CenterstageChicago.com - Articles Archive: Chicago clubs, bars, nightclubs, dance, gay, jazz, wrigleyville, blues, rock, music, under 21, drink deals

» NYE 2010 Picks: Cheap Choices

Saving up for 2011? These low-cost New Year's Eve celebrations should fit the bill.

» Brand-New Bars

Get divey on Grace; go downstairs at River North's Curio.

» Haunted Haunts

Throw back a few shots of liquid courage before getting spooked at these haunted taps.

» NFL Bar Deals

If you can't be at Soldier Field, you can still get discounted drinks at these Chicago Bears bars.

» College Football Bar Specials

Cheer on your favorite team with drinks deals at these spots

» Let's Go Alfresco

Want to eat or drink outside? We've found the finest Chicago beer gardens and sidewalk patios.

» In the House

Our picks for Chicago’s most underrated house music venues

» Where to Celebrate the Blackhawks

Toast Chicago's hockey team at one of these bars.

» Rooftop Revelry

We've rounded up Chicago's rooftop decks, where you can imbibe up high.

» Sex and the City 2 Parties in Chicago

These movie-release celebrations offer more than just Cosmos (though you can get those, too).

» Memorial Day Weekend Events in Chicago

Take full advantage of the long weekend with these events that go beyond barbecues.

» Where to Watch the 'Lost' Finale

Share your theories about TV's biggest mystery with fellow fans at these parties on Sunday.

» Forty Ounces to Freedom

Some Chicago bars that have embraced a trashy classic, which means more brew for you.

» Spring Pub Crawls

'Tis the season for progressive parties that don't require coats.

» Chicago Cinco de Mayo Events

Celebrate all day with these Mexican-themed fiestas.

» Chicago Kentucky Derby Events

Enjoy specials while you watch the 'Run For the Roses' at these Chicago bars.

» Tasty Tax Relief

Save a little dough with these sweet and savory tax day deals.

» Where Can I Sing Karaoke in Chicago?

Fancy yourself a Gleek? Audition for the cast at these spots.

» Springtime Secrets of Sour Beers

Pucker up - these locally available brews are about to launch a full-scale attack on your taste buds.

» Where to Watch the White Sox

Don't stop believin' that by drinking at these bars, you can will the good guys to success this season.

» Where to Watch the Cubs

Whether it's a miracle playoff run or yet another classic Cubby meltdown, these spots will keep you close (but not too close) to the action.

» March Madness Deals in Chicago

Check out all the college hoops action on the cheap at these bars.

» Watch Your Team in the NCAA Tournament

Cheer with fellow fans at these Chicago bars.

» Where to Watch the Big Ten Tournament

Find your fellow fans at one of these school-affiliated Chicago sports bars.

» Oscar Night Outings

Make Academy Awards night as memorable for you as it is for the stars.

» The Revolution Will Be Brewed

Uncovering the evolution of Josh Deth's Revolution Brewing in Logan Square.

» Authentic Irish Pubs

Thanks to these Chicago pubs, you don't have to cross the Atlantic for a real taste of the Emerald Isle.

» Slainte! Beyond the Beer and Whiskey

You can sample some real Irish cocktails at Chicago's best pubs.

» Carnaval in Chicago

We've found the best places to party like a Brazilian for four days straight.

» Mardi Gras in Chicago

Here's where to celebrate Fat Tuesday in the Windy City in 2010.

» How To Help Haiti In Chicago

Local businesses make it easy to donate to Haiti earthquake victims.

» Where to Watch the Super Bowl

Make the most of the football finale with these Chicago restaurant and bar deals.

» Dart Bars

The traditional pub game brings in some serious competition at these local joints.

» Where to Watch the Outback Bowl

Start wearing purple and visit these spots as the Northwestern Wildcats battle Auburn in the Outback Bowl.

» Taste of the Tropics

Wanna get away from Chicago's frigid temps? These bars will take you to a totally different climate.

