PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Bicycle enthusiasts have a place to call home in Chicago, and it is located just a minute ride west of the Doubledoor. Handlebar's extends free plates of fries and drink specials to bike messengers on Monday nights and are hotspots for bike rider organizations like the monthly Critical Mass. While not entirely vegetarian, veggie folks also frequently patronize Handlebar's , due to their wide variety of vegan and vegetarian selections, as well as their "no farm, no fowl" menu policy. A few fish selections however are present.

For veggie novices, choosing items featuring seitan verses tofu is probably a safer bet, as that wheat meat tends to take on more of a familiar flavor than its soy based counterpart. The Barbecued Seitan sandwich is an easy choice, and the Apple Celery Slaw it’s paired with is especially unique and delicious. Add on a plate of home made Fries or their awesome Garlic Mashed Potatoes, along with a good pint for the perfect, guilt free and peddle powering meal.

While they are now serving breakfast, the menu is somewhat lacking. However, its location and the somewhat easy parking in the area allows those without bikes to make it over and possibly convert. The patio out back is a nice brunch spot in summer, too.

The overall "come as you are" vibe present really knocks the wind out of any first night jitters, making Handlebar's a great place to just hang when the bike's on the rack. The ambiance is anything short of whimsical, fusing old bike parts for the furniture. Take it all in and chill out with one of their interesting beer and wine selections or try one of the micro soda brews available. Intelligentsia coffee and a nice selection of teas are also available, which is a nice touch.

The only real issue at Handlebar's is the overall inconsistency. Sometimes the service can be outstanding, and at other times it can be a little too casual. Therefore, those who expect this place to have hired the wait staff from a pricey joint downtown are seriously out of luck. Roll with it and just chill!