St. Patrick’s Day in Norwood Park

The Irish Music Players

Sunday, March 11, 2012 12:00pm – Northwest Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The Northwest Irish Parade is a celebration of faith, family, and heritage on the Northwest side of Chicago.

On Sunday March 11th the Northwest Side Irish will host their 9th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Over 150 parade participants with thousands of spectators will attend the Northwest Side Irish friends and family Parade. The parade participants include The Jesse White Tumblers, The Emerald Society Band, Mullane Irish Dancers, St. Patrick’s High School Jazz Band, Forman High School ROTC, Notre Dame High School Band, Trinity Irish Dancers and many more community friends and families.

The Official NWSI After Party beginning at 1:00 pm will take place at 7211 W. Talcott at the Immaculate Conception Elementary School Recreation Center. Tickets for the after party are 10:00 per person,$5:00 for children 10 and under  includes a Danny Boy Corned Beef and cabbage dinner, Eli’s Cheese cake, beer, wine, soda, and live entertainment! Begins at 1:00 to 5:00pm For ticket info contact jilliankwatson@gmail.com

St. Patrick’s Day in Palatine:

Paint the Town Green

Palatine’s 2nd Annual “Paint the Town Green” festival will be held on Saturday March 17th, 2012. Come on out and “Paint the Town Green”.  This fun filled St. Patrick’s Day Event day kicks off with with an Irish Market under a tent outside of Durty Nellie’s from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm and a Parade at 11:00 am that runs through Downtown Palatine.

During the parade marchers with shopping carts will collect food, clothing and disposable paper products for Journeys from PADS to HOPE.

In addition to the Parade and Irish Market, entertainment is being planned at downtown businesses throughout the day. The parade begins at Oak and Wood Streets and continue west on Wood to Brockway,  and south on Brockway to Wilson. For more info go to www.stpatspalatine.com

During the day, Durty Nellie’s will be serving Irish food and drink specials as well as providing Irish music .

St. Patrick’s Day in Barrington:

Celtic Fest

Barrington’s Celtic Fest” - Friday, March 16th and Saturday, March 17th
The 2nd Annual Barrington Celtic Fest will bring out the Irish in everyone. This two day festival will be in the Village Center located at South Cook Street between Park Avenue and Stations Street. There will be a huge tent in front of  McGonigal’s Irish pub so you can enjoy the celebration without worrying about the fickled March weather. The party will run all day – both days, beginning at 11:00am until 1:00am. Barrington’s St. Patrick’s Day Party will have something for everyone including: live music, Irish dancers, bagpipers and of course plenty of  Irish brew will be flowing in both the festival tent and at McGonigal’s Pub. All the festivities are conveniently located right next to the Barrington Metra Train Station. Best of all admission is FREE!

St. Patrick’s Day in Crystal Lake:

St. Patrick’s Day at Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen:
Come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen ALL MONTH LONG with great food specials and fine Irish ales including Innis and Gunn, Boulevard’s Irish Ale, and Conway’s Irish Red. Food specials include Reubens, Corned Beef and Cabbage, Irish Stew, Bailey’s Creme Brulee, and more.

Celebrate St. Patty’s Day this year at Crystal Lake’s Oldest Irish Pub, Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen. $5 cover starts at 8pm. Saturday: MAIN STAGE 3pm-4pm- Step-dancers 6pm-8pm- Joshua Skaja 10pm-Close- Owen Too!

For more info go to www.thedukeabides.com

Flannel Friday

Grab  some friends and head for Woodstock next Friday for  the 3rd installment in Chrome Attic’s winter series,”‘Flannel Friday”, held at the Woodstock VFW Post 5040. There will be 2 great Chicago bands taking the stage to play to the flanneled masses: the (almost) all female rock band Hollows and folk-rock sweethearts Evoli.
 

