If you like being distracted while you drink, Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill in Bolingbrook has got you covered. On a crowded Friday night, a beanbag tournament and a Guitar Hero championship were competing with the March Madness games for people's attention. While a bevy of new options just down the road at the Promenade Bolingbrook (Bar Louie, Gordon Biersch Brewery, Auld Dubliner and Ted's Montana Grill) may pull visitors from across the Chicago area, Tailgaters remains a popular hangout for the townies. Empty beer bottles in the parking lot and a near-confrontation at the bar hinted at a somewhat rowdy crowd. But overall the clientele seemed like a friendly mix of young and old.

Tailgaters is a good place to catch the big game, put back a few cheap beers and indulge in typical sports-bar fare (wings, nachos and burgers). Even though there are 40-plus TVs, the huge warehouse-style bar still has some tables with bad vantage points. But if there's a can't-miss game, the restaurant offers plenty of room to stand. Tailgaters also has a large dance floor and a stage area, making it a rare suburban spot for DJs and live bands on weekend nights. Other distractions include pool, darts, pinball, Golden Tee, karaoke, trivia games, Texas hold 'em and free wi-fi.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Jim Collins