To the dismay of many, Chicago bars still allow smoking. Fortunately for those hoping to escape the haziness that inhabits most pubs in the city, the Charleston is a haven for anyone seeking freedom from smoke filled pubs. As far as the weekend bar scene goes, the Charleston is lively, but still manageable. They have all the elements of a typical bar experience on a weekend. There's a pool table, an amateur band and even friendly bartenders. Though mostly populated by artsy hipsters, the Charleston is notably unpretentious (not that most arty hipsters are). Here is a good neighborhood bar that, with distinct aspects (i.e. non-smoking) blended with a homey feel, establishes itself as a staple of Chicago's bar scene.

Schwa offers top-notch food in a laid-back environment. The focused, meticulously prepared menu is stunningly presented. Also, the minimalist atmosphere, lacking affectation and excess, consists of just fourteen tables. Both attributes combine to ensure that the emphasis is on the food and the restaurant's mantra of "food as art" is made apparent. At Schwa Restaurant bring along your favorite bottle of vino to compliment the meal.

Salud comes across as a no-fuss bar and lounge, where you can catch Latino tunes whilst downing shots of tequila. Groups of twenty-somethings and couples get cozy on the couches, while the backroom is accessible for private occasions. The food-pork chops, tequila cheeseburgers, scallops, ceviche, empanadas-is fresh and wholesome, served by a friendly staff. Patio seating is available too.

Just like the name suggests, this is a place for a hearty breakfast and other wholesome meals. The pleasant, warm-toned interior is always filled with the divine aroma of freshly baked muffins and cakes. Plenty of light, petite white-leathered chairs, and a handwritten menu on the wall rule the ambience. Choose from Thyme-crusted Roast Beef, spicy Tortilla with Chorizo, Couscous with Roasted Vegetables, cookies, sweets, pastries, bread pudding, and lots of coffee. This is a good place to take your kids, and also to meet single parents.

Moonshine is a good place to drink away your sorrows; teetotalers, on the other hand, can dance their blues away! The dishes - Shrimp Fettuccine, quesadillas, calamari, Yucatan Chicken, and the like - don't appeal much, but this place is not about food. The muted lighting and funky decor fascinate the senses, and the spirits flow endlessly - take your pick from beers, martinis, cocktails, wines, and more. Whether you shake a leg or simply lounge around, there's always someone friendly you can chat up. Private events are also hosted.

This is a friendly, fun place to hang out with buddies and family. Seating is prompt, and the range of pizzas is limited, but mouth-wateringly delicious! Soccer games on the telly, and pepperoni, blue cheese, jalapeno, and olive toppings have made Pizza Metro popular with all age groups. Pastas, salads, beverages and desserts are also available. All in all, a great pizza parlor this side of Wicker Park.

Two popular restaurant owners, Paul LoDuca (of Vinci) and Scott Helm (of Café Gordon and the now-defunct Rhumba) joined forces to create this upscale contemporary Mexican restaurant. Adobo Grill offers such delights as chalupas and Malsa Boats filled with guacamole, black beans and topped with queso frecso. The Grilled Quail sweetened with a sugarcane spear also deserves attention. The decor's bright orange and yellow tones and lively Mexican art match its modern south-of-the-border cuisine. Stop by if you're ever in the mood for some Mexican flavors.

This inexpensive fast-food restaurant is located close to all the happening pubs and night clubs. It's a great place to have a quick bite when it gets too late though not much can be said of the food. On offer are a variety of burgers, hot dogs and fries. Seating for groups is available and kids can also have a good time out here.

If you're looking for relaxation after a long day's work, the Cans Bar and Canteen is the perfect haunt. The juke box blares eclectic music and the décor, mostly wood, has an old world charm to it. Stocking beers from around the world, this pub also imports suds from Spain, Germany and Ireland. The food menu is like most bars, burgers, sandwiches and wraps do the rounds here. Weekends are special as the bar has a DJ booth for performances. The website is fun to navigate and upholds the fun spirit of Cans!

If American cuisine is on your mind, rush to the Volo restaurant. The diverse menu includes both food and wine; must try Chilled Oysters, thin-crusted gourmet pizza, and Peking Duck Breast, accompanied by some wine. The exhaustive wine list comprises of Spanish Speaking, Warm Fruit and Raisiny and Hot wines. The prices are affordable, so go ahead and grab a bite.