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ISSUE 04.11
BAR FOOD • WHAT’S NEW & WHAT’S CLOSED EAT & TWEET • SAINT PATRICKS DAY Lá Fhéile Pádraig Happy, or as we say; “Happy St. Patrick’s Day!” Yes, it’s that time of year again, when people think getting drunk on cheap green beer makes them Irish. For the life of me I’ve never understood the fascination with being Irish. Haven’t any of you heard of the “Irish Curse”? If you haven’t, let’s just say that leprechauns aren’t the only little things for which Ireland is known. And, before you all put down your pints of beer to write and complain, I can write this because I’m part Irish. Thankfully, not that part, I’m part Polish as well. If you are going to celebrate Ireland’s national holiday, do it up right. Pass on the green bagels from Einstein’s and the green donuts from Dunkin’s and enjoy some authentic Irish cuisine. Granted, not the most exciting food in the world, an Irish spice rack contains just three items; salt, pepper and dill, but for some good examples of food from the Emerald Isle check out The Gage, F.O. Mahoney’s or Mrs. Murphy and Sons. As for drinking the day away, we provide a list of Paddy parties that will have you driving the porcelain bus, if that’s what you desire. While we’re in the mood for a little Gaelic (and who doesn’t like a gay lick now and then?), here’s a phrase you should learn; “Let’s dul amach a ithe!” That translates as, “Let’s go out to eat.” Yes, it’s time for our annual spring dining issue. This issue we focus on bar food. There are now more options available than the traditional burgers and fries or beef jerky sticks that used to hang behind many a bar. We’re looking at places that offer a new twist on classic pub fare to those that are known as much for their food as they are for their drinks. We spotlight the vast number of GLBT focused bars that include dining options, as well as some of those in the mainstream community. We also have a rundown of places that opened in the past year, as well as those that shuttered in the past 12 months. Some we’ll miss and others we wonder why they opened in the first place. This issue we also inaugurate a new column, “Eat & Tweet”. This column will run from time to time providing mini-reviews of restaurants via Twitter, that I send to the BOI server. Of course, we also provide the latest dish, both local and national from columnist Harry Taint, advice from Ace Magyar and pop culture reporting from Gregg Shapiro. Have fun, play safe and be kind -
Rick
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3700 N. Halsted St. #2S Chicago, IL 60613
773.975.0264
boieditorial@aol.com • boiads@aol.com Publisher Editor
Mike Macharello Rick Karlin
Layout & Design Titanium Graphics
Advertising Bill Gubrud Freddie Bain
bill@boimagzine.com freddie@boimagazine.com
Marketing Specialists Lisa Clowes Charlie Lind Russena Simmons
Lisa@boimagzine.com Charlie@boimagzine.com Russena@boimagzine.com
Photographers Oliver Aguilar Steve Starr
ssstarrlight@gmail.com
Editorial Contributors Harry Taint Anita Taylor
Gregg Shapiro Ace Magyar
VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com
BOI’S BEST: BAR FOOD WHAT’S NEW ON THE DINING SCENE GOING GREEN ON ST. PATTY’S DAY BOI FEATURE ISSUE CALENDAR Dining OUT LISTINGS COVER BOI STAGE & SCREEN in the know, on the go! ASK ACE - ADVICE COLUMN Waz happening bars and clubs directory
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In the days when Chicago had a neighborhood tavern on just about every block some places started serving food to entice the customers to stay longer. These “treats” were usually salty snacks that encouraged the customers to drink more beer. That’s exactly how Chicago’s oldest bar, The Berghoff, started off.
the club is a study in elegant simplicity. During warmer weather the English garden inspired outdoor sidewalk cafe, the Gardens, quadruples the seating capability. The menu features a mix of organic, healthy dishes such as mango chutney chicken salad, with comfort food, such as grilled cheese sandwiches.
For years bar food was pretty much the same no matter where you went; greasy, salty and good for soaking up excess alcohol in your system. Now you’re just as likely to find gourmet fare as you are frozen pizzas and deep-fried anything. Not that there’s anything wrong with deep-fried stuff. But you’ve got plenty of options from places where the food, sometimes a little more exotic, healthy or tasty, is as important as the drink.
The sports-themed bar in Uptown offers a winning pub-grub menu, elevated to a new level. The artichoke-asiago fondue, Santa Fe chicken egg rolls, great sandwiches and salads make it a hit with neighbors, gay and straight alike.
Big Chicks, 5024 N. Sheridan
Michelle Fire, “Chicago’s Den Mother”, also owns Tweet restaurant next door to her bar. Tweet’s only open for breakfast and lunch, so she takes advantage to the unused kitchen in the evenings to have her staff whip up some tasty bar treats. Chicks’ nightly specials are a big draw, especially Monday night’s Buck Burger; a burger and a choice of fries or a salad of mesclun greens only sets you back a dollar. The Sunday afternoon free buffet lunch is legendary. Of course, you’re going to want to show your appreciation by ordering a beverage as well, and maybe a big ol’ slice of red velvet or chocolate cake.
Cocktail, 3359 N. Halsted
Long known as a great drinking establishment attracting a diverse crowd looking to dance, socialize and do some serious drinking, Cocktail’s recent renovation and expansion has turned it into a popular dining destination as well. The dining room at the rear end of
Crew, 4804 N Broadway
F. O’Mahony’s, 3701 N. Broadway
An Irish-named pub and grill, but mostly it’s a neighborhood hangout where you can order food to go along with your beer (or cosmo). While not prticularly exotic, the menu features such faves as hot wings, sliders and pizza served till the wee hours. Sundays $20 mimosa brunch is popular, get there early, this place fills up fast.
Halsted’s, 3441 N. Halsted
Taking bar fare and comfort food to the next level, Halsted’s is more of a restaurant that has developed a devoted bar following, than a bar that serves food. Known for incredible burgers and wraps (served with the world’s best tater tots); there is also a popular brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Daily specials range from entrée salads and burgers, of course, to bargain cocktails.
