Twin Anchors Restaurant-Tavern
This dark hideaway serves up ribs by the rack-full to an adoring Old Town crowd.
(312) 957-4490
1655 N Sedgwick St
(at North Avenue)
Chicago,
IL
60614
41.9124
-87.6385
Neighborhoods: North Side, Lincoln Park
Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-11:30pm
Fri 5pm-12am
Sat 12pm-12am
Sun 12pm-10:30pm
Price:
$$
Last updated 4.30.09
What People Are Saying About Twin Anchors Restaurant-Tavern
The Owner
Twin Anchors Restaurant-Tavern
Owner
Located in an historic Old Town building that dates back to 1881, Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern is one of the oldest restaurants in the city of Chicago. Since its founding in 1932, Twin Anchors has always been known for great, tender, barbequed baby-back ribs that can be enjoyed in a quaint neighborhood tavern. A favorite of Frank Sinatra's in the 1950's, to Conan O'Brien more currently. Partners, Paul Tuzi and his sisters, Mary Kay Cimarusti and Gina Manrique, are celebrating 75 years of keeping the tradition alive. Paul states, "We aren't just running a restaurant. Every night, we are throwing a party for 300 people in a living museum. That is what makes it such a pleasure." Dine in, enjoy the outdoor cafe in the summer, or carry out, just make sure you take time to enjoy a cold beer, a zesty slab, and Old Blue Eyes on the jukebox. But remember . . . "Positively No Dancing."
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
Once a Prohibition speakeasy, this low-ceilinged, dimly lit space nearly always has a wait. The dining room seats 60, while the bar squeezes in another 15 around curved leather booths. Baby back ribs are the main attraction, served with extra sauce--zesty or mild. Choose baked potato, ridge-cut fries or onion rings on the side. Other entrees include broiled tiger shrimp, burgers, pulled pork and a half-chicken that's fried then quickly broiled and basted with barbecue sauce.
User Reviews
chitownjerry
March 08, 2009
So many people told me these were the best ribs in Chicago. I didnt find them to be that great. Maybe just a bad night? The ribs were inconsistant, very dry meat in sections. Inexcusable for the price and the hype.
read full reviewAnonymous
February 06, 2009
Whenever I'm in Chicago this is the place! It is not fancy but it has the best ribs in the world; tender and tasty. I always look forward to visiting Twin Anchors.
read full review
catchris98
July 07, 2008
Historic...yes. Total dive (in a good way)...yes. Worth experiencing...yes. Best ribs let alone good food...no way. I never understand why people who rave about this place always start by raving about the food. I totally agree that it's an institution steeped in history, but every time I come hear the food totally lets me down. The food should not be the reason you come here.
read full reviewThe Details on Twin Anchors Restaurant-Tavern
Fun Fact:
Star-spotting abounds at this place. It used to be Frank Sinatra; these days, you might see the Second City performers or Bonnie Hunt, who used the restaurant as an Irish eatery in her film "Return to Me."
Parking:
Side streets are permit-only parking; use valet or head to the Piper's Alley pay lot on North Avenue instead.
Where to Sit:
In the summer, sit outside in the outdoor cafe and enjoy the downtown ambiance.
Category:
Bars & Clubs, Barbecue Restaurants, Restaurants, Bars & Pubs
Payment Methods:
American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Celeb Hangout, Brunch, Outdoor Dining, Lunch Spot, Business Dining, Group Dining, Carry Out, Bar Scene
General Info:
Message from Twin Anchors Restaurant-Tavern
- 75 year anniversary
- Slab of ribs, slice of history
- A true neighborhood favorite
Located in an historic Old Town building that dates back to 1881, Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern is one of the oldest restaurants in the city of Chicago. Since its founding in 1932, Twin Anchors has always been known for great, tender, barbequed baby-back ribs that can be enjoyed in a quaint neighborhood tavern. A favorite of Frank Sinatra's in the 1950's, to Conan O'Brien more currently. Partners, Paul Tuzi and his sisters, Mary Kay Cimarusti and Gina Manrique, are celebrating 75 years of keeping the tradition alive. Paul states, "We aren't just running a restaurant. Every night, we are throwing a party for 300 people in a living museum. That is what makes it such a pleasure." Dine in, enjoy the outdoor cafe in the summer, or carry out, just make sure you take time to enjoy a cold beer, a zesty slab, and Old Blue Eyes on the jukebox. But remember . . . "Positively No Dancing."