You ask- Why is it called Flannel Friday???  Those who wear plaid/flannel to the show get their first drink for FREE! It’s that easy!
Chrome Attic Entertainment is throwing parties where ever parties can be thrown. Woodstock VFW Post 5040 is as good a place as any. Matter of fact, it’s better than good. They offer great space with 2 stages, 2 fully stocked bars, $1.50 drafts and undoubtedly the best music line-up in Woodstock. Their friendly staff and Americana decor are a breath of fresh air from the redundant bar scene some are used to. A night of cheap drinks, great music and fresh atmosphere make Flannel Fridays a must!

The show will be caught on camera, so dress down, smile and say flannel! There is no cover and you get a FREE drink if you wear a flannel/plaid. All they ask is that you come out ready to party and that you bring some friends.

For info https://www.facebook.com/chromeattic#!/chromeattic?sk=app_178091127385

Woodstock Opera House 121 West Van Buren Street Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-5300

Woodstock

Woodstock Opera House

The Woodstock Opera House sits prominently on Woodstock Square and dates back to 1889.  The theater has a rich past with many famous actors having performed there including Paul Newman and Orson Welles. The Opera House has been fully modernized and host live theater, concerts, dance productions and lectures. The theater is minutes from the Woodstock Metra Station and there are a number of restaurants in the area for dining before or after the show. One restaurant we can recommend is La Petite Creperie & Bistot which is located less than a block from the Opera House.

To get to the Opera house from the Woodstock Metra Station head southeast on Wheeler St. then continue on to Main St. Take a right on Cass St., left on N. Johnson St., then left on Van Buren. This should be  about a 5 minute walk.

Crystal Lake

Raue Center For the Arts

Raue Center For The Arts 26 N. Williams Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Phone: 815-356-9212

The home of the Raue Center for the Arts dates back to 1929 when it first opened it’s doors as the El Tovar. The building was primarily a movie theater and after years of use, the theater needed a face lift. In 2001 after many renovations the theater reopened as the Raue Center for the Arts. The Raue has been fully modernized and yet retained it’s original charm. Today in addition to live theater the Raue hosts stand up comedy, musical acts, ballets and other visual performances. The theater is located in the heart of downtown Crystal Lake and within walking distance from the train. There are a number of restaurants in Crystal Lake, such as Georgio’s Chicago Pizzeria & Pub, a Crystal Lake favorite known for their Pizza or Dukes Alehouse and Kitchen featuring great food and outstanding craft beers. Duke’s is also known for using locally sustainable meat and produce as well as offering many vegetarian dining options.

To get to the Raue Center for the Arts head northwest on Railroad St., left on Grant St., left on West Woodstock St., and then left on Williams St. This is an easy walk and should only take about 6 minutes.

Arlington Heights

Metropolis 111 West Campbell St. Arlington Heights, Il 60005 847-577-2121

Metropolis

To get to the Metropolis from the Downtown Arlington Heights Metra Station, head south on North Vail Ave., then right on W. Campbell St. This theater is only a 2 minutes walk from the station.

Edison Park

The James Downing Theater

The James Downing Theater is a program of the Edison Park United Methodist Church and housed in The John Waldron Arts Center. Ticket prices are extremely affordable and the theater features many original and well known plays. The theater is located only 2 blocks from the train and less than a block from all of the great Edison Park restaurants.

The theater is only a 3 minute walk from the Edison Park Metra Station. Head southeast on N. Olmstead Ave., then left on N. Oliphant Ave.

The James Downing Theater
6740 N. Oliphant
Chicago, IL  60631

P: 224- 725-3696

Jefferson Park

the gift theatre 4802 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60630 773-283-7071

The gift theatre company

The gift theatre company is a small (Only 50 seats) theater offering original performances in an intimate setting. In addition to live theater the gift theater company has an improv group called Natural Gas. On most Wednesdays and occasional Fridays, you can enjoy 50 minutes of improv for only $5.00. Before the show you may want to enjoy dinner at The Gale Street Inn a Chicago-land favorite known for their ribs and conveniently located across the street from the Jefferson Park Metra Station.
To get to the gift theater company form the Jefferson Park Metra Station just head southeast on N. Milwaukee St. for about 5 minutes.

