As a turn-of-the-century Chicago columnist, Finley Dunne addressed his readership as a South Side Irish bartender named Mr. Dooley. You might expect, then, that Finely Dunne's Tavern would boast an Irish theme and call the South Side its home. That's not the case. Located in the North Side in West Lakeview, Finley Dunne's trades its Irish inspiration for sports fanaticism.

White Sox (OK, the South Side isn't completely forgotten) and Cubs paraphernalia decorate the space, with banners celebrating Indiana University, the Dayton Flyers and the Boston College Eagles hanging from the ceiling. “If you can't get a game here, you can't get it anywhere,” says manager Mike Murray. Eight plasma TVs offer plenty of viewing angles for watching sports from one of the many barstools.

The friendly upper-twenties-and-over crowd bellies up to the bar or sits at one of the many island or wall tables, which are equipped with coat hooks underneath. Drink specials, like your pick of Finley's 17 tap beers for $3 on Tuesday, entice customers to visit the open, square-shaped bar any day of the week. Highlights of Finley's extensive pub grub menu include five types of hot wings (six wings cost $5, 50 for $40) and the favorite Ryan Burger, a half-pound of beef loaded with garlic and cheese for $7.

Centerstage Reviewer: Robert Duffer