Don't let the name deceive you—Small Bar boasts a list of more than 125 exotic brews. Fancy something fruity? The Lindeman's Framboise is sweeter than a juice box. Wild about wheat? Try the Ayinger Brau Weiss, light and lemony and perfect for a summer evening. Rotating specials, such as Colorado's "Sweaty Betty" Ale, round out the choices.

Barrel connoisseurs will feel at home among the obscure bottles and drafts, but novices need not fear when the only beer they recognize on the menu is Guinness. The knowledgeable, chatty servers happily guide patrons through their options, offering suggestions and, on occasion, samples.

Sibling to the Logan Square neighborhood favorite of the same name, the Wicker Park hipster hangout provides the best of both atmospheric worlds: a sleek outdoor patio (ideal for sitting and sipping on a warm evening) and a more casual interior that attracts the likes of pinball players and jukebox junkies.

Like its ambience, Small Bar's eats add a classy twist to traditional bar noshes. Notable items include the hand-dipped cheese curds battered in tempura beer, Sander's spicy hummus with all-you-can-eat pita and four varieties of personal pizza. Weekend brunch specials make an 11 a.m. trip to the bar seem delightfully logical.

Centerstage Reviewer: Carly Schwartz