A Stumble with the South Side Irish
By Jennifer Olvera, Contributor
The South Side of Chicago--a bastion for professional sports, landmark architecture, elite schools, top-notch hospitals and deeply ingrained Catholic beliefs--is a deep source of pride for its residents, many of whom are relatives of immigrants who settled in the area. One of the best ways to take in the scene is at its watering holes, where in-the-know tipplers procure pints. So, prepare for a pub crawl that does the Emerald Isle proud.
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Sean's Rhino Bar & Grill
10330 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL
Kick the festivities off right at this rough and tumble Irish sports bar where downing Irish car bombs, pre-pool, is practically a rule. Ground yourself (and your stomach), by scoring bar standards--including thin-crust pizza--or a burrito before moving on to the next tavern. -
Cork & Kerry
10614 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL
Stained glass windows help shelter you from abrasive outside light, and this Beverly Bar all-but-demands you stop by for a daytime draft (or two). Decked with images from the Book of Kells and flat-screen TVs, it also has a popcorn machine to help satiate hunger pangs. -
Keegan's Pub
10618 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL
There's not much in the way of ambiance at this neighborhood pub, but it's right down the street from Cork & Kerry--and by now you’ve probably had too many to care. Check your hair in the beer brand-emblazoned mirrors, grab a sturdy stout from the bar and quit complaining. -
Dubliner
10910 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL
You're no doubt on a downward spiral by now, so kick back in a wooden booth at this low-lit tap that's known for its perfect Guinness pours. Watch the mix of South Siders and Emerald Isle ex-pats sing to the tunes, both live and on the juke. -
McNally's
11136 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL
Tell the Cubs fans in your crew to take a hike--it's your last stop anyway--and enter this highly populated, Sox-loving sports bar where pictures of the Daleys preside over the crowd. Then, throw some darts if you dare: this is a site where tourneys are hosted.
