If you're looking for great food and drink deals done daily, not to mention an excuse to reference Bone-Thugs-N-Harmony's biggest hit, Crossroads Public House provides a relaxed, affordable escape in the heart of bustling
Lincoln Park.
Inside you're greeted with a variety of seating options, featuring large booths that can comfortably seat 10 adults. Beware if you sit in the booths for too long, though; your caboose will go numb. The warmly lit interior, large pillars and rich wood furniture accentuate the pub-style feel. There's also a dart board and several large TVs, allowing everyone to see the game no matter where they're sitting. And forget about Golden Tee; the central attraction of Crossroads (well, for some) is a special Nintendo Wii area, complete with a large projection screen so everyone can see how good you are at fake home run derby.
While Crossroads attracts a post-college crowd, it does offer an all-you-can-eat and drink "Ultimate Friday Deal," which can make you feel like you're actually still in school. For $20, you can drink 'til your liver screams "No more!" and eat pizza, mini corn dogs, tater tots and other fixings from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. A note: Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds. Don't worry, though; even when the place is packed, you can still have a conversation with someone and not lose your voice.
Other nights, Crossroads features cheap food deals like $1 mini burgers and sloppy joes, 50 cent wings and a free pizza buffet on Wednesdays. Its reasonably priced menu includes traditional American fare with a few twists like shrimp scampi pizza, nacho tots, and "Better Than Mom's" meatloaf. Sandwiches, burgers and wraps are in the $7-$8 range and comfort food entrees go for $11-$17. Don't forget a Fluffernutter or Smores for dessert.
Crossroads offers karaoke on Tuesdays for those who need their weekly "Don't Stop Believing" fix.
Centerstage Reviewer: John Kristoff