LGBTQ bar 2Bears Tavern is replacing Nick’s Uptown, a long vacant bar | Eater Chicago

"Housed in the former Nick’s Uptown space, this shot-and-beer bar from the team behind SoFo Tap and Meeting House Tavern brings new life to the block and will retain the coveted 4 a.m. late-night liquor license. Slated to open in late October or early November, the roughly 2,000-square-foot tavern will feature free pinball and darts, seven TVs for sports and watch parties, a mix of local beers on tap, draft margaritas, a seasonally rotating draft cocktail priced between $8 and $10, plus several zero-proof and CBD-infused drinks. It isn’t a fancy cocktail lounge but leans into handshake combos that expand on the original Chicago Handshake (Jeppson’s Malört and an Old Style), with new options like the “Halsted Handy” (Fireball and Ciderboys First Press) and the “Agave-HAAY” (Exotico Blanco and a Tecate tall boy). Co-owner Mark Robertson describes it as “the quintessential Chicago neighborhood bar where you can come as you are, be who you are, and feel comfortable in your community,” with a stated focus on serving the LGBTQIA community." - Naomi Waxman