On summer nights, we enjoy kicking back with a brew and chilling with our friends, rehashing details of the previous weekend’s debauchery in a laid-back neighborhood hang. Want a spot like this, where cover charges don’t exist, and no one cares if you’re wearing the latest jeans? Explore Northwest Side neighborhood Portage Park, home to cozy bars, pool halls and cafes with that friendly local flair.
Hops & Barley
4359 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-286-7415
This two-floor bar and restaurant, located in the historic Klafter building, boasts a low-key atmosphere and an expanded bar menu. Exposed beams and brick,
16-foot ceilings, and five 42-inch plasma TVs complete this upscale neighborhood sports bar. Trivia games, an Internet jukebox and a pool table will keep you entertained–if your drink doesn’t. Looking to lounge? Head to the lower level and take a seat in the wrap-around booths.
Mike’s Ale House
5134 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-685-2260
When Mike Hirsh started feeling cramped in his popular Portage Park tavern and grill, Mike’s American Ale House, he didn’t have to look far to find a new location. Hirsh struck a deal with longtime local pizzeria Tony and Lill’s (located about six blocks down the street), added their pizza to his own menu and moved into their space. He transported the look and feel of his former bar here, and added a stage for live music. You’ll still find a wide beer selection, including American craft varieties.
Chris’s Billiards
4637 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-286-4714
This may be the most famous pool hall in Chicago. How famous? Back in 1986, director Martin Scorsese filmed key scenes of “The Color of Money” here. Framed photographs of world championship players who have chalked their cues here clue you in that this is no yuppie pool room. Rates are low; competition is good; and more than 40 tables are available to learn the tricks of the trade. Rates for play: $6.25 per couple before 6 p.m., $7.50 per couple after 6 p.m.
Di’s Den
5100 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-736-7170
With 14 boards, Di’s Den is the No. 1 darts bar on the Northwest Side. At 9 p.m. every Friday night, dozens of players gather here for a blind-draw tournament. Five bucks a player goes into the pot, which can get as high as $500 and is split between the top two teams. Need inspiration? Check out the trophies on display won by the bar’s teams in the Windy City Darters league.
Moulin Rouge Cafe
5749 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-282-3333
An obvious throwback to Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film, this kicky Portage Park cafe (open until 11 p.m. daily) features colorful decor and a Euro-inspired menu to match. The room’s focal point is a splashy mural of can-can kickers and a sax player. Service is friendly but continental: Order and pick up at the counter, whether you’re eating in or not. A simple menu offers French-, American- and Polish-inflected dishes, plus coffee, tea and fruit juices. Or sip The Polish Girl, an unusual drink of blue grape, black currant, lemon and cherry juices.
DRINK THIS
Raspberry Patch, $6
Nothing says summertime like fresh fruit. But in our line of work, nothing says summertime like fruity cocktails. We recommend you head to Waterhouse for this sweet treat of black raspberry liqueur, vodka, and pineapple and cranberry juices, garnished with lemon slices and an orange-sugar rim. Hot tip: Pick the Patch on Fridays, when martinis are only $5. 3407 N. Paulina St. 773-871-1200.
–Karen Budell, the metromix nightlife producer.
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kmbudell@tribune.com
