Division Ale House
Sunday specials at this Wicker Park bar include $5 PBR with a shot of Jameson, $4 Burning River Pale Ale drafts and a $7 build-your-own bloody mary bar.

English
Once football season begins, the River North bar and restaurant will be open every Sunday from 11 a.m.-midnight. On those days (plus Mondays and any soccer game days), English will offer you a choice of an Angus or turkey burger and a domestic bottle for just $10. Also on Mondays, domestic bottles are $3 each.

Hawkeye's Bar & Grill
This Little Italy bar will offer shuttle service (for a fee) for each and every home game.

Jake Melnick's Corner Tap
Mondays are always special during football season, but it gets better at Jake Melnick's, where each table will get to flip a coin for the chance to win a free order of wings, get a discounted bill or other prizes. The bar will also offer half-price bottles of Rogue beer.

Joe's Bar
You can hunt high and low, but you probably won't find a better Bears-related deal than this: $3.75 pitchers of Coors Light every Sunday, all season long. 'Nuff said.

Timothy O'Toole's
Stop by this subterranean bar on Sundays for a chance to win tickets to a Bears game. Sunday specials include $16 Miller/Coors family buckets.

Zella
What's better than watching the Bears game with your boys? Adding brunch to the equation. Every Sunday, this Lincoln Park bar offers a $20 package including a brunch entree, mimosas, bloody marys, Miller Lite or Coors Light.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

District Bar
Own some Ohio State gear? Wear it to District Bar (or just show your Ohio ID) and you'll get one shot on the house! Everyone gets $5 bombs and $6 Svedka drinks, too. And make sure to come back every Saturday for OSU games, when the bar will be introducing something called "The District Dunk."

Bull & Bear
Weekly Ohio State specials include $2 cans of Natty Light, $3 Heineken Gate Pours, $5 Block O Bombs and 20 percent off your food bill if the Buckeyes win.

Mickey's
Ohio State game days mean drink specials at Mickey's, including 32-ounce personal fishbowls for $7 and 32-ounce Ohio State beer mugs ($2 at the door, $7 for each fill-up). During regular Saturday games, the full breakfast menu will be available (plus $8 22-ounce bloody marys and $6 mimosas).

O'Donovan's
Yep, it's another Buckeye bar. During all Ohio State games, you'll enjoy specials like $5 22-ounce Stadium Cups of Coors Light or Miller Lite, $8 pitchers of Coors Light, Miller Lite or PBR, $16 pitchers of Sam Adams, Goose Island 312 and Leinenkugel; $5.50 Tito's Fat Marys, $8 22-ounce bloody marys, $5 Buckeye Bombs and $8 Horsehoe martinis with cherry vodka, Godiva White Chocolate and cream.

Declan's Pub
You can get $5 20-ounce beers and $5 Boilermakers (beer and a shot of whiskey) here every game day, plus Purdue favorites like Green Dragons and Baltimore Zoos at this brand new official Boilermaker bar.

Four Shadows
Iowa Hawkeyes gameday specials include $5 Jager bombs, $4 22-ounce Miller Lite stadium cups and $8 pitchers of Miller Lite.

Grand River Bar & Grill
The Lakeview bar offers $10 Miller Lite pitchers and $4 well drinks during every Michigan State game.

Halligan Bar
The Lincoln Park pub celebrates college football by offering $3 bottles and drafts on every game day.

Joe's Bar
Joe's does everything big, and college football Saturdays are no different. Come in to watch the games on projector screens while enjoying $4 domestic pitchers, $4 bloody marys and $4 mimosas.

John Barleycorn
Head to this Lincoln Park bar to cheer on the Michigan State Spartans every weekend. The game will be shown on a 100-inch projection screen (as well as 17 others) and there's an optional $25-$30 tailgate package with all-you-can-eat food (fried chicken, pizza, Italian beef) and unlimited cans of Bud Light, bloody marys, mimosas and 4 Rebels cocktails.

John Barleycorn Wrigleyville
Get over to Wrigleyville for all Iowa Hawkeyes games - it'll be worth it, with an optional food and drink package including fried chicken, hot dogs, chili, Italian beef, chicken fajitas, Bud Light cans, 4 Rebels Premium and Dragonfruit vodka cocktails, bloody marys, mimosas and more. It costs $25 in advance, $30 on the day of.

Kendall's
The new home for Northwestern Wildcat football in Lincoln Park offers seven 10-foot projection screens, 19-plus plasma TVs and monitors, 20-ounce Northwestern mugs for $4, plus rotating specials when the Cats score.

Leo's Coney Island
It's only appropriate that this Michigan export will be showing all Wolverines games while you chow down on those classic Coney dogs. But you don't need to head over there to watch the action -- just order up a tailgate package for six or 12, including 2 Coney dogs per person, Greek salad, Leo's dressing and Vernor's Ginger Soda. Just make sure to plan ahead, as you have to order 24 hours in advance.

Moe's Cantina
Let's be real: you're gonna need sustenance to get you through the Michigan Wolverines season. And Moe's is offering it during every game, with a $25 package ($30 on day of game) including fried chicken, hot dogs, chili, Italian beef, chicken fajitas, Bud Light cans, 4 Rebels Premium and Dragonfruit vodka cocktails, bloody marys, mimosas and more.

Mystic Celt
Saturdays
Come one, come all to this Southport Corridor bar, which offers $3 Miller Lite drafts, $15 buckets of Coors Light, $1 mini cheeseburgers and $5 jumbo wings (10) every game day.

Plan B Bar and Kitchen
Kick off another season of rooting for the Michigan State Spartans with a full roster of specials, including $2 Spartan shots, $3 Miller Lite drafts, $5 Spartan cocktails, $5 22-ounce Spartan mugs and $7 pitchers of Miller Lite.

Sedgwick's Bar & Grill
Sedgwick's touts itself as a bar for fans of both Illinois and Missouri (Villanova, too). Specials include $18 Miller/Coors buckets, $6 O & O's and $5 Illini bombs for the orange team, and $18 Bud buckets, $5 Blasters and $6 Tiger bombs for the Tigers.

Division Ale House
Illini fans can also head to Wicker Park to watch their team play -- Saturday specials at the Ale House include $3 bottles of Bud Light, $15 pitchers of Absolut Acai Berry lemonade and a $7 build-your-own bloody mary bar.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

photo: courtesy of Clifton Henri, pictured: Volo

Beer Gardens/Patios

Sheffield's
The beer garden here, spacious and generously shaded by a towering cottonwood, is a Lakeview legend. Dig through the bar's stash of board games (Scrabble, anyone?), and then grab a seat at one of the many picnic tables or high-tops. You could spend countless days here trying to land on triple-word squares and browsing through the 34-page almanac of microbrews. It might take you awhile to find the perfect ale to pair with your pulled-pork sammie or grilled cheese.

Montrose Saloon
How many other Chicago beer gardens can offer games and plenty of space for kicking back? Montrose's patio, which is twice the size of the no-frills inside, feels more like a drunk uncle's side yard in the sticks than anything urban. You'll find a tent and grill for parties, tables built on tree stumps and a horseshoe pit where veteran regulars school rookies in the art of pitching. Games are free every day on a first-come, first-served basis; if the pit is crowded, hit the Sox vs. Cubs-theme bean bag toss instead.

Happy Village
The main room of the Happy Village isn't much to look at: a bar, a juke and some runaway patio furniture. But, behold the beer garden! Glowing with kitschy, garden party ambiance, with room for up to 100 patrons, it's bordered by a row of dense hedge. The space, which has a pond, wooden arches draped with greenery, plenty of flimsy plastic chairs and dowdy cement angel statues, stays open until the neighbors start to complain.

Cody's Public House
Sure, you've heard of BYOB, but what about BYOM? That's Bring Your Own Meat, which you can do at this West Lakeview tap, where patrons get free reign of the beer garden's grills. Tall trees loom overhead, vines wrap around the fence and white metallic patio chairs give the patio a sense of grace. Leashed pups bark at bad bocce ball tosses as they fall outside the regulation-size court. If you're lucky, one of the friendly regulars from the bar will step outside for some fresh air and chat you up.

Justin's
In the summer, you won't find a better spot to imbibe outside than the beer garden at this Southport spot. Almost as large as the main room inside, it offers plenty of shade and a comfortable feel. Though large and small tables, benches and bar stools scatter throughout, on most summer nights, and especially after Cubs games, it's standing room only. A separate alfresco bar serves the garden, which means you won't be holding an empty glass while your waitress treks inside to fill your order.

Village Tap
A self-proclaimed neighborhood bar, the Tap is proud of its off-the-beaten-path status ("i.e., where you can still park" its Web site proclaims). Still, it registers on the radars of many fresh air-mongers: It's no secret that the beer garden here is one of the city's best, if for no other reason than it's open year-round. When you're climbing up the walls of your shrinking apartment in the dead of winter, head out and grab a seat at a picnic table in the covered, heated environs. There's even a flat-screen to keep you company.

Moody's Pub
This Edgewater favorite's two-tiered garden has ample seating for couples and crowds, privacy from the road, waterfalls, wall ivy and plenty of silver maple trees, making this a hands-down winner for summertime socializing. It doesn't hurt that the bar food is above average and the beer is reasonably priced.

Resi's Bierstube
Almost everyone knows this Lincoln Square spot as a great place to get almost any German brew you could want, but its awesome beer garden is a slightly better guarded secret. Two enormous trees shade the fenced-in backyard, whose flowers and foliage make this quiet corner a scenic place to share a sausage plate or sample one of Resi's 150 imported bottled beers (Resi's was supposedly the first to offer weiss beer in Chicago, and offers more than 20 weiss beers today).

Cedar Hotel
When Melvin B's closed in 2007, Gold Coasters wondered where they would be able to see and be seen in an outdoor setting. The answer: right back in the same spot. This replacement, opened in late summer 2009, acts like flypaper for tourists, bon vivants and shoppers alike, with a full menu and cocktails served in 24-ounce souvenir cups.

Zella
If you're looking for a little eye candy to go with your beer, this bi-level patio filled with young professionals is the place to be. It gets better: Every Thursday beginning at 4 p.m., patrons at the Lincoln Park bar can enjoy $2 hot dogs, $4 burgers and $5 chicken sandwiches from the outdoor grill and $2.50 Miller Lite and Coors Light bottles, $3.50 call drinks and $4 house wine.

Nick's Beer Garden
Come on, this place has beer garden in the title, how could we not include it? Don't worry, it doesn't make the list on name alone - the large outdoor seating area is covered, which makes it a good bet in almost any weather. And with Nick's generally amiable crowd and good beer selection, it makes for a nice retreat from the overly hip spots surrounding it in Wicker Park.

Fizz Bar & Grill
If you're gonna serve a full menu of tiki drinks, you'd better have someplace people can enjoy them outdoors. And this Lakeview bar comes through with a huge, half-covered space perfect for lounging with your cocktail (or beer, or pizza) for hours. It's not totally secluded, so you can also catch a glimpse of busy Lincoln Avenue while you imbibe.

Cleo's
This West Town spot is one place that actually pays attention to the "garden" part of "beer garden." Flowers and plants bloom in the expansive space, and when the walls aren't covered by leaves, art takes its place. It all makes for a nice, relaxing place to cap off your night in the area - and a welcome respite from the tight confines of the Matchbox down the street.

The Temple Bar
Named after a popular pub in Dublin's nightlife quarter, this Lakeview bar just may prove itself to be as infamous as the original, thanks in part to a bustling 90-seat outdoor patio (nearly a city block long!) on the corner of Wellington and Ashland. You may not feel as if you're back on the Emerald Isle...but get back to us after a few whiskey flights.

