Kasey's Tavern — Restaurant in Chicago

Dating back for as long as anyone can remember, Kasey's has been the mainstay neighborhood tavern of Printers Row, through good times and bad. But, as of now, I believe Kasey's has never been better: with an impressive selection of beer on tap and in bottles, food served by nearby Hackney's and more flatpanels than you can shake a stick at.

Kasey's is located on Dearborn Parkway in Printers Row, just a few blocks south of the Congress Parkway. The bar's old wooden sign with gold lettering is its lone subtle promotion other than its name stenciled in gold on tall windows. Kasey's has been around since 1974 but has reputedly been a pub since 1914, and the building itself dates back to 1889. Kasey's has outlasted other pubs in the area like Moonraker, which used to be located a few doors down and is now the most recent installment of the suburban burger bar Hackney's.

Step inside Kasey's and you'll find a large room with very high ceilings and a long wooden bar on your left. Numerous flatpanel TVs now hang above the bar, replacing a picture of the original Kasey. Opposite the bar stand a series of battle-worn cocktail tables. A recent renovation has cleaned up the place, replacing a an unframed mural of a nude and a pool table that had seen better days. Additionally, Kasey's has a sidewalk café in the summertime, which is also highly sought after during the Printers Row Lit Fest, held in early June.

Kasey's does not have a kitchen, but the full menu from Hackney's on the corner is available—the burger is recommended, and the onion loaf is not. While it seems to have been discarded with other changes, the staff at Kasey's once wore t-shirts with the bar's slogan, "Positively No Dancing" written on them. Rather than a rip-off of the Twin Anchors motto, the slogan originated from a city ordinance, perhaps intended to keep Kasey's from becoming a nightclub. Given the laid-back neighborhood crowd of all ages. Kasey's claims to be an Irish pub, but is about as authentic in that as Irish Eyes or Harrigan's. Instead, head to Kasey's when you're looking for a pint after work or softball games in nearby Grant Park.

"In back, the world's most-crowded pool table seemingly bumps up against the bathroom doors, making for some amusingly awkward conversations."

My first visit to Kasey's coincided with the annual Printers Row Lit Fest (formerly called the "Printers Row Book Fair"). The fest is one of the best times to find whatever used book you may be looking for, no matter how rare or obscure. In walking down Dearborn, Kasey's was impossible to resist. It was then that I observed an older couple making out in the corner of the banquette as the Stray Cats played, "Sexy and Seventeen." Book fairs sure do make folks feel frisky: "Ooh, look honey, a copy of The Great Gatsby... Let's get behind the Lake Claremont booth – quick!"

Because of its location, Kasey's draws an interesting crowd. An old-school Bohemian set that moved in during the urban blight of the 70s, students from nearby Roosevelt University, Columbia College and DePaul's South Loop campus, and both Cubs and Sox fans. All are indeed welcome. Back when the original Kasey owned the place and Printers Row was still full of publishers and print houses, Kasey's Tavern actually ran from dawn until dusk to accommodate the typesetters that worked the night shift. The place today operates during more regular hours now. Kasey's Tavern is a great place for a pint, to mingle with regulars, and for a break from the Printers Row Lit Fest. If you like the neighborhood vibe of Kasey's, you may also want to stop by Blackie's for a burger just around the corner at...

Kasey’s Tavern is an absolute gem in the heart of Chicago! From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both historic and vibrant. The dark wood interior and cozy seating make it the perfect spot to unwind. Ambiance: The ambiance is relaxed and inclusive, with a fun vibe that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re there to catch up with friends or enjoy a solo drink, the atmosphere is always welcoming. Service: The staff at Kasey’s Tavern are exceptional. The bartenders are not only skilled but also incredibly friendly and attentive. They go above and beyond to ensure you have a great experience, making you feel like a valued guest every time. Drinks: The beer selection is outstanding, featuring over 130 beers, including local craft options and unique brews from around the world1. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Kasey’s has something for everyone. Their whiskey and cider selections are also top-notch. Food: While the food menu is limited to pizza, the quality is excellent. The pizzas are delicious and pair perfectly with the wide variety of drinks available2. Plus, the option to bring in your own food adds a unique and flexible touch to your dining experience. Overall Experience: Kasey’s Tavern is more than just a bar; it’s a community hub where you can relax, enjoy great drinks, and meet wonderful people. The combination of a fantastic drink selection, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot in Chicago. Highly...

So I’m black and I was looking for some bars over in the area and I ran across this one, and I felt very discriminated the first time, but gave them the benefit of the doubt and decided to return a second time this time when I return the two bartenders the male and female on duty, kept whispering and looking at me and Didn’t even bother asking me did I want to keep a tab open after I ordered my drink, but asked everyone else. so I had to catch her and ask her to take my card for a tab then she said “oh keep it open” 😒like she wasn’t expecting me to. when I decided to cash out, I heard her say as you should, to her colleague then take a rocket scientist to figure out what they meant by that. she gave me my receipt and told me to have a good rest of your day, but the energy seems so fake and the whole time they kept looking at me, whispering and snickering, and like I said, I was the only black person in there so I guess I will not be...