What's big, brown and furry all over? At this Boystown hangout, both the "manly," bear-type gay men inside and the enormous stuffed moose above the bar, that's what. Unlike many of the flashy, image-conscious, drama-filled bars in the neighborhood, Bucks attracts both gay and straight customers. It just goes to show, there's no better unifier than reasonably priced beer (a bottle of MGD here goes for $4).
Light streams in from the giant street-facing windows as old friends shoot the shit and down their brewskies. One of the first gay bars in the neighborhood, and one of the oldest (it's been around for over 20 years), the saloon never charges a cover and always serves up drinks with a smile. A pleasant outdoor beer garden in the back complements the woodsy interiors, and a neighborhood vibe permeates the entire establishment. Though the staff at Bucks welcomes all, more politically correct types may be grossed out by the stuffed ram, buck and moose. (If it's any consolation, the specimens were purchased at an auction in Wisconsin many years ago, and weren't actually shot by the owners.)
To create an even friendlier atmosphere, the owners (self-described "open-minded folks") throw a free cookout in the back every Sunday. The motto is "Drink here, fight at home, dance across the street," so take your drama elsewhere!
Centerstage Reviewer: Alicia Eler