If you are a fan of the Bulls or the Blackhawks hop on board to make getting to the United Center easy. Whether you are coming into the city from the Ogilvie Transportation Center, Union or Millennium Station, all you have to do is take the CTA #19 Express Bus. The buses operate every 10 minutes, starting 90 minutes before the game.

Russell Phillips and Cynthia Crampton, two Chicago area artists who own and operate OnView, invite you to come and explore their unique art venue.

OnView Art Gallery

‘OnView’ is an innovative art venue representing established local and national artists who are actively creating new work. The Gallery, offers a wide range of fine art media including painting, sculpture, photography, furniture, and more. Inspiring the name, each artist’s work is always ‘OnView’. 

OnView’s diverse inventory allows for a wide range of price points. Whether you are an aficionado or a first time buyer you will be captivated with their unique blend of collectible art. For the inside scoop on current displays and upcoming events go to http://www.onviewllc.com or visit them on  facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/OnView/163243203722576 

139 N. Northwest Hwy
Park Ridge, IL 60068
224-585-0503

Winter Hours: W-F: 12-6pm, Sa: 12-5pm, additional hours available upon request, call 224-585-0503.

Upcoming Events:

POWER HOUSE, photographs by Russell Phillips

Currently on display at OnView through March 17th, 2012.

Artist’ Reception, Saturday, February 11 from 5 to 8pm.

Pop's Bar and Grill, 19 N. Bothwell St., Palatine, IL. 60067 847-202-9069

We suggest you start the evening at Pop’s (Pete’s of Palatine). Located only minutes from the train station. Pop’s has a great selection of craft, domestic, imported and seasonal beers. There is never a cover charge and if you want to grab a bite to eat before setting out for the next bar Pop’s is known for their wings and homemade pizza some of which are unique to Pop’s such as the Pot Roast Pizza or the Pulled Pork Pizza with Giardiniera.  Check the menu because there are always daily food and drink specials.

From the Palatine Metra Station head east on W. Wood St., turn right on N. Brockway St., left on W. Slade St. and N. on Bothwell St. The walk should only take about 4 minutes.

TJ O’Brien’s Bar and Grill is just down the street from Pop’s. This Irish

T.J. O'Brien's 53 West Slade St., Palatine, IL 60067 847-468-7468

Sports bar also features daily drink specials as well as some great food, including some Irish favorites. If anyone in your group is up to it, there is an Italian Beef Challenge if you can eat a three foot Italian Beef Sandwich in under 30 minutes you will not only get the sandwich free  but forever be immortalized on the wall with your name and picture. You can also enjoy a game of pool at the only pool table in downtown Palatine.

To get to TJ O’Brien’s form Pop’s head north on N. Bothwell St. and continue on W. Slade. T.J. O’Briens is only about a minute away.

The last stop on the crawlis Lamplighter Inn Tavern and Grill. Everyone that has ridden the train has probally seen the Lamplighter as it’s outdoor, upper deck overlooks the Metra Tracks. Once again they offer daily food and drink specials. Depending on the night of the week the Lamplighter often has live music, karaoke, open mic, and open jam. For more information http://www.lamplighters.com/

The Lamplighter Inn Tavern and Grill 60 N. Bothwell St., Palatine, IL 60067 847-991-2420

To get to The Lamplighter from T.J. O’Brien’s,  go west on W. Slade St., turn right on N. Brockway St., right on W. Wilson St., then right on N. Bothwell. It is a short 3 minute walk. To get back to the train station head north on N. Bothwell St., left on Wood St., then left on N.Smith St. Allow approximately 5  minutes.

Welcoming of the Groundhog

Celebrate the coming of Groundhog Day and Spring at the week-long celebration in the charming town of Woodstock. Woodstock Square was the filming site for the 1993  Movie ‘Groundhog Day’, that starred Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. Have fun taking  part in the Groundhog Prognostication and walking the path that Phil Connors walked over and over again in the movie.

