Andy's began as a shot-and-a-beer hangout for newspaper types, but ever since Scott Chisholm purchased the venue in 1974 (the original owner was named Andy), it has slowly become a premiere venue, featuring mainstream, bebop and swing-jazz combos. Now there's a full live music menu seven days a week -- including weekday, noontime performances. Crowds gather around the large horseshoe bar and then spread to the tables fronting the stage. Favorites who play here include Chuck Hedges, Art Hoyle, Franz Jackson and Von Freeman. The lunch menu offers sandwiches, appetizers and salads; the dinner menu includes sandwiches, ribs and even hand-cut New York Strip steaks.

Andy's Jazz Club is located at 11 E. Hubbard St. in Chicago's Near North Neighborhood

---