Chicago's top bars

Today Chicago celebrates the Blackhawks victory in the Stanley Cup, and there is no shortage of lively drinking holes. Here's our pick of the five top bars to join in the festivities.

Murphy’s Bleachers

3655 North Sheffield Avenue, tel: 773-281-5356, www.murphysbleachers.com

This no-frills sports bar, located right across from the Wrigley Field’s bleachers section at Sheffield and Waveland Avenues (northwest of the ground), is favoured by diehard sports fans and is often packed to the gills. You may have to wait a while to get a seat but the atmosphere is great, there’s plenty of room outside, and a good bar menu too.

Vines on Clark

3554 North Clark Street, tel: 773-327-8572, www.vineswrigley.com

A quieter alternative to Murphy’s for a drink and meal lies southwest of Wrigley Field, on the corner of North Clark Street and West Addison Street. Vines on Clark has great al fresco seating, along with an eclectic, better-than-average menu and budget-friendly drink specials.

Delilah's

2771 North Lincoln Avenue, tel: 773-472-2771, www.delilahschicago.com

Delilah's is a relaxed, low-key bar located near Lincoln, Diversey and Racine, and is legendary among Chicagoans. Take a leap of faith beyond its seedy exterior and dingy environs and you'll be met with a huge selection of whisky, walls hung with local art, and music curated by some of the city's best DJs. Located in a former speakeasy, the bar is open every night and hosts a roster of events, including tastings, free movies, and themed music nights. There are nightly drinks specials and pool tables.

Revolution Brewing

2323 N. Milwaukee Avenue, tel: 773-227-2739, www.revbrew.com

Duo Josh Deth and Jim Cibak craft nearly three-dozen house-made beers throughout the year. Peer through the window in the rear to see where the magic happens in this pub near Logan Square. Although a no reservation policy can mean tables are hard to come by, their unbeatable range of beers will make you quick to forgive. Hearty food here is the perfect foil. Or for an insider’s look, arrive on Saturdays at noon to tour its brewery.

The Art of Pizza

3033 N. Ashland Avenue, tel: 773-327-5600, www.artofpizzainc.com

Chicago is of course the home of deep-pan pizza. There are many chains to choose from, but The Art of Pizza in Lakeview is where locals rightly indulge. After a likely 45-minute wait, dive into hefty, stuffed pizza, served in a bare-bones, sunshine-hued storefront. Playing a starring role is the golden, flaky crust, equal parts crisp and doughy, buttery and dense. Thin-ish crust and pan pies are options, too, along with a roster of foot-long subs, daily specials, and Italian beef, sausage, and meatball sandwiches. If you’re on the fly, you can also just grab a slice.

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