» NYE Picks: Cheap Choices

Saving up for 2010? These low-cost New Year's Eve celebrations should fit the bill.

» NYE Picks: Splurges

It's New Year's Eve, so why not go all out? Here are our picks for the best events over $100.

» Lowering the Bar

Get the lowdown on Chicago's subterranean pubs.

» Getting Hammered Hearthside

Battle the winter blues with a drink or two at a bar with a roaring fireplace.

» Thanksgiving Eve Events

Give thanks for all the revelry going down on Black Wednesday, the biggest bar and club night of the year.

» Beaujolais Nouveau in Chicago

Local French restaurants celebrate the return of the seasonal vintage.

» Where to Have Your Holiday Party

Work will never be the same after you book a bash at one of these Chicago bars.

» Distraction-Free Drinking

Spark some stimulating conversation at one of these TV-less spots.

» Pump It Up

For a true taste of autumn in a glass, look no further than these pumpkin beers.

» All That Fizzes

Why toast with the standard bubbly when you can knock flutes filled with champagne cocktails?

» Party Like It's 2016

No matter who wins the Olympic bid, you'll have a place to celebrate.

» Race Elation

Run, don't walk, to these Chicago spots for Marathon-related deals.

» Fan-tastic Voyages

Chicago bars will boost your optimism for the season with fantasy football draft packages.

» Mojito Mania

Nothing beats the summer heat like a tall glass of this Cuban treat.

» Sold on Sangria

The refreshing wine cocktail goes down easy at these spots.

» Mixing History

Take a sip to the past with one of these traditional tipples.

» Vinegar Unveiled

You've had it in salads, soups and sauces, now try sipping the stuff in one of these vinegar-tinged libations.

» Party After Pride

After the Chicago Pride Parade is over, the real celebration is just beginning.

» Chicago Earth Day Events

Eat, drink and be merry on Earth Day at local bars and restaurants.

» Cool Concoctions

Say hello to spring with these chilled libations.

» Opening Day Deals

Nothing marks the beginning of baseball season like a free hot dog.

» Get Away from Guinness

Local bars carry alternative stouts for St. Pat's season.

» Single in the City

You don't need to believe in love to fall for these Valentine-inspired events.

» Playing the Name Game at the Dana Hotel

Dana has a vain adventure at ajasteak.

» Dude, Where's My Beer?

Local "Beer Dude" Phil Kuhl gives us the lowdown on Sheffield's Beer School.

» Warming Up With Hot Sin

You won't feel bad about indulging in O'Donovan's Winter Warmer cocktails.

» I Like Cold-Weather Beverages

Toast the wind chill with these winter brrrews.

» Hubba Hubba

You'll have trouble focusing on the unfocused menu at HUB 51 after a glass or two of punch.

» Daniel Love is 'On The Rocks'

... and LXTV.com put him there.

» Brotherly Love

The Village Tap's extensive beer selection offers great comfort in any season.

» Holiday Cocktails

Take a break from shopping to enjoy one of these comforting concoctions.

» Repeal Day Parties

Toast the end of Prohibition (75 years on) with a few drinks at these Chicago bars.

» Mana Mania

What pairs best with some of the city's best meat-free food? White sangria, of course.

» Spirits of Christmas Present

Escape Chicago's holiday hotspots with a tipple of booze nearby.

» Passion Fruit Power Hour

The Wicked Wahine gives a juicy, peppery kick to a meal at sola.

» Around-the-World Wines

Party-ready bottles from Chicago's best independent wine shops.

» Cabaret Makes a Comeback

Classic cabaret meets modern-day Chicago.

» Dirty Martini

Dana needs a movie-themed martini to get through "Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story On Stage."

» Red Leaves, Red Wine

Sip on one of these autumn blends as you watch the leaves change.

» Wrigleyville Uber Alles

Uberstein may not be authentically German, but after a hefty stein or two, you won't mind.

