Here's the wonder of J.W. Hollstein's: It's a place where I can celebrate my 21st birthday, and where my dad doesn't mind stopping in for the occasional beer.

You'll encounter everyone from town locals to travelers to random passersby here. Stop by on consecutive Fridays, and you may see the same after-work crowd gathered for a few cold ones and some free pizza; the saloon's conveniently located just steps away from the Metra station, making it a popular unwinding spot after a hard week.

Weekends start earlier for college kids, who gather in droves here on Thursday nights. Cover is a measly $2, and all domestic bottles are $1 (regularly $3.50). Make your way to the outdoor beer garden and play some bags, throw some darts or try to catch a live lobster from a tank. If you do, the kitchen will cook it within the hour and serve you the freshest lobster you've had in ages, no doubt.

If you want to avoid the young, rambunctious crowd, come in for lunch or dinner and order a saloon wrap (grilled chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing for $8.95) or build your own pizza ($4.95). Stick around for live music, which is offered most Friday and Saturday nights.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Jill Kozak