Best Pubs in Chicago

Can’t stand only domestic beers? Longing for that feeling of being away but not too far away? Stop by your local pub and be transported across the Atlantic. There are a lot of wannabes out there. People think they can put a red phone booth, throw up a Guiness sign, and play soccer on the television once a month and be deserving of the moniker pub. Not so. If you’ve traveled throughout the UK and Ireland, you know there is a difference between the real deal and the fakers. Nothing will replace that first pint after a long trans Altantic flight, but these will get close. Pubs, to me, have a feeling that is unmistakable.

The Duke of Perth

This is one of the most authentic pubs in the city. This Lincoln Park bar has an understated interior with hard wood floors and a long bar. Don’t mistake it for an English pub. This is a Scottish joint and proud of it. It features a selection of 75 single malt scotches, enough to please any palette. Don’t miss Friday nights when the Duke of Perth offers all you can eat fish and chips. Like any good pub, it also offers a great selection of lagers and ales

Celtic Crossing

Located just east of River North, this pub could have been transplanted whole from Ireland. Kevin Hibbitts, John O’Reardon, and John Phelan all hail from Ireland and will serve you a pint as soon as you walk into this unassuming place. Don’t expect your Guinness in 20 seconds. They will take the time to pour it right. This pub has its priorities set. They want you to sit and enjoy a drink with your friends. There are no televisions to distract you and no food to rescue you when you’ve drunk too much. But sit next to the beautiful fireplace and you’ll forget all your troubles.

Red Lion Pub

For the English ex-pats, find your second home here. The name will sound familiar too, as there are over 900 Red Lion pubs in England alone. With its traditional interior and the all important cozy fireplace, it will make you feel right at home. Mondays are open mic night for all you aspiring authors. Listen in to the blooming literary genius while sipping on a selection of English ales and lagers and dining on traditional English fare. There is, of course, fish and chips. Try also the Welsh Rabbit, the Cornish Pasties, and the Bangers and Mash.

The Globe

The Globe is a perfect dive bar/pub. Stop in to watch any football match and be surrounded by a bunch of fellow fans. You won’t hear the word “soccer” uttered in the pub. The Globe is unpretentious and easy to be in. Don’t worry about getting dolled up or being bothered here. It’s a place to eat, drink and be merry.

Honorable mentions include Garrett Ripley’s, Emmits Irish Pub and Eatery, and the Galway arms. Many may cry foul because I didn’t mention Fado. While I like Fado, it is part of a chain. And no self-respecting pub is a part of a chain. However, Fado is a great place to be and shows all the rugby and football matches you could ever want.