» Prix-Fixe Pleasure

Buona Terra doesn't skimp on its fixed-price menu, and that's why Dana keeps coming back for more.

» Where to Watch the Debate

Watch the final presidential debate at these local bars and restaurants.

» On Tap in Autumn

Forget mass-produced swill. We tell you where to find seasonal suds that channel the flavors of fall.

» Uncommonly Good

Have a cocktail with your eggs, and you just might help out some animals in need.

» Toasting Oktoberfest

Raise a stein and shout "prosit!" at the city's authentic German taps.

» Gulpin' Like Gatsby

Dana celebrates her birthday with a long-awaited visit to Sepia, and finds the cocktails nearly match the food.

» Drunk Again, Naturally

By drinking organic booze, you just might be able to avoid that nasty hangover.

» Drink Before You Eat

Skip the apps and take a sip of these pre-dinner concoctions...your food will taste that much better.

» Manhattan Project

Dana squeezes into the Matchbox for a sip of its signature drink.

» Chicago's Cocktail Geeks

What do Chicago's top bartenders do on their days off? Compete against each other, of course.

» Gin Fizz Fo' Shizz

Paramount Room may act like a beer bar, but it offers some killer cocktails, too.

» Cocktail Calorie Crunch

Go ahead, drink that fruity drink, it may be better for you than you think.

» Totally Tiki

Head over to one of these rum-saturated spots for a taste of the tropics.

» Brand-New Booze

Dana investigates a hot new restaurant, and finds the drinks just might overshadow the food.

» Getting Tanked

Tank Sushi's Red Octopus cocktail may just be a cosmo in disguise...but it ain't half bad.

» Staying Afloat

The root beer float turns 115 this year; celebrate at these local spots.

» Cocktails for Carnivores

Ham and cheese is no longer just for eating; try one of these meaty concoctions for a true liquid lunch.

» Hot Wine in the Summertime

These bottles work best when the mercury rises.

» Summertime, and the Parking's Easy

Goose Island offers a refreshing summer brew, and decent bar food to boot.

» Gold Medal-Worthy Destinations

These Olympics-inspired deals will have you high-jumping for joy.

» It's an Age Thing

Like a fine wine, these barrel-aged beers have been fermented to an oaky perfection.

» Breakfast Club

Dana gets her egg-white on at a new Lincoln Park bistro.

» How Sweet It Is

Dana sips an unusual concoction on Avenue M's secluded outdoor patio.

» Beer Town, Summer in the City

What pairs better with a hot summer day than a cold brew?

» Whisked Away at the Violet Hour

Dana goes incognito to find a drink that's just right.

» Vin for a Fin

Frasca's $5 wine deal is as good as it sounds.

» Know Your Whites

Get the lowdown on Chicago's egg cocktails and enjoy a frothy tipple at one of these upscale bars.

» Sweet Sips of Liberty

Pledge your allegiance to these Americana cocktails while you celebrate another year of Independence.

» Goin' Crazy for Cava

Dana celebrates summer with some sparkling sangria at Cafe Ba Ba Reeba.

» A Ginger Zinger

Le Colonial's upscale Vietnamese fare demands a high-class cocktail to match.

» Feelin' Hot, Hot, Hot

Hot Chocolate's decadent drinks and desserts help awaken Dana's dormant sweet tooth.

» Master Shakers

A bar is only as good as the mixologist behind it, and these local spots are home to some of the best in the city.

» The Perfect Pour

Dana finds she doesn't have to go far from home for a good meal and a tasty drink.

» Le Passage: All Grown Up

A more mature Cubanola leaves Dana wanting more.

» Brain Freeze

Evoke the summers of your youth with one of these blended beach-inspired drinks.

» Gettin' Gritty

Dana goes up north to try a classic Southern cocktail...and to have another go at a popular side dish.

» Get Schooled in Shochu

Chicagoans looking for something new to pair with their sashimi will love these shochu cocktails.

» Where the Weiss Things Are

Put down the heavy brews and pick up a spring-friendly beer that’s citrusy and sweet.

