Out front, metal chairs and tables create a patchwork patio with viewing of the train tracks as well as travelers talking to and from the dispersed parking that supports the nearby station. When Chicago weather cooperates, the patio is the clear choice for locals and happy hour visitors, a series of umbrellas playing well with towering nearby trees to create the required amount of shade. As with most great Chicagoland dive bars, an Old Style sign hangs above the door, this one inscribed with the phrase “Bottles & Cans” underneath. A green awning that includes “Lunches” on one side stretches across the front wall over two small rectangular windows.
While it may still be fair to label Punky’s Pub a bit of a dive bar, the surfaces inside have seen clear renovation, almost every area touched by new flooring, new wall coverings and fresh paint. String lights hang over head and some faded decorations can still be found throughout the space but it’s clear that work has been done here to elevate the interior. Not to lose its dive bar credibility in total, Punky’s Pub does feature a trademark Budweiser Clydesdale lamp suspended from the ceiling just above a massive airplane propeller because why wouldn’t there be a propeller inside a Lombard dive bar.
A long bar stretches through the space, winding a bit to create some nooks and crannies to the drinking proceedings as well as maximum access to roaming bartenders. The kitchen opens up at noon each day, offering up what looks to be an improved lunch menu that on this reviewer’s visit certainly attracted plenty of business. Burgers and other staples make up the majority of the menu, most of the items well reviewed online. Merchandise is displayed behind the bar in spots, allowing for a little Punky’s Pub pride out in the real world.
