IRVING PARK. This Irish pub has been garnering an increasingly steady following since its opening in 1973. The pub is part restaurant, part club as it features a full menu of authentic Irish food (fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and Irish sausage) as well as live music nightly. The best local, regional, and national acts perform on Abbey's stage, and the musical mix includes everything from Indie Rock to traditional Celtic music. The interior features balcony seating, warm wood floors, and stone walls. Cover charge starts at $6 depending on the musical act.

RIVER NORTH. It's jazz, jazz, jazz at this Hubbard Street entertainment venue. Andy's has live acts playing at noon, five, and nine. So, no matter what time of day, you get in the mood to hear true Chicago jazz. The menu here is quite extensive and goes beyond the typical bar food offerings. A wide array of groups perform, but most play traditional bebop and swing.

UPTOWN. This beautiful old dance hall, built in 1926, was designed to emulate a Spanish palace courtyard. During its fascinating history, the venue has been myriad things, including an elegant ballroom, orchestra hall, rock club, and host to wrestling and boxing matches. After recently receiving a major face-lift, the Aragon has returned to its original splendor. Crystal chandeliers, mosaics, terra-cotta ceilings lined with twinkling stars, and projected clouds blend effortlessly with the "No stage diving, body surfing" sign that hangs by the stage. Call for events and show times.

LINCOLN PARK. It's tiny, a bit dingy, smoky, and crowded ­ in other words, the perfect place to see live blues. The club features both obscure and well-known local artists (think Otis Clay and Magic Slim). Testing your blues trivia here would really be a test because the slightly older crowd consists almost exclusively of aficionados. Shows are highly interactive, and CDs of nightly and past performers are for sale.

RIVER NORTH. Blue Chicago at Ohio mainly showcases female vocalists who really know how to sing the blues. The mellow and soulful sounds that emanate from this spot are legendary. The room is long and tavernesque with a stage at one end. A small dance floor is located near the stage for those who can't resist. A full bar is on premises, allowing for a drink or two with the show. Smart casual dress.