Buddy Guy's Legends (Chicago)

Nothing says blues like a dark smoky lounge. Buddy Guy's Legends is just that: A no-frills, seedy blues joint located among the dorms and fast food restaurants of the South Loop. At this blues club (among Chicago's best), it's obvious that the most important thing is the music. How could it not be, with an owner like the legendary Buddy Guy, himself.

Plush furniture and expensive decor give way to a slew of cafeteria-style tables here, joined by chairs in the dining area and a pool table area in the back lit by fluorescents. Ready to serve folks in for the musical long-haul, Buddy Guy's serves up quite a selection of popular Southern and Cajun favorites for lunch and dinner, including spicy frog legs, catfish tenders, red beans and rice, jambalaya and shrimp Creole; appetizers and entrees range from about $10 to $20. Merchandise such as T-shirts, posters, Buddy Guy bobble heads and autographed Fenders provide an I-was-there souvenir.

Daily live music incurs a cover of $10 during weekdays and $15 on the weekends. Buddy Guy's has hosted more than a handful of musicians worth name dropping, including the man himself, Koko Taylor, Kid Rock, Eric Clapton and John Mayer. Buddy also hosts birthday parties for himself and his friends, events for children’s charities and annual New Year's Eve parties. It's quite a crew, so don't be surprised if it's difficult to find a seat.