Hamburger Mary’s, 5400 N. Clark
The flagship of this nationwide chain is the one by which all others are rated. The entire menu is available in the main dining room and bar, the sports oriented “Rec Room” next door and Mary’s Attic, the upper level cabaret/theater/dance space. Not only are the burgers among the best in town, but the other entrées are spectacular, as well boi
Minibar, 3341 N. Halsted
Very NYC, very chic, very hip, often very good food. You won’t know what to look at the beauty on your plate or the beauty behind the bar. The Sunday brunch is bodacious.
Maude’s Liquor Bar, 840 W Randolph
Pork belly with braised red cabbage, blackened Brussels sprouts, shaved salad and steamed mussels share the bill with classic cocktails.
Roscoe’s, 3356 Halsted
Pie Hole, 3477 N. Broadway
T’s, 5025 N. Clark
Public House, 400 N. State
Roscoe’s See-Side Café is only open during warm weather months, but it’s a popular gathering place to meet for lunch or a quick dinner. The food is better than it has to be, but it’s the view that is the big draw. That could be because the sidewalk café is located at the epicenter of Chicago’s gay entertainment district, making it the place to see and be seen. The menu at this Andersonville spot is as eclectic as the crowd that hangs out there. Burgers and other barfare are available, of course, but the occasional surprise can be found on the entrée section of the menu.
Technically Pie Hole is not a bar per-say, however, it is something many consider during a night out. Owner Doug is passionate about pizza and has relocated to Broadway. If you are looking for the communities pizza joint, look no further! Stop in or call in your order. Either way, pizza as a bar food that works anytime, before, during or after a party a night out. Maybe it’s the touristy location, but folks also pack this trendy place for the truffleparmesan popcorn, burgers and the 20+ beer menu, as well as the hipster vibe.
Remix Café, 4347 N. Harding Ave.
A blend of American classics and Europeaninfluenced dishes make this casual neighborhood spot on the northwest side, a popular hangout. In addition to nibbles such as fried calamari or homemade pita Blokes & Birds, 3343 N. Clark chips and artichoke dip, you can also The English pub rises to new heights with hunker down at a table and enjoy a 10lobster making appearances in saffron ounce sirloin, panini or skewers of jumbo infused risotto and deviled eggs. An all you shrimp. can eat fish and chips deal makes Tuesday nights especially active. A full selection of Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Dr. Lincolnshire Great Britain’s most popular beverages is This new spot looks to be a cutting-edge also offered. music and nightlife option in the northern ‘burbs. Opened by Scott Greenberg, Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark developer of the Wit Hotel, the music venue This cozy Andersonville spot started out as hopes to appeal to a wide range of ages a bar with a small dining area. The Belgian and musical tastes by offering an eclectic influenced fare became so popular that concert schedule. It also boasts a bowling the entire second floor of the building has lounge of six lanes and Reverb, a dining been converted into a dining room. Long a room offering creative takes on standard popular and welcoming spot for the GLBT bar fare, such as sandwiches, pizza and community, Hopleaf has become one of the noshes. city’s most popular restaurants. All of the above mentioned places are gaycentric, but there are plenty of mainstream bars serving up memorable fare.
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To quote Dorothy, “People come and go so quickly here.” That’s especially true when it comes to the restaurant business. Here are a few places that have come onto the Chicago dining scene. Price ranges (without tax, tip or alcohol) are indicated as follows: ¢ = Less than $20 a person $ = $20-$30 a person, additional $ = $10+
Acre, 5308 N. Clark $$
The former, and deeply missed, Charlie’s Ale House, morphed into this Andersonville spot with a focus on organic/locavore cuisine.
Kanela Breakfast Club,
3231 N. Clark ¢ Taking over the space formerly occupied by Orange, this casual spot focuses on breakfast and lunch dishes made with local, organic ingredients.
Kai Sushi, 1406 W. Grand ¢
Joining the numerous dining options in West Town, this BYOB sushi café boasts a chef formerly with Sunda and Kamehachi.
Paris Club, 59 W. Hubbard $$
Bia for Mia, 1147 W. Grand $
The Melman brothers, RJ and Jerrod, team up with Jean Joho (former co-owner of Brasserie Jo, formerly in this space) with classic French cuisine geared for the River North crowd.
Everest Burger & Bakery,
Prix Fixe, 4835 N. Western $$
The legendary ‘70s restaurateur, Mel Markon, returns with an “Italian fun pub.” Some favorites from the old Mel Markon’s Pie Hole, 3477 N. Broadway ¢ return on the new menu. Not really new, just a new location. The dining area lacks some of the charm of the Bistronomic, 840 N. Wabash $ original location, but the late-night-afterFrench bistro fare from former Cafe des the-bars pizza joint offers gigantic slices at Architects chef Martial Noguier focuses reasonable prices. on local ingredients. 91 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe ¢ Hormone-free, steroid-free and antibiotic-free beef, turkey, chicken and fish burgers, hot dogs and organic French fries. Bakery selections include organic frozen yogurt, pastries, cookies, pies, scones and muffins
Fork, 4600 N. Lincoln $
Lincoln Square adds another Europeaninspired restaurant, this one is prix-fixe all the time. Three-course dinners are $35, a meal for two is $50.
The Southern Mac Truck ¢
Yummy mac and cheese that comes to you? What could be better? The dishes offered are from parent restaurant, The Southern. Website southernmac.com lists the week’s menu and the truck’s schedule.
The former Fiddlehead Café has scaled down its menu to starters, sandwiches and small plates and undergone a remodeling. A fireplace and cozy couches Sprout, 1417 W. Fullerton $$$ Top Chef contestant, Dale Levitski’, big new makes for a casual neighborhood wine restaurant never got past the planning bar/gastropub. stages, lucky for us he opened this cozy place instead. Hubbard Inn, 110 W. Hubbard $ The English influenced gastropub has a “gentlemen’s club” vibe and specializes in Vincent, 1475 W. Balmoral $$ La Tache’s French bistro fare didn’t pull small plates and artisan beer and liquor in enough folks, but this Belgian Bistro is doing just fine. Ing, 951 W Fulton Market $$$ Moto’s chef Homaru Cantu is set to open this new restaurant, this month. Global cuisine and nano-brews will be the focus.