While you are in Woodstock grab a bite to eat  in one of their many restaurants. One of our favorites is La Petite Creperie & Bistrot for classic french fare and Crepes, they will be open for a special breakfast on Thursday at 7:00am. Also take some time and visit Woodstock’s eclectic mix of retail stores like the Green Boxfor Eco friendly, organic and local merchandise and Interiors Anew, featuring recycled, redesigned and new home furnishing and accessories.

Wednesday, February 1st:

The Week of festivities start with the Welcoming of the Groundhog, where Woodstock Willie will make an appearance on the balcony of the Opera House on Woodstock square. He will then pose for pictures with his fans. Then head to Pirro’s restaurant for hot chocolate and play Groundhog Movie Trivia. Cost-Free  

Groundhog Day Prognostication

Thursday, Feb 2nd:

Be there at 7:00 a.m. for the Groundhog Day Prognostication by the groundhog known as Woodstock Willie  for the re-enactment of the Ground Hog Day ceremony, that as a weatherman, Bill Murray reported on; over and over again. That scene from the movie was filmed in the same spot on the Woodstock Square. This event is free. Be sure to dress for the weather.

Enjoy the official Groundhog Day Breakfastimmediately following at Pirro’s restaurant (reservations suggested), Cost $15.

At 5pm, view the Movie, ‘Groundhog Day’ in the theater featured in the movie! Classic Cinemas in Downtown Woodstock is providing three FREE opportunities to do just that during the week of Groundhog Days. All seating is first come – first serve, so line up early for your chance to see Groundhog Days on the big Screen. (They will also have showings on Saturday and Sunday at 10am)

Friday, February 3rd:

The annual Shake off the Winter Blues Charity Danceheld in the Woodstock Moose Lodge at 406 Clay Street, just a block from Woodstock’s Metra train station and 2 blocks from the square. This fun event brings people from all over to reminisce about the filming of the Groundhog Day movie that was filmed in Woodstock, and in the lodge. Enjoy dinner, live music , raffles, prize drawing and fun. Buffet Dinner at 6pm – 7:30pm, dancing 8pm till Midnight. Cost-$15 proceeds to charity.

Saturday February 4th:

Woodstock Calssic Cinema

at 10am– View the Groundhog Day Movie at the Woodstock Theater, Cost-Free. Or hear Jim May tell the story of “Groundhog Tales”, held at Home State Bank, Cost-Free.

From noon to 1:15pm you can warm up with some chili at the Annual Chili Cook Off, at Stage Left Cafe. Cost-Donation

At 1:30pm there will be a Walking Tour of the “Groundhog Day” Filming Sites. Gather at Stage Left Café where Bob Hudgins, who was the location manager for the film,will lead you on this fun and informative walk around Woodstock. Dress warm and wear comfortable shoes!  Cost-Free

3-4pm attend the “Groundhog Day Movie Symposium” where fans of the movie can gather to discuss facts, trivia, insights and issues relevant to the movie. This more in-depth forum takes place at the Stage Left Café. Cost-Free

From 5:30 -11pm, Take 17 – Lights, Camera, Auction, (This event is held in Crystal Lake, alternate transportation would be necessary), a dinner and fundraiser for School Dist 200 for ticket info go to http://www.woodstockschools.org/district-200-education-foundation

Sunday, February 5th:

at 10am, View the Groundhog Day Movie at the Woodstock Theater, Cost-Free.

At noon, take part in the Walking Tour of the “Groundhog Day” Filming Sites. Gather at Stage Left Café where Bob Hudgins, who was the location manager for the film,will lead you on this fun and informative walk around Woodstock. Dress warm and wear comfortable shoes! Cost-Free

Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern is new to Woodstock but resides in a 1906, historic red brick  building. The tavern is in an ideal location just steps away from the Woodstock Square and the Metra Train Station. The owners Mike and Tammy Ortmann have worked hard on refurbishing the bar and can’t wait to welcome you to their tavern.

Mike & Tammy Ortmann

On January 1st we had a chance to talk with the husband and wife team Mike and Tammy Ortmann about their new business.

