Ever imagine what it'd be like to drink with John Dillinger? Thanks to the FBI, you'll never know. But you can at least head to the same bar where the notorious robber used to drop his dough: the original John Barleycorn in Lincoln Park.

While the crowd has changed since Dillinger's time, the drinking habits have not. Local post-collegiate folk and 30-somethings pour into this enormous establishment to lap up their favorite libations. The word "enormous" is not used lightly here. Barleycorn sports a massive main room with high ceilings, plenty of space by the two bars and tables as far as the eye can see. There's a back room, which is often transformed into a dance floor, with another bar. But wait, there's more. Sidewalk seating allows you to grab a drink or meal during the day, and the beer garden, which you can access through doors off of the main room, has even more tables for outdoor seating. The decor sports rich wood and an extensive nautical theme, showcasing the artifacts, handmade ships and paintings left by a former Dutch owner. Like any sports bar, several flat-screen TVs adorn the walls, even in the garden area, where large projections cover the walls next to illuminated wall fountains. Back inside, look for the busts of great minds like Shakespeare, Beethoven and Einstein as well as a large moose head over the bar.

Barleycorn's menu includes a slew of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and house favorites. Most dishes will run you $8-$13, and Wednesdays feature all-you-can-eat fish and chips for only $7.95. Drink specials include $3 beers Monday and Tuesday and $2 pints of Guinness and bottles of domestics on Thursdays. Weekends here are jam- packed, so be prepared for crowds.

Centerstage Reviewer: John Kristoff