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By Paddy O’Furniture It’s that time of year again, when everyone turns into a drunken Irish fool, no matter their ethnic background. This year why not have a green St. Patty’s Day? I just don’t mean wearing a green t-shirt and drinking green beer, I mean an ecologically green celebration. If you wish to be even greener this year, think about recycling all that souvenir crap you bought the last time you went to see “Wicked”. If you feel like you’re going to hurl after too many emerald brews, do it onto the Chicago River, it will help with the dye job. If you’re going downtown for St. Patrick’s Day Parade at noon on March 12, take public transportation. You probably shouldn’t drive after all those Irish coffees anyway. Get down there a little early (10:45) and you can watch them change the color of the river. This annual Chicago tradition has to be the worst dye job since Donald Trump. Speaking of the Donald, if you want to have a ringside seat for the dyeing of the river and the parade, reserve a skybox seat at Rebar in the Trump Tower for a bird’s-eye view of both events far from hoi polloi. Each skybox can accommodate up to 40 people and those reserving one can choose either a breakfast or lunch package of traditional,
gourmet Irish Fare. Yeah, I know, it sounds like an oxymoron. Continue the fun at one of the number of bars and clubs holding events. On the South Side Beverly Woods Restaurant holds a wake for the South Side Irish Parade. The event was ended a number of years ago because those South Side Irish kids got a little too wild. The wake includes a eulogy, music, appetizers and a cash bar. Reggie’s Music Joint revs things up on March 14 with live music and an all you can eat buffet of green eggs and ham. Afterwards hop aboard the free shuttle bus to the South Side for more festivities and proof that you don’t need a parade to get rowdy On the North Side Abbey Pub serves up Irish music and dance on March 14 and 17th. Catch the O’ Hare Irish Dancers and Shannon Rovers Bag Pipers on both days. The Irish American Heritage Center offers an entire day of festivities that kicks off with a traditional St. Patrick’s Day mass, Irish food, dance and traditional and contemporary Irish music round out the celebration. If you prefer not to drink and drive, take part in the North Side Irish Barade. The event includes trolley service between six bars including Duffy’s, Durkin’s, Redmond’s, Wrightwood Tap, Maeve and McGee’s and food buffets and Bud Light drafts. And, of course, if you happen to be gay, it doesn’t mean you can’t join in the fun (unless you consider the Boston or NYC St. Patrick’s Day parades fun). Halsted will turn into a little bit of Ireland as the bars and clubs on the strip celebrate along with boystowns own Irish pub, F. O’Mahoney’s.
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AMERICAN___________ Ann Sather 929 W. Belmont | 773.348.2378; 3416 N Southport | 773.404.4475; 5207 N Clark | 773.271.6627; 3411 N Broadway | 773.305.0024 These bustling hot spots, serving traditional Swedish pancake house fare, are best known for hearty daytime offerings and their delish cinnamon rolls. Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted | 773.935.6696 This world famous vegetarian restaurant offers vegan and organic offerings using the protein-based meat substitute seitan. Organic beers, wine, and spirits are also available. Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted | 773.477.1420 The kitchen at this popular bar serves up better and fancier food than it needs to. The menu ranges from gourmet salads and sandwiches to comfort food and fabulous brunch dishes. During the summer the outdoor dining space is lush and verdant. Crew 4804 N. Broadway | 773.784.2739 More than just a sports bar, the menu includes a variety of hamburgers, sandwiches, salads and comfort food. Deluxe Diner 6349 N Clark | 773.743.8244 Conveniently located near Rogers Park’s gay triangle, the diner’s “open 24 hours on weekends” status is perfect after a night of dancing and partying. Featured menu items include breakfast skillets that are served anytime. F. O’Mahony’s, 3701 N. Broadway | 773.549-0097 An Irish-named pub and grill, but mostly it’s a neighborhood hangout where you can order food to go along with your beer (or cosmo). While not prticularly exotic, the menu features such faves as hot wings, sliders and pizza served till the wee hours. Sundays $20 mimosa brunch is popular, get there early, this place fills up fast. Golden Nugget Family Restaurants 2720 N. Clark | 773.929.0724, 2406 W. Diversey | 773.252.8903, 1765 W. Lawrence | 773.769.6700. Established 40+ years, these places are a great place for after bar dining as they are all open 24-7, and all have free parking. The large menu is sure to please. Everything is housemade, known for fluffy buttermilk pancakes, but dinners are hearty as well. Halsted’s Bar & Grill 3441 N Halsted | 773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery serves up a wide array of tasty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and popular comfort food items at very reasonable prices in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Beers on tap are aplenty and the weekend brunch draws an attractive crowd.
Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N Clark | 773.784.6969 “Eat, Drink and be... MARY” at this fun and popular Andersonville restaurant which features a wide array of burgers and sandwiches, along with an interesting selection of tasty appetizers. Wash it all down with one of Mary’s home-brewed ales. Horizon Café 3805 N. Broadway | 773.883.1565 This long-time popular Lakeview family restaurant serves up big portions of creative homestyle dishes as well as healthy fare (broth-based soups and whole wheat tortilla wraps) and at affordable prices. Breakfast, including multigrain pancakes and egg white omelets, served all day long. Delivery available. IHOP 3760 N Halsted | 773.296.0048 More than a pancake house, this 24-hour Boystown institution serves up affordably priced appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that are sure to satisfy varying after-bar wants and needs. Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted | 773.525.1111 Providing the best of diva entertainment along with a full dinner menu, they offer ½-price cocktails and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree on Wednesdays.. On Monday nights get 50% off your entire bill. M. Henry 5707 N. Clark | 773.561.1600 This popular Andersonville outpost serves breakfast and lunch daily and features creative fare such as pancakes with warm blackberries and vanilla mascarpone cream. Additionally there are many vegetarian dishes and traditional menu items like three-cheese omelets. Minibar Café 3341 N. Halsted This attractive and sophisticated space serves gourmet bruschetta, cheeses, panini, and entrees as well as an impressive selection of wines by the glass from around the world. The Sunday brunch is tasty and impressive. Nookies Tree 3334 N. Halsted | 773.248.9888 A regular haunt for the locals of Boystown and popular with hangover recoverers, the diner serves made-toorder omelets, pancakes, waffles and other brunch fare all day. And it’s open 24 hours on weekends. Melrose Restaurant 3233 N Broadway | 773.327.2060 This Lakeview institution has been catering to the after-bar crowds for decades, serving breakfast anytime along with typical diner fare. Open 24 hours, Queens Tavern & Bistro 750 W. Cornelia | 773.248.8333 Occupying the old Cornelia’s space, this charming new eatery is warm and inviting and features a value menu filled with both bar food and entrée items as well as daily specials. boi 17
Wilde Bar & Restaurant 3130 N Broadway | 773.244.0404 This cozy upscale Irish pub offers a laid back and warm atmosphere and a wide ranging menu that is sure to please. Expect updated versions of pub favorites such as chicken pot pie, meatloaf, fish & chips, burgers and salads. ASIAN__________________ Jitlada Thai House 3715 N Halsted | 773.388.9988 This quaint family-owned eatery features Asian favorites such as pad Thai, pineapple fried rice, crab rangoon, pot stickers, tempura and nine spice curry items. Delivery available. Pingpong 3322 N. Broadway | 773.281.7575 This popular Lakeview restaurant features high-quality Pan-Asian cuisine in a hip and modern atmosphere as well as top-notch people-watching both those in the restaurant as well as any number of hotties walking by outside. Delivery available. Young’s Chinese Restaurant 3949 N Ashland | 773.248.7998 While Chinese takeout is sometimes a bad and poorly tasting stereotype, this wellregarded outpost has earned a stellar reputation for great tasting food and delivery so quick you’ll swear there must be a wok in the car.