Old Oak Tap
The gorgeous 80-seat haven at this West Town bar/restaurant features wooden bench seating wrapping around the entire perimeter, hanging lanterns and tons of flowers. That's nice, but what really sets the place apart is the beer list (12 taps and 20-plus bottle options) and the menu, full of above-average pub fare like the intriguing Fat Boy Pie: pulled pork shoulder, sharp Vermont cheddar, tomatoes, spring onions and black olives, green goddess dressing, french fries and mashed potatoes ($10). Not recommended on a really hot day, obviously.

Jack's Bar and Grill/404 Wine Bar
This Lakeview establishment houses two different, connected concepts: Jack's, a neighborhood sports bar, and 404, a slightly more refined spot with gourmet fare. They come together, both literally and figuratively, on the spacious back patio, where you can order off either menu and enjoy a serene atmosphere with low lights and, yes, TVs for the big games. It's perfect for a low-key date on a summer evening.

Outdoor Dining

Jane's
This enchanting house-turned-restaurant sits tucked away on a tree-lined side street. For a truly romantic dining experience, lovebirds can reserve one of the seven tables on the deck. The menu here pleases gourmet palates: New Orleans-style black grouper with sake-ginger sauce and, for vegetarians with refined tastes, goat cheese, vegetable and tofu burrito served with pico de gallo and avocado mousse.

Orso's
When the weather is warm, this authentic Italian restaurant's Wells Street sidewalk patio offers prime people watching, or you can visit the secluded garden out back, which sets the perfect scene for enjoying a glass of wine or a hearty dish of lasagna Bolognese. The grapevine overhang will keep you cool, lest you polish off a few too many bottles of vino.

Marigold
Sit among the marigolds on this elegant Indian restaurant's patio in Uptown. Located in front of the business, the small outdoor area, which seats about 20 people, is surrounded by mahogany planters filled with?you guessed it?marigolds. Enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine while you sit back, take in the contrasting urban atmosphere of Broadway Avenue, and dig into a plate of tandoori-style chicken. Jimmy's Grill
Jimmy's huge outdoor patio located at a busy intersection in downtown Naperville makes for the best people watching west of the city. Go during the day, and you'll see families taking their dogs for a stroll. Go at night, and this intersection turns into a lively nightlife scene full of college kids and young suburbanites hopping from one bar to the next. Plan to arrive early or you may have to wait in line for a seat.

Hackney's on Harms
Though its sister locations (including one in the South Loop) have respectable patios, this Hackney's boasts one of the best outdoor dining environs in the Chicagoland area. Towering silver poplars line the stately restaurant's backyard. Order a pint of Stiegl, a legendary burger served on rye and a thick-as-a-brick fried-onion loaf. If you feel energized after eating, the North Branch Trail runs right across the street; take it seven miles north to the Chicago Botanic Garden for the perfect end to a warm, sunny day.

The Garden Cafe at the Art Institute of Chicago
From late spring to early fall, this shady courtyard, with tables set up around Carl Mille's gurgling "Fountain of the Tritons," offers alfresco dining for art lovers. With salads, sandwiches and entrees costing $10-$15, The Garden isn't a cheap lunch date, but the seasonal menu of contemporary American cuisine sets it apart from more popular Loop lunchtime spots. For an even more elegant experience, try Terzo Piano, the Modern Wing restaurant which offers indoor and outdoor seating adjacent to the Bluhm Family Terrace. Spiaggia's Tony Mantuano designed the menu.

Cafe Selmarie
There's no shortage of delightful Euro imports in Lincoln Square. Every block in the neighborhood lands you steps from a stein of Spaten or a freshly baked baguette. But on any given summer night at Cafe Selmarie, you can relax on its sprawling patio on the ped mall and watch locals learn to tango. It just doesn't get any more Euro than that. Part bakery, part restaurant, Selmarie dishes up homemade pastries and rich bistro-inspired fare. Grab a chocolate hazelnut butter cream torte and a glass of red to feel like a Parisian in no time.

Crust
Seasoned entrepreneur/chef Michael Altenberg is the sustainability-conscious mind behind Chicago's first certified organic restaurant. Crust's back patio offers seating for 120 in a closed-off space safe from street noise. Take a seat at a wrought-iron table and dig in to Altenberg's individual-size flatbreads ($10-$14), which look like thin-crust pizzas but have a more refined attitude. Wash 'em down with a lemon- and lemongrass-infused Rain organic vodka on the rocks.

El Nuevo Mexicano
Do you look back on Spring Break in Cancun and wish you could go back? If so, grab your sunglasses and hurry on down to this authentic Mexican restaurant with high-quality, hearty dishes and a killer patio. Nestled into a row of residential backyards, the garden seating affords a certain amount of privacy for couples playing footsy and drunken men loudly reminiscing about their college days. Since nothing goes better with sunshine than tequila, be sure to order a pomegranate margarita?or two. Just stay away from any body shots.

Volo
This wine bar's backyard turns a gussied up, 100-year-old patina barn into a cocktail space, replete with cabana beds, an organic garden and wine tasting events. Enveloped by trees, sprinkled with fountains and huddled into a row of homey buildings on Roscoe, it couldn't be a more perfect oenophile oasis than if a river of pinot ran through it. Go on Monday, when bottles of wine are half-price, though any day will do for munching on a cheese plate and a sweet pea pizza.

photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia

Palmer Place
From American microbrews to Australian ales, just about any beer under the sun can be had at Palmer Place in downtown LaGrange. This spot even carries a beer from Nambia! As if a copious amount of chilled brews wasn't enough to draw in the summer crowd, a double-decker outdoor patio really seals the deal. Bonus points for the sunshine-perfect menu of barbecue, brats and gourmet burgers.

Coco Pazzo Cafe
Want to live like an Italian? That's what this Streeterville Tuscan restaurant has in mind with its Afternoon Alfresco menu, served daily on its popular patio from 2:30-5 p.m. Chef Eric Hammond offers small plates like mini panino with fillings like prosciutto and arugula, and bruschetta topped with asparagus, parmesan, mushrooms and truffle oil. Wines by the glass are served as well. If you're more of a late eater, the patio stays open all evening.

Piccolo Sogno
There are a ton of Italian restaurants in Chicago, so you've gotta find a way to set yourself apart. This River West restaurant, which replaced Timo in 2008, has a built-in advantage: a beautiful, secluded back patio. No matter what you're eating, you're sure to have a relaxing, romantic meal in the lush atmosphere, which is filled with garden plants of several varieties. The patio is the attraction at this spot - so much so, in fact, that even some of the indoor seating looks like it was meant for outdoor use.

Lucia's Ristorante
A far cry from this Wicker Park spot's busy deli up front (it's a great place to grab a sandwich, by the way), the restaurant's secluded back patio is all about relaxation and comfort. Even more comfortable than the atmosphere is the price; Lucia's is BYOB, so all you'll be paying for is your pasta.

More of a high flier? Check out our guide to Chicago rooftop bars.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

photo: David-Anthony Gonzalez

I learned this the hard way, after the demise of The Note?s ?I Love House Music Wednesdays.? Soon after, Sonotheque and Friday?s at Zentra hit the fan; both boarded a one-way flight to a distant memory filed away alongside my most-desired Slick?s. For the last few years, I was clueless and often times felt displaced.

However, the interest for house music venues remains. Today?s followers and media outlets run hip to sure-shot pleasers like Berlin, Smart Bar and Green Dolphin. Blue Light, Evil Olive and Crocodile Lounge also gained ground in recent history. But if you?re more adventurous, try some media-ignored soirees in infrequently chartered areas.

The Dating Game
Sundays at this South Side affair, DJ Emanuel lends his promotional hands bringing in original acts from The Warehouse, Generator and Music Box days. An older crowd, reflective of the era and preferring classic/disco house, jokingly call it ?No Babies Sundays.? Expect a line well before midnight when the space sees its capacity. For a more low-key version, come Wednesdays with resident Andre Hatchett.

Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
This lounge suits Chicago?s progressive right in the mix of Boystown. "We don't want to be known as a 'gay' lounge, but one where anyone can come. We?ve invented a place where you can listen to dance music, much like Green Dolphin, but in a lounge setting," says owner Edward Gisiger. That said, find a bit of everyone either cast on an outdoor patio or mingling inside within the South Beach backdrop. Save your requests and follow the flow of Junior Jack?s "See You Dancin'" via digital music system while perusing a menu of more than 100 martinis ($5 on Sundays and Tuesdays).

Tumbao
"Old-School Fridays" at this Logan Square Latin hotspot attract a spiffy and age-appropriate clientele. Heart-stopping gorgeous, the crowd respects the old-school notion of dolling up and dancing sensually with their partners versus solo, like elsewhere. Also unusual: DJs Choco and Payback's willingness to tap into the hip house subspecies; the crowd went wild for Reality?s "Yolanda." And at night's end, we were taken to the "Promised Land," an awesome and classic Chicago-based track.

Prop House
Enthusiasts understand the black gay scene introduced the world to house eons ago. It only made sense finding and paying tribute to one of Chicago's last nightclubs fitting this bill. While the house music section of the Prop House stacks up short against the tin-packed hip-hop backend, the Friday night parties still reign as a place where older heads and younger ballroom boys sweep the floor with vogue impressions and look-at-me whirls accompanied by soulful tracks.

Tiger O'Stylies
Growing tired of trekking to the city for dope sounds, suburban cats Gerardo Zavala and Danny Sauceda brought the beats to their neck of the jungle, offering "Get Deep Thursdays" at this Berwyn dive along old Route 66. For heads favoring versatility, the Irish pub flirts with underground classics, deep, Latin and "ghetto" house with a touch of techno, acid and down tempo. Past acts include Stacy Kidd, CZR and Rees Urban. The young crowd here seems less inclined with earning their tiger stripes by learning the history of house; instead, partygoers focus on dancing in train lines and funneling $3 UV cocktails.

Cocktail
While house music categorizes as dance music, not everyone dances. This Boystown bar works for followers opting for a sit-down establishment without forfeiting the boom. Make sure you?re comfortable with the nearly naked male entertainment. House plays throughout the week, be it on $1 drink Sundays or Thursdays when renowned local Michael Serafini throws down.

Other places worth checking out

photo: Sun-Times file photo

The Pony
It's not often that helicopters linger over West Lakeview during the first hours of daylight, but it all made sense when you realized that this Belmont Avenue hangout was where the Blackhawks wanted to celebrate upon returning from their Game 6 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. Who knows, they could be back at any time.

Morton's
In honor of the Blackhawks' big win, all six area steakhouse locations will offer a $20.10 special in the bar area: a Morton's Prime Burger with choice of cheese, bacon, and sauteed mushrooms or onions, plus fries and a glass of champagne. You'll also get a complimentary Bar Bite certificate to use during your next visit. Also available: the Bring It Home Hawks cocktail with a shot of espresso, half-ounce of Sambuca, one and-a-half ounces of Beefeaters and a dash of bitters.

District Bar
Why not watch the game at the same spot where the 'Hawks hang out? This River North lounge, popular with Chicago athletes of all sports, offers 40 flat screens, cheap beer deals and above-average bar food to enjoy all the ice action.

Marche and Red Light
Live in the West Loop, but don't feel like hoofing it to the game? Eat dinner beforehand at one of these Randolph Row restaurants, and you'll get free transportation to and from the United Center. And make sure to hang on to your ticket stub; you can show it for a complimentary Chef's Choice dessert at either spot (valid for any United Center event).

Moretti's (West Loop)
It may be known for its authentic Chicago-style pizza, but on game days Moretti's is sports central. Catch a $2 shuttle to the game, or stay in the huge viewing room full of TVs to catch all the action just blocks from the UC.

Hawkeye's Bar & Grill
Just a stone's throw south of the United Center, Hawkeye's is the Near West Side's sports central. Take a shuttle to most games, or hunker down for $7 Miller Lite pitchers on Thursdays (along with plenty of other daily specials).

