surround sound.
Red Kiva
On Saturday evening you'll find this West Loop lounge serving up the GoGreenTini, a drink concocted of Absolut vanilla vodka, sour apple pucker and a splash of sweet and sour, served with a cherry. Guests can enjoy the $12 cocktail by candlelight.
Zocalo
Make Earth Hour the ultimate date night by sharing a cocktail made for two at this River North restaurant and tequila bar. Mixologists will be stirring up the Earth Hour Cazuela, a drink of Cuervo citrus tequila, aguardiente, white wine with citrus juices and a splash of Squirt citrus soda. Served in a large traditional terra cotta bowl with two straws, this may be the perfect way to profess your love...for Mother Earth.
Cityscape Bar
Head over to River North's Holiday Inn for the best view of Chicago's dimming skyline. Located on the 15th floor, Cityscape Bar will offer organic drinks all day long. Specials include all Tru organic vodka and Tru organic vanilla vodka drinks for $5, Peak organic amber ale for $4 a bottle and Clos Du Bois chardonnay or organic sauvignon blanc for $5 a glass.

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Watch Your Team in the NCAA Tournament

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Watch March Madness with fellow fans.
Looking for a place to watch the 2009 NCAA tournament with some friendly faces? These schools have local bar affiliations so you can cheer your favorite team on with fellow fans.
And to find some hoops-watching deals, check out our March Madness specials page.

Arizona: Burwood Tap, Flounder's

Duke: Sedgwick's Bar & Grill

Kansas: Junior's Sports Lounge, Kincade's, Lottie's Pub

Louisville: Finley Dunne's Tavern

Memphis: Junior's Sports Lounge

Michigan State: Hi-Tops, Grand River Bar & Grill, Higgins' Tavern, O'Malley's West, Plan B Bar and Kitchen

North Carolina: Gamekeepers

Oklahoma: Joe's Bar

Pittsburgh: Gamekeepers

Purdue: Durkin's, Fireplace Inn, Smoke Daddy

Syracuse: Kincade's, Gamekeepers

Villanova: Sedgwick's Bar & Grill

Xavier: Merkle's Bar and Grill

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Authentic Irish Pubs

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Visit our St. Patrick's Day Guide for info on
more Irish fun.

Though Chicago probably boasts more ?Irish? pubs than Starbucks locations, drinking spots that actually remain true to the homeland can prove as difficult to locate as that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Keeping a few key elements in mind (a two-pour Guinness, Irish staff and regional grub), we worked our way through draft after draft of stout until we found the authentic Irish pubs that put those other shamrock-toting shacks to shame.

photo: courtesy of Bridget Montgomery
They know how to pour a Guinness at Johnny O'Hagan's.
Johnny O'Hagan's
To create a more authentic Irish feel, Johnny O'Hagan's (named after two Irishmen related to the owners) handcrafted bar was imported directly from the ol' Emerald Isle. In addition to this eye-catching piece, the pub also features a giant fireplace below a mural depicting the story of the Claddagh Ring. As for food, we recommend sticking with the traditional Irish breakfast including rashers, sausages, eggs, black and white pudding, beans, grilled tomato, spuds and toast, $8 for a half order and $11 for a full. If you're just looking for something to snack on, the curry chips are also a pub favorite, $6.
Atlantic Bar & Grill
In addition to its Irish owner, this one gets bonus points for having a fireplace and classy photos of the Atlantic Ocean and Ireland. The Atlantic's sleek mahogany bar provides an inviting space to watch the game (rugby, football or soccer) from one of the pub's flat-screens and the kitchen serves up all the usual suspects. Highlights include the beef and Guinness pie, bangers and mash and traditional bread pudding for dessert; entrees range from $8.95-$13.95.
Cork & Kerry
There's no place like the South Side when it comes to Irish pubs and Cork & Kerry stands amongst the best of ?em. With its woodwork and green trim interior, low-slung chandeliers and all the imported beer your Irish roots can handle, you'll feel like you're right back in the homeland. But before you get too cozy, take heed of the shoulder-to-shoulder crowd. This place is nearly always packed and it?s bound to be at max capacity during St. Paddy's Day weekend. If you're attending the infamous South Side parade this year (and why wouldn't you be?), hike it over to Cork & Kerry afterward; doors will open at 11 a.m. and rock band Maggie Speaks will perform at 3 p.m.
Cullen's Bar & Grill
If you're looking for a place where the staff is just as authentic as the Irish cuisine, head over to Cullen's. These Brogue-spewing servers have perfected the pour of a pint of Guinness and they?ve got an entire list of hearty entrees to boot. Staples like Shepherd's pie and Cornish pasties (seasoned ground beef wrapped pastry-style) are house favorites and the bar's Mother?s Meatloaf, served with mashed potatoes and gravy, is a must. If you're looking for something a little lighter (and we use that term loosely), try the Bass Ale-battered onion rings or the popular curry chips. The average entree here will cost you about $12, and it's worth every bit o' green. Cullen's also hosts live Irish music on Tuesday evenings, and makes room for less traditional tunes Wednesday through Sunday.
Ginger's Ale House
The Irish and English owners of Ginger's Ale House know just how to please their green-lovin' patrons - with a jukebox full of Irish hits and classic rock tunes. The guys also stock essential Irish staples like Boddington's, Caffrey's Irish Ale and Magner's Cider. American brews are available, too, but let's not forget why you're here. When you're looking for something hearty to soak up all that stout, try the pub's "homeland" Shepherd's pie, beer-battered fish 'n' chips (all-you-can-eat on Fridays) or the traditional Irish breakfast offered during Ginger?s weekend brunch.

photo: courtesy of The Kerryman
The Kerryman draws a ready-to-party crowd on St. Patrick's Day.
The Kerryman
The Kerryman seems anything but authentic with its modern digs and upscale dining, but the brothers behind it are as Irish as can be. Mick and Trevor O'Donoghue, originally from Castleisland, Co. Kerry, voyaged across the Atlantic in hopes of bringing modern Irish nightlife to Chicago. They've accomplished just that with a regular lineup of local DJs, nightly drink deals and a clientele consisting of young professionals. While the venue's non-traditional decor may throw you for a loop, the menu, prepared by Chef Damien Maloney, is just as authentic as the brothers themselves. Salads like the Grecian chicken and steamy bowls of Galway seafood chowder provide a little something to nibble on, while hearty entrees like Shepherd's pie and the Irish breakfast offer more sustenance.
Irish Oak
Located next to Wrigley Field, the Irish Oak is often just as crowded as you might expect. But no matter how rowdy it gets inside, the pub won't lose its warm and welcoming Irish roots. Everything about the place, from its floors and frames to its hand-crafted bar and Galway native owners, came straight from the Emerald Isle. In addition to its authentic interior, you'll find plenty of Irish brews on tap and a full menu featuring both Irish and American cuisine. Stop in on a Friday when the pub offers its all-you-can-eat Claddagh-style fish 'n' chips with homemade coleslaw for $10.75.
Shinnick's
At first glance, it seems that this family-owned Bridgeport pub could've been plucked straight from the Emerald Isle itself. Shinnick's late 19th-century interior ? complete with an authentic mahogany Brunswick bar (circa 1890) ? and familial charm are enough to make you forget all those other Irish joints on your list. And if we haven't convinced you yet, just check out the pub?s extensive list of Irish whiskies, bourbons and scotches.