MEDITERRANEAN____ Andies 1467 W Montrose | 773.348.0654; 5253 N Clark | 773.784.8616 Specializing in Mediterranean and vegetarian cuisine, specialties of the house include steak kabobs, gyros, and poultry dishes such as Greek Chicken and Lebanese Style Chicken Kefta Kabob. And as befits the cuisine, desserts include a very tasty baklava. The Sunday buffet brunch is extravagant and reasonably priced. Istanbul 3613 N Broadway | 773.525.0500 Specializing in Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines, this recent addition to the lakeview dining scene has been attracting patrons with a varied menu, generous portions, and affordable prices. Sayat Nova 157 E. Ohio | 312.644.9159. Classic Mediterranean-American fare served in comfortable surroundings Every Thursday night things get extra gay for the “Boystown in Downtown” party. MEXICAN/LATIN__________
ITALIAN_________________
Cesar’s 2924 N. Broadway | 773.296.9097; 3166 N Clark | 773.248.2835 This family-owned operation offers an enticing menu full of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties, irresistible desserts, and their signature “Killer Margaritas.”
Anna Maria Pasteria 4400 N Clark | 773.506.2662 Owned by sisters who hail from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this neighborhood gem creates homemade modern and traditional Italian dishes that are authentic, delicious, and best of all: inexpensive.
Estrella Negra 3352 N. Halsted | 773.227.5993 If Ed Hardy had a taco joint, this might be it for flair. A skull-licious themed dining experience. Sure, you can get tacos, empanadas and burritos, but they are all of the gormet caliber. Owner Oto is the Chef and puts his own creative twist on everything. It’s BYOB.
Angelina Ristorante 3561 N Broadway | 773.935.5933 Hosting the coolest and hippest Sunday brunch crowd in Lakeview, the menu includes Eggs Benedict, fritattas, Croque Monsieur and mufaletta sandwiches, almond-crusted stuffed French toast, and the free flow of Champagne mimosas. Brunch here is loud, raucous and FUN! Great for dinner, as well. Panino’s Pizzeria 3702 N Broadway | 773.472.6200 Panino’s has established itself as a Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections, including gyros and burgers, pasta entrees, and of course pizza. Delivery available.
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Las Mananitas 2346 W Fullerton Ave | 773.528.2109 A long-time favorite with the GLBT community, the food is decent, but its the margaritas that you’ll come back for. Also great for boy-watching on the patio. Mayan Palace 2703 N. Halsted | 773.935.4200 Known to be one of the very best Mexican restaurants in the city, the focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients for its “south of the border” cuisine. Portions are generous and the cool Margaritas dubbed “The World’s Best!” Is your target market is in our distribution area?? ADVERTISE YOUR RESTAURANT IN BOI MAGAZINE Call 773.975.0264 or email us at boiADS@aol.com
Eat & Tweet We are happy to introduce the debut of Eat & Tweet an on-going column of restaurant mini-reviews of 140 characters or less. Gr8 = Indicates those aspects of the dining experience that are outstanding Ok = Those that are better than average Eh = For merely adequate PU = For those needing improvement ¢ = $20 or less, per person $ = indicates $20 increment thereafter (alcohol, tax and tip not included) Florentine-151 W. Adams $$$$ Modern Italian Gr8-bruss spr salad, hamachi crudo, bucatini/w duck egg, spaghetti w/crab, rhum baba, cheesecake Ok-veal w/ceci beans Eh-service Gale Street Inn-4914 N. Milwaukee $$ Classic American Gr8-ribs, tomatilla or black bean soup, grilled fish Ok-chicken, service, ambiance Eh-salads, cocktails (stingy w/booze) PU-hostesses’ attitude Eleven City Diner-1112 S. Wabash ¢ Jewish diner Gr8-deli sandwiches, fountain drinks, soups Ok-potato pancakes, entrees, decor Eh-desserts, side dishes PU-service M Burger-161 E. Huron ¢ Burger Stand Gr8-milk shakes, fries, service Ok-burgers Eh-everything else Stella’s Diner- 3042 N. Broadway ¢ Diner
Gr8-greeting, breakfast dishes, crab cakes, desserts Ok-ambiance, anything beyond usual diner fare Eh-soups, service (depends on server, some are great) Falafill-3202 N. Broadway ¢ Vegetarian Fast Food Gr8-falafil (duh) made to order, toppings buffet Ok- soups, sweet potato fries Eh-slushies PU-pocket vs bowl. $2.25 more for 1 more falafel OFF THE SCENE
Sadly, many restaurants were victims of the economy, poor management or both. Among those places that went the way of the Wicked Witch of the East are; The 44th Ward Dinner Party-Lakeview Adesso-Lakeview Blu 47-Bronzeville Brasserie Jo-River North Cafe Florian-Hyde Park. Cafe Matou-Bucktown Charlie’s Ale House-Andersonville Cocodrilos-West Town Cuatro-South Loop Emilio’s Tapas-Lincoln Park Eve-Gold Coast Fianco-Lakeview The Fifth-River North Harry Caray’s Tavern-Wrigleyville La Tache-Andersonville May Street Market-West Town Marche-Randolph Street Market Opera-South Loop Orange-Lakebview The Pump Room-Gold Coast Reagle Beagle-Streeterville Smoke Shack-Lincoln Park Spring-Bucktown Tizi Melloul-River North Viet Bistro-Rogers Park
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Hi everyone! I’m Patrick. I am 24 years old. I grew up in Edison Park on the Northwest side. My grandparents from my mothers side actually are from Belfast Ireland and moved here when my mother was 6 years old. My grandparents on my fathers side are of the German/Norwegian decent. I have lived in the same house in Edison Park for 22 years, give or take a few months when I decided to move out and be on my own. I am currently living in Andersonville with my identical twin brother, Liam. When I was young, I always dreamed of being a rock star with the crowd cheering as I come out on stage, but as time went on, the dream kind of got to the back of my head. Then I saw a movie that I loved called Point Break that inspired me to be an actor. So from that I would day dream a lot at school and work, so I would get into trouble a lot cause I was daydreaming instead of doing my work. Finally after a while I got tired of dreaming and decided to get some photos done and see what happens. Hopefully all my dreams will come true. Presently I am working part time at a north side salon doing everything, except for cutting hair... I’m not a stylist and don’t really see myself pursuing that as a career, but right now it’s a job and it pays the bills, until I find sugar-daddy to take that over. Just joking. (I think!)