Beer Bistro
You're not drinking the hockey-fan standard cheap light beers here. No, you're trying one of the 130-plus brews on the huge drink menu. Add on 25-cent wings (Sunday) or $2 burgers (Tuesday) and you've got yourself a great pre-game meal.

Palace Grill
Although you're not going to watch the game here, there's no better place for a quick bite to eat before or after the game. Located just blocks from the UC, the Palace has been around longer than all of us, and serves up some of the best diner food around.

Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill
While a bevy of new options just down the road at the Promenade may pull visitors from across the Chicago area, this official Blackhawks bar remains a popular hangout for the townies. In addition to game action on 40-plus TVs (including 17 hi-def big screens), you'll find regular live music to take your mind off hockey ? if for some reason the Hawks don't come through.

Shoeless Joe's
You don?t have to be heading out of town to stop at this sports bar connected to the Best Western O?Hare, which features 30 TVs and four big screens, plus regular drink specials for Blackhawks games. There?s even wi-fi, so you can track your playoff fantasy team.

Mother Hubbard's Sports Pub
The River North bar may no longer bus fans to the United Center for games, but it still offers lots of Blackhawk pride (see the big Blackhawk in the front window for proof). Grab a Sloppy Hockey Joe (which comes with a souvenir puck) and fill out the hockey nickname quiz while watching the game on any number of TVs.

The Firkin & Pheasant
It should come as no surprise that a Canadian franchise would be a major hockey supporter. This Lincoln Park bar has hosted a couple of official Roadwatch parties this year, and offers perhaps one of the more picturesque settings in which to watch the game.

Carmichael's Chicago Steak House
There are few better places to get pumped up for a Chicago event than at this classic steak house filled to the brim with local memorabilia. Grab a steak - or just a drink from the well-stocked bar - before hopping on a free United Center shuttle to the game.

The Stanley Club at Johnny's Icehouse
Where better to watch the game than with a ton of other puck-heads at the city's premier hockey rink? Both the East and West locations offer full-service lounges above the ice.

Playoff Deals

The CrossRoads Bar & Grill
The latest themed cocktail at this West Loop bar (following the Bloody Canuck snow cone and the Floundering Shark) is the Keith's Teeth bomb (Absolut Raspberry, grenadine, Passoa and Red Bull), in honor of Duncan Keith's heroic comeback from getting his chompers knocked out. The Byfuglien wings with a "hat trick" of sauces are available during all Stanley Cup games, too.

Division Ale House
The Ale House screens the Hawks on eight 50-inch flat-screen TVs and features $4.50 Jameson shots and $3 PBR cans on Blackhawks playoffs game days.

Mahoney's Pub & Grill
The River West bar keeps things lively by playing hockey videos and the national anthem before the game - plus offering specials like $5 Jameson and $5 22-ounce drafts of Miller Lite on game days. Make sure to plan for a special visit on Wednesday, June 2 (game three of the Stanley Cup Finals), when artist Elliot from Artbeat Live will be painting the Hawks logo on a four-by-five foot canvas to the beat of The Fratellis' "Chelsea Dagger" (the team's unofficial fight song).

John Barleycorn
Both the Lincoln Park and Schaumburg locations will offer these specials on Hawks playoff game days: $7 14-inch thin-crust cheese pizza with one topping, $1 sliders, $15 Bud Light buckets, $6 4 Rebels cocktails, $5 4 Rebels Dragonbombs, $6 4 Rebels pineapple martinis.

Junior's Sports Lounge
If you're a bandwagon-jumper, you might not have any 'Hawks paraphernalia to wear during the big games. That's not a problem at Junior's, where you can get shirts and hats for free, courtesy of Budweiser. The $4 stadium cups of Bud Light don't hurt, either.

Mac's American Pub
Cheer on the Blackhawks with $3.50 Point Pale Ale pints and $3 Paddy Old Irish Whiskey shots throughout the playoffs.

Market Bar and Restaurant
The West Loop bar may be partly owned by White Sox general manager Kenny Williams, but they love the Blackhawks here, too - as proven by the $3 Miller Lite and $5 shots (Jose Cuervo, SoCo, RumpleMinze, Goldschlager) offered on gamedays. You can hop a ride to games on the 22-seat shuttle.

Merkle's Bar and Grill
They don't just love the Cubs in Wrigleyville. Head here for $4 22-ounce Stadium Cup drafts, $4 Jameson, $5 bombs and $5 wing baskets during all Stanley Cup playoff games.

WestEnd Bar & Grill
Come to this West Loop bar and it'll almost be like you could actually afford a ticket to the game, what with all the pre-game music and bell-ringing after goals. But since we know you don't actually have the cash, you'll enjoy the specials, like $5 20-ounce drafts of Miller Lite and Coors Light.

Bottom Lounge
Watch the action on a 40-square-foot screen while enjoying $4 Center Ice cocktails (rum, ginger ale and lime) and $4 Trumer Pils at this West Loop bar and music venue on game days.

Durty Nellie's
At this Palatine bar, you can eat the competition - literally. Durty Nellie's is offering special shark menu items during the Western Conference finals, including a blackened shark sandwich with mango salsa and fries ($8.95) and an entree version served with rice pilaf, vegetables and a side salad ($11.95).

Old Chicago
This Elk Grove Village bar and restaurant serves up a free pizza buffet during every game, to go along with $3.50 Blackhawk and tans and $3 Hockey Puck shots. There's alsothe $10 Power Play, including pizza, five wings and a draft beer (there are 110 to choose from here).

Burwood Tap
Try a Big Buff Slap Shot - a shot of Jager and a Red-Headed Slut shot (Jager, peach schnapps, cranberry juice), which you take one after the other. Good luck making it to the first intermission.

Deca Restaurant + Bar
Are you a high-class hockey fan? This Ritz-Carlton eatery will serve up a special Blackhawk Burger throughout the Finals, featuring a half-pound Wagyu patty (black) layered with wild mushrooms, tomatoes, house-made ketchup and bacon (red) and white onions, white Wisconsin cheddar and horseradish cream (white). It's $19.

The Lucky Monk
Even if you're not a 'Hawks fan, it'd be smart to root for them during the Stanley Cup Finals, because for every goal they score, guests at The Lucky Monk will enjoy complimentary passed house appetizers in the bar/lounge area.

Metro
In collaboration with WXRT, the music venue will be showing Game 5 of the Hawks' series against the Philadelphia Flyers, along with a special show from Jon Fratelli. ? You know, of the rock group The Fratellis...Not ringing a bell? OK, it's the group that sings "Chelsea Dagger." Still nothing? OK, it's the "duh duh-duh-duh duh-duh-duh" song they play at the United Center after every Hawks goal. Ohhhhh, that guy! The free show starts at 5 and the game is at 7. Get tickets at XRT's website or text HOCKEY to 5-9393.

Zella
We're not sure how this exactly relates to the game, but this Lincoln Park bar will be serving up a "One Shot at the Cup" cocktail through the rest of the Stanley Cup Finals. The $7 combo features a pint of Blue Moon and a shot of Jagermeister. Mmm!

courtesy of Bridget Montomery; Citizen Bar

Roof
The Wit Hotel features a number of restaurants, bars and attractions, but none of them garners the attention nor the crowds that this 27th-floor indoor/outdoor lounge does. You'll pay for the views (of both the city and the good-looking crowd), as drinks cost $8-$12 and food is more than at your average pub, but you can't top the scene.

C-View
As if the killer view from the top of the Affinia Chicago hotel weren't enough, this 29th-floor lounge has upped the ante with a brand-new list of luxury cocktails, including the Shake Rattle and Hum (featuring master mixologist Adam Seger's Hum botanical spirit along with Bacardi rum, lime juice and simple syrup) and Back Porch Punch (Southern Comfort, Grand Marnier, lemon juice, sweet tea). When hunger hits, head downstairs to the C-House restaurant, owned by famed chef Marcus Samuelsson.

Epic
The newly opened rooftop at the already massive (14,000 square feet) River North spot, dubbed Epic Sky, offers lounge seating, two private cabanas and a 28-foot long bar serving up signature cocktails, wine and beer. Expect a food menu coming soon.

Vertigo
This sky-high, indoor/outdoor watering hole atop the Dana Hotel and Spa offers strong cocktails, breathtaking views of the city and waitresses in skin-tight catsuits. Combine that with the ultra-chic décor and a DJ spinning everything hip in rock, funk, pop and electronic, and you?ve got the perfect meeting place for young business professionals (the co-ed bathroom could be a good place to break the ice. Don't miss out on the gourmet food options from the downstairs restaurant, aja, and be prepared to spend: drinks cost $9-$12.

Market Bar and Restaurant
Professional hockey and baseball players may not all be beautiful, but they and their paychecks can certainly hang with a sultry crowd. This snazzy restaurant and lounge is partly owned by White Sox General Manager Kenny Williams, and the place is popular with Chicago sports stars (some live down the street) ? as well as sexy clientele sporting mascara, pearl necklaces, silicone cleavage and pressed suits. The newly remodeled rooftop deck, open daily from 2 p.m.-midnight, features eight private cabanas, a walk-up bar, flat-screen TVs and a small-plates menu including spring rolls, a cheese plate and a tuna tartare trio (available 5-10 p.m.; dishes range from $10-$13).

Plymouth Restaurant and Bar
This three-story establishment has dining and drinking options on all levels, but the rooftop deck is the real draw. The view isn't as spectacular as the loftier spaces (unless, of course, you're looking at the mural of Chicago celebrities on one wall), but it'll get the job done. Tip: On an extra-hot day, make sure to grab a spot near the edge of the rooftop; every once in a while, the bar will turn on the misters and give you a nice, refreshing shot of cool moisture.

Citizen Bar
Don't bother bringing your passport; everyone can claim citizenship at this River North bar, though the outdoor patios will make you want to take up residency. Enjoy the company of the city and take your glass of wine and Cowboy burger out onto the 2,000 square-foot patio or rooftop deck. Weekday specials, like half-price bottles of wine on Tuesdays, sweeten the sight. .

NoMI
Less intense than the main space, an upscale French restaurant at the Park Hyatt Chicago hotel, NoMI's rooftop lounge serves lighter, seasonal fare and a variety of NoMI's signature cocktails made with freshly squeezed juices. The 2,000-square-foot garden, with lush landscaping and sweeping city views, sits on the hotel's seventh floor.

Rock Bottom Brewery
Sure it's a chain, but this River North microbrewery's in-the-thick-of-it view of the Chicago skyline solidifies its status as a killer rooftop hangout. The vista's no well-kept secret, though; show up early as it gets crowded quickly. The rooftop has its own bar, making it easy to grab a cold Chicago Gold (pale ale) to cool down on hot days. As expected, the atmosphere and decor feel corporate, but to score refreshing brews and reasonably priced pub grub, you could do worse than hitting Rock Bottom.

Sidetrack
As Chicago's biggest and most popular gay bar, Sidetrack has become a mainstay of the Halsted scene. Indulge in some fun, frozen drinks like the highly popular Ketel One Crush, a grape-flavored tart concoction, on its sleek rooftop deck, which has its own bar and seats 350. If you're looking for a place to meet that special someone or just hang out with friends, add this one to your summer roster.

Pegasus
Get the best view in Greektown on the rooftop patio (open Memorial Day to Labor Day), which accommodates 160 people and boasts a full bar, live music and a spectacular view of the skyline. The al-fresco menu features an extensive selection of tapas-style appetizers and desserts.

SushiSamba Rio
A haven for chic Chicagoans, this clubby sushi bar offers a rooftop lounge perfect for people watching. Enjoy a mojito or one of SushiSamba's many signature drinks like the Lemon Samurai (Svedka Citron vodka, apple liqueur, peach, guava), but make sure your 'do can stand the elements ? you're sure to be the recipient of gratuitous ogling.