When did you open the tavern?

We officially opened on June 24th, 2011.

Why did you choose Woodstock as the location for your bar?

The people in Woodstock are great. We have lived in Woodstock for over 40 years and raised our family here. We owned the building for several years and the timing was right for us to open our own place. There has been a bar on this site for most of it’s history.

There are a lot of bars and restaurants in Woodstock already, what sets you apart?

We are happy to be a part of a nice group of hometown bars on or near the square. Being located near the other establishments and being so close to the train station makes us an ideal stop for community members, commuters or visitors to Woodstock. We really want to provide our customers a great place to gather with their friends for some fun and socialization. We have a pool table, pinball machine, darts and 3 large screen T.V.’s. We also have free WiFi.

Red Iron Bar

What can people expect when they visit Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern?

They will find a terrific hometown tavern that is a fun place to be and where you can feel comfortable coming on your own or with a group of friends and always count on a friendly face to greet you. The interior features a horseshoe shaped oak bar with an exposed tin ceiling.

You just renovated your kitchen,  do you serve food?

Yes, we have a limited menu which we we hope to expand in the future. Right now we are serving our pulled pork sandwiches and pizza.

How did you come up with the name for the tavern?

The name comes from the unique architectural iron work on the front of the building.

Signature Drink

Do you have any Daily Drink Specials?

Yes, we have $1.50 domestic pints on Friday and $2.00 domestic bottles on Saturday.  We have eight beers on tap and one of our signature drinks is the ‘Apple Pie Shot’. We also feature Rum Chata drinks, McSorley’s from New York, great Bloody Marys, and delicious frozen shots as well.

What else would you like People to know about Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern?

We  support the community and hold a number of events at the tavern that benefit various community organizations. We encourage people to like us on facebook for up-to-date info on upcoming events. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Iron-Tavern/129395380481416

Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern
101 East Church Street
Woodstock, IL 60098

1-815-338-7334

Hours of Operation:

Monday – Thursday: 3 p.m. - Close.
Friday: 2:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – Close.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Iron-Tavern/129395380481416

The Starline Gallery

This is one of Just off the Tracks favorites and one of the best bargains out there. For your $5 entrance you stroll through the art exhibit, grab a generous pour of wine and nibble on the eclectic hors d’oeuvres, listening to live music in a picture perfect setting. What could be better? Oh, I forgot you can also meet and mingle with the artists.

The Starline Gallery – “Fourth Fridays”: 6:00 – 9:00 pm on the Fourth Friday of every month. This monthly gala art exhibit and reception showcases established and emerging artists as well as live original music, open artist studios and delectable hors d’oeuvres.

The Starline Factory  houses theses monthly exhibits. This refurbished factory has an open floor plan, high ceilings and is bathed in natural light adding to the magic of the evening.

We checked out Fourth Fridays at The Starline Gallery and decided that this may be a new monthly tradition.

400 W. Front St., Harvard, IL 60033
Metra lets out right behind the building

1. Story time: 

at Read Between the Lynes in Woodstock. The kids will enjoy having a book read to them at this cute book store on the square in Woodstock. There is no charge, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Story-time starts at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Saturdays and lasts about 20 – 25 minutes. If finances allow let your child have fun selecting a book and help support one of the few independent bookstores left. There are a lot of  stores and restaurants on the square to fill in the remainder of you time in Woodstock

Read Between The Lynes
129 Van Buren Street
Woodstock, IL
815-206-5967

Woodstock Theater

2. Catch a Matinee

With so many movies out for children this season, enjoy taking the family to a matinee at one of the theaters on the train line.  The all of following theaters feature bargain matinees and are within easy walking distance from the train.

Woodstock Theater
209 Main Street
Woodstock , IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-8555

Arlington Heights Theater
53 S. Evergreen Ave.
Arlington Heights, IL 6005
Phone: 847-483-0123

Pickwick Theater
5 Prospect Ave.
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Phone:  847-604-2234

#3 Go Bowling

Habetler Bowl

Hit the lanes at one of these family friendly venues.