photo: courtesy of Chief O'Neill's
The good chief watches over all.
Chief O'Neill's
If you've got a hankering for real Irish music, this Northwest Side pub should be your first stop. Owned by All-Irish musicians Brendan and Siobhan McKinney, the bar and restaurant has a commitment to traditional tunes, with bands playing jigs and reels throughout the night. The food is not to be outdone, though, as the menu includes "Emerald Isle Favorites" like fish 'n' chips, Irish stew, corned beef and more. Don't miss the popular Sunday brunch buffet; for $13.95, you'll get your fill of everything from made-to-order omelets to poached Wild Atlantic salmon. The bar is named after former Chicago Police Chief Francis O'Neill, who was known for both his toughness on the job and his love for music. Celtic Knot Public House
Sometimes you've got to leave city limits to find a worthwhile Irish pub. Such is the case with Evanston's Celtic Knot, where the food and brews are just as authentic as the Irish folks who run the joint. The friendly staff is trained in the art of the infamous Guinness two-pour and the stone-walled room and warm atmosphere are enough to make you feel like you're slingin' 'em back in the homeland. Once you've had your fill of booze, you can belly up to the bar and order up some traditional grub like fish 'n' chips, Shepherd's pie or the pub's popular Guinness pasties. Or, head over to the venue's dining room and choose from a more upscale menu, featuring dishes like lemon-infused sole, pecan-crusted salmon and steak with black peppercorn sauce.

Visit our St. Patrick's Day Guide for info on
more Irish fun.

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March Madness Deals in Chicago

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Catch all the NCAA Tournament action at these bars and restaurants.
It's called the most exciting three weeks in sports. Every year, the 65 best college basketball teams are whittled down to one national champion. It's a smorgasbord of TV watching, and these bars have specials to make the action even better.
Just want to watch the games with fellow alums? Check out this comprehensive list of NCAA-affiliated bars.

The Central and Grand Central
Drink $3 bottles MGD 64, Coors and Miller Lite drafts, as well as $12 MGD/Coors buckets throughout the tournament. Also choose from a select $5 March hoops food menu.
McGee's
Tournament specials include $1 bottles, $3 import drafts and $3 margaritas.
Belly's
Get $2 gameday shots, $5 Stoli cocktails and $15 Miller/Coors buckets at this Lakeview bar, which opens at 11 a.m. every day of the tournament.
Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
For the duration of the tournament, Jake's will be serving the Madness Burger -- a 9-oz. burger topped with pepper jack cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato and a fried egg served between two grilled cheese sandwiches, paired with a Miller Lite pint for $9.99. Everyone who orders the Madness Combo will also be entered to win prizes like an iPod touch. Jake's will also be giving away $5 drink vouchers (instantly redeemable) to all people wearing gear for teams in the tourney.
Full Shilling
The popular Wrigleyville bar will be giving away free stuff all tournament long. With more than 100 Miller Lite scratch & win tickets, this lottery-style party will give everyone a chance to win. Prizes include mp3 player speaker coolers, aluminum bottle wraps, hats, T-shirts, bottle openers and more. Pitchers of Miller Lite will be on special for $7 throughout the tournament.
Rockit Bar & Grill
March 26, 6-8 p.m.
Watch the games for a good cause at RedHot March Madness. A $40 ticket includes drinks and snacks, and the proceeds benefit Primo Center for Women and Children, a transitional homeless shelter on the west side of the city.
Moretti's (West Loop)
April 6
Watch the championship game on over 25 big screen TVs, including 4 super bright HD plasmas. Celebrate with $16 (6 beers) buckets of Miller Lite and win prizes, including an iPod Nano in a basketball case, an in-home electronic Pop-A-Shot game and a Moretti's pizza every month for a year.
O'Donovan's
Get there early to watch all the games on this friendly North Center bar's 20 plasma TVs throughout the bar, party room and patio while sipping on $10 Miller Lite and Coors Light pitchers. The bar will offer daily lunch and dinner specials all tournament.
Smoke Daddy
Celebrate all things Purdue: Smoke Daddy owner Josh Rutherford is a former Boilermaker mascot, so you know the place will be decked out in black-and-gold. Enjoy $4 Bud Light mugs and $7 imported mugs (22 ounces)during all tournament games. And a Purdue-themed menu will be available throughout the tournament, including the Boiler Burger, Mackey's Mac and Cheese and Purdue Pete's Pulled Pork Sandwich.
Harry Caray's
The Wrigleyville bar will offer $15 buckets of Milller Lite and Coors Light throughout the tournament. Harry Caray's (Lombard) will offer $2 Bud and Bud Light drafts with commemorative March Madness pint glasses on all game days.
Kroll's South Loop
Drink $5 20-ounce Miller Lite stadium cups and $4 select shots and eat specials like the "Madness Burger" and "Sweet Sixteen Wings," all while watching all the games on Kroll's two-dozen TVs. You can also enter a raffle for an Apple iTouch and other prizes, as well as enter a Pop-a-Shot contest during the Sweet Sixteen games.
Merkle's Bar and Grill
Enjoy $4 22-ounce drafts and $5 bombs, along with 25-cent wings during all tournament games. You can also enter to win two free tickets to the Final Four. And on March 28, enter Merkle's Sweet 16 flip cup tournament with cash prizes for the top teams.
Timothy O'Toole's
With 45 TV screens, if you miss any of the action at this Streeterville hangout, it's your own fault. Enjoy award-winning wings (the hot wings won first place at the recent WingFest) while taking advantage of daily drink deals that include $2 drafts on Saturdays and $16 Miller/Coors buckets on Sundays.
Cactus Bar & Grill, Franklin Tap and Martini Bar
Drink $3 Miller Lite 20-ounce drafts during all tournament games.
Lucky Strike Lanes
Buy a $6 Sam Adams pint glass and get $4 refills; plus you get to keep the glass. Or get $20 buckets of Sam Adams Light.

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Where to Watch the Big Ten Tournament

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST
Looking to cheer on your favorite Big Ten team during the upcoming conference tournament with fellow fans? Check out our guide to school affiliations for bars around town, and you'll finally find someone to high-five after the next big basket.

