Gio's is a neighborhood sports bar with schizophrenia in the best possible way. The varying specials and events on different nights of the week make for diverse crowds. At its heart, however, Gio's is a sports bar that doesn't read like a sports bar, and that's a good thing.

Just outside, you'll find a patio with almost as much room as in the inside. That doesn't speak to the large size of the patio as much as it does to the coziness inside. There, the walls are covered in a good amount of sports-themed decor.

Every night features a drink special, and there's plenty of greasy and delicious bar food to soak it up. Refreshingly, there are a good amount of vegetarian options to offer, something you might not expect from a small local corner bar. A grilled cheese sets you back $5, and a veggie burger runs $7. Monday nights feature $4 spaghetti and $2.50 Miller Light bottles, ensuring that you'll be able to tie on a cheap buzz and the carbs to fuel enjoying it.

Drinks are in the average range, most pints being $4-$5, and the selection is modest. There are 10 brews on tap, with a selection of 14 bottles, domestic and import to choose from. Mojito pints run $7, and complement a comfortable summer night on the patio quite nicely.

Saturday nights feature karaoke with an energetic and engaging host who keeps the fun going between wannabe singers. For karaoke night, attendees seem to be from a wide range of backgrounds, with locals, hipsters, and gays and straights all mixing comfortably and happily. For a decent neighborhood option that bills itself as a sports bar not meant to appeal to any particular culture, it's a great to see. As you sit on the patio, watching the crowds roll by and enjoying the warm Chicago evening, it'll all feel perfectly right.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Bill Burman