Chicago

Yup--that's how long we've been publishing a Chicago guide--eight years. And to celebrate, we're having a book release party for the 2010 edition of the Not For Tourists Guide to Chicago at our favorite bar in Chicago, Sheffield's. And with the Goose Island 312 Urban Wheat Ale flowing, life should be more than grand on Wednesday, April 28--at least between the hours of 7pm-10pm at Sheffield's. So come and grab a free copy of the city's foremost "urban" guide, accompany it with one of Chicago's best "urban" ales, at the NFT writers' favorite "urban" bar! PS: If you're into that social networky Facebook thingy, sign up here and let us know you're coming.

Photo:  Norman Ibarra

Writers and Alcohol, it's a pairing that rivals wine and cheese. Just think of the many talented, tormented and crazed writers fueled by their love for both the bottle and the book. I mean, have you read Augusten Burroughs, Ernest Hemingway or Hunter S. Thompson? If you're a reader, writer or drinker, head out to Sheffield's on the first Wednesday of each month for the Reading under the Influence series to be dazzled by Chicago’s literary talent. Each RUI has a theme (the next reading scheduled in February is Love Hangover) where local writers and performers read a selection from favorite authors as well as their own pieces. They also do shots, which is frankly a great way to start a story. Plus it's interactive--you a have a chance to speak up to answer some trivia questions related to the readings, and you just might walk away with literary booty and other prizes. The event is the perfect place to dive into the literary scene, and if you're nervous, it's totally acceptable to be buzzed.

Photo:  Ashley Spencer

Drinking and writing go together like peanut butter and jelly (or rum and coke). But it wasn't until a few years ago that anyone thought to put the two together. Reading Under the Influence is a monthly event where writers come to share their work with a rowdy but well-read audience. Each author reads one piece of their own, and one piece written by someone else. It's up to the audience to guess who the author of the mystery piece is and answer trivia questions about the work for the opportunity to win prizes. Replies are shouted, shots are taken, and a good time is had by all. RUI takes place on the first Wednesday of every month, from 7-10 pm at Sheffield's.

Photo:  Jamie Smith

Those that brag about the best bar in Chicago are full of shit. Chicago has too many great bars for just one to get that title. Except for Sheffield’s, of course. It is the best bar in Chicago. No, really. In the mood to belly up to the bar old style like? Check out the front room. Need to stroke your intellectual side and sit in on a reading event? Check out ReadingUnderTheInfluence.com, first Wednesday of every month. Wallet thin? Spend just two bucks on the bad beer of the month. Schlitz, last I checked. Pick up a pint or pitcher at a picnic table on the patio? Sheffield’s in the summer. Want to get a ten dolla’ manicure while sucking on Goose Island pints? Every Wednesday, ladies. Want to find a nice secluded place to spend some quality time with that hottie you just met? Climb in the photo booth. Want a pulled pork sandwich? It’s coming in the Spring, baby. Want to grab a couple of brews before or after a Cubs’ game. Within walking distance. Want to display your art? Ask them. Man, this place is the best. See, I told you so.

Photo:  Darwyn Jones