Illinois
Kendall's: Eight 10-foot screens and 15 HD plasma TVs will get you in a rooting mood real quick.
Joe's Bar: You can pretty much be a fan of anyone and watch your game on a big screen here, but special consideration is paid to Illini faithful.
Schoolyard Tavern: It's hard to find a bar the Schoolyard isn't affiliated with, but still a good option for Lakeview Illini.
More Illini bars: Kroll's South Loop, Mickey's

Indiana
Kirkwood Bar & Grill: Hoosier fans can indulge a blast from the past and order The General, named after former coach/bully Bob Knight.
Finley Dunne's Tavern: We don't know of many Irish Hoosiers, but we try not to worry too much about these things.
More Hoosier bars: Joe's Bar, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sluggers

Iowa
Merkle's Bar and Grill: Some bars are affiliated in name only, but Merkle's sponsors many trips to see the Hawkeyes play and offers specials on game days. More Hawkeye bars: Four Shadows, Gamekeepers, Gaslight Bar and Grille, Ravenswood Pub, Sedgwick's Bar & Grill, Witt's

Michigan
Duffy's Tavern: If you don't get chills when you hear a live version of The Victors during a Wolverines game here...then you're probably a State fan.
Mad River Bar & Grille: This Lakeview hot spot is also an unofficial Philadelphia Phillies bar. Go figure.
More Wolverine bars: Dark Horse Tap and Grille, Matilda

Michigan State
Hi-Tops: The former Gin Mill was about as green-and-white as you can get, but its new inhabitants (transplanted from Wrigleyville) have embraced Sparty's ideals just fine.
Grand River Bar & Grill: State alums know Grand River as the main drag along campus. But it's also the name of this Lincoln Avenue bar (where Lennox Lounge used to reside) which smatters Spartan references throughout the menu, such as the bacon-laden Breslin Center burger.
More Spartan bars: Higgins' Tavern, O'Malley's West, Plan B Bar and Kitchen

Minnesota
Redmond's: The Minnesota alumni club must be quite powerful, as we've seen them refuse to turn on other games because they had to fulfill their quota of TV screens on the Gopher game in order to remain affiliated. While that's not cool, the multitude of screens, especially the big screens in the back, make this a comfortable viewing experience.
More Gopher bars: Red Ivy

Northwestern
Tommy Nevin's Pub: It's the next best thing to being at the Wildcats game ... actually, probably better, since they serve booze here.
Lion Head Pub: Get $7 Miller Lite pitchers during all tournament games. And if you're a Northwestern fan, you're probably gonna need a lot of 'em.
Other Wildcat bars: Trinity Bar, Goose Island Brewery, Mullen's on Clark

Ohio State
Casey Moran's: As their fans would say, this is THE place to watch THE Ohio State University. And you wonder why nobody likes Buckeye fans.
Other Buckeye bars: Gaslight Bar and Grille, McGee's, Mickey's, Mystic Celt, Players Grill, Redmond's, Vaughan's Pub

Penn State
Flounder's: As if the 15 flat screens and $4 burger and fries deal (every day before 6 p.m.) aren't enough, the place also has free ping pong! Also, look for a few Nittany Lion-themed menu items, like the Happy Valley hummus.
More Nittany Lion bars: Dark Horse Tap and Grille, Gamekeepers

Purdue
Smoke Daddy: Owner Josh Rutherford is a former Boilermaker mascot, so you know the place will be decked out in black-and-gold. Enjoy $4 Bud Light mugs and $7 imported mugs (22 ounces)during all tournament games, along with a Purdue-themed menu that includes Purdue Pete's Pulled Pork Sandwich.
More Boiler bars: Durkin's

Wisconsin
Will's Northwoods Inn: You'd be crazy if you thought this Badger State tribute bar would root for anybody else (except for Marquette, of course).
More Badger bars: Waterhouse, Redmond's
More: March Madness specials

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Slainte! Beyond the Beer and Whiskey

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Visit our St. Patrick's Day Guide for info on
more Irish fun.

photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia

Just how many dyed green beers and leprechaun bendy straws can a person take? We all know that the novelty cocktails served in pubs across town on St. Patrick's Day are lacking authenticity, so why do we keep guzzling them down? Why pay to drink something that looks like it was ladled out of the Chicago River?
Probably because the Irish haven't given us many better options. Words like "appletini" and "cosmopolitan" simply don't translate to Ireland's pub dialect. Most public houses have two kinds of glasses?pint and shot?and the patrons like it that way, thank you very much. But you can sample some real Irish cocktails if you step away from the fair-weather fakers and raise a glass at some of Chicago's best pubs.
"May the dust of your carriage wheels blind the eyes of your foes."
Irish Car Bomb at Celtic Crossings
Sure, it's been co-opted by frat guys from coast to coast, but the Irish Car Bomb also happens to be one of the few cocktails enjoyed back in the homeland. Of course, by 'enjoyed' we mean pounded in rapid succession with little regard for liver function. For the real thing, nix the college bars for U2's preferred digs: Celtic Crossings.
Not only does the authentic pub forgo all the cartoonish Irish pageantry, but it also has a jukebox full of The Pogues. Even Bono would agree that nothing sets the mood for excessive drinking quite like a little Shane Macgowan. As for the Crossings' Car Bomb, simplicity is key: A shot of Baileys-spiked Jameson plunked inside a frothy pint of Guinness. In fact, the only thing complicated about this beloved Irish tipple is figuring out how not to crack a tooth.
"May you be in heaven a full half hour before the devil knows you're dead."
Grafton Zinger at Grafton Pub & Grill
If your mamma always told you not to drink on Sunday, she probably wasn't Irish. Uisce beatha, the Gaelic term for whiskey, literally translates to "water of life," a common phrase for "holy water." The name was given by the pioneering Irish monks of the Kilbeggan ("little church" in Gaelic) village; early holy men used barley from nearby fields and drew water from the river Brosna to brew the very first batch.
The smooth, oaky flavor of Irish whiskey has just a touch of sweetness, but is full-bodied enough to not be overshadowed by the ginger ale used in the cocktail. Add lemon to the mix, and you've got the Grafton Zinger ($6.50), a little cocktail with a big heart?and a bigger backstory.
"May the doctor never earn a pound out of you."
Black Stallion at Galway Arms
If ever there was a whiskey that lives up to the "holy water" standard, it's without a doubt Bushmill's Black Bush Irish Whiskey. Strong enough to knock the devil right out of you, this 80-proof blend is ideal for a pharmaceutical-grade Hot Toddy.
Next time you have the sniffles, belly up to the bar at Galway Arms and request a Black Stallion ($7). The dark, malted whiskey owes its unique profile to sherry-seasoned oak caskets, the absence of peat in the drying process and aging for up to seven years. The resulting nectar produces a clean, full flavor that marries well with the clove, lemon and sugars of Galway Arm's magic, custom-made tonic water in the Stallion.
"May you live as long as you want and never want as long as you live."
Nutty Irishman at The Kerryman
While a true Irishman rarely foregoes the comforts of whiskey and beer, there is one glaring exception: Not even the toughest man in the bar can turn down the sweet kiss of Baileys. Chicago's favorite coffee creamer flies off grocery shelves from November through March, but one Irish cocktail takes the java-boosting to the next level.
At Kerryman Bar, you can order up a Nutty Irishman ($7, $5 on Wednesdays) or just shout out, "Manager on Duty!" This exclamation will, for some inexplicable reason, prompt the bartender to make you this winter-busting concoction. Frangelico is added to the time-tested foundation of Baileys and coffee, adding a nutty kick to a classic. As if this velvety blend wasn't sweet enough, a dollop of freshly whipped cream crowns the whole affair.
Care to give home-bartending the old college try? Keep the St. Paddy's spirit going year-round with these easy drinks:
Irish Black Russian
To equal parts Kahlua and vodka, add cola and a float of Guinness.
Irish Eyes
If you've developed a creme de menthe habit from all the green-tinted pomp of this week's specialty cocktails, just add Kilbeggan whiskey, heavy cream and ice. Now shake and sip your Irish Eyes.
Dublin Handshake
If you subscribe to the "give peace a chance" sect, trade in that Car Bomb for a Dublin Handshake. Start with equal parts Baileys and Irish whiskey, and then fill with sloe gin.

