My review of Duke of Perth: Many bars and pubs try to pawn off a fireplace in the corner and dim lighting as “cozy,” but only a few really achieve that feeling. Duke of Perth is one of them. Whether it’s the nice draft selection (no Guinness here; if you want average, go someplace else),the menu full of comfort food, or the friendly, eclectic crowd, the Duke is one of the best places to go for a pint in the city, period.
Favorite BYOB spot: Sushi X. I bring two sixers of Kirin and a big group of friends. This place has some of the best sushi in the city, and it’s impossible to find a better value. 30 dollars will buy enough sushi to feed four people.
Favorite alfresco spot: It’s sometimes tough to find a place that matches good outdoor seating with good food, but Matisse (674 W. Diversey Pkwy. 773-528-6670) certainly scores high in both regards. The smoked turkey and walnut chipotle panini was one of the best I’ve ever had, and the drinks are fantastic as well.
Favorite brunch spot: Kitsch’n on Roscoe (2005 W. Roscoe St. 773-248-7372), and I always order the chilaquiles. They aren’t kidding when they say it’s the best hangover cure in town — although the shots of tequila available on request probably help a little, too.
My guilty pleasure: Moonstruck Chocolate Cafe (320 N. Michigan Ave. 312-696-1201) Moonstruck is chocolate. Whether you’ve come inside from a freezing winter to seek solace in an amazing cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate (the usual chocolate, with a few choice spices), or you’ve just dropped in on a summer day looking for a chocolate-based pick-me-up.
Phillip Lamb
‘Hood: West Town Age: 22
5 favorite spots: Duke of Perth (2913 N. Clark St. 773-477-1741) West Town Tavern (1329 W. Chicago Ave. 312-666-6175) Sushi X (1136 W. Chicago Ave. 312-491-9232) Baba Palace (334 W. Chicago Ave. 312-867-7777) McCormick and Schmick’s (41 E. Chestnut St. 312-397-9500)
