If you find yourself on Chicago’s Gold Coast with a couple of hours to kill, what sounds better than bar hopping? The face of Chicago may be a big, bass-bumping club, but its heart is definitely a dive bar. Check out these two downtown dives- you won’t regret it.
Streeters
When walking down the stairs to Streeters Tavern, there’s a sign that reads “the greatest bar below earth.” It’s true. When I saw that the table stands were made out of beer kegs, I knew I had found a gem. The crowd was a good mix of people with the same kick back and relax mind set. There were people just getting off of work and pool-playing college students. The drink prices weren’t too bad for this neighborhood- $11 for two vodka tonics. With fun themed nights like Monday bowling league night and Wednesday movie and trivia night, Streeters is a must visit Chicago bar.
- Address- 50 E. Chicago Avenue
- Phone- 312-944- 5206
- Price- $ ($5.50 for one vodka tonic) has daily specials.
- Reason to visit- Foosbal, pool, and ping pong (or beer pong) tables, duck hunt, darts, and Big Buck Hunter.
Dublin Bar and Grill
First off- best spinach artichoke dip in the entire Gold Coast. The setting is very eclectic- couples sitting at candle lit tables mixed with sports fans sitting at the bar watching one of many different games. The princes are higher than Streeters, but I think they are typical for this neighborhood- spinach artichoke dip cost $9 and my Hoegaarden cost $6.50. It took about a half hour for our food to come, but once it did, it was worth the wait. One problem with Dublin’s is that there is only one bathroom stall. On a slower Wednesday night, this isn’t much of an issue, but on a busier Saturday night, the wait to use the bathroom can be 20 minutes.
- Address- 1050 North State Street
- Phone- 312-266- 6340
- Price- $$ ($6.50 for one beer. Entrees $16-$26)
- Reason to visit- Spinach artichoke dip.
(Photo by- Amanda Anderson)
