Celtic Crossing. Chicago, Illinois

751 North Clark Street #95

Guinness Tag: $8.50 | Overall Rating: 8.40

Today's Dedicated Pint: Skyline Chili

If you're on the lash in Chicago and need the Craic, then find a way to stumble into the Celtic Crossing. Don't come drunk, of course. Come to this little spot if you're craving live Irish music, steel tip darts, a warm fireplace, and really good conversations. The bartenders here are some of the best, who do an impeccable job at keeping a good conversation alive and getting everyone involved. This is one of the two Pubs out of 22 overall that had me staying for more than just one pint during my short trip in Chicago. The Craic is alive and well here at Celtic Crossing.

The curb appeal has a nice charm to it with a classic red and black storefront. You'll find window boxes with greenery inside of them during the warmer months, and a small foyer to keep the cold air out during the wintertime. As you manage your way to the bar, you'll notice a decent amount of bare wall space, although the few wall hangings that they do have are interesting and authentic. The interior has a mix of both proper and westernized feels to it, and it's hard to determine which Pub style it leans towards the most. Something tells me the place will develop a nice amount of patina alongside some more decor over the next decade or so.

As I said earlier, the bartenders are everything here. Brian and Ivan run the place, bartend, and ensure that everyone is having a better time inside these walls than anywhere else. Before our first pint came anywhere close to being finished, Brian had already told us a couple of stories and started talking smack about Ohio in a friendly banter. He knows how to relate to anyone who walks through the door, except for a guy named "Murphy..."

A homeless man came in twice during our visit to Celtic Crossings, and he got kicked out both times in record timing. It was amusing. The guy was rude and smelled like a three-week-old diaper that's been soaked in apple cider vinegar and marinated in a fart. For everyone's sakes: he needed to go.

It's frustrating when you go into an Irish Pub and the only beer from across the pond is Guinness. Celtic Crossing offers 13 beers on tap and most of them are imported. They also have an incredible whiskey selection that will make anyone happy. You may not find as much eye candy here as you see at either the Kerryman or Butch McGuire's, but the Craic is fantastic. We had nice interactions with everyone who sat alongside us throughout our time, including one couple from Toledo, Ohio and a nice lady from Hawaii.

The dart boards are tucked away by the fireplace, which is awesome. You'll also find some high-top tables and toiletries in the back area as well. The fireplace has a layered stone finish with a good mantel, perfect for resting a marvelously poured Guinness from Brian.

I love the idea of returning to the Celtic Crossing if the opportunity ever presents itself, although I can't say that I'll ever fight my schedule to make sure it happens. I'm confident that you'll have a great time here. It's easy to keep the tab rolling, which is one sure-fire way to know that the Pub is doing something right. It's not as memorable as a few others out there, but it's certainly worthy of the nod.

A Guinness Pint Glass with a Bear, along with 2 Cheeky Coasters

Thanks, Brian. Keep kickin' ass.