» Stepping on Sake's Terrain

Dana samples a Japanese liquor that's said to be as healthy as it is flavorful.

» Friday After Work

Dana finds a Friday-night deal that makes the real world seem not so cruel after all.

» Ciders and Lambics and Meads (Oh My!)

These alternatives to beer pack sumptuous fruit flavor that will get you thinking about summer.

» South Beach-style Sipping

Chaise Lounge's open-air space, refreshing drinks and delicate plates channel a Miami vibe.

» Drinkable Desserts

Skip the cake and head straight for these sugar-shackled dessert drinks.

» A Safe Bet

Fifty/50's clever beer-based cocktails and superior bar eats add up to a night well spent.

» Hailing Hopleaf

It's not exactly news, but the popular pub continues to impress with its exceptional beer list and rave-worthy eats.

» The Art of Drinking Locally

Try these Midwest-made artisan spirits that won't wreak havoc on your carbon footprint.

» A Cider with the Sunrise

After waking up at an ungodly hour to catch a UK soccer match, Dana discovers her new favorite breakfast beverage.

» Absinthe in Body, Present in Spirit

Now that the Green Fairy is legal, local bartenders are using it to shake up some devilish little drinks.

» The Incredible, Edible Guinness Mimosa

With its zippy huevos rancheros and creative cocktails, Flo restores Dana's faith in eggs.

» When in Rome...Drink Aperol

A popular Italian aperitivo tastes just as good stateside.

» Cheers to Good Health

These elixirs might not swear you off booze for good, but they'll replenish your body before the next bender.

» Champagne for a Lady

Sexist martinis aside, D.O.C.'s Ladies' Night isn't a bad way to spend a weeknight boozing.

» Hitting the Head

These well-appointed bathrooms are worth a look, even if you don't have to go.

» A Slice of Springtime

A seasonal slump is no match for Cafe Bolero's tropical libations and island fare.

» Bar Madness

Quench your thirst for some tournament action at these watering holes.

» I Take My Coffee with Baileys

Dana samples a lackluster buffet for the sake of building her own spiked coffee.

» Color Me Cocktail Green

When you're tired of crappy green beer, try these green-tinted drinks for celebrating St. Pat's.

» The Island Life's for Me

Throw in some tropical fruit juices with a whole lot of rum and you've got a killer punch.

» Hammering it Out While Getting Hammered

Dana and her pal finally see eye-to-eye after a couple drinks and a plate of plantains.

» Stop the Presses. Raise the Glasses.

Great reporters throughout Chicago's history have raised hell then raised a pint.

» Bravo to Crew

If only Dana had known about Crew's Project Runway screenings and massive martinis before getting cable.

» Give Back, Drink Up

Aria bar's refreshing take on a mojito is the perfect reward for a volunteer job well done.

» Pick-up Class

When you're sick of cheesy lines, check out these spots for getting picked up in style.

» Bloody Mary to the Rescue

With a tasty bloody mary in hand, Dana finds brunch at Tweet is worth the wait.

» Flights to Fancy

Tandem displays of fine libations let you sample a little of each.

» La Finca Keeps it Simple

A no-frills margarita and mouthwatering chips make a Mexican restaurant memorable.

» Tapping into Temperance

Former speakeasies that went legit provide a heck of a history lesson along with your drink.

» Tickle Me Pink

Dana sets her sights on a beer blend off of Fat Cat's massive drink menu.

» Are You Being Served?

These bars welcome in the service industry folks when it's their turn to unwind.

» Snack Bars

We salute some taps around town that offer free bites with your booze.

» Sake 101

A sake sampler teaches an important lesson about the world of rice wine.

» Welcoming in Old Town

Though it sounds ironic, sipping an ice-cold vodka lemonade at Fireplace Inn hits the spot.

» Would you? Could you? In a bar?

If you're not ready to call it quits, head to these spots where you can skirt the smoking ban.

