"Phyllis’ Musical Inn hosted the first shows for alt-rockers My Morning Jacket and Veruca Salt, and was a fixture of Chicago’s equally compelling polka scene decades before that. Now, it’s the kind of dive bar you visit because you don’t recognize any names on the night’s bill, but know you will hear riffs and lyrics that will haunt you for days. With a giant, Chicago-style Sgt Pepper’scollage overlooking its wooden bar and dancing-friendly layout, this 1954 spot hosts talent across genres: funk, hippie rock, big band jazz, and beyond. It’s a playful venue with pinball machines, and a beer garden with a basketball hoop and summertime stage. Phyllis’ is cash only, which means there’s no “I don’t have any cash on me” excuse when the tip jar gets passed around. " - john ringor, nick allen
