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Sometimes you want to have a beer with some substantial-but-not-too-fancy pub grub to go with it. When you’d like to find a spot with great brews that’s casual, inviting, and not too dive-y, sometimes an English pub can be just the right place. For a taste of food and drink from across the pond, check out these English pubs in Chicago.

The Red Lion Pub

2446 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago IL 60614

Opened in the 80s by John Cordwell and now run by his son Colin, The Red Lion Pub in Lincoln Park is decorated to honor the proprietor’s English roots and family history. It also offers “14 unique drafts,” as well as pub fare and a large whiskey selection.

The Globe Pub

1934 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago IL 60613

This Ravenswood spot is not only dedicated to English fare— including classics like fish and chips and bangers and mash— but also to English sports. In fact, the bar strives to show as many international sporting events as possible, earning their self-appointed position as “The World’s Neighborhood Sports Bar.”

Owen & Engine

2700 N Western Ave, Chicago IL 60647

With menu items like the Cornish Pasty, Bangers and Mash, and Fish and Chips (not to mention a long beer list including UK brews), this restaurant near Western and Diversey demonstrates daily its commitment to a true British pub experience.

Pleasant House Pub

2119 S Halsted St, Chicago IL 60608

The inspiration for the Pleasant House menu created by Art and Chelsea Jackson (husband-and-wife co-owners of the pub) can be traced back to “an 1800s cottage that still looks out on the rolling green hills of rural Yorkshire, England”— or, the original Pleasant House, which was home to the Jackson family decades ago.

The Red Lion Lincoln Square

4749 N Rockwell St, Chicago IL 60625

Though the name is similar, this establishment in Lincoln Square is entirely separate from The Red Lion Pub in Lincoln Park. This bar and restaurant boasts “homemade traditional English fare prepared with the finest and fresh locally grown ingredients,” more than 25 different single malts, and more than 35 beer selections brewed both near and far.

Duke of Perth

2913 N Clark St, Chicago IL 60657

It’s important to note that Duke of Perth is technically a Scottish pub, and with one look at the menu, you can tell: the more broadly-English fare is interspersed with Haggis-inspired dishes, a Robert the Bruce Burger, and Hebridean Leek Pie, among other more distinctly Scottish items.

Peckish Pig

623 Howard St, Evanston IL 60202

This woman-owned establishment in Evanston features a team largely from the UK, and serves British classics like fish and chips and sausage rolls alongside Texas Chili Short Rib Tacos and House Smoked BBQ Ribs.

Queen Mary Tavern

2125 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

Named in honor of Mary Kafka, the original owner of the Polish tavern that once occupied the space, Queen Mary Tavern is a self-described “time capsule bar” which “explores British maritime drinking traditions,” and has a wide selection of gin, Scotch whiskey, and other spirits.

View the One and Only Ice Cream Donut Here in Chicago

Looking for something to compliment the English pubs in Chicago? How about an…ice cream donut.

Ice Cream Donuts? Yeah, click this one.

Elephant & Castle

185 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601 | 111 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603

While actually a Canadian chain, Elephant & Castle delivers a decent homage to its English roots by including classic pub fare like Stuffed Yorkshire Pudding, Bangers & Mash, and Shepherd’s Pie, as well as a wide variety of beers (local and not).

At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.

Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!

Featured Image Credit: The Globe Pub Facebook

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Running through next Monday, the celebration includes deals from Bar Sotano, Pretty Cool Ice Cream, Bistronomic, Kumiko, and others.Read More

From new fusion restaurants with modern vibes and incredible flavors to traditional, mom-and-pop shops with experience perfecting dishes, these restaurants are dishing up some of the best food in Chinatown. 

Szechwan JMC 

243 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60616

If you have a hankering for Szechuan food, you can’t go wrong with JMC. From the chili wontons to the exceptional shrimp dry hot pot to the perfectly simmered beef, your tastebuds are in for a treat. Pro-tip: you might get a discount if you pay in cash.

Friend BBQ

2358 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, Illinois

Everything is better on a stick, right? Well, the folks at Friend BBQ certainly know a thing or two about skewers. This cozy location has all the favorites with beef, chicken, and lamb generously seasoned with chili, cumin, and other magic. The best part? They’re open until 2 in the morning so you can get your late-night fix. 

Slurp Slurp

2247 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

Is there anything better than freshly made noodles? At Slurp Slurp, you’ll have to make a few decisions. First, if you want long, hand-pulled noodles or thicker, knife-cut noodles. Next, choose if you want them “dry” in a stir-fried entree or “wet” in a soup. From there, you can add meats, veggies, or anything you’d like for a filling, stellar meal. 