4. Arts and Crafts

Paint your own Pottery at one of these studios.

40 N. Williams St., Brinks Street Market, Crystal Lake, IL., 60014 815-444-6780

Color Me Mine
40 North Williams Street
Crystal Lake, IL  60014 (Downtown Crystal Lake Metra Station)
Phone: 815-444-6780 http://www.crystallake.colormemine.com/

 Thrown Elements
260 N. Evergreen Ave.
Arlington Heights, IL 60004(Downtown Arlington Heights Metra Stop)
Phone: 847-818-1313

 
5. Visit the Art Institute:

6. Ice Skating

Even if the weather outside is not cooperating you can always enoy an open skate at one of these indoor rinks.

Oakton Ice Arena
2800 West Oakton
Park Ridge, IL (Dee Road Metra)
Phone: 847-692-3359

Crystal Lake Ice House
320 East Prairie St.
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Phone: 815-356-8500

Spectators From 2010's Tournament

The 2012 winter jump

Norge Ski Clubs 107th  Annual Winter Ski Jump Tournament is Saturday, January 28th and 29th. The tournament starts at noon, and the gates open at 11:00.

Norge plans on hosting 4 International Teams who will be competing against elite Jumpers from the U.S. in the 4th stop of the 5-Hills Tour. Also, highly ranked U.S. Junior Jumpers from the Central and Eastern Divisions will be vying for an opportunity to participate in the Junior National Championships scheduled to take place at the Olympic Jump Facility in Park City, Utah in early March.

Food, alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages are available on site (no carry-ins allowed).  You can bring chairs and a blanket to help stay warm & cozy or you can gather around the fire barrel.

Pickwick Theatre

The Park Ridge Civic Orchestra’s 2012 seasons next performance is a great way to celebrate Valentines Day.  All of their performances are held at the historic Pickwick Theater.

The Orchestra is Directed by Edgar Muenzer, Music Director and Conductor. The theater is conveniently located minutes from the Park Ridge Metra Station.  Head southeast on Summit Avenue, left on South Prospect Avenue. The Pickwick is on the Right.

Sunday, February 12th, 2012 at 2:30pm – Valentine Romance – Victor Muenzer, Conductor, Joe Lill, Trumpet – Lisa Taylor, Horn – Alan Steiner, Bass – Dan Golden, Viola.  A Suite From West Side Story – Bernstein, Eine Kleine Klezmer Musik, Opus 18 No. 2 – Golden, Romeo & Juliet, Opus 64 – Prokofiev

Sunday, March 11th, 2012 At 2:30pm - European Mix – Edgar Muenzer, Conductor, Children’s Corner Suite – Debussy, Le Tambeau De Couperin – Ravel, Siegfried Idyll – Wagner, Pulcinella – Stravinsky

Sacred & Profane - Edgar Muenzer, Conductor, Sarah Hibbard, Soprano – Peder Reiff, Tenor, Park Ridge Civic Orchestra Chorus, John Goodwin, Director, Park Ridge Community Church Chancel Choir, Sasha Gerritson, Director. Scherzo Capriccioso, Op. 66 – Dvo?ák, Blumine – Mahler, Carmina Burana – Orff

Tickets for concerts are available by calling the number below or by visiting one of the “ticket centers” listed on the Park Ridge Civic Orchestra website. Ticket Prices are also on the website. Complimentary sponsored student tickets are available.  Tickets can be purchased in advance via our phone or they can also be purchased at the door on the day of the concert. Children under 18 are free.

PRCO Contact Number: (847) 692-7726
http://prcocivo.park-ridge.il.us/

TJ O’Brien’s is not just another sports bar. Although it is a friendly place to watch the game and grab a beer…… it’s much more.  You can also enjoy a home cooked Irish meal right in the heart of Downtown Palatine.  

We recently had the chance to talk with the owners, Tim and Jimmy O’Brien, Father and Son, about TJ O’Brien’s Bar & Grill and find out why they are one of Palatines favorite destinations.  

