There have been rumors that Harry's isn't the most welcoming to newcomers. But a jovial group of regulars and an accommodating bartender named Shelly quickly prove the opposite. The place doesn't get a ton of business on weeknights, but weekends are a bit more hoppin' when the crowd puts the bar's old jukebox and pool table to use.

Harry's far northwest location makes it a bit of a hike for those of us in the core of the city, but it's a great stop-in for anyone driving to or from O'Hare. And the prices are a fraction of what you'd pay at one of those polished spots in the airport. In fact, with its $1.25 drafts, Harry’s offers better deals than most pubs within city limits.

The place has undergone some recent renovations and its sleek angular bar is proof. The only items that seem to have stuck around are a bunch of plush green tattered bar stools and a wall full of Elvis paraphernalia (we're not sure what The King is doing in an Irish pub, either). A case stocked with domestic and import bottles provide a little something for every taste and baskets of popcorn help soak it all up. If you’re hankering for something more than crunchy kernels, you'll have to hike it elsewhere or order in, as Harry's has no kitchen.

Centerstage Reviewer: Stacy Warden