On any given night at Cunneen's you might be served by folk music legend Ed Holstein, an award-winning actress, a karate master or Northwestern professor Bill Savage (brother of acclaimed advice columnist Dan Savage).

Its clientele is just as eclectic. Located on the cusp of the Edgewater/Rogers Park divide, the snug watering hole finds affable locals and Loyola students getting chummy in its intimate environs, where lanterns, chandeliers and a single strand of Christmas lights offer dim lighting. Fortunately what Cunneen's lacks in tap selection (there are about four or five) it makes up for in character. Open since the early '70s, the place looks as though it's never been redecorated: Black and white archival photographs line the walls, and a looming, neon-trimmed Mayor Daley clock perches above the bar.

At least the prices are decent; a pitcher will set you back about $13, and well drinks are under $4. If you're willing to spend an extra 50 cents, you can try your hand at the pool table. Otherwise sit back and soak up the tunes, ranging from Sleater-Kinney to traditional Celtic music.

Before you leave, take a trip to the bathroom (and bring your reading glasses). The stall door nearly touches your knees, which means you can read the sexual comic strips and clips from The Onion that line the stall.

Centerstage Reviewer: Anna Pulley