The Continental
2801 W. Chicago Ave. 773-292-1200
Looking for that old-time tavern feel but with a spruced-up vibe? The newly opened Continental moved into the old Pizza Lounge–a neighborhood hang for more than 100 years–and cleaned things up, but kept the cool, corner bar atmosphere. Plus, blown-up black-and-white photos from the ’20s show what the space used to look like. Rock ‘n’ roll tunes play, DJs occasionally take the decks, and patrons sidle up to the original bar for a beer and a shot. Forget your froufrou drink list. This summer, keep your eyes peeled for the opening of the spot’s beer garden and sidewalk cafe.
Feed the Beast
4300 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-478-9666
Stomach’s growling from hunger pains? Sorry. You’ll have to wait ’til early July to Feed the Beast at this North Center bar and restaurant, brought to you by a Kendall College grad. That said, expect an above-average bar food menu featuring salads, panini, burgers, pasta and pizza. Bright mosaic tiles dot the entryway that leads to a cozy yet modern interior. Look for lounge-y touches and modern art from local artists to deck the walls. Once doors open and things settle into place, keep your eyes peeled for outdoor seating, plus live music and comedy nights.
Uberstein
3478 N. Clark St. 773-883-0300
The closest you’ve come to visiting Germany is watching the World Cup on TV? Get ready for the Crobar guys to bring Bavarian-style closer to home this July. (In fact, we were told one of them just returned from watching a few footy matches in the host country.) Located in the old Heaven on Seven on Clark location, this spot plans a traditional German beerhall atmosphere, where three fancy ceramic towers will carry five taps each of Hofbrau beer imported from the Munich brewery. Order in one-third, half- and full-liter sizes, all served in authentic steins. When you’re ready to snack, chow down on what we’re told is lighter fare in the German spirit: bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels with beer cheese. Feeling festive? No need to leave the lederhosen at home. The bar’s motto is, “It’s Oktoberfest every day.”
Stone Lotus
873 N. Orleans St. 312-440-9680
Time for your update on one of this summer’s most buzzed-about spots: Stone Lotus will finally be open to the public the last week of June! You’ve heard it here before, but we’ll tell you all again: Small plate pairings with your “bottle treatments,” a 50-foot waterwall and cherry blossom trees, five-star service across the board, pampering for waiting guests, and a creative cocktail list that’ll have you and your scenester friends clamoring to get there first.
Weegee’s Lounge
3659 W. Armitage Ave. 773-834-0707
This Humboldt Park corner tavern features tin ceilings and an old-fashioned wooden bar, but those looking to capture the moment of a night out might be more interested in the photo booth tucked in the back corner. (FYI: Weegee is the nickname of an American B&W photographer.) We also spied several black-and-white photos sprinkled around the space, which offers plenty of table seating.
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Find more photos of new bars at metromix.com
kmbudell@tribune.com
