The sign collection extends from there, notable pieces including football- and boxing-themed PBR displays that look like commemorative pieces crossed with aging memorabilia. All of this epic signage takes up residence under a chipping, uneven stamped ceiling that pairs with the equally rustic floor below. Besides the bar and its beat up stools, the best seating option is no doubt the drink ledge that runs along the bar’s windows, a few similarly aged stools providing perches to look out onto Clark Street.
With its impeccable set of dive bar attributes, it should come as no surprise that L&L Tavern has served as filming location for both travel show (Anthony Bourdian’s “The Layover”) and prestige drama (“Lovecraft Country”). The jukebox fits the picture seamlessly, a host of rock classics mixed with I-forgot-about-that-one favorites. And somehow, among all of the dive bar glory within, L&L Tavern also earns the status as Irish whiskey destination, a surprisingly potent collection available.
As far as looking like a dive bar, L&L Tavern is difficult to beat, even in a city full of equally visually compelling options. But the look here is matched by the backstory, the footprint, the complete absorption of all natural light into dark green flooring and matching walls. Put together, Anthony Bourdain was onto something, equal parts PBR museum and whiskey-soaked drinking destination providing a welcome dive bar alcove on Chicago’s North Side.