THE BAR BELOW “The bar below” Loop diner Beef & Brandy has remodeled and added a craft-beer list. 127 S State St (312-372-3451).file under: beer geeks, college kids, happy hour
THE BEDFORD Michael Simon has unleashed an updated beverage menu (e.g., Pimm’s with lemongrass tonic). 1612 W Division St (773-235-8800). file under: bank vaults, cocktailians
CANTO A room adjacent to Bob San sushi is now an occasional cocktail and karaoke lounge. 1809 W Division St (773-235-8888). file under: random, total eclipses of the heart
THE J. PARKER We’re going to be on this rooftop until the down coats come out. 1816 N Clark St (312-254-4747). file under: cocktailians, great escapes
OLD TOWN POUR HOUSE This is a beer bar. But that hasn’t stopped it from rolling out a new cocktail menu. 1419 N Wells St (312-477-2800). file under: lost in beer-geek territory
THE PONY Honky Tonk Wednesdays (featuring live country music) now pick up the midweek at this sports bar. 1638 W Belmont Ave (773-828-5055). file under: live music
RM CHAMPAGNE SALON Champagne, oysters, miniature cakes and everything else you need to feel special. 116 N Green St (312-243-1199). file under: date night, luxury lives!, winos
SKY TERRACE AT THE IVY How did this stylish roof deck keep its opening so under the radar? 233 E Ontario St (312-335-5444). file under: swank spots