The Firkin & Pheasant may be a Toronto-based franchise English Pub in Chicago, but with good pub food and a nice selection of beers, it still presents an overall experience that is very authentic.

Visually, Firkin is a stunner. Dark wooden furniture adds a great contrast with deep, velvety red cushions. There are a few tables, but most sit in booths. The dark bar is filled with patrons drinking glasses of Guinness and usually munching on a plate of fish and chips ($8.95/one piece, $11.95/two pieces). Around the walls are 12 TVs playing anything from ESPN to Law and Order.

Along with fish and chips, other pub staples include bangers, beans and mash ($10.95), corned beef and cabbage ($10.25), and cottage pie ($9.95). But if you want to stray from the typical — which includes a variety of burgers, sandwiches and appetizers — order the daily special by Chef Max. On Fridays, Firkin serves the catch of day, which varies. But if you happen to catch them serving the grilled swordfish with a lemon sauce, wild rice and green beans, well, that one’s highly recommended.

Of course, what’s a pub without beer? Aside from Guinness, Firkin serves up a nice selection of domestics and imports, including Smithwick’s, Boddingtons, Fullers London Pride and Stella Artois.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Kimber Solana