Twisted Spoke
It may not feel quite like cruising on a Harley, but visitors to the Twisted Spoke's rooftop patio can catch some rays while their hair blows in the breeze. With picnic tables and umbrellas to accommodate about 60, the casual second-floor patio at this biker-themed hangout is the perfect spot to waste away a beautiful day. The Fat Boy, a big honkin' half-pound burger topped with your choice of cheddar, swiss, grilled onions, bacon and barbecue sauce, holds court as the restaurant's most popular menu item. Bonus: It serves Jim Beam on-tap.

Vines on Clark
Round up the troops post-Cubs game and head on over to this outdoor anomaly: Vines rules as Wrigleyville's only rooftop-dining venue (if you don't count the lucky fans grilling out on their squint-and-you-can-see-the-field roof decks). The patio can also be rented for private parties on non-game days, when Lakeview locals capitalize on the quiet time to enjoy a Honey Weiss or specialty martini.

Zed 451
With a sweeping 2,300-square-foot rooftop, this carnivore's paradise has already become a popular hang. With non-stop visits from chefs wielding large skewers of steaks, chicken and fish (for a fixed price), patrons are sure to get their fill while they bask in the sun and sip a seasonal cocktail. A large fireplace, grass, foliage and a copper-roofed clerestory add to roof deck's ambiance.

Bottom Lounge
You're probably here for the music, but don't forget to scope out the rooftop deck before you leave. Located on the second-level, the outdoor locale is an extension of Bottom Lounge's tiki-themed bar, the Volcano Room. Sip a freshly muddled mojito while taking in the cityscape view.

Terrace at Conrad
Perched five stories above Rush Street on the top floor of the Conrad Chicago hotel, this seasonal spot provides a retreat reminiscent of 1950s South Beach. A stunning bar sits out of the way from plush over-sized lounge chairs, sofas and daybeds, while umbrellas offer a little cover from the sun during afternoon outings. Tack on something from the restaurant's globally inspired tapas menu and a pitcher of vodka lemonade or mojitos, and you'll feel far from the street below.

NV Penthouse Lounge
Some will be impressed with the escort to the elevator and the attendant who takes you up to the 8th floor of this River North building, but the real selling point of NV is its outdoor terrace, which offers amazing views of the city. Of course, such serenity comes at a price ? on prime nights, you'll have a tough time accessing the space without renting a cabana or being part of a private party.

Avenue Ale House
This Oak Park pub is known for heaping portions and hearty food, so make sure your stomach is empty when you cross its threshold. After all, you'll want to enjoy every second of your time on the cool rooftop patio, a definite hot spot during the summer months. You'll find everyone from families dining with small children to groups of friends sharing beer buckets and enjoying the occasional acoustic performance.

Shanghai Terrace
Located within the celebrity-frequented confines of the Peninsula Hotel, this fourth-floor restaurant offers upscale Chinese fare in a sleek environment filled with artwork and hand-carved wood. When the weather permits, you can head outside to the terrace for cocktails and Asian-inspired iced teas alongside a top-shelf view of the city skyline.

Like to drink outside, but afraid of heights? Check out our roundup of Chicago beer gardens and sidewalk patios.

ICE Theaters
Wednesday, May 26 - Sunday, May 30
This Chatham cinema offers up a whole Weekend of Euphoria in honor of this momentous premiere, including a private movie screening with pre-party on Wednesday ($35), the Pamper Me Pretty spa day on Thursday ($5), a cocktail party and movie screening on Friday ($60), a bellydancing class on Saturday ($20) and a Mimosas and Manolos brunch on Sunday ($30). Get all tickets here. (Make sure to also check out the exclusive Noir Woman magazine party and screening on Thursday here.

Zella
Thursday, May 27
Head over to this Lincoln Park bar (not far from the Webster Place cinema) for $5 Cosmos in anticipation of the flick. If you can't get tickets, stick around for the BBQ Thursday special, featuring $2 hot dogs, $4 burgers and $5 chicken sandwiches, as well as $2.50 Miller Lite and Coors Light bottles, $3.50 call drinks and $4 house wine on the patio.

Carlucci (Downers Grove)
Thursday, May 27
The suburban location of Carlucci is offering up $5 martini specials on premiere night, including the Flirtini (Skyy Passion Fruit, X-Rated liqueur, cranberry juice and candied lemon). There will be live music all weekend long.

J Bar
Thursday, May 27, 8 p.m.
The James Hotel bar's regular Addiction Thursdays event takes on a "Sex and the City" theme: "Addicted to Aidan" (as in Carrie's ex, who makes an appearance in the new movie). The original flick will play on the big screen all night, and $6 signature cocktails will include the Scout-tini and the Nice Guy Finishes First Fizz. It pays to get there early, as the first four guests will get a "Sex and the City 2" swag bag as well as have a chance to win tickets to the movie.

Wildfire (Chicago)
Thursday, May 27, 5-7 p.m.
Skyy vodka hosts a special cocktail party in the River North restaurant's lounge, complete with $7 Cosmos (also available in wild raspberry flavor), plus complimentary hors d'oeuvres like whole wheat pizza and roasted vegetable quesadillas.

Francesca's
Thursday, May 27 - Friday, May 28
All 20 area locations of this Italian favorite will be getting "Carried" away with deals this week, with $5 Cosmos offered on Thursday and Friday.

The Lucky Monk
Thursday, May 27 - Saturday, May 29
Enjoy themed cosmos like the Miranda Pomegranate-Tini, the Charlotte Big Apple-Tini, the Carrie Cosmo and the Samantha Lemon Drop at this South Barrington bar. There will also be live entertainment on the patio. Best part? It's right next to the AMC 30 cinema, so you won't have to wobble far for the main event.

Living Room (W Hotel)
Thursday, May 27 - Sunday, May 30
Bring in your "Sex and the City 2" ticket stub anytime during the weekend and you'll get a free Cosmo for your troubles.

Luxbar
Thursday, May 27 - Monday, May 31
Carrie and co. would feel right at home in the swank surroundings at this Gold Coast bar - especially with $6 Cosmos on offer all weekend long.

Martini Park
Thursday, May 27 - Friday, July 9
Order a flute of Moet Imperial or Moet Rose at this River North bar, and you could win tickets to see "Sex and the City 2," courtesy of Fandango (other prizes include bubble candles, wine charms and paper corks). The spot will also feature the Bombshell cocktail, a mix of tangerine juice, maraschino liqueur and Moet Imperial, sure to bring out your inner Samantha (as well as The Socialite, The Fashionista, and The Player, to complete the quartet). District Bar, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Firefly and Market Bar and Restaurant offer the same deal.

Vertigo
Friday, May 28, 6-8 p.m.; $35
CheekyChicago.com hosts an evening full of fashionable fun at this rooftop lounge at the Dana Hotel and Spa. You'll enjoy drinks from Chimney Rock Wine (the signature wine of the film) and Effen (Cosmos, of course), passed hors d'oeuvres, make-up from Bloomingdales, accessories from Love Lulu Mae and more. You'll also have the chance to buy Laudi Vidni handbags, and win tickets to the movie as well as David Barton Gym memberships. RSVP to RSVP@CheekyChicago.com.

Hilton Chicago/Indian Lakes Resort
Friday, May 28 - Saturday, May 29
Take advantage of the "Sex and the Suburbs II" package, which includes an overnight stay, a 10 p.m. screening of the film, three themed cocktails per person and a special reception with free spa treatments and giveaways. Packages start at $198 plus tax for two guests.

D.O.C. Wine Bar (Lincoln Park and Lombard locations)
Friday, May 28 - Monday, May 31
Bring in your ticket stub (and a friend, hopefully) to either location of this wine bar for a buy-one-get-one-free Cosmo special.

Old Town Social
Thursday, June 3, 5 p.m.; $60
Join the Sassy Moms for this Neighborhood Parents Network fundraising reception featuring a cocktail party with passed hors d'oeuvres and (of course) Cosmos, plus a private showing of the movie at AMC River East 21. Get more info and tickets here.

Stop flipping burgers and get out there already!

Mac's American Pub
Friday, May 28 - Monday, May 31
Celebrate the opening of Mac's new, 18-seat sidewalk patio on Division Street with weekend specials including $9 pitchers of Bud Light (Friday), $5 mimosas (Saturday) and $2 PBR, $3 Jameson shots and $5 bloody marys (Sunday). All-day deals on Monday include $3 Sprecher Hefe Weiss drafts and a half-price half-pound burger with hand-cut fries, as well as the weekend brunch menu from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Rockwood Place
Friday, May 28 - Sunday, May 30
ESPN 1000 radio personalities Waddle and Silvy broadcast live from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Friday. The announcers will give away four rooftop tickets for the Crosstown Classic. Specials include $1 sliders, $2 flatbreads, $3 half-slab ribs, $8 Miller Lite and Bud Light pitchers, $10 peach sangria pitchers, $12 4 Rebels Dragonfruit Vodka lemonade pitchers all weekend long. The LaSalle Power Co. House Band plays live after the Cubs-Cardinals games Saturday and Monday, while The Personnel plays Sunday (no cover charge).

Division Ale House
Friday, May 28 - Monday, May 31
Heat up your long weekend with this Wicker Park bar's new "suicide" wings, slathered in sauce made with bhut jolokia pepper extract (you'll need to sign a waiver; the wings are $9, free if you eat all 10). Also on special this weekend: $4 Magic Hat #9 and $15 all-you-can-eat fish and chips (Friday); $7 build-your-own bloody mary bar (Saturday-Sunday); $4 Burning River Pale Ale, $5 PBR with a Jameson shot (Sunday); and $2 Bud Light bottles, 25-percent off appetizers and a free bags tournament at 6 p.m. (Monday).

John Barleycorn (Schaumburg)
Friday, May 28 - Sunday, May 30
Every day of the weekend offers something different at this massive bar, from a $9.95 BBQ rib dinner and live music from the 7th Heaven band on Friday (9 p.m.; $10 cover), to $15 Bud Light buckets and $6 4 Rebels cocktails on Saturday, to $3 beers and $4 Rebels cocktails on Sunday.

Stretch Run
All weekend long, you can enjoy $4 Sparkling Stripes (Chardonnay, Sierra Mist and grenadine) at this OTB bar.

Tin Lizzie
Saturday, May 29
Here's something that's both serious AND seriously fun: on Saturday, this Lincoln Park bar will feature guest bartenders who are veterans of the nation's armed services (after all, the holiday is supposed to be about remembering those who served our country). All tips collected will go to the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Pinstripes (South Barrington)
Saturday, May 29
The Memorial Weekend Block Party at this entertainment complex will feature family-friendly events like a 5K run and walk, face painting, jugglers, kids games and a performance by 10,000 Maniacs. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be available for $5.

District Bar
Sunday, May 30, 4-10 p.m.; $20
The Backyard Bar-b-que at this River North bar has all the elements of a great barbecue: unlimited food (burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken), drinks (two included with admission price) and music (Acoustic Playback, 5-8 p.m.). All that's missing is the actual backyard.

The Southern
Sunday, May 30, 6:30 p.m.; $16
Chef Cary Taylor celebrates the holiday with a traditional Southern Lowcountry boil - a one-pot medley of shell-on shrimp, andouille, new potatoes and corn on the cob boiled in water with Old Bay seasoning, served up by the chef himself in the dining room 'til it runs out (service begins at 7 p.m.). Not a stew person? The regular menu will also be available.

HUB 51
Sunday, May 30
The best thing about long weekends is that Sunday night feels like Saturday night. Make the most of it at this Summer Kickoff Party featuring half-price drinks from HUB 51's new summer cocktail menu, including choices like The Back Nine (Beefeater 24, lemonade and organic iced tea), the pomegranate mojito (Don Q rum, mint and pomegranate) and Moscato Rose on draft. You can also get a full slab of ribs for $19.95, and enjoy tunes from DJ E-Six all night long.

Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen
Sunday, May 30; 10 p.m.-1 a.m.
It's not really summer until you have a beach party...and this Crystal Lake bar is hosting one on Sunday, complete with karaoke, $3 house margaritas, $4 pitchers and $5 bomb shots.

Grand Central
Sunday, May 30
Celebrate no work or school on Monday with $3 domestic drafts, $4 import drafts, $5 grape and cherry bombs and $6 burgers all day Sunday. A DJ spins at 9 p.m. with no cover charge.

John Barleycorn
Sunday, May 30 - Monday, May 31
Enjoy a free Sunday-night party featuring $15 Bud Light buckets, $7 one-topping pizzas and $1 sliders, with a DJ spinning at 10 p.m. Then come back on the holiday itself for the regular weekend brunch menu from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., plus a $12 all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet on the patio from 3-9 p.m., with options including ribs, burgers, Italian sausage, chicken and more (plus $15 Bud Light buckets and $5 Rebel Palmers).

Francesca's Tavola
Monday, May 31
As part of its "Eat and Earn" promotion, the Arlington Heights restaurant will send 20 percent of all sales on Memorial Day to Legion Post 208. Also, any member of the military who comes dressed in uniform will receive 50 percent off his or her meal.

English
Monday, May 31, open 2 p.m.-2 a.m.
English will screen the Hawks-Flyers game at 7 p.m. on the bar's 10 flat-screen TVs. Specials include $2 lamb sliders, $8 fish and chips, $3 domestic bottles and a $9 trio of bar snacks (pick any three).

Looking for your own island adventure? Try one of these tropical bars.

Cityscape Bar
You'll enjoy $7 themed cocktails and free peanuts (is this a series tie-in we don't get) at this bar on the 15th floor of the Holiday Inn. You won't miss your DVR much, either, as you'll be able to check out a nice view of the city during commercials.

Stretch Run
Want to bet on the final outcome of the show? This OTB bar is a good place to do it. Even if you're not a gambler, you can enjoy $17.50 buckets of Corona and $4 Jack Daniels and gin cocktails.

Vic Theatre
If you're really serious about "Lost," you need to watch it on a big screen. The Vic offers just that, with a free brew-and-view showing on Sunday.

We've been seeing 40s popping up in more and more bars and restaurants around Chicago. Perhaps it's because owners have increased their liability insurance to cover the eventual outbreak of booze-induced skull lacerations or they've realized how well malt liquor pairs with fish. Maybe they now understand that they're just fun to drink (see popular drinking game Edward Fortyhands). In any case, here are a few places we've found where you can get the full forty without being forced to drink by the train tracks or while squatting in an alley.

Elm Street Liquors
The owners of Elm Street claim to have "evolved the traditional dive bar concept into the first luxury tavern in Chicago," whatever that means. After changing ownership in 2008, they have at least figured out that not everyone near Rush and Division wants standard macrobrew 12-ounce offerings, or slapped-together Cosmos or ___tinis. In addition to cocktails and beer mixtures like the Pretty Young Thing (PBR and Pink Lemonade) or the Brown Sugar (Negra Modelo mixed with tequila and a cube of brown sugar), they kindly have on hand a full 40 ounces of Mickey's finest malt liquor for the low, low price of just $10.

If you're turned off by the huge upcharge on what normally sells in convenience stores and gas stations for just a few bucks, consider that wine gets a similar price increase in restaurants, while beer is often worse. Besides, think of how much time (and tips) you'll save by purchasing the equivalent of three beers at once.

photo: David-Anthony Gonzalez

The Fifty/50
This flashy Wicker Park bar has built a following for its artery-clogging comfort food, including multiple versions of mac 'n' cheese, buffalo wings with house-made hot sauce and a late-night menu featuring cheddar waffle fries (add bacon for a buck!), pulled pork or steak nachos and stuffed 'shrooms. But the beer list is where things really get interesting, thanks to the rotating 40-ounce of the Week. Like the now-closed Lakeview Broadcasting Company, which would regularly change the type of 40 on hand for variety's sake, the Fifty/50 orders a certain number of cases of 40s per week, and when a brand is gone, it's gone 'til next time. So it is entirely possible that if the 40-ounce demand is high (and when isn't it?), there could be more than one 40 style per seven-day period. For just $8 you can try your hand Colt 45, Big Bear, Crazy Stallion, Old English or whatever other brand they decide to assault your liver with, which makes the Fifty/50 the destination for true malt liquor variety - outside of the gas stations and truck stops of America, of course.

Glenn's Diner
Wait, an actual restaurant that serves a 40 alongside its otherwise serious fare? If owner Glenn Fahlstrom - who claims to serve "the best food in the world - approves, we're not going to argue. You can match up an $8.25 bottle of Miller Lite with any of the fish specials of the day on the chalkboard, or if you're really feeling ready to call your sponsor, pour it over a bowl of any of the dozen or so cereals Glenn features during breakfast and brunch. (You might have to ask nicely to get them to serve it to you that early.) But if you're going to go big, you might as well put those 40 ounces of booze up against as many King Crab legs as you can possibly handle. Glenn's gluttonous steal of a Tuesday night all-you-can-eat deal is just $34.95 per person and worth doing at least once in your life, definitely with a huge bottle of beer at your side.

Fat Willy's Rib Shack
Perhaps you aren't comfortable toting in an economy-size bottle of brew to Smoque or Honey 1 BBQ. Maybe you had to rush and couldn't stop at the Food & Liquor joint for the malt liquor swill of your preference but you've got an undeniable hankering for 'cue. (Or you absolutely, positively can't handle sitting through the film you're being dragged to at the AMC City North theater across the street.) No matter what the reason, Fat Willy's is here to help.

Argue as you will about whose barbecue is the best, the most authentic, the most flavorful, the most properly prepared, the most reliable - only Fat Willy's can put a 40 of Miller Lite, Budweiser or MGD in front of you for $8 along with your pulled pork or slab of baby backs. Appetizers like jalapeno corn fritters, hot links or rib tips and sides like collard greens or Southern baked spaghetti round out the 40-enhanced experience.

No stealing allowed.

Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl (Lincoln Park)
May 5, 8-11 p.m.; $15
Not sure which bar you want to be your Cinco de Mayo headquarters? You don't have to choose! Take a tour of six Lincoln Park/Lakeview bars, with domestic drafts, margaritas and a Mexican buffet at each stop. You'll be drinking at Duffy's Tavern, Durkin's, Maeve, McGee's, Redmond's and Wrightwood Tap. There will be a trolley to take you from bar to bar. More Cinco de Mayo events.

Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl 2010 (hosted by Kiss FM)
May 5, 8 p.m.-midnight Wednesday, starting at Rockwood Place/Bar Celona; free
Mariachi bands will play until 9 p.m. at both opening bars, then trolleys will take the fiesta to Grand Central, then to Angels & Mariachis. Kiss FM (103.5) will be at Angels & Mariachis all night, including one of Kiss FM?s ?Beat Freak? DJs. Drink deals include $5 Cazadores margaritas, $5 Cazadores Reposado or Blanco shots and $4 Corona bottles.

Historic Pub Crawl of Hegewisch
May 5, 6 p.m.
Learn all about the venerable South Side neighborhood through Landmarks Illinois, sponsors the event. It?s a great chance to learn a little about our fair city ? while having a drink or three along the way. Details are scarce on locations, but we?re thinking maybe some Pudgy?s Pizza? Chicago Pita Kitchen? The Ford Assembly Plant? Anyway, cost is $10, or free if you?re a Landmarks member. Call (312) 922-1742 or click here for more info. "Dress Up Like Your Favorite Mother" Uptown Pub Crawl
May 8, 2-7 p.m.; $10-$15
If you're the type to take your mother on pub crawls, this is the one to choose. Comedian Bertha Mason hosts this crawl that includes contests (lunchmaking, laundry sorting, phone calls) and prizes. It all starts at Crew, moving along to Nick's Uptown, Fat Cat, The Spot and Uptown Lounge, with $2.50 Stella Artois deals all day. Make sure to heed the title and don your best Mom jeans.

Cover Your Bases Pub Crawl
Saturday, May 8, 1:30 p.m.; $15
Here's a creative one: you'll collect a sticker at each Wrigleyville bar you go to, which you'll stick on your provided t-shirt. Cover all the "bases" and you'll get major props. There will be a raffle at the final stop in which you can win Cubs rooftop tickets, among other prizes. Bars include John Barleycorn Wrigleyville, Dark Horse Tap and Grille, Harry Caray's Tavern, Houndstooth Saloon, Rebel Bar & Grill, Mullen's on Clark, Nisei Lounge, Rebel Bar & Grill, Red Ivy, Rockwood Place, Sports Corner, The Stretch and The Yard.

Spring Fling Pub Crawl
Saturday, May 15, 2-8 p.m.; $10 in advance at any participating location, $15 day of
Head to Boystown for this seasonal celebration, which includes 11 bars offering $5 Absolut Acai cocktails and $4 Corona. The fun starts at Roscoe's and continues at Bucks Saloon, Cocktail, Halsted's Bar & Grill, Hydrate, Lucky Horseshoe Lounge, Minibar, North End, Rehab, Scarlet and Spin.

Young Irish Fellowship Club Pub Crawl
Saturday, May 15, 1-9 p.m.; 420
Fore! This golf-themed pub crawl asks you to dress in your finest fairway attire for a round of drinking in Old Town. You'll start off at Corcoran's Grill & Pub, where you'll enjoy $3 domestic bottles, $4 well drinks, $3.50 microbrews and $5 shots, before continuing on to Wells on Wells (2:30-3:50 p.m.; $9 pitchers of Miller Lite, $4 beer specials), McGinny's Tap (4-5:20 p.m.; $5 shots, $15 buckets), O'Brien's Restaurant (5:30-6:30 p.m.; Bud Light and sangria specials) and Fireplace Inn (7-9 p.m.; $3 Bud Light and 312, $4 Jager bombs). You can join at any poitn during the crawl. The best part? A portion of proceeds will benefit Natasha McShane, a victim of the Bucktown bat attack on April 23.

Back to the Pub Crawl
Saturday, May 22, 1:30-9 p.m.; $10
This Wrigleyville crawl has an '80s theme, complete with a DeLorean that'll be parked in front of the first few bars (remember: drunk driving is illegal). Your entry fee gets you an official tshirt, a 22-ounce cup, a slap bracelet, food and drink specials, beer pong/flip cup tournaments, live music (from Mer and Red Pop Fury) and more. It starts at Bernie's Tavern, moving on to Casey Moran's, Sports Corner, Cubby Bear, Sluggers and John Barleycorn Wrigleyville.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

Bull & Bear
Local cover band Jank presides over this Janko de Mayo party featuring $5 shots of Herradura, $6 Jankaritas (aka margaritas with Herradura), $6 yard glasses (signature vodka cocktails with Finlandia) and $7 sangria.

Carnivale
6:30-8:30 p.m.; $25
In honor of the holiday, sommelier Elizabeth Mendez will lead a hands-on class instructing guests in concocting both a classic and a seasonal margarita. In addition to creating and sampling drinks, you'll enjoy appetizers from chef Mark Mendez. If you just want to drink, the restaurant is offering five special margaritas, including a Cavarita ($12.50) and a pomegranate variety ($9.50).

La Casa De Isaac
The Highland Park foodie destination will offer a three-course menu for $32.

Chilam Balam Cocina Mexicana
The Lakeview Mexican restaurant will offer a three-course menu for $32.

Cinco de Mayo Festival (Douglas Park)
April 30-May 3
There will be live music, food, carnival rides and games at this three-day festival in Douglas Park. Make sure to stick around for the parade, stepping off from Cermak and Damen at noon on Sunday.

Cinco de Mayo Festival (Little Village)
May 7-9
Celebrate for three days at this inaugural fest, featuring live music, food, crafts, family activities and more in Little Village, the home of Chicago's largest Mexican population.

Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl
8-11 p.m.; $15
Take a tour of six Lincoln Park/Lakeview bars, with domestic drafts, margaritas and a Mexican buffet at each stop. You'll be drinking at Duffy's Tavern, Durkin's, Maeve, McGee's, Redmond's and Wrightwood Tap. There will be a trolley to take you from bar to bar.

Congress Theater
7 p.m.; $15 (two for $25 in advance)
The Cinco de Mondo event goes all out with Lucha Libre wrestling, burlesque performances from Lola Van Ella, Bella Sue Devianti and Gravity Plays Favorites, live music from the Del Moroccos and The Suspirios and more. Comedian Dash Bravado hosts.

Cuna
Indulge in a quesadilla burger (with cheese quesadillas instead of the bread, $7), $1 bottles of Miller Lite and Coors Light and $4 Patron shots at this Lakeview bar.

Dawali
Enjoy $5 specials like shawerma and chicken shawerma wraps all day at this Northwest Side Middle Eastern spot.

Dick's Last Resort
It's a Hot Huevos fiesta at this riverside bar, where you can enjoy a free taco bar from 4-6 p.m., $3 margaritas and $4 Coronas. There will also be a spicy food eating contest at 7 p.m., and music from Noche Caliente beginning at 8 p.m.

Division Ale House
The Ale House celebrates with $5 lime margaritas and $3 Corona bottles.

D.O.C. Wine Bar (Lombard)
The West Suburban wine bar offers a $12 chicken enchilada plate with rice and black beans and margaritas martinis for $5 each.

Get the "Perfect Margarita" at Dos Diablos.

Dunlays on Clark
Drink specials at this Lincoln Park neighborhood restaurant include $4 Pacifico and $3 Cuervo tequila shots, while there will be a few Mexican dishes added to the menu, like guacamole, a skirt steak torta, posole hominy, pork shoulder sopes and more.

Durty Nellie's
Get $3 margaritas and featured food specials like a trio of tacos at this Palatine hangout.

English
English celebrates with all-day specials like $5 Don Julio shots, $7 Don Julio margaritas and $4 Corona and Dos Equis bottles.

Faith & Whiskey
The Lincoln Park bar's Cinco de Mayo party includes tons of drinks specials, including $1 Cabo Wabo tequila shots and skinny margaritas, $2 Dos Equis and domestic drafts, $3 well cocktails, $3 Accidental Threesome shots, $3 Jim Beam Red Stage shots, $6 40s and $5 Death's Hot Rod cocktails (Death's Door white whiskey, Cointreau and lime juice). Tom Petty/Johnny Cash cover band Petty Cash will perform live at 9 p.m., and the bar will award a 15-person private party to the person with the best "Most Interesting Man in the World" costume (from the Dos Equis commercials) at midnight.

The Fifty/50
Mariachi Michoacano ? an eight-piece live mariachi band ? will play live starting at 8 p.m. Drink specials include $6 Pama margaritas, $6 Cazadores tequila maragaritas, $4 Cazadores Blanco, Reposado and Anejo tequila shots. The Wicker Park bar will also award a free private party to the person with the "best mariachi mustache."

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar
The Lakeview restaurant will offer a Mexican pizza featuring ground beef, cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, onion, tomato, cilantro and refried beans ($9). Wash it down with $3 bottles of Corona.

HUB 51
11:30 a.m.-midnight
Fittingly, this River North hotspot offers five specials for Cinco de Mayo. There will be $10 tacos, $6 guacamole, $5 margaritas, $4 Coronas and $4 Grande Tecate available all day and night.

Hunt Club
Munch on free chips and salsa, $3 cheese quesadillas with pico de gallo, salsa & sour cream, and a Cinco De Mayo burger (8-ounce ground beef and chorizo patty topped with Chihuahua cheese, jalapenos, pico de gallo, and salsa) for $5 from 6-8 p.m. All-day drink specials include $4 Cuervo shots, $5 Corona and Corona Light bottles and $6 Patron margaritas.

John Barleycorn
Both the Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville locations offer up specials. In Lincoln Park, get $4 lime margaritas, $3 Sol and Dos Equis bottles, $4 Sauza shots and $4 Jose Cuervo shots, along with free sombreros. In Wrigleyville, get $6 house margaritas, $5 Sauza shots, $3 domestic drafts, $3 wells drinks, 25 cent wings and $1 select sliders.

Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club
Kit Kat Diva Jade will perform as Jennifer Lopez, Shakira and other Latina musical superstars as you enjoy half-price margaritas at this Boystown club.

LaSalle Power Co.
Q101 (101.1 FM) broadcasts live from 3-7 p.m. and specials include include $5 Cabo Wabo shots and $7 Cabo Wabo margaritas.

Lottie's Pub
Grab $3 Dos Equis and Negra Modelo and $4 Corona and Corona Light at this beloved Bucktown bar, and pair them with half-price guacamole and some smoked chicken quesadillas.

Luxbar
Buy a pitcher of margaritas ($35) and you'll receive a complimentary large chips and guacamole platter on Cinco de Mayo.

Mac's American Pub
All-day Cinco de Mayo pecials include $5 16-ounce Cuervo margaritas, $3 Corona bottles and chicken quesadillas with roasted tomatillo salsa ($6). After 5 p.m., enjoy tacos de pescado: corn tortillas, crispy cod, pico de gallo, avocado and sweet jalapeno mayo ($6). Mahoney's Pub & Grill
6-9 p.m.; $30
The inaugural Cinco De Rhino event, which benefits the American Association of Zoo Keepers, includes food, drinks, a silent auction and games like "Poacher Pinata" (you can just play on the Wii, too). The purpose? To save critically endangered rhinos and other wild animals.

Martini Park
The River North bar becomes "Martinez Park" for a night, offering $8 Silver Patron cocktails and $4 Coronas. There will also be complimentary quesadillas and nachos from 6-8 p.m. Donate $10 to High Jump at the Latin School and you'll get a free drink.

May St. Cafe
The upscale BYO spot will offer a three-course menu for $32.

Mercadito
Head to this River North Mexican spot to try the Vato Loco, the self-described "hottest cocktail on earth" which contains tequila and...some hot stuff (it's a secret recipe). You'll have to sign a waiver first. The restaurant will also offer a special $40 dinner menu, $5 tequila shots and live mariachi music from 9-10:30 p.m.

Moe's Cantina
Cinco specials include $1 steak or chicken tacos, $3 house margaritas, $3 Coors Light bottles and $4 Jameson Irish Whiskey, Absolut Vodka and Malibu Rum cocktails. Moe's staffers will also hand out free sombreros to revelers.

Nacional 27
6-9 p.m.; buy tickets here
Nacional 27 is offering a $27 party package that includes margaritas, sangria, passed tapas/snacks and dancing to the beats of a live percussionist.

O'Donovan's
April 30-May 5
The North Center bar/restaurant will have a number of drink specials available all week, including $4 Milagro shots and $5 Milagro margaritas, $5 micheladas, $3 horchata ($6 with tequila), $1 off Corona bottles and more. Special food items include zopes, carne asada and caramel flan.

Palmer House Hilton
May 7; $375
The annual Cinco de Mayo Gala, a benefit for the National Museum of Mexican Art, features music from Angel Melendez and the 911 Mambo Orchestra, a silent auction and more. Pinstripes
Both the South Barrington and Northbrook locations of this bocce/bowling/bistro establishment will offer Mexican-themed food and drink specials like $5 margaritas and $5 fajita flatbread.

The Pony
This Lakeview bar's regular Honky Tonk Wednesday event (featuring free hillbilly bingo and country tunes spun all night) gets an added kick with $1 tacos, $3 Cabo Wabos and $3 Dos Equis. There will also be a taco-eating contest at 9 p.m. (sign up by calling Kevin at (773) 531-2881).

Rock Bottom Brewery
Enjoy Mexican-inspired dishes like quesadilla rolls and smoked chicken enchiladas as well as $5 house margaritas and $4 beer-of-the-day at this River North brewpub.

Rockit Bar & Grill
May 3-7
Both the River North and Wrigleyville locations will serve up Mexican-style cuisine throughout the week, including roasted red pepper and cumin-braised chicken tamales with chive creme fraiche ($8), mushroom fajitas with skirt steak, wild mushrooms, sweet peppers and spanish onions ($18) and cinnamon and sugar churros with cayenne chocolate ($6). Weeklong drink specials include $3 Dos Equis, $6 margaritas and $6 sangria.

Sabor Saveur
Monday, May 3 - Sunday, May 9; $32
The French-Mexican restaurant in Wicker Park offers a three-course prix-fixe menu including choices like pumpkin flower and cream cheese taquitos, chocolate-braised salmon filet and pineapple rice pudding. BYOB.

She-nannigans
The Division Street bar is the headquarters for the sixth annual "Cinco Division" party, featuring a performance from Led Zeppelin cover band Kashmir (9 p.m.), $4 bottles of Corona and lots of roaming mariachis all over the area (including at other area bars.

The Southern
Chef Cary Taylor offers some Mexican-themed specials including Southern Nachos with fried corn chips, smoked pork, black-eyed pea and green tomato pico de gallo, pepper jack cheese sauce and roasted peppers ($8). The restaurant will also offer $6 cocktails like Luis' Dirty Peach (tequila, peach schnapps, mint-infused syrup) and a jalapeno lime margarita.

Stretch Run
The River North OTB will offer $5 bottles of Corona and Corona Light and $5 Heineken bottles.

Sushi Taiyo
Mexican sushi? Sounds fishy, but it's a reality at this spot on Cinco de Mayo. Choices include the Mexico City Roll (spicy tuna with unagi and avocado, $12), the Sombrero (steamed lobster, spicy mayo, cucumber, jalapeno, tobiko and wasabi tobiko, $10) and the La Bamba (salmon, shiso, jalapeno, melted provolone cheese and shallots, $12).

Timothy O'Toole's
Festivities will feature a "best moustache" contest, awarding the wearer of the most impressive facial hair a $50 bar tab. There will also be a hot pepper-eating contest and a pinata stuffed with adult prizes. Enjoy $10 33-ounce margaritas, $15 buckets of Corona and Corona Light and a $20 tequila shot buffet. Guests wearing a poncho or sombrero get a free order of chips and salsa.

Tin Lizzie
The post-work bash begins with $5 taco pizza and $3 shots of tequila, and continues, as it should, with the bashing of a pinata. Grab for prizes like tickets for food and drinks, t-shirts and even coupons for parties at the Lincoln Park bar.

Zocalo
The River North Mexican restaurant hosts a party featuring $5 pineapple-lime margaritas and tequila sunrises, giveaways and music spun by a DJ in the evening.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

Division Ale House
The Ale House will screen the Run for the Roses on eight 50-inch flat-screen TVs and offer $5 Mint Juleps and a $10.50 whiskey-glazed corned beef dinner.

Duke's Alehouse and Kitchen
5-7 p.m.
Watch the race at this Crystal Lake bar and enjoy 35-cent wings and $7 Maker's Mark Mint Juleps. And be sure to wear your festive hat, as the best one will score a $25 gift card.

Dunlays on Clark
The Lincoln Park neighborhood spot peps up race day with $5 Maker's Mark Mint Juleps, $4 shots of Jack Daniels and a Kentucky-inspired menu including Burgood stew and a hot brown (choose any three items for $25).

Durty Nellie's
5-7 p.m.
There'll be tons of big-screen, hi-def TVs showing the race at this Palatine bar, which offers $5 Mint Juleps and an $8.95 Kentucky Fried Chicken dinner.

Faith & Whiskey
Noon
The Lincoln Park bar will open early for its "Talk Derby To Me" party and will show all of the day's races on its four flatscreens with sound. Drink specials include $5 Woodford Reserve shots, $6 Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps, $7 "Derby Downer" specialty cocktails (Woodford Reserve, sparkling wine, vanilla syrup, vanilla bean garnish). F&W will also give away free 15-person private parties to both the best female derby hat and the best male derby suit after the races.

