One could take Wicker Well as yet another sign of Wicker Park's gentrification. The seemingly new neighborhood dive bar was actually the longstanding El Senorial, a mostly Spanish-speaking tavern that held down the location for more than 40 years. But, like everything else in the area, out with the old, in with the new (in this case, meaning new young urban professional hang-outs).

A lot has changed here; the walls have been repainted red, hardwood floors were installed, and there are even a few fancy flat screens. But don't worry: The beer (over 50 varieties) is still cheap ($4 average, sometimes as low as $2.50) and the service is still friendly. There's a DJ booth and a dance area, perfect for the Friday and Saturday night dance parties. Wednesdays host an acoustic open mic, and karaoke rules on Thursdays.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jamie Murnane