Visit our St. Patrick's Day Guide for info on
more Irish fun.

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Get Away from Guinness

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 CST

Visit our St. Patrick's Day Guide for info on
more Irish fun.

photo: Clifton Henri; Risque's 8 Ball Float

It's easy to love Guinness. The Irish stout is often the first step into a world larger (and better) than the land of Miller and Bud. But now you're a bit older, a touch wiser, and ready to break away from tradition. You want to open yourself up to alternative stouts stocked at bars across the city. With spring rapidly approaching, now is the time to down as many of these thick, rich brews as possible?especially before you succumb to St. Patrick's Day Guinness burnout. (Could that really happen?)
Goose Island Bourbon County Stout at Hopleaf
Pretty much everyone who drinks beer in Chicago regards Hopleaf as ground zero for all Belgian beer fanatics. Even Belgian-inspired brews from other countries have found a home behind Hopleaf's bar. But it hasn't completely ignored the local boys.
Goose Island Brewery consistently gets props for its Bourbon County Stout, aged in old bourbon barrels to give it a richness beyond belief. The malty, oaky flavor with a whiskey tang is intense enough to justify the $10 price tag for one 12-ounce bottle; you'll be telling all your friends about the hard-to-find score for weeks. Skip Hopleaf's top-notch mussels and frites, which pair better with lighter suds, and give the hearty duck reuben a shot instead.
Rogue Imperial Stout at Map Room
Breweries you've never heard of share Map Room's tap space with some old standbys, exposing beer dorks to fresh tastes and trends in the world of brewing. Rogue has been gaining ground on some of the majors, winning fans over with its Dead Guy, Mocha Porter and Hazelnut Brown Ale.
Its Imperial Stout is harder to find but worth tracking down. Imperials are super-strong stouts, and the Rogue is no exception, with an 11-percent alcohol content. Thick and creamy with a touch of chocolate and caramel, it can be imposing to drink all 22-ounces, but don't let that stop you from trying it.
Beamish at Jaks Tap
It would be almost unfair to keep a Celtic craft brew off this semi-anti-Guinness list, so we bring you Beamish at this West Loop beer bar, with 40 taps and a handful of bottles. This $5.75 pint is a true Irish stout that's nearly pitch-black in color and has a history going back two centuries.
And it may just leave you reconsidering where your loyalty to Celtic craft brews lies. Same pouring rules apply, though; keep an eye on the bartender and make sure he lets it rest for the head to form, just like Guinness. While the similarities between the beers may make you wonder why you should bother to make the switch, the aroma, color and taste of Beamish is richer and deeper; it's like Guinness-squared.
8 Ball Stout at Risque Cafe
Risque is new to the Wrigleyville scene, bringing some barbecue?as well as an impressive beer list?to the Clark Street strip. Under the watchful eye of pinup-girl posters, you could order a $4.50 High Life, but why the hell would you when you could opt for brews by Three Floyds or Southern Tier?
Risque offers a number of different stouts. While the deep brown, slightly nutty 8-Ball from Lost Coast Brewing doesn't explode with taste like some of the other stouts on our list, it's a touch lighter for when your stomach can't handle all that fullness. But if you're really looking to up its richness, order it in float-form for $6.95?a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a glass of 8-Ball. Beer and ice cream? It's the new peanut butter and chocolate, trust us.
Hitachino Espresso Stout at Quenchers Saloon
Japanese beers are typically light and brewed with rice, so it shocked us to discover there's a stout from Japan. Hitachino Brewery has started to loosen the grip of the stranglehold that beers like Kirin and Sapporo have on the Japanese beer market. Leave it to Quenchers, which boasts 200-some-odd bottles and a selection reaching as far-spread as India, Kenya, Finland, Peru and Namibia, to sell it.
The stout delivers what it promises with the title?a thick, smooth body; a creamy, cocoa scent; and a heavy coffee taste. It's a great quilted-blanket of beer to coat your belly on a biting winter day, and Quenchers is arguably the most homey tap in which to enjoy it. The $7 price tag for 12-ounces might seem tall, but it's worth the travel.
The take-home edition:
Southern Tier Choklat Imperial Stout
Discerning liquor stores across the city are starting to discover the pure flavor of Southern Tier's monster-size beers. The Choklat assaults your taste buds with an overwhelming hit of rich fudge-y chocolate; it's almost like getting drunk on Yoo-hoo. Most liquor stores should retail it for less than $10.

Visit our St. Patrick's Day Guide for info on
more Irish fun.

