September 8, 2009

Rootstock Wine & Beer Bar Chicago

  Humboldt Park, Food & Drink, Artisanal, Hangout

June 12, 2008

Bottom Lounge Chicago

Giant warehousey space includes a full bar, cheap, greasy menu (snacks and brunch), and a live music venue for local and national acts alike.

  Near West Side, Food & Drink, Alfresco, Bar Menu

February 6, 2007

Viet Bistro and Lounge Chicago

Viet Bistro is certainly worth the trek up north. At dinner, nosh on modern Asian fare like the lobster roll with tamarind sauce or fresh seafood udon. The late-night menu (served ’til 2 a.m.) beats the heck out of bar food.

  Edgewater, Food & Drink, Late Night, Worth the Drive

May 18, 2006

Five Star Bar & Grill Chicago

Pound beers, play pool, and chow on bar food while watching daring patrons make moves on the stripper pole. Nice neighborhood joint.

  Noble Square, Food & Drink, Bar Menu, Boozehound

May 9, 2006

Minnies Chicago

Eat miniature cheeseburgers, Reubens, and other sammies in groups of three, six, or twelve. Indulge in petite desserts like double chocolate mint cookies and butterscotch milkshakes. Or grab a normal-size cocktail from the full (mini)bar. Hit up the 24-hour takeout window on weekends.

  Lincoln Park, Food & Drink, Late Night, Takeout

September 8, 2009

LuxLounge Chicago

Bartenders sling specialty drinks and DJs spin at this Gold Coast nightspot, tucked above LuxBar.

  Gold Coast, Food & Drink, Classic Cocktails, DJs

September 8, 2009

The Rocking Horse Chicago

Twelve beers on tap and more than 50 bottles (from PBR to 22-ounce Belgian brews) take the stage at this retro nightspot. Greasy but delicious food sops it up nicely.

  Fairmount, Food & Drink, Cozy, Hangout