Friday 4th of June 2010 07:07:03 PM

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I'll always remember Charleston as the place I got to know my old neighbors over pool and beers, and where I first tried Half Acre Lager (hated it). It's a remnant of what Bucktown used to be, a bohemian's locale, before rapid development nearly changed the face of the whole area.

This is an eclectic neighborhood dive, chock full of oddities and authenticity. DJ's, live bands and open mics occasionally. Local art usually. Vintage floors, ornate wooden bar, everything has that "old bar smell". It's on a secluded corner in Bucktown, close enough to Map Room if you want to escape the crowds there.

Beer selection has improved recently, local goods like Pride & Joy, Metro Kolsch, even Juliet & BCS! staples like Two Hearted, and a handful of Belgians like Dupont and Orval. Affordable prices on everything, and gracious service. Cut my craft beer teeth here I guess, before I could afford hitting the Map Room.

Charleston will always remind me of the good old times, even though its somewhat eclipsed by finer establishments nearby. Go here for an authentic Chicago tavern experience. A sign outside say all profits this year benefit breast cancer research... wow!