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Mardi Gras in Chicago

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:00:00 CST

Celebrate Fat Tuesday at one of these spots in Chicago.
Despite the fact that our city is more than 900 miles from New Orleans, the Crescent City?s biggest celebration manages to wind its way up the mighty Mississippi every year, resulting in a Cajun and Creole explosion of Chicago Mardi Gras activity. Of course, any reason to get drunk on rum, listen to jazz and generally make a fool of oneself is usually not a hard sell in this city. So where are the best places to get purple, gold and green beaded all over (without crossing the Mason-Dixon line)? Glad you asked.
115 Bourbon Street
It's only right that this New Orleans-inspired bar would host one of the biggest Mardi Gras celebrations in the area. On Friday, February 20, an all-gender-inclusive array of male and female impersonators take the stage, featuring shows from Cher, Joan Jett, Annie Lennox, Christina Aguilera, Beyonce and a semi-fem tribute to the Blues Brothers. On Fat Tuesday proper, enjoy $3 you-call-it drinks including top-shelf liquor, shots, beers and more to keep your mid-week revelry reasonably priced. Live entertainment includes a mix of cooking and crooning from the Rock 'n' Roll Chef, as well as cover tunes all night from Dot Dot Dot and Planet Groove.
Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe
Chuck's is always a great place to chow down on all things Cajun, but the man behind it really goes all out for Mardi Gras. Chuck's party has gotten so big in recent years, one restaurant can't hold the festivities; instead, the festivities ? presented by Southern suds-makers Abita Beer and Dixie Beer - will be held at the Burbank Manor Hall, 6345 W. 79th. The two-day (February 20-21) celebration includes a lineup of blues and zydeco bands, a huge menu created in Chuck's kitchen (including an on-site pig smoker, no standard buffet sitting around here) and a huge array of specialty drinks like Hurricanes, juleps and margaritas. It's always a good sign when the organizers tell you to plan ahead and get hotel rooms early; partiers at this bash are going to be holding nothing back. Tickets are $50 and cover food and entertainment; drinks are still on you.
Blue Bayou
A touch of New Orleans in the heart of Lakeview, Blue Bayou will be dedicating a full two weeks of partying to the Mardi Gras holiday. It will serve gumbo and jambalaya and bring in the beads and Hurricanes, of course ? but Blue Bayou is also serving Bayou Grenades, high-potency cocktails introduced at the Louisiana World's Fair. Other attractions during the week include burlesque dancers on the bar on Thursdays and jazz on Sundays.
Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
With so many local bars and restaurants borrowing from NOLA for a night or two, wouldn't it be nice if someone gave something back? Presumably that's the thought process behind Jake Melnick's Mardi Gras Celebration - an all-you-can-eat-and-drink blowout for $30 per person, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund. The Melnick's kitchen will power out Cajun-inspired dishes for all attendees, but the real draw is the beer pairings - New Orleans brewery Abita is best known for its Purple Haze and Turbodog, and Melnick's is serving both of those along with more hard-to-find Abita beers like their Abbey Ale and Jackamo IPA. One could go somewhere else and get plastered on hurricanes all night, or you could plan ahead, purchase your tickets now and know that between all the feasting and beer "tasting," you're at least doing something slightly altruistic.
O'Donovan's
Much like everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day, when Mardi Gras comes around even the Irish go Cajun. This otherwise-Irish joint in North Center celebrates on Tuesday proper, serving up gumbo, jalapeno cornbread, blackened salmon, po' boys and Cajun crab cakes in addition to cheap barbecue and buffalo wings. Zydeco music will be pumped through the speakers and the ever-ubiquitous Mardi Gras beads will be distributed for whatever you choose to barter for them. Hurricanes, bombs and other NOLA-style drinks will be mixed up for $5, and if you're not too faded on rum to think, O'Donovans will be holding a Tuesday Trivia contest as well.
Carnivale
Carnivale is staying true to its name, planning a three-day blowout bash. The party starts the Sunday before Fat Tuesday with a family night including face painters, stilt walkers, masks and beads for the kids and special "mocktails" for them as well. Monday night brings a masquerade ball in the full NOLA tradition, featuring $5 mojitos from around the world, complimentary masks and beads as well as the presence of the Bacardi Girls and a Red Carpet Spectacular hosted by Bobby Pins. It all concludes on Tuesday with live music and samba dancing. Each night will feature a full special Mardi Gras menu from executive chef Mark Mendez.
Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
Every night at the Kit Kat is a party, so why should Mardi Gras be any different? Choosing to focus more on rum than anything else, the lounge will offer half-price martinis featuring Cruzan flavored rums, as well as other Fat Tuesday rum cocktails for $5.50. In addition to the normal menu options, you?ll find some New Orleans-style items as well. Kit Kat Lounge is well known for its drag-queen entertainment, and on Fat Tuesday, Diva Traci Ross takes the stage at 7:30 p.m.
Sidetrack
In case you were fiending for a blowout in the heart of Boystown, take a trek a little south from the Kit Kat to Sidetrack, where the party starts at 8 p.m. on Fat Tuesday and goes all night. Get dolled up and pile into the no-cover celebration with performance art, dancers, body painting, face painting, drink specials and the general craziness that Mardi Gras inspires. Warning: Sidetrack fills up quick for the party, so start early and enjoy yourself.
Piece
Most places preparing for Fat Tuesday are getting prepared to pour Hurricanes and dole out jambalaya like everyone else. Wicker Park's Piece, one of the few microbreweries in the city, will instead invite a number of breweries to serve up their takes on barleywine. Barleywine is a style of beer originated in England and is typically higher in alcohol than your usual brews, as well as being slightly fruity and heartier than mainstream ales. Check the website for details on breweries in attendance. Live music and pizza will be on offer as well.
Yats
If you want to get your dose of Cajun cooking and be done with the whole event quickly, Yats is your place. Why? Because the restaurant's cafeteria-style take on Creole cooking will ensure that you get the full NOLA experience swiftly, and for not a lot of dough. Etouffee, red beans and rice, white bean chili and jambalaya are each served up with a couple sides off the chalkboard menu for $5.50 (for a regular size). Yats' staff promises a Mardi Gras special or two, but otherwise it's full speed ahead as usual.
Heaven on Seven (Magnificent Mile)
Chicago's hometown Cajun chain of restaurants, headed up by the Jimmy Bannos clan, will of course be pulling out all the stops for Mardi Gras. Starting with live music the weekend before and continuing through Fat Tuesday, Heaven on Seven will be serving a special Mardi Gras menu including King Cakes flown in directly from New Orleans. This is a traditional dish where a plastic baby or other trinket is baked into the cake, and the diner who finds the trinket is said to have good luck for the upcoming year. HOS will be awarding T-shirts, dinners for four and gallons of gumbo to lucky patrons who find the baby.