When asked by the editors what is my silliest pet peve, I would have to say that not being able to wear white after Labor Day. It is the most ridiculous rule I’ve ever heard that exixts today in the fashion industry. When I flip through the hair and fashion magazines in the salon, it’s all about breaking the rules, ...(yesterday’s fashion trends are out and today’s are in!) If that’s the case, then why should this one rule still exist? Especially since the rule was initiated in the 19th century to remind people not to wear light clothing in the winter. You don’t see people still wearing hoop skirts and top hats strolling down the street (maybe during Market Days!) BTW: I’ve been wearing white all winter long. It’s my way of not being stereotypical. In my spare time, I like to play Guitar Hero, dance at the clubs and sell ticked out Barbie dolls on E-Bay. I once got $500 for a dominatrix Barbie I designed. boi 21
Screen Savor by Gregg Shapiro
Stage Business by Rick Karlin
“In theaters: Queer filmmaker Gregg Araki (“The Living End”) reached a career high point with his 2004 film adaptation of Scott Heim’s novel “Mysterious Skin.” That movie was significant, not only because Araki looked to the well-stocked shelves of contemporary LGBT lit for inspiration, but also for the maturity with which he handled the subject material. On the other hand, his latest film, “Kaboom,” is a return to his earlier format of sex-obsessed youth, made popular in titles such as “Nowhere,” “The Doom Generation” and “Splendor.”
“Mary” by controversial playwright Thomas Bradshaw, and directed by May Adrales, is Goodman Theater’s “gay play” this season. Despite what you might think from the title, this is not a campy comedy. After years of attending theater I have learned that the phrase, “Ninety minutes, without an intermission” is a red flag. No intermission means that folks are less likely to leave in the middle of the play. Usually that is because the script addresses something controversial, or that the play is really bad. In this case, both aspects apply.
Sexually “undeclared,” film-studies-major Smith (Thomas Dekker) has been having the same dream since he moved into his freshman college dorm; he’s walking, naked, down a hallway. Smith’s lesbian buddy Stella (Haley Bennett, who practically steals the show), an art major, natch, is the comic relief, delivering her one-liners like a seasoned stand-up comic. Soon Smith’s hallucinations begin. Between the dreams and hallucinations and sexual confusion, Smith seems headed for a downfall. Perhaps the biggest difference in “Kaboom” is the sense of humor that Araki displays here. He appears to be having fun with the very original material, making fun of cults and college life, but it’s disposable and far from memorable. On Blu-Ray: A longtime staple of a gay diet, the multiple Oscar-winning 1950 Bette Davis vehicle “All About Eve” has made its way to Blu-ray to be enjoyed by future queer generations. Insightfully written and directed, “Akk About Eve” is a timeless study of a backstabbing understudy; a tale as old as the theater itself. Shot in black and white, which looks crisp in HD, and filled with some of the most memorable scenes and dialogue in 20th century film history including the infamous “Fasten your seatbelts” line “All About Eve” is necessary viewing for everyone, gay or straight. A costume trunk full of special features includes the informative shorts “The Real Eve” and “The Secret of Sarah Siddons.” 22 boi
The short synopsis is that David, a closeted college student from Maryland, brings home his boyfriend, Jonathan, for the holidays. His boyfriend is (rightfully) appalled when David’s parents refer to their maid as “Nigger Mary.” I suppose Bradshaw thinks he’s being groundbreaking in exposing both racial prejudices (David’s parents) and homophobia (Mary’s). There is promise in this concept; it’s just that it is executed so badly and additionally, the entire production is sloppy and shoddy, from script, to acting to costuming. Let’s start with the script. We are supposed to accept the premise that a Black woman in 1980s Maryland would not object to being called “Nigger Mary” to her face. Or that after Mary realizes that her homophobia might not actually be following “God’s word” (which leads to her attending David’s gay wedding to Jonathan in Massachusetts), that a mere two scenes later at her college graduation (which David arranged and paid for) she would call him up on stage and suddenly lambaste him for being a sinner and saying that Jonathan died from AIDS as God’s punishment. Even more unbellievable is asking the audience to accept that she would be allowed to spew her filth from the stage without anyone stopping her. On to the production values; the program credits a dialect coach, yet none of the actors manage to maintain a Maryland accent past the first three words in any sentence. David’s upper-class mother wears the same dress for scene after scene, even when much time is supposed to have passed. Then a hunting scene is supposed to be taking place, yet the characters are on the middle tier of the trilevel stage surrounded by furniture which is supposed to be inside the house, when all they would have had to do was step down one-level to avoid that faux pas. In my personal opinion, this is an inexcusably messy and lazy production and there is so much wrong with the script, that the problems listed above barely scratch the surface of the cheap veneer of this play.
