BLUES 2519 North Halsted (2500N, 800W) Chicago (773) 528-1012 Voted by SweetHomeBlues.com readers as the "most authentic" Chicago Blues Club and with the "best ambiance". Since its opening in 1979, some of the best Chicago artists have played here and continue to do so, every night. That's because the management consistently picks only the top talent to come and perform.

This effort by management rewards patrons with authentic blues by excellent musicians every time. Every visit is a genuine blues experience. We really enjoy this club for its intimate and friendly atmosphere too. The club is quite small, a long and narrow venue, so get there early, before 9, or late, after midnight, to get a seat, especially on the weekend. There are about 80 to 90 seats.

Blues fans of every age and type come to enjoy such acts as Big Time Sarah, Jimmy Johnson, Eddie Shaw, Magic Slim, Son Seals, Chico Banks and Pistol Pete as they lay down the wails and licks. The front tables are just a few feet from the stage, and there's a raised seating area along one side and a bar on the other. Be sure to pick up some tracks and gear from the good selection of CDs, cassettes, T-shirts, jackets, and other mementos.

Tuesday is "good neighbor night," meaning people who live or work in the area ( 60614 and 60657 zip codes) can get in free. 

Cover: $10 to 15 

Directions: Blues is about two blocks north of the Intersection of Fullerton, Halsted, and Lincoln (and DePaul University). From the Fullerton EL stop (Howard/Dan Ryan), head one block East to Halsted, and go north. 

Free parking is available at the Children's Memorial Hospital Garage (a block south on Lincoln). Have the BLUES doorman validate your ticket. There's also valet parking on weekends ($10).

Hours: 8 pm - 2 am, until 3 am on Saturdays. Live music begins at 9:30 pm.