This Old Irving Park bar receives mixed reviews from past visitors. For some, it's a bit hole-in-the-wallish. For others, it's much better than some say. The taproom appears archetypal for the community it serves, with modern touches luring the next generation of pool playing, shot taking, DJ grooving blue-collar residents.

Brudder's recently underwent a snazzy makeover without the Ricki Lake. Hardwood floors, studio-inspired track lights and fresh seating attract younger crowds daily, as opposed to before, when they just came on weekends for the hip-hop and reggaeton. Additional accents include a mirrored lounge, an overflow room (conventional for private parties), blinking walls (think of your stereo's visualizer splashed onto an entire room), an up-to-date jukebox and exposed brick reticulated with framed moments in sports.

Be it hockey, football or baseball, sports events on flat screens never see a monotonous moment. Boxing and UFC fights welcome principal crowds, of whom you'll see squeezing inside when driving passed in search of parking. Males outrank females, at least every chance we visit. We assume the bartenders have something to do with it.

The neck-breaking bartenders mimic their downtown competition with stylish hairdos, the indulgence for shimmering accessories and butter-melting smiles. Only here, the gals exude personality, calling their regulars by name, unreservedly embracing odd-duck loners and displaying confidence when dealing with the media.

Daily drink specials abound, within the $3-$4 range, like French connections and Southsider shots: Drambuie and creme de menthe. Overall, the average drink/beer runs $5. No wi-fi or kitchen. However, the bar may birth a sister restaurant next door rather soon, under the name Gambino, focusing on American appetizers.

Centerstage Reviewer: David-Anthony Gonzalez