IRVING PARK. This Irish pub has been garnering an increasingly steady following since its opening in 1973. The pub is part restaurant, part club as it features a full menu of authentic Irish food (fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and Irish sausage) as well as live music nightly. The best local, regional, and national acts perform on Abbey's stage, and the musical mix includes everything from Indie Rock to traditional Celtic music. The interior features balcony seating, warm wood floors, and stone walls. Cover charge starts at $6 depending on the musical act.

LINCOLN PARK. Grab a cue stick and a friend and begin a friendly game of pool or don your dancing shoes ­ either way, you're sure to enjoy the atmosphere at this spacious dance club. The crowd here is young and energetic, exuding an enthusiastic vibe that seems to energize the place. The music includes a variety of '80's, New Wave, Hip-Hop, and R&B. Trendy dress appropriate.

WEST SIDE. Betty's Blue Star gets more lively as the night wears on, and here it can wear on and on thanks to a 5am liquor license! The party really starts on Friday and Saturday nights, when you'll find drink specials and downtempo filling the house. Each night features a music specialty and noted DJs. The interior is comprised of exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, a few booths, and a jukebox.

MAGNIFICENT MILE. This tavern boasts quite an interesting history. It was made popular by a "Saturday Night Live" sketch in which short-order cooks yell "cheezborger." Even before the humorous SNL bit, however, the place had quite a reputation. The original owner, William Sianis, apparently cursed the Cubs' owners because of their refusal to allow his billy goat into the stands. So far, the curse has stood strong ­ the Cubs haven't won a championship since. Despite its fame, the bar is pretty basic in nature, focusing on good beer and, what else, cheeseburgers!

LINCOLN PARK. A svelte see-and-be-seen crowd gathers at this popular and ever-so-stylish lounge. Indeed, Blu caters to the good looking yuppie set. The interior is edged with stainless steel and evokes a '70's feel, inviting guests to mingle and make their presence known on the dance floor. Talented DJs keep things running smoothly while bartenders keep cocktails and martinis at the ready. Trendy dress a must. Valet parking available.