Moon Palace

216 W Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60616

If you’re looking for a quiet meal with a romantic ambiance, try Moon Palace. Popular dishes include flavorful soup dumplings, shanghai noodles (kind of like spaghetti with an oriental twist), and hot and sour soup which is chunky and delectable. Other specialty entrees include dong po pork and beef lo mein. 

Happy Lamb Hot Pot

2342 S Wentworth Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

Looking for a fun night out with friends? Then don’t miss this gem. Happy Lamb serves up fresh cuts of lamb and beef, high-quality seafood, and crisp veggies that you cook in a hot pot with flavorful broths. If you’re really hungry, try their all-you-can-eat option. This place fills up quickly so be patient since you might have to wait for a table. 

Strings Ramen 

2141 S Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

Bringing Japanese culture to Chicago, this joint has a focus specifically on ramen. Their menu includes four types of ramen broth with multiple high-quality ingredients added to make the dish even more delectable. The folks at Strings make fresh noodles daily using only their unique dough mixer and noodle maker imported from Japan.

Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings

2002 S Wentworth Ave #103, Chicago, IL 60616

Searching for Chinatown’s best dumpling? Well, here you go. QXY specializes in handmade dumplings stuffed with everything from sea urchin and mackerel to lamb and beef. BBQ skewers are also a favorite. If you’re in the mood to DIY, learn how to make handmade dumplings (they offer classes for free!).

Go 4 Food

212 W 23rd St., Chicago, IL 60616

Experience Chinese fusion in the heart of Chinatown at this Michelin-star restaurant. You can choose from the usual suspects of Mapo Tofu, Beef Chow Fun and the like, or try something more contemporary like Baby Geoduck, Millionaire Style Fried Rice, and Fusion Chili Crab. For a more comprehensive experience, try one of the various Prix-Fixe menus. 

Dolo Restaurant and Bar

2222 S Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

Check out Chinatown’s newest restaurant. Dolo is one of the only eateries in the area to offer a full bar with wine, beer, and cocktails. They also have an adorable outdoor patio to stuff your face with gourmet Dim Sum, bento boxes, steamed buns, dumplings, and more.

BBQ King House

2148 S Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

Feeding a big crowd? BBQ King House has everything you need to fill up hearty eaters. Their Dinner for Ten which comes with everything from beef ribs and salted chicken to fish maw soup and lobster. With their extensive menu, you’ll make the whole squad happy.

View the Best Bars Near Chinatown

Looking for a great place to have a drink before or after dinner? Here are some of the best bars near Chinatown.

View the Best Bars Near Chinatown

Chi Cafe

2160 South Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

Located in the heart of Chinatown, Chi Cafe offers affordable, late-night cuisine with traditional items like fried rice, noodle soup, and lo mein. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their variety of house favorites including sizzling pork intestines, stir-fried pig blood with chives or sprouts, or lamb with a special sauce. 

At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.

Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!

Featured Image Credit: Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings Facebook Page

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Time Out Market Chicago will reopen today after five months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since the area underwent a massive facelift, the Fulton Market District in Chicago has been the hub for fine dining, great drinks, and the best in group weekend hangout spots the city has to offer. Time Out Market became the latest addition to the swanky strip of nightlife in November 2019 and has become a staple in a few short months. It reopens with their own version of a ‘phase one’. To ensure social distancing and safety measures take place, Time Out Market in Chicago will have a slightly different look than before. It will feature a third-floor rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the skyline and a new sidewalk patio dining area that sprawls on to Fulton Street. Also, to maintain consistency within the Market, they will open with eight eateries and two full bars as part of phase one.

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Craving your market favorites? @chefbeillkim is offering takeaway and delivery from @urbanbellychicago! Place your order by calling 773-904-8606 or ordering delivery via @caviar and @doordash. Bon appetit, Chicago. ⠀ ⠀ **Doing our part for social distancing Time Out Market Chicago is temporarily closed. Hopefully, it won’t be for too long and we can clink glasses again soon. In the meantime please support local businesses and acts still doing their thing during #TimeIn. Elbow bump!

A post shared by Time Out Market Chicago (@timeoutmarketchicago) on Apr 2, 2020 at 9:00am PDT

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Here are the eight chefs that return today, (per TimeOut):

Arami: One of the city’s finest sushi spots is moving to the first floor with a hit list of contemporary Japanese eats from executive chef Joseph Fontelera.

 

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Chef Bill Kim: Caramelized pork dumplings are back, baby! Kim specializes in unique takes on casual Asian cuisine, packing his menu with crave-worthy eats.

 

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Chef Brian Fisher: The chef behind Michelin-starred Entente switches up his menu to showcase golden fried chicken, decadent mac and cheese and cornbread with jalapeño honey butter.

 

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Dos Urban Cantina: Husband-and-wife team Brian and Jennifer Jones Enyart have expanded their offerings to include even more tacos, loaded nachos and ceviche. Don’t fret: Jennifer’s chocolate cake is still available.

