Ten Cat Tavern
4.8
- Neighborhood: Lakeview
- 3931 N. Ashland Ave.
- Chicago, IL 60613
- 773-935-5377
In 1987, Connie and Richard Vonachen closed down the vintage clothing shop they were operating and opened Ten Cat Tavern in its place. It was a natural thing to do, considering the couple met while working at the Ginger Man, another classic Chicago watering hole. Since that time, the bar (named after the herd of felines the couple keeps) has evolved into a popular neighborhood destination for 25-40 year olds. During the week, regulars camp out at the bar and on a funky hodgepodge of old furniture, working their way to the bottom of their drinks while blues, jazz and R&B standards flow from the sound system. Meanwhile, strong pool players dominate the felt on one of the two vintage pool tables that are the centerpiece of the bar. Richard prides himself on the 8-foot, 1940 Brunswick Sport King and the 9-foot, 1925 Brunswick Medalist that were salvaged from a pool hall that Connie's family still owns. He regularly resurfaces them both with Belgian felt--giving players pool-hall quality play in an intimate setting. "Of course we can't compete with pool halls," he says. "It would be great if we had a big place, but then it wouldn't be a neighborhood tavern." Local artists' work is displayed on the walls and in the windows. The place gets crowded on weekends. A sizable beer garden is open in warm weather.
Getting There
- Cross Streets:
- Ashland Avenue and Irving Park Road.
- Parking:
- Street
- Public Transportation:
- CTA Bus: #9 Ashland, #80 Irving Park. Brown Line Train: Irving Park.
The Basics
- Hours:
- 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Sunday through Friday; 3 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday.
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar. 13 beers on tap and large selection of scotch.
- Smoking:
- No
- Bar Style:
- Brewpub and Neighborhood
Features
- Games:
- Pool Tables
- Food:
- Only on Friday nights.
- Features:
- Free Admission
- Facilities:
- Arcade and Private Party and Banquet Facilities. Golden Tee, World Class Bowling, Junkyard. Fireplace in private room.
- Specialties:
- Challenging pool on vintage tables.
- Payment Methods:
- Cash
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes. Approximately 40 in beer garden.
- Seating :
- Approximately 30 at bar and on couches.
Write a review
Rate Ten Cat Tavern
"With it's cat-loving theme, it..."
Nate from Boston, MA - November 10, 2006
With it's cat-loving theme, it makes me feel like I'm right back in the Boston 'burbs stroking all 10 of my cats with Moonlight and Balls at my sid...
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"I am a little past..."
Agnes from Chicago, IL - December 21, 2005
I am a little past 40, coffee drinking, femaleI wasn't sure this would be a good place to start doing the Chgo. eclectic, bar scene. What a great, ...
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"I love the 10 Cat,..."
Stacy Shulz from Evanston, IL - April 22, 2004
I love the 10 Cat, I've been coming here for years. The bartenders are pretty cool and laid back, and I love that I can bring my Dog! They fin...
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