Fizz Bar & Grill
3 p.m.
Saturday, May 1 The sixth annual Kentucky Derby party at this Lakeview bar will include a complimentary buffet featuring dishes like Burgoo stew, Benedictine sandwiches and bourbon brownies, mint juleps (served in commemorative Churchill Downs glasses for $10 each; refills $5) and more. There will be prizes for the best women's hat and best men's seersucker suit.

John Barleycorn
Enjoy $5 mint juleps featured all day. For the ladies: Barleycorn hosts a fancy hat contest post-race (at approximately 5:30 p.m.) with a $200 grand prize and gift certificates for other finalists.

Lincoln Station
11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Whether you like to drink, eat or gamble, this Lincoln Park bar has you covered. All-day drink deals including $4 22-ounce drafts of Bud Light, $4 Mint Juleps, a $3 mimosa bar and a $4 bloody mary bar - or you can spring for the $35 food and drink package from 1 p.m. to the end of the race, which includes Bud Light, Mint Juleps, wine, mimosa and bloody mary bars plus passed hors d'oeuvres. There will also be 50/50 horse bets, with half of the pot going to the Jennifer S. Fallick cancer support center.

Lobby Lounge (ShowPlace Icon Theatre)
Woodford Reserve sponsors a Derby watch party with raffles, giveaways and drink specials like $12 Mint Juleps.

Luxbar
Enjoy $5 Maker's Mint Juleps as you cheer on the horses at this Gold Coast bar. Each guest will get a race card, and those with the winning horse will receive a $25 gift certificate to Luxbar (and even the losers will get $5 certificates). The prize for best Derby hat: a $250 cocktail card.

Mac's American Pub
All-day Derby specials include $5 Maker's Mark mint juleps, Jack Daniel?s BBQ-glazed chicken wings ($5) and the Derby burger: A half-pound stock yards angus burger topped with grilled onions, cheddar cheese and Jim Beam BBQ sauce, served with hand-cut fries ($5). The Pony
1 p.m.
Celebrate Derby Day for a good cause at The Pony's fundraiser event, benefiting Equestrian Connection. Guests can enter to win a free trip to the stables, while enjoying $5 Mint Juleps and Jim Beam cocktails and a $10 Southern-style buffet featuring fried chicken, biscuits and more. Guests are encouraged to dress in classic Southern attire.

The Southern
3 p.m.
Here's another appropriate spot to do your celebrating - and it'll be easy with $7 bourbon cocktails like classic Mint Juleps, the Lily (lemonade with bourbon and cranberry juice), the Lazy Boy (bourbon, bitters and soda) and Peach Tea (peach schnapps, iced tea and bourbon). Chef Cary Taylor will also offer the traditional Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich with turkey, bacon and avocado covered in Mornay sauce for $12. Stretch Run
Friday, April 30 and Saturday, May 1, 10 a.m.-2 a.m.; $5 admission on Saturday
Guests can place their wagers starting on Friday and join Stretch Run for a pre-Derby Day celebration. Guests can indulge in $6 mint juleps and $5 20-ounce drafts of Miller Lite and Coors Light.

Timothy O'Toole's
O'Toole's will serve up Sweet Tea Vodka cocktails for $5.50 and Maker's Mark Mint Juleps for $6. The pub invites patrons to don a Derby hat in honor of the occasion and take part in a Derby pool for a chance to win prizes. Stick around for the Shane Mosley vs. Floyd Mayweather boxing match afterward ($20 cover) and enjoy $15 Corona buckets. The pub's will also offer $3 pints of Miller Lite, Miller High Life and Coors Light all day.

Tin Lizzie
You can really party hard at the Dirty Derby party, which includes giveaways (like sex toys), drink specials ($15 shot-skis) and a dirty joke contest.

Zella
2-6 p.m.; $80 in advance, $100 at the door
Party with a live band, open bar and a lunch buffet on the outdoor patio at this Lincoln Park bar, and feel good while doing it: all proceeds from this party go to Chicago Children's Charities.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

The 1040 EZ from Seasons.

Zocalo
Your happy hour will be extra special tonight, as this River North Mexican restaurant offers a three-course menu for just $15. You'll get to choose an appetizer, an entree and a dessert from among a menu including guacamole, four different types of tacos and vanilla-and-white chocolate flan. The regular Thursday-night "Dine at Nine" promotion will also be in effect, including half-price food after 9 p.m. (reservations required, and you must mention the promotion) and $20-$25 pitchers of margaritas. DJs David Chavez and Mwelwa Musambacine will spin global beats from 6-11 p.m.

HUB 51
The River North bar's lower-level lounge, SUB 51, will erase any lingering tax-day troubles with half-price bottles and champagne all day long. DJ Konsept will spin all night.

O'Donovan's
April 16
O'Donovan's is rewarding its loyal patrons with plenty of tax day specials, including $1 off Harp, Guinness and Smithwick's, $13 22-ounce cocktials, $5 Stoli cocktails and $5 Jager Barrels. If you're looking for something to soak up all that cheap booze, try the Friday Fish Fry for just $7.95.

Cityscape Bar
Cityscape will offer a complimentary appetizer buffet including hot wings, cheddar-jalapeno poppers and grilled veggies with aged balsamic from 5-7 p.m. on Tax Day. Specialty cocktails include the IRS Blue Lemonade martini (Skyy Citrus, blue curacao and lemonade) for just $4.15.

10pin Bowling Lounge
Want to bowl away your bureaucratic frustrations? You can do it for just $4.15 a game at this River North lounge (Svedka cocktails and Sam Adams drafts can be had for the same price.

Dawali
For a taste of something different on Tax Day, try a classic shawarma or falafel sandwich at this Northwest Side eatery. The fee for this culinary journey? $4.15.

Stretch Run
Special $4.15 cocktails at this OTB bar include the Green Meenie with vodka, Midori melon liqueur, triple sec, tonic water and sour mix, served in a pint glass over ice.

Sushi Taiyo
Double your pleasure with your choice of a spicy tuna or California roll plus a glass of house wine or domestic beer for just $10.99 on Tax Day at this Streeterville sushi spot.

Tapas Valencia
The South Loop spot keeps it simple with $4.15 glasses of red or white sangria available from 4-10 p.m.

Carlucci (Downers Grove)
Not only can you get $4.15 martinis at this Italian eatery, but you can also enjoy select bottles of wine for that absurdly low price, as long as you purchase an entree. Limit one bottle per table.

The Lucky Monk
After all that work filling out forms, you probably won't feel like cooking. A large, 16-inch pizza will run you just $10.40 (like the tax form, get it?) all day at this South Barrington bar and restaurant.

Meson Sabika (Naperville)
Glasses of red and white sangria are just $4.15 all day at this tapas restaurant.

Pinstripes
Both the Northbrook and South Barrington locations of this multi-purpose funhouse will offer all gaming, food and beverages "Tax Free" (meaning a 10-percent discount) from Tuesday, April 13 to Thursday, April 15.

Seasons
The list of tax-free "Tax-Tinis" at this lounge in the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago includes the 1040 Easy (Absolut Mandarin, Apple Pucker, Triple Sec, homemade sweet and sour and 7-Up) and the Stimulus Check (Crown Royal, Peach Schnapps, Chambord and cranberry juice). You can also write off your woes with the blueberry flavored Exemption or submit yourself to scrutiny with the fruit-fueled Auditini. All tax-free martinis are $13.

Lobby Lounge (ShowPlace Icon Theatre)
Thinking of catching a movie to dull your tax-inspired pain? Make sure to stop into this cinema lounge beforehand for $4.15 bottles of domestic beer and $10.40 12-inch pizzas.

Koi
In honor of tax day, Koi and its sister restaurant, Chen's, will offer all Chinese Plate entrees for $10.99. Specials include General Tsao's, Szechwan and sesame plates.

Brasserie Jo
Hopla drafts will be available for $4.01, along with complimentary tarte flambees in the bar area.

Carnivale
Guests who dine at the restaurant will receive a $15 gift certificate for use on their next visit. Complimentary gift certificates will be valid through May 31.

Taco Del Mar
Print out a coupon from the website and get a free taco at this Uptown Mexican spot.

Boston Market
Print out this coupon and bring it in to get a buy-one-get-one free offer on individual plates (valid through April 18).

P.F. Chang's
Visit this Chinese chain on Thursday and receive 15 percent off all food purchases.

Get your food and drink tax-free at the following restaurants: Dunlays on Clark, D.O.C. Wine Bar, Dunlays on the Square, Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar and D.O.C. Wine Bar (Lombard).

The Arboretum of South Barrington offers the opportunity to shop tax free at a number of participating retailers (you must print this coupon for the 10-percent discount), including Ann Taylor Loft, Coldwater Creek, DSW, Jos. A. Bank, L'Eiffel Bistro & Creperie, Pinstripes, Sur La Table and more.

Check out Centerstage Chicago food and drink deals!

Moretti's (Edison Park)
Moretti's is more than a pizza place/sports bar/pub. It's a destination for fun. And every Wednesday the karaoke party starts at 10 p.m. Since there's no cover, pool your moolah and get a large pizza to split with your friends, who will no doubt encourage you to sing something relatively embarrassing.

Sidekicks
This place is super-serious about its karaoke; after all, it offers it seven days a week. It's free, and on weekends, even if your vocals aren't "Idol" quality, you'll find a rousing crowd high-fiving and applauding your, ahem, talent. You can even pick your jam beforehand by downloading a list of songs from Sidekicks' website. Choose from thousands of songs, including tunes by The Andrews Sisters (bet those get a lot of play), Steely Dan and Bob Marley.

Charlie's Chicago
A 4 a.m. Boystown bar known for its affinity for line dancing, Charlie's hosts karaoke every Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday night at 8 p.m. with live country band Dirty Laundry backing up the magic.

Friar Tuck
As if the barrel-shaped entrance didn't tip you off, Friar Tuck's is all about fun, which is why it's no big surprise that the karaoke scene is particularly rowdy here. Get your sing on each Wednesday and Thursday night, starting around 9 p.m. Like baskets of good stuff from the popcorn machine, it's free (pitchers of beer are just $10).

Trader Todd's Adventure Bar
Want to sing every night? Trader Todd's has your karaoke (and tropical-drink) needs covered seven days a week from 8:30 p.m. until close. Call early to reserve a table, and if they're missing your song, you can email in requests. If you and (at least) 19 of your best friends want to host your own multi-round "American Idol," you can rent a private room, with bar packages starting at just $8 per person per hour.

Hidden Cove
Sing your heart out 'til 4 a.m. every day. The karaoke's free and it starts at 8 p.m. If your date isn't into the singing thing, not to worry. Catch the game (pretty much any game) on one of the many TVs in the place, including two big plasmas and two projection screens.

Rockit Bar & Grill (Wrigleyville)
Does the beginning of the weekend make you want to sing with glee? Head to the second-floor lounge here beginning on Fridays at 9 p.m. The free event features over 5,000 songs to choose from, and there's no down time, because music videos are played in between performances.

Mutiny
Feel like flexing those vocal chops after a long day in the office? Stop by the dive-o-riffic Mutiny for karaoke every Tuesday night from 5-8 p.m. Pair it with $1.50 pints of Old Style Light and make a night of it.

Blue Frog Bar & Grill
While not the largest bar by a long shot, Blue Frog is big on character. The kitschy venue pays homage to the 1980s, from its decor to the board games it offers. Try Connect Four, Battle of the Sexes and childhood favorites like Chutes and Ladders. Karaoke starts at 10 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. No cover. It can get pretty popular, so if you don't want to wait (and sweat) for a good hour, get there early.

