Stan is the Man

Stanley's is a fun joint all year round, but during summer this is one fun place to hang out. Their outdoor area is huge, with several cornhole platforms (or bags, if that's what you prefer to call it) set up for playing. They also have a fussball table and sometimes even have a dunk tank going. Add a full bar, table service, and plenty of patio seating, and you've got everything you need for a great summer day--even have plenty of room for parking! If you prefer air conditioning, step inside to the Rt. 66-themed Southern-style restaurant and bar, where you can start with the trailer fries (potatoes + cheese + bacon + ranch dip = heaven), tuck into a plate of fried chicken or a juicy burger, and finish it off with a slice of Kentucky Pie. Stanley's has a sister location in Lincoln Park with the same great food and a fine bourbon list.

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Nightlife • River West / West Town

Irish Cooking? Not An Oxymoron

Mrs. Murphy's is not your traditional Chicago Irish pub. First off, it's housed in a former funeral home. Granted, they've done wonders with the space, making it warm and inviting, but it's still a little different from the corner pub. The food is also a little fancier, hence the "bistro," in its name. The food here is a more modern, upscale take on Irish cuisine. Lamb and pork are some of the stars of the culinary show, with several options dotting the menu. And yes, you can get your Irish favorites like fish and chips and Shepherd's pie. Plus, you'll find interesting twists, like a Guinness and onion soup. Brunch features a full Irish breakfast as well as many difficult choices--go with the banana and Bailey's French toast, or dig into a curried vegetable omelet? Whatever you choose, you'll find there's more than meets the eye when it comes to Irish cuisine.

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Restaurants • North Center / Roscoe Village / West Lakeview

Trust The Boozehound

Ah, the liquor store where you have to be buzzed to get in! Oh, I mean you have to actually ring a buzzer and climb a narrow staircase to reach this wonderful boutique liquor store. Kyle McHugh is the man in charge, and he's created a delightful haven for connoisseurs of fine wines, beers, and liquors. His alter ego is "The Boozehound," taken from his years of bartending and study of the subject. He imparts his knowledge by hand-selecting some of the best stuff available at a wide variety of prices. He also hosts many classes and has different liquor companies in for tastings--some of which are free--in this comfortable, clubby store. He's fun to shoot the breeze with, and loves talking about his wares. If he doesn't have what you're looking for, he can special order it. If you're looking to know a booze guy, McHugh is your man, and Drinks Over Dearborn is the place.

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Shopping • Near North / River North

Attention Peanust Sauce Lovers

"Cheap" and "River North restaurant" aren't usually two phrases that go in the same sentence, unless you're talking about Star of Siam. Entrees here are under $10 (and that's taking into account the side of rice you might order, since it's not included in the dish). Overall, the food is good, though many dishes seem to err on the side of less spicy. The menu is fairly varied, with many curries and noodle dishes to choose from. Peanut sauce aficionados will find Star of Siam's sauce pretty damn tasty, so make sure to get an appetizer or entree with it. Top your meal off with a tropical drink, and you'll be eating like a king, just not spending like one. The restaurant itself is large and has a section of "floor seating" where you sit on cushions rather than regular chairs. Groups are welcome and can get a great deal on family-style service.

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Restaurants • Near North / River North

Pie, Pie, and More Pie

This super cute pie place located in the Ukranian Village area on Chicago Avenue is a find. There are several delicious pies to choose from including brownie, strawberry rhubarb, and the American classic apple pie. They aren't cheap though. An 8" pie will run you about nine dollars, while a slice will cost you about four. There are other pastries available as well like muffins. Just a word of caution: the space is really small. There are three little tables set on the side, but it can get pretty crowded, so it's good idea to grab your treats and jet.

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Restaurants , Shopping • Old Town / Near North