Eclectic Teddy B's menu a nod to area's 'Best'
Brewstirs Burgers, Pizza & Pub in Roselle reopened as Teddy B's on March 19 helmed by Ted Brunson, the former host of WGN-TV's “Chicago's Best.” Sporting an eclectic menu inspired by Brunson's favorite dishes at the many area restaurants he's visited for the show and his own “Brunson's Best” online video series, the spot has expanded its base beyond locals and is looking into additional improvements.
Motif: The space features plenty of TVs tuned to sports with a few dedicated to trivia and poker bar games. Caged lights hang over the bar while red lamps illuminate the tables. A long central table offers beer troughs in the middle so you can keep your bottles cold. The spot has one pool table and Brunson is considering adding another or bringing in video gaming. A ledge positioned near the pool table provides a convenient place to put your drink between turns. The new enclosed patio features umbrella-topped tables.
Food: Teddy B's offers a mix of bar staples like chicken fingers and pizza plus more novel fare including fried pork belly cubes and a relish tray including pickles and mixed olives. The menu is interspersed with tributes to area restaurants including Cajun wings inspired by Batavia's Crosstown Pub & Grill and a popular Cuban sandwich that's a nod to Chicago's Tropicuba. The selection will change every four months, cutting dishes that don't sell to try new options. Take advantage of the daily specials including $5 10-ounce burgers on Monday and $5 mac 'n' cheese on Wednesday.
Liquid consumption: While there are only six beers on draft, the bar offers an extensive selection of craft cans and bottles from breweries including Rogue Ales, Lagunitas Brewing Co. and 3 Sheeps Brewing Co.
Crowd: Brewstirs was dominated by locals, but Teddy B's brings in more women, families and guys looking for drinks or dinner after golfing. Expect a casually dressed crowd of mostly 40-somethings on the weekends, though you'll also see drinkers in their 20s through 60s.
Service: We were handed menus soon after sitting down at the bar, and the bartender checked in on us regularly.
Parking: Free spots are available on the sides of the bar.
Music: Teddy B's hosts DJs or live music Thursday through Saturday. Live music comes mainly from acoustic duos or local bands who play covers that get the crowd going.
Overall: You can get a taste of some favorite Chicago and suburban spots in one stop while relaxing with a craft beer and some familiar tunes.
Teddy B's
101 E. Irving Park Road, Roselle, (630) 893-0361, <a href="http://teddybs.com">teddybs.com</a>
<b>Hours:</b> 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday