Surrounded by Lincoln Park staples The Gin Mill, Irish Eyes and Lucille's, The Spread is a contemporary sports bar with a touch of class. Like the bar's name, everything here has a subtle sports theme, from the menu (salads are found under "On the Green" and desserts are called "Overtime") to the plasma screens and shuffleboard table. Even non-sports fans will find something to like, as the exposed brick walls, hardwood floors and huge fishtank create an ambiance not often found in the city's seemingly endless array of sports bars.

Served until 11 p.m., The Spread's menu is also a step above the competition. Items like curry calamari, a crab cake po-boy and a portabella sandwich are a welcome departure from the standard mix of burgers, nachos and wings. In the summer months, the large storefront windows open up onto the sidewalk, and the outdoor tables will undoubtedly fill up fast on nice days.

At night, the place is much like any other Lincoln Park bar, with young partiers eyeing each other and pushing their way through the crowd to get a drink. Local bands perform on Friday nights in the bar's second room (although it may be wise to listen from a distance if you value your eardrums).

Centerstage Reviewer: Erica Walkup