Individual outlets may also be planning their own additional entertainment ? the Rush Street outpost will be featuring face painters and tarot-card readers, for instance ? but the traditional Cajun flair that Heaven On Seven has been known for will only be amped up, decorated and magnified.
Dunlays on Clark
Chef Andrew Easterday will cook up some Mardi Gras menu specials for $10 each, including gumbo, jambalaya and red beans and rice. You'll be able to drink New Orleans-style, too, with $5 Hurricanes and $3 Big Easy shots (gin, rum, vodka, melon liqueur); $20 bottles of wine are available, too. Expect plenty of beads.
Zocalo
It won't be hard to get fat on Tuesday at this River North Mexican restaurant, which will offer your choice of an appetizer, entree and dessert for $20 from 5-10 p.m. If you're doing your celebrating during the day, stop in for the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet for $10.95 per person from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. And because this is a time for true celebrating, you can get $5 Myers Rum cocktails and $3 bottles of Corona Light all day and all night.
Timothy O'Toole's
With good food, cheap drinks and Mardi Gras-inspired decor, Timothy's comes close to replicating the party-filled event down south. Chef Sean O'Brien is cooking up some New Orleans-style specials that include gumbo, po' boy sandwiches, hush puppies and fried okra. Drink specials include Hurricanes for $6 and pitchers of Heineken and Amstel Light for $14.
Stretch Run
Hoping to throw the hottest Cajun invasion in the city, Stretch Run is celebrating Mardi Gras with bead giveaways, Corona specials and raffles from Feb. 20-24. Enjoy its Cajun-inspired food specials that include chicken jambalaya, crawfish fettuccini, crab cakes and a shrimp-okra creole combo. Other than Coronas and Pacifico beers ($3), drink specials include the $5 Hurricane and $6 "Storm of the Century," a mixture of multiple types of rum, vodka, gin, chambord, triple sec and orange.
The Fifty/50
On Fat Tuesday, this upscale sports bar in Wicker Park is transforming into Bourbon Street, complete with stiff drinks, a balcony and a $100 gift certificate for the lovely lady who has the most beads at the end of the night. The kitchen will be preparing fried oysters, oyster shooters and The Fifty/50's own homemade Louisiana hot sauce to add a little authenticity to the celebration. Half-priced priced appetizers will be served from 4-7 p.m.
Division Street becomes Bourbon Street
The weather might be the only major difference between this Chicago Mardi Gras event and the real thing as Division Street tries to replicate Bourbon Street. The Second Line Brass Band, accompanied by street freaks and stilt walkers, will be greeting visitors and playing authentic New Orleans sounds along the entire street, spreading Mardi Gras cheer and tossing out beads. With beads and booze aplenty, Bootlegger's kicks off the event at 6 p.m. with a listen to the acoustic styling of Reverie, downing Malibu Hurricanes (keep your cup because there are $5 refills at other bars on Division), and their annual New Orleans Dance Off. At 7 p.m., The Original Mother's (right across the street) are hosting local favorites Local H and A Birdsong Valentine along with $4 Shiner Bock and door prizers. If you're more into club music, She-nannigans is hosting it's "Dance Hall Mardi Gras," a party that should last all night.
The Pony
This modern-day saloon and bar is hosting its own Mardi Gras celebration on Saturday with $4 Heinekens and $5 16 oz. Hurricanes. The Pony will also be serving a special Cajun-inspired menu which includes a bourbon pork tenderloin stack, southern pecan pie and New Orleans gumbo.
Merkle's Bar and Grill
If a heavy drink is enough to celebrate Mardi Gras for you, then look no further. Merkle's "Friday After Work Party" (from 6-9 p.m.) includes give-a-ways and $4 Absolute drinks. Stay later from 9-11 p.m. and you'll be rewarded with free Absolute samples. The following night offers more of the same--partying and booze. Their SoCo Mardi Gras Party (from 9-11 p.m.) includes $5 Hurricanes and $4 SoCo drinks.
Pappadeaux
So what if it's in the suburbs? Seating 700 and displaying huge tanks of live lobsters, Pappadeaux is considered one of the best Cajun cooking spot this side of the Mississippi. It's only appropriate for them to host an extended, 5-day Mardi Gras celebration filled with New Orleans music, face painters, beads and, of course, food and drink specials. Pappadeaux will be serving Louisiana-style favorites like blackened opelousas fillet, crawfish and shrimp fondeaux, and seafood gumbo. Their specialty drink menu includes their signature cocktail, the Swampthing, a multi-layered frozen drink with layers of raspberry liqueur, frozen Hurricane, frozen margarita and a layer of melon liqueur.
Dick's Last Resort
Dick's hosts its infamous Mardi Gras celebration on from 7:30-11:30 p.m. at its Marina City Towers location. It promises loads of good grub, cheap booze and live music by The Project (with no cover charge). The featured drink is a SoCo Hurricane on da rocks ($2.75) and a Best Costume contest. In honor of Fat Tuesday, the person with the best costume wins double his or her weight in cash.
Fat Cat
You can eat and drink like a Louisianan all night long at this Uptown bar, and help out real Louisianans in the process. Fat Cat will donate a portion of the proceeds from every $4 Abita beer sold on Fat Tuesday to the Louisiana Disaster Recovery Foundation (the Bayou State brewery's offerings include Purple Haze, Turbo Dog, Jockamo and Amber Ale). There will also be an all-you-can-eat buffet ($7.95/person) with a crawfish boil, po' boys, jambalaya and king cakes.
Crobar
If you really want to party with a purpose, head to Crobar on Saturday, February 21 for the Debonair Mardi Gras Ball 2009. DJs Tony Arzadon and Tomeeo will spin all night in the Bourbon Street-themed space, and by paying the suggested $10 donation at the door (tickets can also be ordered in advance), you'll get access to an hour-and-a-half-long hosted cocktail reception courtesy of Kilo Kai rum. One hundred percent of your donation will go to Meals on Wheels Chicago, which supports the unmet hunger needs of Chicago seniors.
Durty Nellie's
Rocker Rick Saucedo plays at 7 p.m. and Live Band Karaoke takes over at 9:30 ($5 for both events). Also enjoy $2 Bud and Bud Light drafts, $4 hurricanes and a Cajun-themed menu.
Lumen
Usually, Tuesdays are Industry Nights at Lumen, but things will be a little different this week, thanks to Mardi Gras. Resident DJ Just Joey spins along with The House Moguls. There will also be $5 Jameson and Corzo shots on offer.
Matisse
Get fat on the $6 taco plate at this Lincoln Park lounge, then wash it all down with $4 Hurricanes, $2 sangria, and $4 SoCo Limes. Party favors, too...whatever that means.
Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen
The celebration starts tonight at Duke's ($3 Rum Runners, Hurricanes and Great Lakes Burning River drafts), but goes all week (through March 1, the Crystal Lake bar offers $5 Rum Runners and Hurricanes, $3 Great Lakes Burning River drafts and $1 Duke's Juice shots). Plus, there are great food specials like andouille sausage fritters, gumbo and jambalaya.

