Saturday 30th of January 2010 09:29:00 PM

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What? This isn't even remotely a beer bar by any stretch. It's a lame hotel bar in the Hilton... a sterile and by the numbers "Irish bar in a box".

The best beer you will find here is Honkers or Guinness for $7, and if you pay that you're a sucker (myself included).

Inside there are a sea of tables, the C-shaped bar is toward the back, partitioned with weird little "faux walls" to make it seem smaller when you sit down. The bartender was prompt with an Irish accent, but looked us up and down and carded thoroughly (it's been awhile). Beer selection is utter crap. This is the selection you get walking blindfolded into any random bar in Chicago. Honkers was the only craft, and the imports were the typical Harp, Guinness, Bass, Stella and that was it. Atmosphere was limited to framed Guinness posters and staring out the window at Grant Park. I'd only come here again if I was staying for free at the Hilton during a blizzard.

If you're in town for business or staying in the Loop for any reason, here are the better alternatives within walking distance:

Kaseys
Hackneys
Villains
The Gage
Binnys South Loop
State & Lake