Post #591972 by Ragbag Comics on Thu, Jun 2, 2011 8:24 PM

Tipsy- I'd tend to agree with you. We're fortunate here in the Chicago area to have a bunch of cool, classic places to pick from. I'd add to your list of mighty fine ones the Breakers in Crystal Lake which has an excellent old-school vibe (and tasty drinks, if not wholly by the book), and Tiki Terrace which, despite being next to a Radio Shack, REALLY transmits that classic feel once you're inside!

'Course, nuttin' beats a Sunday afternoon at Hala Kahiki or grabbing a Dr. Fong at the Chef.

I hear the sentiments about Vic's not being the same, 'cuz it most certainly isn't. It'll still be a shame to see it go- both because, regardless of the rampant management and food issues, they DID do a good job making the place FEEL old and classy (TV screens be damned) and brought over much of the decor from the original locale (which was, of course, vastly superior), AND because for those of us living within the Chicago city limits, Vic's is the last fully-immersive (usually) Tiki destination you can get to easily on the CTA, and really the last one within city limits, period.

We gotta keep as many classic places afloat as we can hang onto before the Cheeseburger in Paradise's of the world make everything we hold dear walk the fried cheese plank.

Now a quick diversion for the Chicago people in the house (and tying into the other conversation...)

While we're traveling around the world and stopping off in Germany at the Berghoff, for those looking for a classic dining experience downtown, the Italian Village is about as classic as it gets, indoor water wheel, twinkling lights in the ceiling and all. Seriously- nothing has changed here in probably 60+ years.

The Berghoff ain't the same, that's true (though they ARE still going, at least as-of two years ago...) but German-wise (in terms of experience) y'can't do much better than the Chicago Brauhaus on North Lincoln, polka bands and all. For food, tho, I'd check out Resi's Bierstube on Irving Park.

OK... Diversion over... back to exotic and enchanting Polynesia, 'cuz there ain't nuttin' tiki about polka, sausage, and beer (no matter how much I enjoy it.)