» Malted Barley, Hops and...Mustard Seeds?

A beer brewed with an unlikely ingredient adds a slight zing to a cozy dinner out.

» Easy on the Ears

Silence! Forgo loud bars and clubs for these spots that boast aural ambiences perfect for chatting.

» In a Pickle

Faced with a list of more than 100 sandwiches and as many brews, Dana opts for fail-safe suds.

» Festive Fun at Friar Tuck

A dressed-up take on a White Russian starts a bar crawl off sweetly.

» A Bar Full of Laughs

Improv nights at bars give up-and-coming talent a chance to shine—and you a cheap night out.

» The Gift of Glogg

A toasty mug of Scandinavian glogg warms the belly and makes Dana's must-do holiday list.

» Not Playing Favorites

Dana finds a lovely libation at a thin-crust joint, but she's not swearing off deep-dish altogether.

» A Buzz for a Buck

Dana tests out the "hair of the dog" theory with $1 mimosas at Joey's Brick House.

» Pup-friendly Pubs

Don't leave Fido out in the cold! A handful of taps allow our four-legged friends to hang out inside.

» A Whole New Bar Game

Put down the darts and pick up a more creative way to play.

» Now and Zen

A newly hopping 'hood offers plenty of pre-concert cocktail choices.

» Some Like 'em Hot

These bubbling hot cocktails will thaw you from the inside.

» Left with Leffe in Little Italy

On her second pasta-free trip to Taylor Street, Dana visits (where else?) an Irish tap.

» XO Marks the Spot

A lounge achieves landmark status with its doozy of a drink list.

» Caffeine and Cocktails

Take a shot, whether it’s of espresso or whiskey, at these coffeehouse-bar combos.

» Dusting Off the Clubbing Cobwebs

Dana makes her grand return to the club scene with a Halloween-inspired cocktail at Manor.

» Mixing it up with Mango

A pre-concert pit stop at Raw Bar brings out the martinis and memories.

» Haute Cocktail Culture

Find out where to score the city's finest luxury libations.

» Wait, Wait...Do Beer Me!

Dana snags a discounted pint at a trader bar before heading to a taping of NPR's quiz show.

» Sipping in Season

An apple-flavored cocktail pairs perfectly with Italian food and makes up for a trip done wrong.

» Imbibing Through Time

Everything old is new again at these keepers of the cocktail flame.

» Get in on the Buzz

Tired of waiting in line? Everyone's on the list at these exclusive-minded buzzer bars.

» Swallowing Skepticism

A martini with an intriguing ingredient and mega slices of fish squash Dana's misconceptions.

» A Sampling of Suds

Chicago Ale House packs in the taps, slinging out brews in sizes meant for sampling.

» Making Progress by the Pint

Flounder's cheap Miller Lite and tacos for less than two bucks fit the pre-film bill perfectly.

» Barhopping with the Big Ten

Get ready for the season's first Big Ten matchups on the field with our pigskin-ready pub picks.

» From Paninis to Pinot

Dana's favorite lunchtime sandwich spot doubles as the perfect post-work place for a glass of wine.

» So Long, Summer!

Bid the heat adieu by visiting these watering holes with warm weather attractions.

» A Drinking Distraction

Though the night began with saketinis at China Grill, Dana had other plans for a summer night out.

» Back-to-School Bacchanalia

Whether you cheer on the Wildcats or the Blue Demons, we'll tell you where to go for some school spirits.

» Pre-Season Pitchers

Dana warms up for college football season with a stop at Sedgwick's for discounted pitchers of Blue Moon.

» Slashies: Historical Hybrids

These liquor store-slash-bars promise pretense-free boozing, whether you pull up a stool or take your hooch to go.

» Plum Good Libation

Forget email and phone calls. Dana finds a better way to stay in touch with friends at Oysy.

» A Model Martini

After sipping her way through plenty of too-sweet martinis, Dana finds the perfect blend at Japonais.

