There are dozens of bars in Lincoln Square. Tar Bar is...certainly one of them. Listen, a place like Tar Bar probably isn't going to supplant places like the Brauhaus and the Huettenbar in terms of popularity any time soon, but it's not without its positive points. For starters, if you ever want to sit down and have a beer by yourself in the evening, this is the place for you.

No, it's not a destination place to drink, but it's often quiet, and if you feel the need to take the party home with you, the attached liquor store has plenty of good beer and spirit options available. Some may consider this place a "dive," although no one seems to have told Tar Bar yet; there are usually several good selections on tap (think Rogue's Dead Guy and seasonal brews), the place is clean and artfully decorated and its owner is not quite as grumpy as he's reputed to be. Give the guy a chance; he warms up after a while.

Centerstage Reviewer: Karl Klockars