Simon’s Tavern

Cheap beer, sea-fare decoration and a jukebox that rivals any other within the city limits, Andersonville’s Simon’s is a major reason to make the trek up north, its regulars as warming as a glass of scotch on a January night. Sure, we like Hopleaf, too, which is just down the street, but it gets a little crowded for our taste, usually with first-timers awe-stricken by the beer menu. Simon’s keeps it simple, and we’re grateful for that. Not bad for an old speakeasy. Wait, is that Pavement we hear?

5210 N. Clark
(773)878-0894

Best of Chicago 2008

Hopleaf

This womb of dark wood and golden suds will lift even the darkest of spirits with its tavern warmth. Serving up the best frites in town with a side of garlicky aioli, goat-cheese croquettes and oven-roasted duck, the menu is a study in La-Z-Boy comfort. With one of the greatest Belgian-skewing beer lists in hops history, this place should be dubbed “little Brussels.”

5148 North Clark
(773)334- 9851

Audience Choice
Hopleaf

Best of Chicago 2007