Phyllis' was Wicker Park's first live-music venue. That legacy is evident in the timeworn interior and in the good bands booked into the room. Owner Clem Jaskot makes sure that all acts play original sets, keeping cover songs to a minimum. Bands play on a performance area that sits on a low stage at the far end of the room, perpendicular to the bar. Most musical offerings lean toward rock, especially the loud, energetic, raw-garage variety. This guarantees patrons a night of high-octane head knocking, as Chicago is full of power trios and combos ready to rip the roof off. There's always a place for jazz though, which finds its way into the Sunday and Monday stage time. While the sound at Phyllis' is a bit muddy owing to the acoustics of the narrow room, it packs plenty of punch. Combine easy cover charges and reasonable drink prices with maximum rock 'n' roll and you have Phyllis' recipe for a night out.
Getting There
Cross Streets:
Division and Wood.
Parking:
Street
Public Transportation:
Accessible by CTA buses (70-Division, 9-Ashland) and trains (Blue Line-Division).
Wheelchair Access:
No
The Basics
Hours:
3 p.m.-2 a.m. Sunday through Friday; 3 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday.
Reservations:
Not Accepted
Alcohol:
Full bar; bottled beer.
Smoking:
No
Admission Price:
$3-$4
Bar Style:
Neighborhood
Music Style:
Alternative, Country, Rhythm & Blues, Rock, Soul, and World
