Eat, Drink And Sleep At Longman & Eagle
By Sarah Cobarrubias in Arts & Entertainment on Jan 22, 2010 7:00PM
The guys behind the Empty Bottle, Mode Carpentry and Struggle Inc. have come together for a new project: Longman & Eagle, a cozy tavern and inn in Logan Square which opened its doors just Wednesday. From the outside, it looks like any old dive bar, and it’s so dark and secluded you might not even know it’s open. But inside, it’s actually warm, inviting and buzzing with friendly locals. Decked with dark wood and softly lit by candle, it’s got an old-timey, Americana feel like a traditional Chicago tavern.
L&E is all about the whiskey. The first two pages of their 10-page drink menu feature a variety of whiskies with prices ranging from $3 shots to a $50 double shot of Parker’s Heritage 27. They also offer a pretty solid variety of beers, including every broke hipster’s favorite: the $2 Pabst. As for cocktails, we recommend the Last Word (Tanqueray gin, Luxardo maraschino liqueur, Green Chartreuse and lime juice) - it’s got an explosive citrus flavor with a refreshing herbal aftertaste.
After you’re all woozy from strong drinks, stumble to the dining area for some regional American cuisine. Inspired by Polish, German and Italian cultures, among others, the food menu has something for any hankering. We recommend the house-made pork sausage with sauerkraut and shaved apple-cress salad - it comes with a side of spicy grain mustard that you’ll find yourself uncontrollably licking off your fork, plate and fingers. And the service is surprisingly good; the wait staff is prepared to describe every entrée in full detail and will fill your drinks faster than you can guzzle them.
When it’s time to leave, you’ll find yourself not wanting to. And come spring, you won’t have to, because they’ll be offering a six-room hotel on its second floor at a still unannounced price. But keep in mind that these rooms must be booked in advance through the inn’s website and will be more suited for lone travelers rather than rambunctious parties.
Longman & Eagle, 2657 N Kedzie, 773-276-7110