Lush retreats

Big Chicks Don’t let the name fool you. It’s practically all guys in here, and calling them “big” could get you slapped. Andersonville’s queer den mother Michelle Fire decks out her bar with choice selections from her impressive art collection, but out back on the brick patio the eye candy includes nice greenery, a small fountain and buff boys in tank tops. 5024 N Sheridan Rd between Argyle St and Carmen Ave (773-728-5511). El: Red to Argyle. Bus: 92, 146, 147, 151 (24hrs). Mon–Fri 4pm–2am; Sat 3pm–3am; Sun 11am–2am. Average cocktail: $4.

Buck’s Saloon There aren’t many outdoor options in Boystown, so if the chic upper deck at Sidetrack isn’t your thing, try this more peaceful patio. Weave through the front of the joint (with, yes, dead animal heads on the wall) to emerge on the back porch, where, except for the bar, it feels just as though you’re hanging out at an older gay guy’s backyard barbecue with beer guzzlers in frayed jean-shorts. 3439 N Halsted St between Roscoe St and Cornelia Ave (773-525-1125). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24hrs), 77 (24hrs). Mon–Fri noon–2am; Sat noon–3am; Sun 11am–2am. Average beer: $4.

Charlie’s on Webster The ivy-covered walls are reminiscent of Wrigley Field, but alas, so is the clientele at this cutesy Lincoln Park spot. The beer garden, which can accommodate up to 200 people, also draws students from nearby DePaul University. A retractable roof is nice for days when a surprise shower rolls in. 1224 W Webster Ave at Magnolia Ave (773-871-1440). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Fullerton. Bus: 73 Armitage, 74 Fullerton. Mon noon–2am; Tue–Thu 5pm–2am; Fri noon–2am; Sat 11am–3am; Sun 11am–2am. Average beer: $4.

Chief O’Neill’s Pub When two Irish-American musicians open a pub, you’d better believe they’ll pay attention to the tunes. Aside from the Sunday-night traditional Irish jam session, you can pretty much count on sipping your stout to some sort of bagpipe-driven sounds. In nice weather, the massive back patio doubles the capacity, with towering hedges muffling the sounds of Elston Avenue and dishes like classic fish-and-chips, shepherd’s pie and slow-cooked corned beef transporting you to the Emerald Isle. 3471 N Elston Ave at Addison St (773-583-3066). El: Blue to Addison. Bus: 77 Belmont, 152 Addison. Brunch (Sun), lunch (Sat), dinner. Average main course: $11.

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