Hidden Gems

The last month for The Red Lion

The whole idea for this particular department when I started this publication close to two years ago centered around interesting things to do or see in the city that readers may not have otherwise been aware of. Giving the readers an “in,” if you will, on things we’ve explored or taken part in and think you should enjoy as well.

Well, The Red Lion (at 2446 N. Lincoln) is the epitome of what I had in mind for a “Hidden Gem.” I don’t believe I’m overstating this, but a laid-back English pub like this with all its charm (not to mention great authentic grub) makes me appreciate the fact I live in Chicago. No offense to my suburbanite friends, but you don’t find establishments like this in Arlington Heights.

The Red Lion simply oozes character, from the tree growing up through the middle of the beer garden upstairs to the English red phone booth in the middle of the bar to the poetry readings and comedy nights to the cluttered decorations, fireplace and sparkling personality and storytelling ways of Colin Cordwell, the owner and bartender who talks fast and pours slow. And did I mention the place is haunted? Been on TV and everything.

As you can see, I’m rather fond of the place, which is why I must tell you with great remorse that it is being torn down. The building is nearly 130 years old and is damaged beyond repair. A new version of the pub will be built in its place, but it will be a lonely year and a half to spend away while it’s under construction.

So my advice to you is to go out and have the shepherd’s pie or fish and chips and enjoy a pint or two before the place is reduced to rubble. If you’re looking for flat screens and tube tops and $1 bottles, keep walking. But if you enjoy a night at a cozy, casual retreat and don’t mind hearing conversations about politics, world events and European beer, this is your place. But hurry. You’ve got until the end of the month to soak it in.

Gulvsgbalivjgvnl. Those are my tears hitting the keyboard.
— Trent Modglin

Trivia night at Rocks

Looking for something different to do on a Tuesday night that won’t break the bank? Head over to Rocks Lincoln Park on Lakewood Street, just one block south of Diversey, for trivia night. Every Tuesday night, the place is buzzing with big groups full of people anxious to outshine their friends and strangers alike. Patrons are given the opportunity to compete in six rounds of team trivia. Rounds generally consist of two terms of general trivia, one of television trivia, one on pop culture, a name that tune round, and one “advanced supplied” category.

The winner each week receives a discount on their table’s bill, and the second-place team gets to pick the next week’s audience category. Be warned: Depending on who is picking the category, it can range from “Sex and the City” tivia to Chicago factoids to Greek and Roman mythology.

Not sure you and your friends have what it takes to compete? No worries, as it’s worth coming over for the food and drink specials. Half-priced bottles of wine on a very decent wine list go on all night, and appetizers are half-price prior to trivia. Rocks also offers a beer special every month for those so inclined. And have I mentioned they have eight varieties of french fries. Who doesn’t love that fried goodness?

My one word of caution is to get there early. While Rocks itself is still a hidden gem, the word is out on trivia night. Get to the bar early to grab a table and enjoy those appetizers while you wait for trivia to begin.

— Elizabeth Fogerty

MCA’s ‘Sympathy for the Devil: Art and Rock and Roll Since 1967’

I’ve always associated the Museum of Contemporary Art, or “MCA,” with music.

The Beastie Boys (“MCA come and rock the sure shot”) were one of my favorite bands in adolescence. This exhibit, which runs until Jan. 8, perfectly articulates the Faustian bargain struck between art and rock and roll. It begins with the “Summer of Love” in 1967, a bellwether year in rock history.

My favorite piece was Dave Muller’s mixed media mural with a Donald Rumsfeld sounding title: “There Are Known Knowns and Unknown Knowns (with a healthy dose of negation).” It’s based on the book “Rock ‘N’ Roll Is Here to Pay: The History and Politics of the Music Industry” by Steve Chapple and Reebee Garofalo.

On the “Hullabalooza” episode of “The Simpsons,” Homer stated “everyone knows rock achieved perfection in 1974! It’s a proven, scientific fact.” This exhibit agrees, stating the same exact year. Every music junkie should see this drawing that highlights the birth, peak, decline and future of rock and roll in the most unconventional bell curve you’ve ever seen.

The next room over is where you’ll see a floor made of records and a video of a drummer setting up shop in an unexpected place. He bangs away at midfield of the University of California’s Memorial Stadium while the Golden Bears’ football team sprints back and forth. After viewing the exhibit, you’ll answer Jimi Hendrix’s timeless question: “Are you experienced?”

For more information on the Museum of Contemporary Art’s “Sympathy for the Devil” exhibit, log on to www.mcachicago.org
The museum is located at 220 E. Chicago Avenue.

— Paul M. Banks

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