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Oscar Night Outings

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 12:00:00 CST

Get your acceptance speech ready at one of these Chicago Oscars parties.
Even if you're not walking the red carpet, the Oscars can still be a special night. Whether you want to get all dressed up for a benefit event, or enjoy a low-key party with fellow film fanatics, we've found some parties that are well worth the ticket price.
Gene Siskel Film Center
The Siskel Center hosts the only offical Oscar party in town; it's sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Pictures and requires what's being called "business attire or awards glam" for all its patrons, which means come right from work or feel free to get decked out to the nines. Hollywood would be proud. The broadcast, which will be shown in full HD glory at the center, starts at 7 p.m., but the gala kicks off at 6 p.m. and goes all the way to midnight. A silent auction will run through the evening and prizes will be raffled. The price of admission ($150) gets you a full buffet as well as bar, and you get to take home the same program you'll be seeing in the hands of all the actual Oscar-goers up on screen.
Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
All your red-carpet viewing desires will be fulfilled at Lakeview's Kit Kat Lounge, where the party kicks off at 5:30 p.m. and continues until the Best Picture envelope is opened. Hosting the party will be resident diva Candi Stratton, who will be hosting as Cher and performing during the commercial breaks. Just to sweeten the deal, Kit Kat will have four gold-painted, Oscar-esque male models strutting on the lounge's red carpet and serving complimentary samples of St. Germain liqueur. A special tapas menu will be served, and the first 50 guests to the lounge will receive special Oscar-themed gift bags courtesy of St. Germain.
The Chopping Block
Sometimes you just want to stay home and chill out with friends, watch the big show and maybe chow down on some good homemade food. Thankfully the folks at The Chopping Block have taken the thought and indecision out of the menu selection (do I serve Slumdog Millionaire samosas or gumbo for Benjamin Button taking place in New Orleans? Decisions, decisions) and re-created their monthly class schedule in honor of some of Hollywood's biggest hits.
Sign up for classes like "As Good As It Grits," "It's a Wonderful Knife" and "Under a Tuscan Sun" to hone your culinary skills for a home-based bash. The Chopping Block will also have movie-themed displays at both locations, and Hollywood-style discounts to leave you with enough cash for the actual party.
Tapas Valencia
In conjunction with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Associate Board, Chicago Magazine and Tapas Valencia will be having a "Dark Knight" on February 22. The relocated suburban tapas favorite will be celebrating its recent opening with an Oscar viewing party as a benefit for JDRF. Plenty of TVs will be on site to make sure you don't miss a single statue presentation (go Heath!), plus there will be a red-carpet entrance for everyone attending, specialty drinks and a full tapas menu. In addition, a silent auction to support JDRF will run all night, and prizes will be up for grabs for the best-dressed attendee. Tickets are $50 in advance and $55 at the door.
Center on Halsted
The black-tie events continue at Center on Halsted, Chicago's center for the LGBT community. Starting at 6 p.m., attendees will fight their way across the red carpet through the paparazzi to the Billie Jean King auditorium, which will be the site for the Center's annual viewing party. Wine will flow and hors d'oeuvres will be passed, raffles will be held and silent auction goods will be up for grabs. If you want to celebrate in style, be prepared to drop a pretty penny; a "celebrity table" for eight runs $1,500 and garners you special placement for watching the show, as well as raffle tickets and champagne on hand. Not ready to make that kind of commitment? Tickets start at $75 and will get you a raffle ticket as well, which could result in you being whisked off on a trip for two to Hollywood.
Hollywood Blvd. Cinema
Looking for a gala charity event without the hassle of the gown and the red-carpet glitz? You're free to black-tie it up as much as you want at Hollywood Boulevard's Viewing Party for the Academy Awards, benefitting the Illinois Variety Charity. A requested donation of $25 gains you entry to the event, starting at 6 p.m. with a champagne and appetizer reception. A silent auction will be running all night and the theater, known for offering food and a full bar with its films, will provide at-your-seat service throughout the entire viewing party. Keep track of your picks while ordering buckets of beer and entrees right to where you're watching on the big screen.
Garrett Ripley's
Known as one of River North's finest upscale taverns, Garrett Ripley's is throwing an Oscar party anyone can enjoy. Watch the ceremony and predict the winners while sipping on $7 Oscar martinis. If you have the most correct guesses, you could win tickets to any of the nominated movies you may have missed. Other drink specials include $5 bloody marys and mimosas, and $2.50 domestic bottled beer.
HUB 51
Sun-Times columnist Richard Roeper hosts this party that promises brushes with local celebrities and media personalities. Your $125 ticket includes cocktails, a "lavish" buffet, valet parking and assorted contests and raffles. A portion of the proceeds go to the Columbia College film scholarship fund, so you'll even be giving back to the local film community.
Stretch Run
Here's an Oscar party that critics and audiences both can enjoy. You'll be greeted with a walk on the red carpet before entering this River North spot, which offers 240 TVs to watch the actions. Once the ceremony has started, enjoy Oscar-themed food specials including the "Oscar Dog" (a bacon-wrapped beef dog with onion rings, sauerkraut, relish and nacho rings). Or try the "Best Supporting Grouper" (a grilled grouper sandwich served on a toasted ciabatta roll with remoulade sauce). Drink specials include $5 drinks dedicated to this year's best picture nominees. The "Hair of the Slumdog" is a mixture of Malibu Rum, Stoli raspberry vodka and Sierra Mist, while the "Frosty Nixon" is vodka, Kahlua and cream served over ice in a rocks glass.
Brasserie Jo
Who said A-listers are the only ones allowed to celebrate Oscar night in style? This French restaurant in River North is a lot classier than most diners or pubs. Oscar night at Brasserie Jo includes watching all the glamour on a flat screen television in their bar while munching on complimentary Tarte Flambees.
Cityscape Bar
If the ceremony gets a little too long and predictable, there's always something else to stare at in this downtown bar. Located off the 15th floor lobby of the Holiday Inn Mart Plaza, Cityscape Bar boasts one of the best views of the city. While there, enjoy sipping on "drink like the stars" martinis such as the "Red Carpet" ($7) and "The Envelope Please..." martini ($7).
Kohan
If you're in the mood for Japanese food come Oscar night, Kohan may be the place for you. Enjoy the "Red Carpet Roll" (spicy tuna over a spicy scallop roll with ponzu sauce) while washing it all down with an "Oscar-tini" (wasabe sake infused vodka, soju, triple sec, cranberry juice, tangerine and lime juice).
La Madia
Celebrate movies' biggest night at this upscale River North pizzeria. La Madia's sleek bar and lounge is the perfect setting to enjoy a nice cocktail or their "Melegrana Spritz" (a blend of fresh pomegranate juice and puree, syrup, and proscecco).
Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
Little City Foundation's hosts a Night on the Red Carpet at the Lincolnshire Marriott. The evening's festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a "Red Carpet Review," where guests will be interviewed by a Joan Rivers lookalike and have their pictures taken by paparazzi. Inside, everyone will be treated to dinner and a chance to win prizes by picking the Oscar winners. Guests also will have the chance to bid on silent auction items. Tickets cost $150 and can be purchased by calling (847) 221-7892 or at Little City's website. Harry Caray's Tavern
Make the best Oscar picks and earn a $100 gift certificate while watching on Wrigleyville's largest HD screen. Enjoy a selection of classic cocktails including Tom Collins and Manhattans, as well as Oscar-themed martinis for $5. Guests can also enjoy VIP treatment with free appetizers, and can order from the full menu as well. The party starts at 6:30 p.m.
Halsted's Bar & Grill
You can get your party started early in Lakeview, as Halsted's will be showing the red carpet arrivals all afternoon. You can watch on any of the 12 flat-screens around the bar while enjoying specials like $4 22-ounce drafts of Bud Light, $3 screwdrivers and $3 mimosas.
Bull & Bear
You can pretend like you're at home at this new River North haunt, if you're able to secure one of the tables with self-serve beer taps (reservations recommended, as they fill up fast). Even if you can't get one of those seats, it should still be a fun event. Beginning at 5 p.m., guests can fill out their own ballots (prizes will be awarded). There will also be gift bags to salons and spas (worth up to $300) and a complimentary glass of champagne for each patron.

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Single in the City

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:00:00 CST

Visit the Valentine's Day Guide to
singles' events and romantic outings �

Being single means one of two things: you're either unlucky in love, or you're lucky enough to be free. If you live in the city, where there are just as many parties for singles as there are for couples, we'd say it's the latter. Check out these Chicago events that prove Valentine's Day isn't just for lovers.

photo: K. Leo
The girls of Belmont Burlesque will break your heart, if you let 'em.
The Broken Hearts Burlesque Ball at Abbey Pub
Friday, February 13, 9 p.m.; $15
Think about it: how often can you get away with watching half-naked ladies and gents prance around when you're in a committed relationship? Pretty much never. Now, aren't you relieved that you won't need to ask permission from the old ball and chain this year? The risque romp, otherwise known as the Broken Hearts Burlesque Ball, will feature a tantalizing lineup of performers from Belmont Burlesque. Featured players include Pearl Pistol, Red Hot Annie, Backdoor Aly, Hot Toddy, Dizzy Lizzy Delicious, The Honey Buns, The Amazing Tomas, the Belmont Bombshells and DJ Joe Black of Midnight Spookshow, who will spin between each set. Guests are encouraged to go all out with festive black, red or burlesque-inspired costumes (think stilettos, corsets and glitter); cash prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed.
Valentine Massacre at Cobra Lounge
Friday, February 13, 9 p.m.; free
Cobra Lounge knows what it's like to suffer from a bloody, broken heart. And the popular club also knows how to put on a bloody show where things will likely be broken. The love-loathing Valentine Massacre kicks off with a burlesque show, featuring Miss Maya Sinstress and Kendra James. The Reverend B. Dangerous will also host a virtual freak show during which he drives nails into his body, while the metal band Skank thrashes over Cobra's sound system. The romance-bashing festivities will continue on Valentine's Day with a live performance at 9 p.m. from The Chamber Strings, Kevin Tihista's Red Terror and Lonesome Cougar with Dorian Taj. Stoli and Kilo Kai drinks will be offered for just four bucks each, and with no cover, you'll have plenty of dough to splurge on booze.
Passion and Spice at Le Bar
Friday, February 13, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.; free
What better day to ward off love, or find a new flame, than Friday the 13th? That's when Le Bar, located in the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, will pamper a select group of single guys and gals with a series of cocktails ($12 each) created by mixologist DJ Love. First, Love will take guests through the first stage of romance (and maybe even spark some among the crowd) with the Passion and Spice, a mix of agave nectar, cayenne peppers, cherry liquor and tequila. Next is Aphrodite's Chalice with raspberries, rose champagne and gin. And finally, there's Cupid's Arrow, a symbolic drink of commitment, with Veev, lychee puree and rose champagne. The first 25 guys and 25 gals to arrive will receive gift bags packed with certificates to local spas and restaurants, cosmetic cases, leather-encased playing cards and shopping deals from Bloomingdales.
Shred Your Ex at Stretch Run
Saturday, February 14, 4 p.m.; free
If you're looking to get lucky on Valentine's Day, but don't have a date lined up, head over to Stretch Run. The downtown sports bar will play matchmaker when it opens its doors to some of Chicago's finest bachelors and bachelorettes. Drink specials range from $4-$5 and include the Love Buster with Disaronno, champagne and orange juice, the Forget About Your Ex martini with vodka, pomegranate liqueur, Chambord, lime juice and champagne and the Heartbreaker with Chambord, peach schnapps, vodka and a mixture of orange, pineapple and cranberry juices. If cocktails aren't really your thing, the bar will offer all of its drafts for just $4. Bring a picture of your ex to shred and score free chocolate strawberries or a fried pickle.

