Brownstone   

Yuppie neighborhood bar owner Chris Freeman (Schoolyard Tavern, Gaslight Bar & Grill) took a vintage watering hole and turned it into his latest nightlife offering. This casual eatery and tavern in Lakeview, caters to the area's young families and trendy professionals. The airy spot offers a true neighborhood atmosphere without too much of the dive factor. Those who like their casual hangs a little cushy will not be disappointed, as Brownstone features vintage lighting fixtures, stained glass, candlelight fixtures and a Victorian mahogany bar. Sophisticated accents include the leather banquettes, six-foot mahogany columns and nine, large flat-screen TVs. The menu deftly mixes typical bar fare with sprinkles of fine dining cuisine, from a Thai chili crusted salmon and Australian lamb chops to a pulled pork po'boy and Reuben roll (fried wonton stuffed with Reuben sandwich fixings). The house dessert is the skillet cookie, a tasty, decadent cookie-and-ice-cream concoction (also served at Gaslight and Schoolyard). A satellite radio pumps out contemporary hits from Dave Matthews Band to Nelly. Every Sunday, patrons may jam to the sounds of Acoustawa, a three-piece acoustic collective performing from 8PM-3AM. The cozy sidewalk cafe seats 60 diners. Got a pooch? Settle in the popular sidewalk seating area with friends and man's best friend. While you take advantage of daily drink specials, Fido gets a special dish with water.