Walking distance from Wrigley Field is a bar that looks and feels nothing like the seemingly countless options in that area. Blokes & Birds is probably the most unique destination on the Wrigleyville scene. This British inspired pub offers everything from house blends of its own bourbon to beer on cask & funk classics. Every Friday they tap a firkin and relax to funk grooves to celebrate the weekend.
We were introduced to a pair of amazing selections from UK’s Thornbridge Brewery – Jaipur (English IPA) & Kipling (South Pacific Pale Pale) on our visit, the latter of w a crisp, delightful finish much like a nice Sauvignon Blanc. An impromptu pairing of bourbon infused with peaches, cinnamon and 3 types of vanilla with these beers from England was the most fun I’ve had since Chicago Craft Beer Week.
When owner Daily Webb embarked on the endeavor of rehabilitating the building, this two-story bar was the crowning achievement of a development that includes ten apartments—a prime spot if one were looking to find a property here. The allure of a well-curated beer selection is matched only by a knowledgeable staff eager to engage in hoppy discourse. Sipping on a cask of Sky High Rye from Arcadia, I mused over transforming my own basement to mirror the warm, inviting ambiance of this establishment. They’ve previously featured casks of Jaipur and local delights such as Askew (sour ale) from Two Brothers Brewing, and even a special coriander-spiced edition of Krankshaft from Metropolitan Brewing.
With a food menu that includes classic items like fish ‘n chips and shepard’s pie, in addition to contemporary fare like lobster stuffed deviled eggs and the Foie Burger (prime beef & foie gras w truffle chips) this public house is a very cool alternative to the norm in the Lakeview area.
–Nkosi