Show-Me's doesn't skimp on service, selection

The buildup to Show-Me's opening was riddled with controversy as Naperville residents and city officials protested the skimpy outfits worn by employees of the franchise, which includes 16 bars in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and Kentucky. The outfits haven't changed, but since opening in February, Show-Me's has shown it is a solid sports bar with very good service.

Motif: Walls are lined with flat-screen TVs tuned to sports, including a big projector hanging above the stone fireplace in the back of the bar. Colored Christmas lights dangle from the rafters and lamps decorated with metal ivy are attached to the walls. Electric sports logos are on display and Blackhawks, Bears and White Sox jerseys are pinned to the ceiling.

The large space works well for big groups with a few long tables in the dining area and a private party room in back. You can also get in some friendly competition with golf, Buckhunter and bowling video games, electronic darts and pool and foosball tables.

Crowd: The bar draws a primarily male crowd with groups of thirty-something guys hanging out, drinking and watching the game when we were there on a Saturday night. Jerseys and baseball hats are the dress of choice.

Service: Yes, Show-Me's servers are cute and somewhat scantily clad ladies. They're also very friendly and competent. We were quickly greeted when we sat down at a table, offered menus and asked for drink orders. Our server was also pouring the drinks behind the bar and was happy to explain the draft selection when I stepped up to take a look at what was on tap, offering to bring the brew I chose to our table. She checked back regularly and was friendly and sociable throughout our visit.

Liquid consumption: The bar has a solid draft list, serving up Goose Island 312, Leinenkugel Summer Shandy and other brews in $3.95 pint glasses and massive $6.95 mugs. The bartender recommended Warsteiner, a light German beer served in a big plastic boot that you can take home. While the novelty is reason enough to order it, the beer is so good that it's worth the tricky positioning needed to drain the last of it from the boot's toes. There's also a small cocktail menu featuring margaritas, Bloody Marys and the fruity Miami Melon.

Food: The menu largely consists of standard bar fare like wings, burgers, onion rings and cheese fries. There's also a solid selection of seafood including crab legs, fried shrimp and oysters served raw or steamed.

Music: Show-Me's regularly offers live music on Saturdays with acts ranging from acoustic guitarists to rock-reggae groups.

Other times you can choose your own tunes from a video jukebox.

Parking: There are plenty of spots in the free parking lot.

Overall: Show-Me's high-quality service and beer selection make it a great destination for sports fans looking for a new spot to watch the game.

<b>Show-Me's</b>

1126 E. Ogden Ave., Naperville,

(630) 778-8797, <a href="http://www.showmes.com" target="_blank">showmes.com</a>

<b>Hours:</b> 10:30 a.m. to midnight daily