 

Duck Inn Dogs: Chef Kevin Hickey cranks out a lineup of decadent dogs that are loaded up with ingredients like spicy duck chili, tajin lime crema and apple-caraway kraut.

 

Lost Larson: Bobby and Bree Schaffer are back to make your mornings a little sweeter, with a pastry case packed with flaky croissants, frosted cinnamon rolls, cardamom-scented buns and a robust coffee and tea program.

 

Mini Mott: There’s no denying that chef Edward Kim makes a damn fine burger. Sink your teeth into layers of American cheese, hoisin aioli, pickled jalapeños, pickles, miso butter, sautéed onions and a cloud of sweet potato frizzles.

 

Pretty Cool Ice Cream: No matter the season, we’ve always got room for a popsicle (or two) from Dana Cree’s repertoire of nostalgia-filled frozen treats.

The post-COVID version of Time Out Market in Chicago features some of the best the food hall has to offer. Mini Mott boasts arguably one of these city’s best burgers. Chef Brian Fisher’s take on fried chicken is so mouthwatering that you can make a trip to the Time Out Market, stay all day and eat it at least three times while there. The cornbread with jalapeño honey butter would be a top-three food item on any human’s list of favorite foods.

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Raise your fried chicken sandwich in the air like ya just don’t care! @splitrailchicago sure knows how to make a killer fried chicken sandwich. Don’t forget to get a side of the fluffy buttermilk biscuits topped with chile-maple butter, for a mouth-watering combo! : @sherriesavorsthecity

A post shared by Time Out Market Chicago (@timeoutmarketchicago) on Mar 2, 2020 at 9:00am PST

From a non-food standpoint, the new space at Time Out Market in Chicago will feature plexiglass partitions highlighting quotes about the great city of Chicago from notable Chicagoans such as Barack Obama, Chance the Rapper, Jane Byrne, and Anthony Bourdain; who we know isn’t from Chicago but might as well have been with the love he had for this city.

View the Best Pizza Restaurants in Chicago, Ranked

Are you trying to find the best pizza places in Chicago to visit? View our list of the top 50 pizza restaurants in the city.

View the Best Pizza Places in Chicago

As Bourdain famously said, “you never really know somebody until you share a meal with them.” Time Out Market is as good a place as any to share a meal with someone, or a small group of people, with options at your disposal.

At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.

Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!

Featured Image Credit: Time Out Chicago Facebook Page

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The post Time Out Market Chicago in Fulton Market Reopens Today appeared first on UrbanMatter.

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Chicago Bears: Former head coach says Trubisky is the guy by Patrick Sheldon

Chicago Bears fans hearing a familiar story.

For Chicago Bears fans it is deja vu all over again as it relates to the quarterback position. The team just completed its first full week of practice and with the off-day Monday, began week two yesterday and unfortunately, the message delivered by reporters was an all-too-familiar one. These reports may have come as a bit of a surprise considering the narrative coming out of camp last week.

You see, last week there was a lot of talk about how the tight ends, Jimmy Graham and Cole Kmet were very impressive. After the dearth of productivity out of that group last year, this was a welcome change. As it related to the quarterbacks, there were reports that Mitchell Trubisky was holding the slight edge over Nick Foles.

However, a deeper dive into those tweets and reports told the truth. Yes, Mitch may have HIS best practice as a Bear, but that isn’t exactly a high standard against which he’s being judged. Furthermore, the reports were simply that he looked better than Foles.

However, you didn’t see anyone tweet that either quarterback looked good by traditional standards. That was telling. Comparatively speaking, one may have looked better than the other, but when you judge them against league-wide standards, they are still underperforming.

That was confirmed by many reporters following practice on Tuesday. Both Brad Biggs and Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune, along with Zack Pearson made it pretty clear that the quarterbacks have underwhelmed so far. Yes, one may be slightly outplaying the other, but up to this point, it appears to be a battle of mediocrity.

According to Biggs, the “Bears struggled to move the ball through the air today, a somewhat recurring theme to this point.” Wiederer was a little harsher. He stated that neither Mitch nor Foles has found any kind of groove yet and that “there has been very little evidence that this offense is headed for the top 20 in the NFL.” He concluded, “if Nagy is at all scarred by 2019, a few of 10’s wild pitches today will cause insomnia.”

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Next: Former Bears coach says Trubisky will start

Many fans were ready to spike the football and declare the quarterback competition over. Others were touting the “improvement” Mitch had demonstrated in practice. Well, it appears many of those reports were overblown. And as more and more reports flow out of camp casting significant doubts on either quarterback’s ability to be even average, the focus and all the fans’ ire should shift to Ryan Pace.

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