Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern — Restaurant in Chicago

Every time I head to Chicago, whether it’s with family, friends, or for a Cubs game, or even on a solo trip, I always take time for my favorite tradition. Thursday night dinner at Twin Anchors Restaurant and Tavern From the name, you might think Twin Anchors is a seafood spot. And yes, you’ll find fish on the menu, but that’s not why people (including me) keep coming back. We all go for the same thing: the world-famous baby back ribs. The building has been around since the days of Prohibition, and if you look closely, you can still see that history in the building. It was once a speakeasy and even has an escape door from the days when raids were common. The walls themselves tell stories: photos of movie stars, signed memorabilia, and legends of who’s dined here. Frank Sinatra loved the place so much he had a wall phone installed by his favorite booth. Hollywood productions have filmed here, including the movie Return to Me (2000) with Minnie Driver and David Duchovny. Even Conan O’Brien dropped by with his late-night TV crew and filmed segments here. But let’s get to what really matters: the ribs. Slow-cooked, tender, meaty and served with sauces that make'em even more mouthwatering. For me, those ribs strike a personal chord. My grandfather, nicknamed “The Rib Man,” worked as a food wholesaler all across Illinois. He was known for his ribs and his sauce, and every time I dig into Twin Anchors’ slabs, I’m reminded of him. Their original Zesty Sauce just tastes like home. These days, they’ve added a Prohibition Sauce (a Kansas City-style recipe introduced in 2010) and a 1930s Mild Sauce all worth trying. When you go, order a half or whole slab and sample every sauce. You just can't go wrong with any of them. Inside, Twin Anchors is old-school in the best way. A small tavern vibe, a no-frills bar pouring stiff drinks, and that famous sign that hangs in the middle of the restaurant that reads: “Positively No Dancing.” (You’ll get the joke once you’re there.) It’s almost always busy, they don’t take reservations, so expect a wait and tight seating. But that’s part of the experience. Chicago is a city full of flashy, high-end restaurants, Twin Anchors is a slice of that city's history that keeps things simple, hearty, and nostalgic. This time around, my cousin went for his very first trip to Chicago. His verdict? The ribs were exactly how he likes them...tender, and full of flavor, and the atmosphere was exactly what he pictured from an established rib joint. As for me, I always make it a point to eat here, because no trip for me to Chicago ever feels complete without...

Ribs... Ribs... Ribs. Nuff' said. When you hear people talking about Twin Anchors, one thing comes to mind. Did I mention the ribs? Yes, the ribs. With your choice of sauce to accompany the fall off the bone meaty indulgence, you can create your own little heaven of finger licking good rib goodness. Now for those of you who might be or have friends who tell you, "well, I do not eat meat." That's fine. I have to say I was one of those who took advantage of the Fish and Chips on the menu. While everyone else was mmmmmm'ing on ribs, I was quietly enjoying a great piece of battered fish in my own sea of goodness. Top it off with a great drink selection and to finish it off with a smooth, dense piece of homemade chocolate cake... Leave with a full belly and very, very happy. Twin Anchors is a good place to sit at the bar, nice date spot and a great spot for a group of friends to get together. Remember, no reservations and limited street parking in the area. You can either Spot Hero it or take advantage of their valet service. If you are visiting Chicago and taking in a nearby comedy club, local resident who has never been or just looking for that place where you ask yourself, "Where can we eat where we haven't been to yet?" Twin Anchors...

A neighborhood spot that Frank Sinatra loved. Seating is tight - the dining areas aren't big so not convenient for bringing kids or large groups. Service is friendly, but brisk. Most of the staff have been here for years as well the restaurant has been serving the neighborhood for decades.

Start with homemade potato chips that are made to order, served with homemade bleu cheese dip. There's a great selection of beers on tap and in bottles and cans. BBQ ribe have been consistently fall-off-the-bone tender every time over several years of visits. They have a special BBQ sauce called "Prohibition" which is sweet with a perfectly "hot" finish - not overwhelmingly hot, but just right. There's also a mild sauce. You can choose either or both as they are served on the side. If you don't want meat, their Jumbo Grilled Shrimp are perfectly grilled and best served with their garlic butter, and get a little BBQ sauce for the flare of it. Sides are traditional - baked beans, potatoes, etc, but the creamed spinach is great - a little peppery. Skip desert unless you have room and you really...