» Boogie Bars

Skip the club and opt for these bars, where you can get down and get drunk without dealing with a dress code or cover charge.

» Beach Bum Bars

Got some sand in your joints? Wash it out with some drinks at these seaworthy spots.

» No Love for 40s

Despite lacking a drink list and hawking 40s, LBC wins over Dana with its upbeat tunes.

» Mojitos Made Up My Mind

Narrowing down her nightlife choices, Dana opts for an evening of art and a minty concoction.

» Open 'til 4 or More

These late-night haunts will keep your crew chugging well into the morning.

» Playtime Meets Party Time

Martini Park helps Dana retreat to her recess days…had her local playground served martinis.

» Seriously Sweet Brew

Dana scores a glass of the seasonally scare Shugga and a saucy pie at Bricks.

» Dinner, er, Drink and a Movie

Thumbs up for five of our fave barroom movie nights.

» Hotter than Hooters

Scantily clad bar staff titillate your every sense.

» Mixing Politics and Pleasure

Dana pops into Plan B for a post-work cocktail and finds a refreshing ode to Obama in a glass.

» Let the Games Begin

Test your sporty skills with Chicago's best bar games.

» Don't Shrink My Beer!

Dana opens her mind to mini drinks and fare at Halsted's family-friendly joint.

» A Winning Round

At Gamekeepers, my volleyball team learns it's not whether you win or lose, but how you score cheap burgers and beer.

» Where the Glass is Greener

Eco-friendly trumps economically-friendly in Dana's book after an evening at Crust.

» Chuggin' and Muggin'

Capture those boozy memories in old-fashioned photo booths.

» Oh, Cabana!

Any patio will do, but Volo's does it best when it comes to sipping wine cabana-side.

» Enjoying the Cubs, Avoiding the Crowds

Take advantage of post- and pre-game neighborhood samplings without the prices and pretensions of Wrigleyville.

» Change of Bar Scene

Head to Riverview when you want to hit up a bar but not get hit on.

» Wi-fi Watering Holes

Five places to get online while enjoying your libations.

» Antiox Your Intox

Get a health boost with your buzz from five fancy drinks that go way beyond the pomegranate martini.

» Cheap Wine Fits All

After much indecision on where to dine, Dana and co. land happily at Quartino for small plates and cheap pours.

» Shake Your Groove Thang

Old favorites rock parties like never before thanks to funky local DJs.

» Breakfast Beverages Beat the Buffet

Stanley's legendary mimosas and bloody marys tame Dana's hangover with fresh juicy flavor.

» Giving Tequila a Fair Shot

Fom agave to anejo, Sauza to shooters, these locales will renew your faith in tequila.

» Miami Liquefied

J Bar's Cuban-inspired cocktail sets Dana back in South Beach.

» A Margarita that Moves Me

Tarascas' strong and bargain 'ritas welcome me to the neighborhood.

» Juke Joints

These well-stocked jukeboxes will have you saving up quarters for more than laundry.

» A Night of Natural Buzzing

Keep your conscience clean with organic and biodynamic boozing.

» Positive Thinking, Happy Drinking

In my hour of need, SushiSamba Rio comes through with its bento-box bargain.

» A Tapa by Any Other Name…

I could've been the brains behind the small-plate trend. Instead, I'm just another happy consumer.

» Sunday Sippin'

These colorful cocktails will kick-start your Sunday.

» Bourbon Therapy

Dana overcomes an aversion to bourbon at the most logical bar in town.

» Upscale Eats, Unexceptional Drinks

Pasteur cooks up innovative Vietnamese fare but offers no fun drinks to wash it down.

» Bossa Nova Nights

These local spots spread the Brazilian love, mixing mean capirinhas and bossa nova beats.

» You Don't Have to Spell It to Drink It

After tasty Turkish food and half a bottle of unpronounceable wine, cashing a coupon loses its stigma.

» Join My Club

Membership benefits include tasty Peruvian cuisine and a Pisco Sour buzz.

