Tag Archives: Neighborhood bar

Dark Horse Tap: a neighborhood bar in Wrigleyville

Dark Horse Tap at 3443 N. SheffieldWhile Dark Horse calls itself an English pub, it’s more than that, considering they have $1 Taco Wednesdays, among other non-British food specials. Plus, even when the Wrigleyville crowd at Dark Horse Tap spills outside into the front and back beer garden, patrons can still watch the game — especially the Steelers during football season — thanks to the large open doors and windows.

Another plus to this Wrigleyville Bar? Even though Dark Horse isn’t far from Wrigley Field, just off Clark Street, it has a more relaxed atmosphere than the other bars and clubs you’ll find in the area.

Blackbird Bar: Not For the Birds

P8200088Oscar Wilde once said: “Work is the curse of the drinking class,” and if you’ve been to The Castro’s newest and most popular neighborhood bar, Blackbird, you’ll completely understand.   You’ll find a drink for everyone in your group with wines by the glass, artisan microbrews on draft, and proper classic cocktails- and none of them will drain your wallet, even after the 5-8pm happy hour is over.

For years the area has had only two choices when it comes to happy hour– dive bars for the straight community or pricey lounges for the gay crowd.  Blackbird, with expert precision, has nailed the art of comfort and class for the mixed-crowd atmosphere.

To create a Blackbird: blend historical newsprints with local modern art, an old-world cherry wood bar with contemporary seating, and a top shelf drink list handwritten on 8 feet of butcher paper, and the neighborhood bar is ready.  Do not garnish with a cover, fancy dress code, or water down with unemployed barflies- just a twist of chic will do.