Gold Star Bar

A dive bar to die for
Word to the wise: If dive bars are what you’re looking for, try nearby venues Inner Town (1935 W. Thomas), Rainbo (1150 N. Damen) and Zakopane (1734 W. Division).

Gold Star is one of a handful of dive bars in Wicker Park that, from the outside, promises very little indeed – flickering neon signs bearing their name, bare-brick exteriors and metal grilles. Inside isn’t any more glamorous – but that’s what draws people here instead of other more upscale establishments.
The bar and its decor is a remnant of the area’s Polish heyday. Now, its decorative tin ceiling, scuffed walls, dim lights and pool tables are a haven for both new bohemians and older regulars who enjoy the cheap drinks, good indie jukebox (Tom Waits, MC5, Jesus Lizard, The Clash), friendly staff and minimal beard-and-plaid-shirt hipster presence.