Forget what you thought you knew about pub grub at this dark rock ’n’ roll–themed tavern. Yes, it serves a solid burger—dripping with aged cheddar and bacon jam—but the menu’s gems are Matt Troost’s seasonal dishes, a showcase of local farms featuring beautifully plated housemade pastas and sophisticated meaty entrées. Sure, there are missteps (bland Brussels sprouts swimming in oil and a lamb sausage pizzetta overwhelmed by pickled peppers), but this “bar food” rivals far fancier—and pricier—joints in town. Impressive lineup of Midwestern craft beers and Taylor Street’s best outdoor patio.

Dishes We Liked: Figs and prosciutto with blue cheese, ciabatta, pickled mustard seeds, fried rosemary, and saba ($10); sweet potato gnocchi with braised lamb, mint pesto, confit cipollini, and crispy sweet potato ($18); hand-cut fries with lemon zest, parsley, house ketchup, and aïoli ($4)