Play A Game Of Pool

Tell us how TJ O’Brien’s came about.  

My son, Jimmy wanted a sports bar with a fun atmosphere and nightlife. I wanted to serve good food and incorporate our Irish Heritage. So about a year ago, TJ O’Brien’s came to life – an “Irish Sports Bar”. We are a great place to watch a game, hang out with friends and enjoy a great meal.  

Why did you choose to locate in Palatine?  

Palatines vibrant downtown area makes it a great destination for restaurants, bars & nightlife.  It is also filled with some of the friendliest people in Illinois, which gives it a small town feel.  

You mentioned your food, tell us about your menu.  

We serve a full menu with homemade pizza and other pub favorites such as burgers and Italian beef. Our customers can take our “Italian Beef Challenge”, if you can eat our 3 foot long Italian beef sandwich in under 30 minutes, it’s Free. Winners also get their name and picture on the wall, win or lose you get a great sandwich and a T-Shirt with a funny slogan. We are proud to serve our Traditional  ‘Irish House Specialties’ that our chef makes from recipes handed down from my Grandmother.  

TJ Obrien,s Menue Click to Enlarge

TJ Obrien,s Menue Click to Enlarge

Can you tell us about your Chef?  

Sure, James Parker is a master chef for over 30 years. He puts a new spin on old classics, like our  Irish Egg Rolls, with corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut served with Thousand Island dressing or the Shamrock Turkey Melt with 3 cheeses, turkey, bacon, avocado & creamy coleslaw. His specialty is the Prime Rib, watch for our Prime Rib Specials.  

What are your favorite dishes?  

 My favorite is the “O” Ruben and Jimmy’s is the Italian Beef, but I can recommend everything on our menu.  

It sounds like you d0 concentrate on the food, what do you to accommodate Jimmy for the fun Sports Bar?

We have 3 to 5  great drink specials every day. Here are just a few, Monday $3 Coronas & Heinekeins, Tuesday $2 Bartender Shots, Wednesday $5 Car Bombs, Thursday $5 Martinis, Friday $4 Captain Morgan Mixers, Saturday $3 Sam Adams Bottles, and on Sunday a $4 Bloody Mary.  And of course we have several large screen TVs, the only pool table in Downtown Palatine and we occasionally have live entertainment and DJ’s.

What do you feel makes TJ’s unique?  

We are the only Neighborhood, Irish Sports Bar in Downtown Palatine. Our customers usually come for the food and stay for the fun!  

Have Your Next Function In Their Party Room

You are right across from the Metra Station, do you see a lot of commuters?  

We get a lot of people stopping in on their way home,  we also welcome Train & Bar Crawls.  

Is there anything else that you would like your customers to know?  

You can also enjoy our food at your own party with our catering or here in our intimate party room with a fireplace. The use of the room is free with the purchase of food and drink.  

TJ O’Brien’s 
53 West Slade Street
Palatine, IL  60067847-468-7468

 Hours of Operation: 

Sunday Through Thursday -  Bar 9am-12am, Kitchen 9am-9pm

 Friday & Saturday -  Bar 9am-1am,   Kitchen  11am-11pm

Casual Attire  

Vanity Share Resale Boutique

Vanity Share Resale Boutique is new to the Downtown Barrington Landscape. This adorable shop looks more boutique than resale. The owner has a sharp eye for what women want and flair for displaying quality, yet affordable merchandise.

Laura Howard

On October 19th we interviewed Laura Howard the owner of Vanity Share about her new Boutique.

I understand that your shop is relatively new?

That’s right, I have always wanted my own business and with the encouragement of my husband I opened in May 2011.

How would you describe Vanity Share?

Vanity Share is a mid-label resale shop for women. We feature upscale merchandise from stores such as “White House/Black Market”, “Ann Taylor”, “Banana Republic”, “J.Crew”,  and “Talbots”.

Like New Clothing & Accessories

Why did you choose Barrington as the location for your store?

