MLA ‘08 Blog

You may not have been here to see the River turn green for St. Patrick’s Day, but rest assured there’s no shortage of Irish spirit–and Irish pubs–in Chicago. (photo from GreenChicagoRiver.com)

There are many options within walking distance of the conference hotel. North of the Chicago River are a slew of Irish-themed bars, including several on Clark Street. Lizzie McNeil’s is a neighborhood place located just across the river from the Hyatt, with a river-view patio open in warmer weather. The relatively new bar D4 is designed after a Georgian townhouse in Dublin, and has a good beer selection. The line at Fado winds around block come St. Patrick’s Day. Celtic Crossings offers a somewhat different feel, with no shamrocks, no food, and no frills; pull up a stool, and have a pint and a chat.

If you’re looking to get out into the city . . . In the South Loop neighborhood is Grace O’Malley’s, where in addition to the beer and whiskey you’ll find more upscale menu options (including a weekend brunch). Head North to Paddy Long’s, a new pub opened by a Dublin native, where you’re likely to find soccer and rugby on the TVs. And in the heart of Lincoln Park is the popular Galway Arms; stop in for the live Irish music session on Sunday evenings.

Have another recommendation? Leave a comment below.

Lizzie McNeill’s Irish Pub
Address: 400 North McClurg Court
Phone: 312-467-1992

D4 Irish Pub & Cafe
Address: 345 E. Ohio St.
Phone: 312-624-8385

Fado
Address: 100 W. Grand Ave.
Phone: 312-836-0066

Celtic Crossings
Address: 751 N. Clark St.
Phone: 312-337-1005

Grace O’Malley’s Restaurant-Pub
Address: 1416 S. Michigan Ave.
Phone: 312-588-1800
Directions: Catch a south-bound bus on Michigan Avenue, or take the Red/Orange/Green Line to the Roosevelt stop.

Paddy Long’s
Address: 1028 W. Diversey Pkwy
Phone: 773-290-6988
Directions: Take the Brown Line to the Diversey stop.

Galway Arms
Address: 2442 N. Clark St.
Phone: 773-472-5555
Directions: Take the Brown/Red Line to the Fullerton stop, or the #22 Clark bus.