Sheffield's location six blocks south of Wrigley Field draws plenty of Cubs fans looking to strap on a serious pre-game buzz. Most nights though, you'll find a lax corner tap where twenty-somethings would rather schmooze over a mellow game of Uno at the vintage bar. The beer garden here is a Lakeview legend, spacious and generously shaded by a towering cottonwood, while a central hearth warms more intimate nooks in back throughout winter.

But the pub's real acclaim stems from an awe-inspiring stock of ace microbrews. A 34-page almanac (complete with glossary explaining technical terms like "nose") lists more than 100 flavors that "reflect the growing renaissance in American brewing." Besides aromatic gems like Orval or the Rogue Brutal Bitter, Sheffield's serves its own pale ale and hand-pumped rarities ranging from Belgian ales to seasonal specialties. Expect the good stuff to run a stout $4.50-$12, but pilsner plebeians can still survive on the $2 Bad Beer of the Month.

In addition to regular readings, spades tournaments and film nights, Sheffield's also hosts exclusive beer tastings, and connoisseurs are encouraged to join the Joseph Sheffield Memorial Beer Society. Membership gets you a commemorative T-shirt, two pint glasses, event discounts and that rich, heady satisfaction reserved for the true hops head.

With all the beer you'll consume here, you'll need to eat something. Sheffield offers a small selection of barbecue eats including pulled pork, basted brisket and baby backs served with sides like collard greens and baked beans.

Centerstage Reviewer: Michael Foreman