Looking for a good low-key Bucktown hangout? Head over to Lottie's, a lovely slice of barstool space. This bar is a little off the beaten track (and from the outside, it looks somewhat beaten), but inside, it's got a cozy vintage atmosphere with plenty of tables, stools and neighbors kicking back with a bottle of beer and a story.

Serving drinks and scandals (the sorority-free kind) since 1934, the real story is Lottie's itself: Rumors abound about the place (it was once supposedly a gambling hall, prostitution den and strip place) and about Lottie himself. Check out the picture on the wall of tough Lottie decked out in a dress.

This eclectic bar hinges on funky or just plain wild; there's a little bit of chaos to the decor, to the clientele (everything from preppy recent college grads to funky indie rock types) and a dog or two has even been known to wander into the place. More than 20 TVs show whatever game you're referring to when you say "the game." Trade your typical Yeager Bomb for one of the signatures, like the Blue Bomb: Blue Wave Raspberry vodka in a glass of Roaring Lion. Soak up the aftermath with bar food, like the economical $3 chips and salsa and $4 BLT on Texas Toast.

Centerstage Reviewer: Erin Brereton