Once upon a time, an amusement park that rivaled Coney Island entertained Chicagoans. If you're under the age of 50, you might think this is the beginning of a fairytale, but if you lived here before 1967, you know this is a true story. At the intersection of Belmont and Western stood Riverview Park, a giant fun-time complex for families.

So, when Greg Lamacki and his partners decided to open a bar and grill in Roscoe Village, they chose to honor the once great park by naming their tavern after it and adorning the bar with relics of its past. "My mom and dad always talked about it lovingly," Lamacki says. "This was a vibrant area because of the park."

And a vibrant area it still is. They hope Riverview serves as a neighborhood gathering spot, the type of place friends congregate after a well-played softball game or where couples have a nightcap after a date on the town.

The spacious, 4,000-square-foot space seats more than 110 people between the restaurant's three rooms. Often used for parties, the front room is typically closed during normal business hours, and the main room is where you'll find the bar and televisions. A small back room serves as a family-friendly area stocked with darts and video games. The dark wood, brass and green leather decor give the pub a stately feel, but the overall vibe feels kicked-back and friendly. The bar has plenty of beers on tap, an impressive selection of liquors and an extensive food menu, with items like salads and burgers ($3.95 to $9.95).

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Christy Bonstell