Susan Cowsill

FitzGerald's

You may notice upon entering this suburban bar that everything seems vaguely familiar. Don't question your deja vu, this place's smoke-filled interior has appeared in a handful of feature films over the years, including cult hit, Adventures in Babysitting and Penny Marshall's A League of Their Own. Fitzgerald's timeless decor makes it an ideal setting for Hollywood crews, but also a comfortable watering hole for anyone looking to escape the confines of the city. The ambience is warm and welcoming, with low lights, wood-paneled walls, and a small but open dance floor. The typical crowd is friendly and laid back, eager to take in the range of jazz, bluegrass, folk, swing, and zydeco performers that grace the stage. Local acts are regularly scheduled, but bigger names in these genres (such as the Neville Brothers, Joe Ely and Koko Taylor) have also been known to stop in for jam sessions that can be heard for blocks on end. During the summer the club hosts a rock-, blues- and country-saturated American Music Festival. Fitzgerald's doesn't offer much in the way of food at the moment, but a partnership with Wishbone is in the works for January 2007, and will offer patrons a source of Southern-inspired fare at a neighboring venue formerly known as the Roosevelt Grill. In the meantime, you can settle for salty bowls full of popcorn and a full range of beer, wine, and liquor. Phone: (708) 788-2118

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