» Call it the Luck of the Irish

Wearing green and drinking Guinness doesn't make you Irish, but it sure is fun.

» Bingo at the Bar-o

Bingo makes a killer comeback with the pre-retirement crowd.

» Give Me the Boot!

We all know sharing is the right thing to do, so do it right with two liters of German beer in a boot.

» Drink at Your Own Risk

Take your chances and try out Tsuki's killer maki and bargain martinis.

» Chicago's Piece of the Microbrewery Pie

With few microbrew options, any beer-swilling Chicagoan will appreciate Piece's celebrated pints.

» New Lounge, New Perspective

Krem's all the rage, and I won't hold the hype against it or its champagne cocktails.

» Bring Your Own Tolerance

After enjoying too much wine at a BYOB, Salpicon's outstanding tequila selection couldn't be avoided.

» Where Southport Avenue Meets Bourbon Street

Throw on some beads and hold up a Hurricane to toast a bar that embodies the Big Easy.

» The Duke Knows Scotch

As one of the only Scottish pubs in town, The Duke of Perth will make you a believer with its single-malt selection.

» Beer For Breakfast!

Because you can't drink all day if you don't start in the morning.

» Belly's Steals Are The Real Deal

With four drink specials and cheap apps, Thursday nights out are once again a done deal.

» With The Grafton's Help, You're Good to the Last Drop

A special Irish coffee packs plenty of whiskey and caffeine to help you maintain.

» Three a.m. is Intoxicating Tea Time

Everyone ends up at the Green Mill sooner or later.

» On My Way to a Delirious Noel

Glunz makes it better by pouring a holiday brew in the right package.

» Rare Wine Well Done

Wind down the weekend with a glass of wine at Webster's Wine Bar, where you'll pick up a vino vocab to boot.

» It's Glogg Time

Practice saying it with us: Jag skulle vilja ha et glögg, tack!

» The #1 Daiquiri

De Cero's fruit-filled daiquiris and tasty tacos deserve bragging rights.

» Cheap Bar Burgers that Don't Suck

Sure, you're only paying a dollar. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't have a million dollar meal.

» The Good, the Bad and the Cheap Tab

Double fisting beer is a-okay when it's time for a taste test.

» Good Drinks Come to Those Who Wait

For Iberico's sweet sangria, patience pays off.

» Infused-Vodka Martinis? Yes, Please!

Innovative vodka tops basic cable for midweek amusement.

» How About a Bloody, Buddy?

With enough decisions to make in life, why make 10 about a Bloody Mary?

» Quantity Trumps Quality in Round One

A Schooner at Lotties classes up cheap beer in large quantities.

» Beyond the Hopleaf

We love it, too. But it's not the only good spot for a gourmet brew.

» For the Sake of Sake

A lesson in drinking stand-out sake the right way at Shine Morida.

» Buffed and Buzzed

An unlikely locale offers a cheap solution to nasty nails and a thirst for martinis.

» Make Mine Minty

Draining cheap pitchers of mojitos (on a Friday, no less!) at Mambo Grill.

» Grungy Punk Bars

Break out the Ramones tee and your best Johnny Rotten sneer and take a ride to the best drinking caves in town.

» A Steal on Suds

A quick primer on Chicago's bargain beer.

» Bring on the Bourbon

A few spots around Chicago that serve the best thing to come out of Kentucky.

» Fancier Than Fries

Gourmet meals abound at these hip lounges.

» Bars With Board Games

Scrabble victories (and defeats) are better done over cocktails.

» Brew-ha-ha

Take a tour of the area's microbreweries.

» Totally Karaoke

Electronic karaoke: The best music videos you'll ever see.

» Hemingway Days

A book and a beer go perfectly here.

» Bloody Mary Bars

Make-your-own goodness, with oodles of ingredients.

» Baseball, Bigwigs and Breaded Steak

Stop by Bridgeport…or the 'Port, as they say.

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