Hungry Brain — Restaurant in Lake View Township

This bar was oozing with potential, but somehow it didn't seem to gel. The bartender was helpful. She gave me great recommendations of other places around town to check out and exchanged my five for ones with a smile.

The ambiance was comfortable with eclectic knick knacks placed here and there, Pacman and other early 80's arcade games, and a superb juke box. I played Gnarls Barkley, James Brown, and Art Brut. However, no one seemed affected by the music.

The people in the bar seemed somewhat disconnected. The sets of friends talking about the bad dating scene and other random mishaps didn't even acknowledge the other couples with the same conversations. I like communal bars where everyone is friendly to each other. I didn't get this here at all. I ended up leaving after two drinks and 10 games of Pacman. I would give Hungry Brain another chance, maybe during another trip to Chicago, but not on a...

While it's lost a tad bit of its original charm since being spiffied up since reopening, this is still one of the premier spaces to hear great music and discussions in Chicago. Focusing on jazz and local musicians, I've never been disappointed in the performances here, even when coming in on a random night not knowing ahead of time who will be on stage. The bar staff is always top notch and interesting to talk with, and the affordable - and impressive - beer list makes up for it being cash only. Come to a show, then stick around and strike up a conversation. You won't be...

This place is kind of the true epitome of cool intellectualism in Chicago. With comedy nights infused with local musicians to experimental jazz nights, you'll never be in want of something Avant guarde. No beers on tap and (I think) cash only, you'll find a small but excellent choice of spirits and at least some good candidate and bottles. The beer garden is nice and cozy, but closes at 11 because it's in a neighborhood. The bartender is also always super nice and willing to talk if your...