Looney's Pub   

Looney's Pub, on the bustling bar-filled Canton Square, is a destination for softball players, tired workers and sports-crazy fans who want to watch the big game. There's nothing magical about the successful recipe, though a little Irish good luck from owner Bill Larney probably doesn't hurt. Beer specials abound -- check the chalkboard listing them in the cozy dining room -- and a wide selection of Irish suds are available (including Cider, Harp and Tetley's). Food is simple, but portions are huge and affordable. The steamed sampler platter, featuring mussels, clams and shrimp, is a bargain at $9.95 and you'll need a to-go box for sure. Burgers and sandwiches are bodacious and sides like french fries and onion rings will feed the whole table. TVs are everywhere -- it's virtually impossible to sit in one of the bars or the dining room without feeling like you're courtside or in a box seat. A word of caution -- don't ask them to change the channel when Notre Dame is on. The downstairs bar can get cramped, but the upstairs pub is more open and features pool tables and Foosball for the armchair soccer jock. -- Pete Kerzel