Spyners Pub
There's no sign sporting the name at this dive bar, so you'll have to keep your eyes peeled. Karaoke starts up at 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. There's no cover, but the wait to sing varies each night so come early just in case. If you're lucky, sometimes karaoke will just spontaneously start up on a Sunday afternoon.

Hamburger Mary's
Billed as "the most fun you can have with your pants on," Hamburger Mary's offers MaryOke every Sunday and Wednesday night at 9 p.m. (Sundays feature the "Gong Show" version, so you'd better be on your game). If you need a little fuel to get you going, it (shockingly) serves nearly a dozen creative burgers, along with a hefty selection of salads, sandwiches and brunch food.

Christina's Place
Christina's Place is your typical after-work dive bar. What makes it different? $2 pints of Guinness all day, every day...and free karaoke on Saturday nights. The singing starts around 10 or 11 p.m, but the bar is open 'til 4 a.m.

Piece
Piece offers the best of both worlds. On Thursdays regular computer karaoke starts around 10 p.m., but if you really want to rock the house, sign up for a song on Saturday nights at 11 p.m. with live-band karaoke. Three bands rotate?The Karaoke Dokies, Liquid Courage and Hootenanners?each with its own long list of songs from different eras and genres.

Louie's Pub
Whether you want to sing, play pool or darts, blast your favorite songs from the jukebox or just toss back a cold one, this is the neighborhood pub for you. Feed your karaoke craving every Tuesday through Sunday; the singing starts at 9 p.m. each night.

Karaoke Restaurant
Too embarrassed to sing in front of a bunch of strangers? That excuse is no good here, thanks to the private karaoke rooms. Rates start at $5 per person per hour. Guests operate the karaoke machines themselves, so don't forget to ask how to use them. Note: Despite the name, the food's not a major selling point.

Holiday Club
Monday and Wednesday are karaoke nights. There isn't a cover, and you can sing-sing-sing from 10 p.m. 'til 2 a.m.

Four Treys Tavern
This bar has been open so long it probably predates its song list. Four Treys is friendly to the max, and welcomes dogs (indoors!) along with your questionable singing prowess. On Saturday nights, crowds have a ball with karaoke and $7 Bud Light pitchers.

Red-I Lounge
If you like karaoke and you like dancing and you like Chinatown, then you're three-quarters of the way to really liking Red-I. If you also like the color red, then you're about to be very happy. VIP rooms are available for private parties and singers who'd rather not share their talent just yet, and the change is made from karaoke to dance at 10 p.m. Entry is free during karaoke hours (expect to hear karaoke-friendly songs like "I Will Survive"); later on you might have to pony up $5.

Lincoln Karaoke
This isn't your average karaoke night at some dive trying to get a few more bodies inside. Entirely devoted to those flashes of self-delusion wherein you imagine having the pipes of Celine Dion or the leather-clad cool of Joey Ramone, this place adds a twist to the experience: You can rent a private room for $25 an hour. Each room features couches, a plasma TV, gigantic remote controls and a selection of American, Korean and Chinese tunes. There's also a good menu of Korean food to get your energy up.

That's been my process, and I've arrived at a place where the more sour the beer, the happier I am. If the bartender has to warn me about the brew when I order it, so much the better. Sour brews can be tough to find when you're in the mood for one, but when you do stumble across a mouth-puckering brew in a sea of barley and malt, it's truly a thing of beauty. Since the beer scene in Chicago is changing as quickly as it ever has (at least in the past few years), always check first before making one of these places a destination for a sour. Who knows - I might have already beaten you to them.

If your experience with New Belgium is limited to the flurry of Fat Tire mania that erupted when the Colorado brewery first began distribution in Chicago, consider digging deeper into its ever-expanding roster of locally available beers. The "Lips of Faith" is hyper-sour and can be found from time to time around the city (and is what prompted the aforementioned "are you sure you want that?" from a bartender), but the La Folie is a kinder, gentler wood-aged sour.

You can find 22-ounce bombers of La Folie at Jerry's on Division for $20, and then pair it with one of the restaurant's many sandwiches (over a hundred to choose from). Want to choose your menu item first and then find the proper brew for it? In addition to the La Folie, the eatery has dozens of beers in bottle and on draft, making Jerry's a very underrated beer destination in a city that grows richer with beer bars every day.

Even though it was originally brewed for Philadelphia's Monk's Cafe, this Flemish Sour can be found in many places outside the city of Brotherly Love, including Chicago. A nice mix of sweet and sour, this 11.2-ounce bottle might remind you of wine in many ways, which is an okay thing for beers of this type. Without being overwhelming on the palate, Monk's Flemish is light-to-average bodied and is a good median sour for when you don't want to blow out your taste buds.

When you hear Hackney's, you probably think "big burgers on black rye," immediately followed by "onion loaf." It's time to add a third instant response: "a lot of good beer." Besides the Monk's sour, the Printers Row location recently had beers like the Surly Bender, North Coast's Old Rasputin and Bell's Oarsman on hand, all top-notch selections.

While the Festina Peche is not a traditional sour or Flemish ale, the overwhelming tartness of this brew will definitely quell your need for a face-puckering beverage. The Peche is a BerlinerWeiss brewed with peach sugars, which interact with the yeast to make a fruity yet incredibly tart and complex beer. It's not terribly strong (4.5 ABV) but that doesn't mean you can down these like water; the Peche can be almost overwhelming. If you're expecting a fruit beer going into it (like a cherry or blackberry ale), you're going to be quite surprised.

The Long Room doesn't have a lot of competition in the area of the Irving & Ashland intersection (although Ten Cat Tavern - ironically almost kitty corner to the Long Room - certainly is a quality bar as well) but the bar continues to improve its selection nonetheless. It's hosted an unveiling of Moaten, a sour beer brewed by both Two Brothers and Belgian brewer Urthel, and stocks plenty of other beer-dork thrillers like Bell's Hopslam on draft.

Up until this point, we've been focusing on beers that might not have a huge distribution and are found at places that might not get the recognition they deserve. But now we're going to diverge from that path with a hometown brew at an old standby - Goose Island's Juliet at the Map Room. Believe it or not, for as much hype as the Map Room gets for having a crazy selection of beers, sours are as underrepresented there as they are anywhere else. (Though some might say that you don't need much more than Juliet and Lips of Faith).

The Juliet packs some tartness from the aging process; Goose Island lets it hang out in cabernet barrels for a while to let it soak in some sour, and also adds blackberries to the mix for good measure. The folks at GI claim it's a good beer for fans of pinot noirs, and we think it's a good way to ease into the world of sour ales, as it's a milder version of the style. Once you've got your brain wrapped around it, grab a Lips of Faith and let 'er rip.

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photo: courtesy of Bridget Cicenia; pictured: Jack Schaller of Schaller's Pump

Do you bleed Cubby blue? Check out these bars instead.

Schaller's Pump
This legendary Bridgeport bar, with many Chicago mayors practically making it a second City Hall, steeps with political history. Like a century-old campaign promise (Schaller's has been open since 1881), they'll serve you cheap beer and chow with cheer. The building screams serious Sox territory: A huge mural decorates one side, proclaiming "Welcome White Sox Fans" to the rallying crowds of diehards that pack the place during every game. Inside, nary a mention of the local National League team is uttered, so order a plate of corned beef hash and bask in the revelry of your fellow fan.

Cork & Kerry
We couldn't spew a discussion of Sox bars without mentioning an Irish pub. This Irish-to-the-core Beverly bar hides pure black-and-white baseball beneath its green veneer. And even though you'll have to trek a fair distance from the park, its promise of a warm, wood-paneled interior, beautiful beer garden and TVs broadcasting the Sox makes it worth the haul. For your trouble, you'll score $7.50 buckets of five domestic beers on Tuesday and Sunday, draft beers like Guinness, Harp, Bass and Smithwicks and access to one of the area's largest selections of Irish whiskey. If you need another reason to go, we strongly suggest you reconsider your affiliation. Shinnick's
Another old-school Bridgeport boozer, Shinnick's takes fanaticism so far it posts a White Sox tribute on its website. If you want to view clips of the stadium opener or a three-minute film covering the tavern's World Series insanity, shinnicks.com covers it. Alas, if you want a drink, you'll have to stop by in person. Family-run for three generations, the pub's solid offerings include barbecue eats and baggo (AKA beanbags, cornhole or whatever you want to call it). Bottles cost $2.50, and don't expect fancy-pants specials or quality brews. With liquor setting you back no more than $4, what else could you need? Perhaps, some change for the jukebox. We're willing to bet it stocks Journey's "Don't Stop Believin."

Seven Ten Lounge
This Lincoln Park bowling outpost hints at being a tried-and-true Sox bar in its description of upcoming events: "During all the White Sox Games and St. Louis Cardinal games, we show all games at all times on the MLB package!" Notice the gaping hole of coverage where the Cubs should be. Rolling strikes while the struggling Sox try to find the strike zone couldn't be more fun, plus $3 Coors Light and $1 hot dogs and chili dogs during the games will keep you sated. In the off-chance you see a Cubs game playing, track down the interloper who requested it; despite its North Side locale, Seven Ten makes it clear that Cubby blue sits firmly in the minority here.

Shoeless Joe's
Legendary Black Sox Joe Jackson can't get into the Hall of Fame after all these years, but at least you can hoist a drink at his namesake bar. It's not a Sox bar, per se, but the owner bleeds black and white, so that's good enough for us. Sure, it sponsors trips to Wrigley and the Cell, and wines by the glass top the drink list rather than brewskies, but we must recognize that not all baseball fans are so segregationist in their sports leanings. Some fans can appreciate fine vintages and teams from both sides of town.

Ricobene's
You can work up an appetite watching all this Sox action. Head to a secluded spot right next to the highway (you actually park under the Dan Ryan) for the famous breaded steak sandwich, a meal in itself. If it takes you awhile to finish (and to clean up the red sauce on your fingers), don't worry; the game will be on any of several TVs scattered around the dining room.

Catcher's Inn
Everywhere you look in this small neighborhood bar you'll find reminders of its proximity to U.S. Cellular Field (it's about four blocks away); from the mini pennants and posted schedules to the black and white checkered ceilings, you're sure to feel at home here if you root for the Sox. Daily beer specials abound, and there's the occasional open mic night in case you get the urge to belt out some Journey after a win.

Cobblestones Bar and Grill
Serving a typically older crowd of Sox fans since 1990, Cobblestones brings some New Orleans charm to the South Side via its muffaletta sandwiches, served in a classic bar outfitted in plenty of dark wood. If you're tired of battling traffic, make the bar a part of your game-day experience; come in for a meal or drink before the game and you can park in the adjoining lot (just a short walk to the ballpark) for free.

Kroll's South Loop
The Chicago version of this Green Bay institution (the original is located directly across the street from Lambeau Field) smartly steers away from football. And even though both baseball teams are represented with memorabilia, it's clear from the crowd that the Sox are the main draw. During game time, you'll be able to watch Mark Buehrle and others on the more than 20 flat screens lining the place. Any other time, you might see them in the flesh, enjoying Kroll's burgers and beers. On Opening Day, the bar offers $12 buckets of MGD, MGD 64 and Miller Lite; if you're going to the game, bring your ticket stub in for 10 percent off your tab.

More Opening Day deals: Mitchell's Tap
This small neighborhood bar hosts its annual barbecue at 11 a.m.; grab brats, burgers and more in the backyard before watching the game inside.

Buffalo Wings & Rings (Bridgeport)
WBBM-670 The Score will be broadcasting live from this wingery between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.; if you've got tickets to the game, you can grab a $4 shuttle to the park at 11:30 a.m.

Morgan's Bar and Grill on Maxwell Street
Be one of the first 50 patrons at this confusingly named bar and you'll get a free shuttle ride over to the stadium - or you can just stay and enjoy $12 buckets of Miller Lite and $5 Bacardi cocktails.

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