It's easy to be intimidated by the mostly Spanish-speaking crowd at this Uptown bar, but don't let that sway you from stopping in and ordering a round of cheap beer. The only time you should really be worried is when you challenge one of Tropico's regulars to a game of pool; these guys are on top of their game.

Of course, you can always take the edge off with a few more rounds of the hard Mexican liquor. And you won't even have to stumble far to get home since the place is located right across from the Sheridan L station.

Tropico really comes to life on weekends when you can hear Tejano (tex-mex music) streaming from the pub. There's even space for a little drunken dancing in the retro-Elks lodge-themed interior.

Centerstage Reviewer: Erin Brereton