Skylark

"Cash-only Pilsen dive bar Skylark launched Sunday brunch in June, alternating between pop-ups including Your Thai Neighbor, Morgan Street Snacks, and Chicago Secret Burger and a small menu featuring chilaquiles made with cecina from Carniceria Maribel, french toast with bacon, and an open-faced chicken thigh sandwich served with a side of their beloved tots. Whatever’s on the menu, add on a bloody mary or Irish coffee." - Samantha Nelson, Eater Staff

"Outside, Skylark has kind of a steer-clear-of-me look, but inside is a dark neighborhood spot without any posers. Just good people, good beers and surprisingly great food too. Can't skip the tater tots with 3 dipping sauces." - Faust

"While Pilsen may be rapidly changing with an influx of entrepreneurs and artists reviving the neighborhood, Skylark remains the same. The bar strives to be part of the community, and there’s a solid menu of tater tots and other bar food. This is the bar Jon Favreu’s character owned in the movie The Break Up. In July 2023, co-owners put Skylark and its building up for sale, and by early 2024 a group of employees rallied to purchase the business and keep its legacy alive." - Eater Staff

"Meanwhile, Skylark in Pilsen has sold to a group of employees who have already taken over operations. The bar opened in 2003, and the former owner, Bob McHale, wanted the bar to continue rather than be replaced by new development." - Ashok Selvam

"Skylark may not be too much to look at from the outside, but cheap beer and food make this place a staple for Pilsen. On any given night, a smattering of local artists fill up the bar, making it a solid place to get a feel for the neighborhood. The bar is for sale, but regulars hope the future remains bright and a potential new regime doesn’t change things too much." - Eater Staff