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24 boi
by Harry Taint Deadline Dash We’ve gotten the 411 on so many events at the last minute that I’m just gonna lay ‘em on you…”Bailiwick Live!” is a benefit at Mary’s Attic this Saturday March 5... Also on Saturday is Sidetrack’s Jack Daniels Chili Cook-Off… GayCo’s “Breast In Show” begins a Sunday run at The Apollo this week. The women of GayCo question Dora the Explorer’s telltale haircut and embrace lesbian stereotypes in their most epic Softball scene ever. WTF HBHC? It seems that there was a breach in the donor database, personal phone numbers and email addresses. The folks at HBHC aren’t certain if credit card information or confidential patient records have been compromised. On the Strip It seems that Jack Daniels is the most popular guy on Halsted. Sidetrack just held a chili cook-off sponsored by the brand (see above) and Cocktail is kicking off a series of Friday tastings on March 25… Spin’s new “Tube” party is getting lots of attention, and no, it’s not that kind of tube! It’s the club’s new mélange of funny videos, movie clips and other entertaining tidbits with music videos, comedy clips and original film work... Ram’s Hot Daddy contest brought out lots of hotties, I don’t know about the daddy part. They all looked like they were barely out of diapers themselves. Off the Strip The premier event of “GET LUCKY” organized by Big House at Double Door on Friday, March 11 will be themed Bear Pride. According to the organizers, “Our vision is simple, to throw an amazing house music dance party that will move the very essence of your soul... Berlin is hosting a Chicago Outfit Roller Derby fundraiser on Thursday the 10th. The info I got says it’s an “Underwater Rodeo” (Your guess is as good as mine on that one.)
Calling all girls “Lipstick” is the Thursday night hangout at Parlour on Clark. If you been looking for Teri Bristol, you can find her behind the cd decks after 10pm... It’s that time of year again for the annual “Black Bra” party hosted by Julie Mosier (founder of Chix Mix) & Christina Wiesmore. The event will be at Circuit Night Club on Friday, March 25th. National Dish The GLBT group Truth Wins Out took a swipe at anti-gay former Senator Rick Santorum by flooding the web with info that his name is a term for an anal sex fetish. Now, whenever anyone Googles “Santorum” the first listing they get is a description of the sex act. Speaking of things that annoy us, Justin Bieber, the young boy with the lesbian haircut, and a fondness for Twitter is the subject of a Tweet scandal. A rumor on Twitter is that Justin refused to be interviewed by Out Magazine (and therefore he’s homophobic.) Later another tweet claimed that he did sit down to an interview with the magazine in order to respond to “gay rumors.” According to sources from Out, “We haven’t interviewed Justin -- nor did we ever extend an invitation for him to sit down with us.” Let’s Get Cultural Edgewater Historical Society will present “Edgewater PRIDE: Oppression to Expression,” from June 3 until Sept. 24. The exhibit is about the LGBT community within the Uptown, Edgewater, and Rogers Park areas… The Queer Film Society (QFS), presents its next film screening series at the Chicago Cultural Center. The new series celebrates outstanding LGBT movies made in Chicago. The films screen Wednesdays March 16-Apr. 6. Among the films are “Quearborn & Perversion: An Early History of Lesbian & Gay Chicago”, “and “Were the World Mine.”… Stage 773 will host the Chicago Debut of “Katie’s Corner” starring Alexandra Billings on April 3. boi 25
Befuddled in Bucktown
I’m a successful banking executive. I met my boyfriend and we fell in love immediately. He works as a stripper for a troupe that works in bars all around the Midwest. We’ve been together about three months. I haven’t asked him to chip in on bills because he doesn’t make much money and I’m fairly well-to-do. At first we had great sex, but it has tapered off to once or twice a month. I don’t mind that so much, but he has become very passive sexually, basically all I do is give him oral sex and he dances while I masturbate. He used to be a great top, but he doesn’t seem interested in that any more. Recently he has asked me to help pay his child support payments (he got a girl pregnant before he came out). I told him I’d think about it, and that night we had mind-blowing sex. I love being his boyfriend, but I’m not certain about helping him make child support payments, especially when he is still friendly with the child’s mother.
Dear BIB
You’re not his boyfriend, you’re his ATM. He’s pretty much stopped having sex with you, you pay for almost everything and he still has his girlfriend? If you were hearing a friend tell you these circumstances you’d know that he was being used. So why the inability to see it in yourself? I’m thinking that your “boyfriend” is bisexual; as long as you’re buying he’ll remain sexual. 26 boi
Stymied in Melrose Park
I lie in the suburbs in a two-flat building. My parents live in the lower unit and I live in the upper unit rent-free in exchange for taking care of the building and driving them to appointments. I’m an only child and my parents are very protective, so they ask me about everything I do. I’ve never had a girlfriend. There’s a woman on my softball team that I really like and want to ask her out. I don’t know how she’ll react to my situation. I’m afraid to invite her over, but I desperately want to find someone to share my life with
Dear SIMP
Is there something going on astrologically? It seems all my readers have their house in oblivious this week. First of all, get it into your head that you are not an only child. You may not have had siblings, but you’re an adult now, granted, an adult that lives at home with mommy and daddy and is at their beck and call. You need to put some distance, physically and psychologically between you and your parents. Look for an apartment where you can be an adult. Learn to be independent before you worry about getting into a relationship. In the words of that great philosopher, RuPaul, “If you don’t learn to love yourself, how in the hell are you gonna love someone else?” Ace Magyar has a BA in communications, a MA in sex therapy and a PHD in zoology. He is a registered couple’s counselor specializing in the GLBT community. Send your questions to AskAce@boimagazine.com.