The community is great and although there are a number of resale and consignment stores here, none of the stores carried the same merchandise I chose to feature. I wanted to cover a niche no one else had, being that we are not designer, vintage or thrift.

What do you feel makes your business unique?

I pick out every piece of clothing, as well as accessories, shoes and hats. Everything is washed, dry cleaned or put into a hot dryer. The average price of our clothing is $20.00. Everything looks as new as possible. We won’t put out any merchandise with stains, tears or pilling.

Outfit You From Head To Toe

Wow, that seems like a terrific price point.

It was important to me to provide my customers with stylish and affordable clothing.

Is there anything else people might like to know about Vanity Share?

We have the ability to accommodate customers looking for off season merchandise. So anyone planning a cruise or a warm weather vacation in the winter can find what they need. We also can act as your personal shopper and outfit you from head to toe.

Vanity Share Resale Boutique
128 E. Main Street
Barrington, IL 60010

847-304-0003

www.vanityshareresale.com

Hours of Operation:

Closed Sunday
Monday 1p.m. – 5p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 10a.m. – 6p.m.
Thursday 1p.m. – 7p.m.
Saturday 10a.m. – 4p.m.

Pop’s Bar and Grill in Palatine is a place where you can count on a friendly face, a cold beer and a game on a large screen TV. What you probably don’t know is that the kitchen is manned by a chef with expertise in Italian Cuisine. Come for a drink and stay for the food, you won’t be disappointed.

Welcome to Pop's

On September 29th we interviewed Peter Pinion about his bar and grill in downtown Palatine. Pops is not only his business but also his home away from home. Peter is young, energetic and has been in the bar and restaurant business most of his adult life. Chances are you will see him when you visit.

Peter Pinion

How long have you owned Pops (Pete’s of Palatine)?

I opened Pop’s  four years ago, I bought it  from my best friend and got married in the same month. I wouldn’t recommend that to anyone. I used to hang out here so when the opportunity came, I jumped at the chance to buy it.

Which part of your background in the industry helps you most in running Pop’s?

I used to bartend, I love people and I think it gave me a better understanding of what my customers want.

Fully Stocked Bar

What kind of beer and liquor selection can customers expect to find at Pop’s?

We have a great selection of craft, domestic, imported and seasonal beers. We also have a full liquor selection however we don’t serve blended drinks.

Tell us about your food menu.

We have a full menu but are probably best known for our wings and pizza. Our chef use to be the chef at a local Italian Restaurant, everything is fresh and made from scratch, including our pizza dough.

I wouldn’t have guessed you made pizza here.

we do and in addition to the traditional pizzas that you find everywhere we offer some specialty pizzas such as our “Pot Roast Pizza” and our “Pulled Pork with Giardiniera”

What’s your favorite thing on your menu?

(Pause) It’s hard to pick one thing, but I would have to say it’s the “Spicy Garlic Wings”

Do you run any specials?

We do, we have a different food, liquor and beer special everyday of the week. Even on week-ends.

There are a lot of bars and restaurant right here in downtown Palatine. Do you think that hurts or helps your business?

I think it’s great. It makes Palatine is a great destination for bars and dining as well as bar-crawls. We are located minutes from the train.

Party Room

I noticed your party room in the back, is that available for private parties?

Absolutely, we don’t charge for the room and our chef will make anything the customers wants, even if it’s not on the menu. The room has  a 92″ screen so a lot of fantasy football and baseball teams will use the room. We also have a power point projector for business meetings. The room has been used for bachelor and bachelorette parties even baby showers.

With all the large screen T.V.’s do you get a lot of people coming in to watch games?

Yes and for $5.00 during every Bears home game we have an all you can eat buffet of wings, pizza and chili.

What else would you like people to know about Pop’s?

I try to treat everyone that walks through the door like a friend or family member. We have no cover charge and this is a great place to socialize.

Pop’s Bar and Grill
19 N. Bothwell
Palatine, IL 60067

847-202-9069

www.popsbarandgrill.com

Hours of Operation:

Sunday – Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Outside seating
Casual Attire