THIS VENUE IS ONLY OPEN DURING MORSE THEATER SHOWS. CHECK THEIR WEBSITE FOR SPECIFIC TIMES.
Don't confuse the newly remodeled Morse Theater with the nearby Morseland. But if you do, it's OK: The wait staff is used to this. Now how about The Century Public House, the name of this listing? Though you wouldn't guess it from the exterior, whose brightly sign clearly says THE MORSE, the unidentifiable Century Public House is the dining section at the front of the Morse Theater. Grab a bite or a drink before heading into the show, or BYOB (with a corkage fee).
Like a decadent 1920s-style big bar, The Century boasts a curvaceous wooden bar and mirrors reflecting back the alignment of glass liquor bottles (everything you can think of here). Let your eyes wander to the middle of the bar, however, and gaze at the robust painting of an equally curvy nude woman reclining. Or just look up at the shiny coffered ceiling and ornate chandeliers. You could even check out the action on Morse Avenue through stained glass windows.
Fit for the likes of gentlemen, ladies and every gender in between, this place offers a truly classy atmosphere, complete with big band jazz sounds circulating around the air. (Now all we need are dandies smoking long cigarettes; damn that smoking ban!)
Menu options change every few days, as the place goes for a seasonal selection of eats. On the evening we strolled in, first courses included the smoked trout Caesar salad with Windy City harvest romaine ($6) and the $25, mouth-watering grilled rib-eye steak. With a decent selection of brews on-tap, including two Bell's beers, it's easy to order pub fare like the Century autumn burger with garlic aioli, sweet tomato relish and hand-cut fries. Now let's hope the play at The Morse is as creative, or moreso, than the food.
Average cost: $10-$20
Centerstage Reviewer: Alicia Eler
