Last century, Boston Red Sox fans wallowed in a misery well known to Cubs fans. The curse of a portly slugger named Babe Ruth was remarkably similar to the curse of an infamous goat (or perhaps both teams simply had a similar distaste for timely hitting and quality pitching). Whatever the cause, generations grew old never basking in the glory of a World Series championship. Then, a guy named Theo took over as general manager, made some moves and the misery became a memory.

For Red Sox fans in Chicago, Tripoli Tap in Lincoln Park is a place to share the joy of no longer having to hear Joe Buck talk about the Curse of the Bambino or the Mookie Ball. Here, transplanted Bostonians can discuss Pesky's Pole without getting strange looks. The decor is strictly Boston sports, with a special photographic tribute behind the bar honoring one of the happier moments in Red Sox history, catcher Jason Varitek's glove meeting hated Yankee Alex Rodriguez's face.

Catering to Red Sox fans and those who know them, the bar offers standard but decent bar food in substantial portions. Most appetizers, including chicken wings, nachos and fried calamari are $4-$6; sandwiches, like a sloppy joe (according to the menu, not a light snack), are $6-$7. All are excellent, greasy complements to a pint of beer ($4-$5) and a Red Sox or Patriots game. While the seating area is small, during warmer evenings the beer garden in back offers more room. If you're from Boston, or wish you were, this is your neighborhood bar.

Centerstage Reviewer: A.J. Weiss