]I recently had occasion to grab a bite at Twisted Spoke, and was reminded of just how much I love the place. It's one of those tried and true Chicago joints that has stood the test of timewhich is no surprise given the high quality of the food and the irreverently cool atmosphere.
With roots as a biker bar, Twisted Spoke has evolved into more of a neighborhood hangout that attracts a diverse crowd. The decor might be described as "biker chic." Since the remodel a few years ago, the space is a bit more sleek and urban, but still has just enough edge.
If you come here to drink, you'll be all set. The curved bar in front is stocked with dozens of beers on tap ( and many more in bottles ) and hundreds of types of whiskey. This is a gritty type of place that makes you want to drink whiskey on the rocks, but if you need a mixer, there are plenty of nicely made cocktails. The magic root beer lives up to its name. Made with whiskey and other secret ingredients, it manages to taste exactly like root beeronly better because it gives you a buzz.
Drinking at Twisted Spoke is fun and easy to do. But really, you must stay for the food. The fried cheese curds are crazy good. They're made with Wisconsin cheddar, always fried a perfect golden brown and served with a slightly sweet mustard dipping sauce. Also fantastic are the jalapeno poppers. The spicy peppers are served with a creamy mixture of cheese and herbs, and served with a cool avocado, lime and sour cream sauce that balances the heat from the poppers.
The lengthy menu is packed with a selection of hearty sandwiches and other upgraded pub far like fish and chips and steak tacos. Once you know how well made everything is at Twisted Spoke is, deciding on a meal can be difficult. You won't go wrong with the burgers, aptly referred to as "fat boys." The plump patties are expertly seasoned and served on a toasted brioche bun. You can load your burger with above-average toppings like Gouda, Brie, bacon and cherry peppers. The fries at Twisted Spoke have many ardent fans ( me not among them ). They are thick cut with traces of skin, and on the dense side. They're not bad at all, just not as delicious as everything else that comes out of the kitchen. But, they've certainly never stopped me from thoroughly enjoying a meal.
One of the best sandwiches on the menu is the shrimp po boy. A generous scoop of lightly battered and fried shrimp is nestled between two slices of garlicky French bread. A tangy Cajun tartar sauce binds the two together, and a bit of cabbage lends some fresh-tasting crunch to the sandwich. Vegetarians aren't forgotten here, as there's a killer Portobello mushroom sandwich. The juicy mushroom is nicely marinated and topped with lots of melty mozzarella and a sprinkling of fresh basil and oregano.
You can even have a ( somewhat ) healthy meal at Twisted Spoke. The Caesar salad is humongous, and one of the best I've had. The fresh romaine is tossed with just the right amount of dressing and crunchy garlic croutons. I like it topped with either the grilled steak or breaded Portobello mushrooms.
Twisted Spoke is at 501 N. Ogden Ave.; call 312-555-1500 or visit www.twistedspoke.com .
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