Vaughan's Pub is a small, but enormously popular Irish pub. Formerly Redmond's, before moving further north on Sheffield in 1996, Vaughan's has kept much of the inherited feel but has begun to straddle becoming a meat market.  The Vaughan family has removed a number of tables along the long black vinyl banquette in the front, as well as the pool table in the back.  This detracts from a true "pub" atmosphere by placing the focus on being seen.  The result is a prevalence of large, boisterous crowds.  Additionally, the bartenders seem to have adopted an air of pretension more fitting with a Lincoln Park sports bar.  Thankfully, they kept the fireplace.

Regardless, Vaughan's still serves up a stellar pint of the black stuff.  In fact, the Pint Police rate Vaughan's Guinness pouring ability highly: the right temperature, a good head, and having the proper Guinness spoon for pouring black-and-tans.

The bar itself  is very nice with it's three large, many-paned glass windows that open out in summertime, tin ceiling, 1/4" tiled floor, and tasteful track lighting.  There are old-fashioned gas lights and "My Goodness, My Guinness" signs along the wall, and the bar itself sports two bodhráns and an impressive variety of hard alcohol.  The food served includes such intriguing dishes as Pompazo, Mediterranean Turkey, Fifi Frances, Veggie Cabra, and Oaxacan Pork.

In addition to Guinness, Vaughan's has over 30 beers available, including Carlsberg and Stella Artois on tap (oh, yeah).  The only problem with Carlsberg is that too many can result in irrationally kicking traffic cones in a manner which can really hurt.  My advice: enjoy Carlsberg but don't kick traffic cones.  One can also sample Vaughan's microbrew selection for $2.75 a pint from Monday to Wednesday.

Sunday's at Vaughan's brings live music with an ever-changing roster of acts, including the Wrightwalleys and Big Backyard.  And, if the mood strikes you, stop by for a drink anytime while walking your dog.

Check out Vaughan's website for further information. 

~ Have a good story relating to this bar?  E-mail it to me. ~

[back to the Chicago Bar Project]

– written by Sean Parnell