Another in the string of college bars lining this part of Lincoln, Kelsey's hosts weekend activity that can seem a bit obnoxious for those not amused by the drunken antics of DePaul co-eds. Weekdays, however, offer a low-key, neighborhood saloon vibe that anyone can appreciate.

The brick facade of Kelsey's includes a modest awning, floor-to-ceiling picture windows and a vintage neon sign that seems haphazardly chained to the building. Inside, you'll see an oversized bar with an impressive gallery of backlit bottles behind it. This extra-long bar makes it easy to find a seat on the busiest nights, when the fraternity sect flocks to the old-school wooden cocktail tables.

It's not an uncommon mistake to confuse Kelsey's with the neighboring sports bar, Kendall's. Both establishments are owned by the same company, use the same kitchen and attract similar crowds. So why choose Kelsey's? Because patrons get to order up all the goodies from Kendall's like $1 burgers on Mondays, without having to elbow through massive crowds of sports fans. Not that fans aren't welcome here; Kelsey's keeps the big screen tuned to the big game, but doesn't bombard the drinker from every angle like its neighbor. Those that don't feel like watching don't have to; instead, they can head to the backroom for some pool on one of the two tables or hustle unsuspecting undergrads on the Golden Tee machine.

Centerstage Reviewer: K. Tighe