Jake Melnick's Besame Margarita should put you in a romantic mood, even if you just had a bad breakup.
No Drama at Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
Saturday, February 14, 9 p.m.; free
Keeping in line with the bar's casual atmosphere, Jake Melnick's is hosting a drama-free singles event (we recommend burning those photos of your ex before heading over). In addition to the regular lineup of 150 domestic and imported beers, guests will enjoy a festive selection of craft brews, including Magic Hat #9, Founders Double Chocolate Breakfast Stout and half-price Leinenkugel Red bottles. Ladies can sip on $5 Valentine-inspired cocktails like the Pama Kiss with vanilla vodka, pomegranate liqueur and champagne or the Besame Margarita, a blend of Patron Silver and pomegranate liqueur. Additionally, all ladies will receive complimentary handmade chocolate bon bons to pair with their sweet drinks, while the guys score free condoms from Magic Hat Brewing reps. Jake's full dinner menu will be served until 11 p.m. and a $5 late-night menu, featuring a selection of salads and fried grub, will be offered beginning at 9 p.m. Also, there's no cover, so you can splurge on drinks all night while dancing to the sounds of DJ Tecknique.
"Love Hurts" Tribute at Fat Cat
Saturday, February 14, 8 p.m.; free
Love hurts, and so do tributes to cheesy ?70s songs. But that's not stopping Fat Cat from rocking out to a cover of Nazareth's famous 1975 hit, "Love Hurts." The event is open to both singles and couples, but the breakup-inspired drinks are a warning to any canoodling types not to get too cozy. The bitter list includes poisons for those seeking vengeance against their exes, with names like The Cheating Bastard, The Dirty Bitch and The Breakup, $5 each. Food specials are just as brooding with a "Hit the Road Jack" half-pound burger and a "Call Me When You're Sober" PBR-infused chili, $8.95 each.

Visit the Valentine's Day Guide to
singles' events and romantic outings �

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Carnaval in Chicago

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:00:00 CST
Mardi Gras is a great day for partying, but that's just the problem: It's only one day. So get the party started early with Carnaval (or Carnival, or Carnivale), the five-day period (February 20-24) that, like Fat Tuesday, is a way to say goodbye to all those naughty habits before Lent begins. But don't expect five days of drunk bead-bartering; Carnaval is all about infectious samba beats, hypnotic hip shaking, unique food and a massive melting pot of a party. Cheap flashes or sexy dancers? Beer or an exotic caipirinha? Keep the king cake, we'll take these events instead.

Mmm...feijoada.
Bossa Nova Brunch
Saturday-Sunday at C-House
Marcus Samuelsson's C-House is known for tasty, artfully prepared food; but at brunch this weekend, the main attraction will be the customized caipirinha bar. Guests can enhance the traditional Brazilian cocktail (made with rum-like cachaca, sugar and limes) by choosing a fruit, like blood orange or pineapple, and a rim (sugar and blank are just two choices). Each cocktail is $9; you can up it with a champagne floater for an additional $3 and if you're not into rum-like cocktails, there are plenty of other libations to go along with C-House's classic brunch fare. The food gets its time to shine, too, with special Brazilian dishes like the country's national favorite, feijoada (a stew of beans with beef and pork).
Braziliance Carnaval
Friday, February 20 at Sonotheque, 9 p.m.; $5, free with RSVP to nick.lambrou@gmail.com
Start off the Carnaval celebration on Friday with a special Carnaval installment of Sonotheque's popular monthly Braziliance party. DJ/Musical Programmer Joe Bryl will be spinning unique Brazilian beats and samba music while images of Carnaval parties from Rio display on the various screens throughout the club. There's also a special menu of yummy sounding cocktails like the Cococabana, a mix of coconut rum, pineapple juice, Amaretto and Grenadine garnished with an orange slice for $8. Get there early and receive a free compilation CD put together by Bryl for the special event.

SushiSamba's Carnaval cocktail.
SushiSamba Rio
With vibrant decor, sexy design and infectious world dance music, it feels like Carnaval every night at SushiSamba Rio, the Chicago outpost of the Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese upscale fusion restaurant. SushiSamba is using the celebration to gear up for its 10-year anniversary (the first location opened in New York in 1999) and turning up the Brazilian vibes from February 21-24 with special menu items and the Carnaval cocktail, a mix of Cabana Cachaca (a specialty Brazilian rum), honey, strawberries, cinnamon, lemon juice and cayenne. A blowout party takes place on February 24 with samba dancers and batucada drummers.
Chicago Samba
Saturday, February 21 at Logan Square Auditorium, 10 p.m.; $15
If you're looking to party with Brazilians and true appreciators of Carnaval, head to the official Chicago Samba event, which will make up for what it lacks in fancy decor with sheer authenticity. This fete features the popular Chicago Samba dance troupe, capoeiristas and so much more. DJ Nando Brasil provides the tunes, while Chicago Samba instructor/MC for the evening Edilson Lima teaches samba dance steps. Expect dancers in full, extravagant costumes, $5 caipirinhas and authentic Brazilian food provided by Sinha Elegant Cuisine. The party is 16-plus, so young party-goers can also get in on the fun.
Carnivale
Jerry Kleiner's West Loop spot is a no-brainer for celebrating this festival, and this year the restaurant hosts a 3-day extravaganza with a specialty menu and more. The festivities start with family night on Sunday, February 22, featuring face-painters, stilt walkers, a special menu and mocktails for kids. Monday offers a sexy Masquerade Ball with music from DJ Monna 3 and complimentary masks and beads (you may want them for walking the special red carpet); the usual Monday night $5 mojito drink special will be enhanced with four specialty mojitos from around the world. Finally, the restauran closes things out on Tuesday with live music by Angel Melendez, samba dancers, a tableside mojito cart and more.

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