Have you ever stepped into an American Legion just off a back country road in a rural New England town? The lights are dim, the wood paneling unfinished, the air stale from last evening's cigarettes and ashtray spills. Transport yourself one thousand miles west to Roscoe Village's Bar 134 and you'll find a similar atmosphere.

This neighborhood bar flaunts a commitment to some North Side staples, including a framed photograph of Wrigley Field on the wall and three Goose Island brews on tap—Honkers Ale, I.P.A. and 312. For $4 a pint, you'll probably sample all three beers over the course of an evening, but if you have to choose only one, go for the hop-heavy I.P.A.

Expect the clientele to be a low-key medley of Roscoe Village and Logan Square residents during the week, watching the evening's basketball game, shootin' some pool, or just shootin' the breeze with the bartender. On the weekends, an adjacent room opens up to a dance floor, welcoming entertainment by Chicago DJs and MCs.

Though Bar 134 does not serve food, it does offer the menus of nearby restaurants and delivery joints, encouraging patrons to order in and enjoy a good pizza or sub at the bar. Beer specials offered daily.

Centerstage Reviewer: Sondra Morin