No place says Chicago like Miller’s Pub. Underneath the cannonball-like rumble of the EL on Wabash in Downtown, Miller’s Pub is a bustling joint serving great food and drinks all day long and long into the night.

Established in 1935, entering Miller’s is like entering a maze. A series of quick right turns will get you to an expansive bar that takes up the entire north wall. Table seating is in the center and left side of the room. The décor is made up primarily of photographs of local and national celebrities and politicians. In fact, you can bet over the decades many an inspired political discussion has taken place, quite possibly with the veteran bartenders dressed in black vest and tie.

The left corner of the bar is a Shrine to Chicago Sports. Infamous Chicago White Sox owner Bill Veeck would put a leg up in the corner of the bar, which is cluttered with many photos of White Sox and Cub players.

Canadian Baby Back Ribs are the staple of this place, and two bright neon signs on the front of the place immodestly state “Famous B.B.Q Ribs.” They are delicious and plentiful as are the variety of steaks, seafood (broiled and fried) and chops. As juxtaposition, behind the bar are the painted images of sad faced hobos, as if they are longing for one of Miller’s Pub’s satisfying meals. Although the prices are quite reasonable – steaks and chops in the mid $20’s and ribs slightly less – and would be in line with a bum’s budget.

Definitely not a place for a quiet evening out, Miller’s is loud and a bit rowdy. The staff is always scurrying to accommodate the needs of the patrons. The bar is open from 10 AM to 4 AM and the kitchen serves from 11AM to 2 AM, so the tables turn throughout the day with business people, laborers, hospitality workers, theatre goers, and sports fans looking to soak up a local Chicago landmark.

Frank Sinatra is said to have been among the celebrities that would visit the storied bar. As Sinatra might say “My kind of pub. Miller’s is.” D.M.