MONDAY
Big Chicks – Buck Burger Club Krave - Musical Mondays & $5 you call it top shelf Cocktail - “Recover” w half-price cocktails, $1 grilled cheese Crew – “Pub Stumpers” trivia half-price pizza & flat bread pizzas Halsted’s - $14 Miller buckets Hideaway - $3 “U Call It”, $2 off pizzas Hydrate - $1 drink specials Kit Kat – 50% off your entire bill Roscoe’s - “You’re the Star” karaoke $10 Miller Lite pitchers Scarlet - Live Music, $3 tallboy PBR, $5 well Cosmos Scot’s - $3.25 domestic bottles Sidetrack – Show tune sing-along Spin – Karaoke $1 Leinenkugel draft/ $4 Skyy drinks The Glenwood - $6 Double pints Touché - $2.50 PBR Velvet Rope – Singles meet & greet
Kit Kat – 1/2 priced drinks, 2 for 1 entrees Mary’s Attic - “Mary-oke” $3 well & domestic bottled beer North End – Karaoke Parlour – Happy Hipster Indie Nite, $3 PBR Rehab – Amy Armstrong & Freddy Allen Cabaret tunes, $3 Miller, $4 Stoli Flavors Roscoe’s - “You’re the Star” karaoke $3 off all martinis Scarlet - $95 Classic Stoli bottle service, $5 martinis, $4 Amstel or Heineken Scot’s – $2 off Cosmos Sidetrack – “Rockin Retro” Spin – $1 house cocktails, domestic draft beer & wine The Glenwood - $6 Double pints Touché – “Bear Chested” Velvet Rope - $1 drinks
THURSDAY
Atmosphere – Male dancers $3 well, $5 Absolut cocktails, $8 Bud Lite pitchers Berlin – “Stardust” Circuit – “La Noche Loca”, $3 Coronas Club Krave - $10 draft pints, $5 top shelf TUESDAY Cocktail – “Rock Out”, Spank Go-go boys Atmosphere - $1 well & Bud Lite draft $6 PBR buckets & $12 Absolut carafes Berlin - $1 drink night Crew – Endless chips & salsa $2.50, $3 tap Club Krave - $2 well, $1 drafts, $4 draft Hideaway – “Trailer Trash Bingo” pitchers Hydrate - specials on Effen cocktails Cocktail – Go-go boys, $2 tacos, $10 El Jackhammer - $2 MGD, Light, Bud / Lite Jimador carafes & $4 Coronas Kit Kat - $5 Effen martinis & $5 mojitos Crew - $1 tacos, half-priced appetizers Parlour – Lipstick Girls Nite, $4 Cocktails Halsted’s - $5.95 salad entrees Jackhammer – Karaoke with Creaoke $3 Roscoe’s – “Alternative Sounds” Sayat Nova – $3 Lite, $4 Bacardi Bombs, Bacardi and Finlandia Rokk Vodka $4 mixers, $5 martinis Kit Kat – Half-priced martinis Scarlet - “Frat Party”$5-40oz Miller Light Rehab – Sangria, $10 sangria pitchers & King Cobra, 26oz Corona or miniRoscoe’s – “Drag Race” pitcher of Long Island Scarlet - $6 mini-pitchers vodkaScot’s - $4 draft beers lemonade, $3 Miller Lite Sidetrack – Comedy videos Scot’s - $2 off all martinis T’s - $5 Margaritas and Cosmoritas Spin – Bingo $4 call cocktails The Call - $4 Absolute cocktails The Closet - $3.50 pints of Miller Light The Closet – Karaoke with Karen and $3.50 Shock Tops 9:30pm-1:30am Touché - $2.50 PBR WEDNESDAY Atmosphere - $2 well, Miller Light draft, Velvet Rope – Live jazz Wild Pug – Karaoke $5 Svedka cocktails Club Krave - $7 Three Olive martinis FRIDAY Cocktail – “Teri Yaki’s Twisted Trivia”, $9 Atmosphere - $5 Stoli cocktails Miller Lite pitchers & $6 Effen cocktails Club Krave - $5 sangria, $10 domestic Crew – half-priced martinis & desserts buckets, $16 imported buckets Halsted’s - $2 Miller & Bud draft pints Cocktail – Go-go boys, $12 Long Island Hydrate - “Hydrag Revue” pitchers & $5 Jaegerbombs
Crew – half-priced nachos, $2 PBR Halsted’s - $12 pitchers Miller & Bud Lite Hamburger Mary’s - $4 Leininkugel Hideaway $7 Smirnoff lemonade pitchers Kit Kat - $30 three-course prix fixe meal Parlour – House of Diva’s Drag Show Rehab – Open Mic Night, 9pm-12am Roscoe’s – Coor’s Light pitchers Scarlet - “First Ward Ball” $4 well drinks, $4 Bud Light Sidetrack – Show tunes cocktail hour Spin – Shower contest The Call - $4 Bacardi cocktails
SATURDAY
Atmosphere – $5 Stoli & bloody Marys Circuit – “Urbano” Hip-Hop, $4.75 Cocktails Club Krave - $12 mixed drink pitchers Cocktail – Go-go boys, $2 mimosas Halsted’s - $3 mimosas & screwdrivers Hamburger Mary’s - $5 slushies Hideaway - $5 Long Islands Parlour – Spotlight Artists (paintings) Roscoe’s - $3 off martinis Scarlet - $95 Classic Stoli bottle service T’s - $7.50 Double pints Touché – Free pizza at midnight
SUNDAY
Angelinas - Sunday Brunch Atmosphere – $5 Absolut, $8 Miller Light pitchers, $3 specialty shots Big Chicks – Free BBQ Circuit – “Noche Latina” Latin Night $10 Jumbo Margaritas, $4.75 Cocktails Club Krave - $5 draft pitchers & margaritas Cocktail – Go-go boys, $1 well drinks & $2 mimosas Halsted’s - $3 mimosas & screwdrivers Kit Kat – “Divalicious Brunch”-unlimited mimosas and bloody marys Mary’s Attic – “Mary-oke” North End – ‘80’s video Roscoe’s - $12 pitchers of Long Islands Rehab – Honey West, 7pm-10pm Scarlet –“Liquid Brunch” $12 bottles of champagne, $4 bloody marys & screwdrivers, free cereal & juice bar Scot’s – Free BBQ Sidetrack – Show tunes ’60s-‘80s Smart Bar – Dollar Disco – drinks $1 Spin –“Game Show Trivia” “Supersize Me” all Absolut cocktails served in pint glasses, “Meat & Buns” free hot dogs & hamburgers
Bar & Club managers send your information & updates for Waz’ Happenin’ to boieditorial@aol.com NOTE: Promotions subject to change without notice boi 29
Boystown / Lakeview
3160 3160 N.Clark G&L, LM,DS Berlin 954 W. Belmont G&L, D, 4 Bobby Love’s 3729 N. Halsted G&L Buck’s Saloon 3439 N. Halsted G Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted G, LF Charlie’s 3726 N. Broadway G, D, W Circuit 2.02 3641 N. Halsted G&L, D, 4 Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted G, GB F. O’Mahony’s 3701 N. Broadway G&L, R Hydrate 3458 N. Halsted G, D, DS, 4 Kit Kat 3700 N. Halsted G&L, DS, R Little Jim’s 3501 N. Halsted G, V, 4 Lucky Horseshoe 3169 N. Halsted G, GB Manhandler 1948 N. Halsted G, W, 4 Minibar 3341 N. Halsted G, R North End 3733 N. Halsted G Roscoe’s 3356 N. Halsted G, D, V, DS Scarlet 3320 N. Halsted G Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted G, V Smart Bar / Metro 3730 N. Clark MS, D, 4 Spin 800 W. Belmont G, D, V, DS The Closet 3325 N. Broadway G&L, V, 4
Chicago Downtown
Baton Show Lounge 436 N. Clark DS Club 720 720 N. Wells MS, D, 4 Crimson Lounge 333 N. Dearborn MS, D, R Downtown Bar & Lounge 440 N State G Excalibur/Vision 632 N. Dearborn MS, D, 4 Funky Buddha 728 W. Grand Ave. MS, D House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn MS, LM, 4 Krush/Prop House 1657 N. Elston G&L, D, 4 Juicy Fridays 2354 N. Clybourn Ave 2 Second Story Bar 157 E. Ohio G, V Sound Bar 226 W. Ontario MS, D, 4 Spy Bar 646 N. Franklin MS, D, 4 Underground 56 W. Illinois MS, D, 4 Vibe 1543 N. Kingsbury MS, D, 4
Chicago Northside
The Anvil 1137 W. Granville G, V @mosphere 5355 N. Clark G&L, V, GB Big Chicks 5024 N. Sheridan G&L, D, R
773.327.5969 773.348.4975 773.525.1200 773.525.1125 773.665.8064 773.871.8887 773.325.2233 773.477.1420 773.549.0226 773.975.9244 773.525.1111 773.871.6116 773.404.3169 773.871.3339 773.871.6227 773.477.7999 773.281.3355 773.348.1053 773.477.9189 773.549.4140 773.327.7711 773.477.8533
Chicago Southside
312.644.5269 312.787.8720 312.923.2473 312.464.1400 312.266.1944 312.666.1695 312.923.2000 773.486.2390 773.383.5518 312.923.9536 312.787-4480 312.587.8779 312.644.7600 312.266.1900
Club Escape 1530 E. 75th G&L, D Escapades 6301 S. Harlem G&L, D, V, 4 Inn Exile 5758 W. 65th G&L, D, V Jeffrey Pub 7041 S. Jeffrey G&L, D, V, 4
Chicago Suburbs
773.973.0006 773.784.1100 773.728.5511
773.667.6454 773.229.0886 773.582.3510 773.363.8555
Hideaway 7301 W. Roosevelt Forest Park G, D, V, DS, GB Club Krave 13126 S. Western Blue Island G&L, D, V, DS, GB, 4 Hunters 1932 E. Higgins Elk Grove Village G, D, V, GB, 4 Mission 209 E. Chicago Downtown Elgin G&L, D, V Encompass 24215 Rush St. Lake Station, IN G&L, D, R, DS Velvet Rope 728 Lake St Oak Park G&L, D, V, R
Adult Entertainment
G------------------------------------------------------------------Gay Male L---------------------------------------------------------------------Lesbian G&L-------------------------------------------------Gay Male & Lesbian D-------------------------------------------------------------------Dancing V-----------------------------------------------------------------------Video GB-------------------------------------------------------------Go Go Boys DS--------------------------------------------------------------Drag Show R--------------------------------------------------------Restaurant, Food
30 boi
The Call 1547 W Bryn Mawr G&L, D, DS, V, LM 773.334.2525 Crew 4804 N. Broadway G&L, V, R 773.784.2739 Davenport’s 1383 N. Milwaukee G&L, LM 773.278.1830 Debonair Social Club 1575 N. MilwaukeeAve. MS, D 773.227.7990 Fat Cat 4849 N. Broadway MS, R 773.506.3100 Green Dolphin St. 2200 N. Ashland G&L, D, LM, 4 773.395.0066 Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway MS, LM, 4 773.878.5552 In Fine Spirits 5420 N Clark MS, R 773.334.9463 Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark G, D, V, GB, LM, 4 773.743.5772 Joi de Vine 1744 W. Balmoral L, R 773.989.6846 Kinetic Playground 1113 W. LawrenceMS, D, LM, 4 773.769.5483 Marty’s 1511 W. Balmoral G&L 773.561.6425 Mary’sAttic 5400 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Parlour On Clark 6341 N. Clark 773.564.9274 Mary’s RecRoom 5402 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Scot’s 1829 W. Montrose G&L 773.528.3253 SoFo Bar 4923 N. Clark G 773.784.7636 T’s 5025 N. Clark G&L, R 773.784.6000 The Glenwood 6962 N Glenwood G 773.764.7363 Touché 6412 N. Clark G, V, LF, 4 773.465.7400
Banana Video 4923 N. Clark G, BK Bijou Theater 1349 N. Wells G, GB, BK Man’s Country 5017 N. Clark G, GB, BH Steamworks 3246 N. Halsted G, BH, FC The Ram 35111/2 N. Halsted G, BK, D
708.771.4459 708.597.8379 847.439.8840 847.488.0320 219.962.4640 708.358.8840
773.561.8322 312.943.5397 773.878.2069 773.929.6080 773.525.9528
4-------------------------------------------------------------Open til 4am MS--------------------------------------------------------Mostly Straight LF---------------------------------------------------------Leather / Fetish W-------------------------------------------------------------------Western LM--------------------------------------------------Live Music / Cabaret BH--------------------------------------------------------------Bath House BK----------------------------------Adult Book, Booth & Video Store FC-------------------------------------------------------------Fitness Club