Durty Nellie's Spotlight
(From the April-June, 2002 Newsletter)
If one
was to make a list of the “going-est” bars in Chicagoland, Durty
Nellies West Irish Pub could (and would) not be excluded. As one of the longest
running bars in the northwest suburbs, it has packed many a patron into its
dark, cavernous walls in a 100 plus year-old building in downtown Palatine.
Started some 30 years ago by a few airline pilots as an “investment”,
it was purchased in 1985 by Mark Dolezal and Bill McGrath. Live entertainment
has been the main staple, with bands Tuesday through Saturday, open stage
on Mondays and even the “wandering minstrel,” (wonder who that
is?) every 3rd Sunday of each month. While there is a cover charge Wednesday
through Saturday (but not Sunday through Tuesday), Mark always figured it
was a decent deal for the patrons, since there was entertainment in the little
room (Leprechaun Lounge), as well as the mainstage of the back room –
hence 2 choices of music. This writer couldn’t agree more. There’s
plenty of room in this place, as they have installed a beer garden outside
the main entertainment room. Counting the front bar, that makes at least four
areas or rooms where patrons can sit, talk, eat (currently serving lunch 6 days
a week) and listen to music. Durty Nellies has always prided itself on getting
top-flight bands. If the number of bar revelers are any indication, they are
definitely meeting that goal. Karaoke has been tried in the past, but live
entertainment seems to be the way to go here. There are many sized TVs, and
though not really considered a sports bar, Nellies does attract the customer
who wants to watch football (both Packers and Bears) and special events like
the NCAA basketball finals. Real highlights of the year are the spring and
fall beer fests, which attract small micro breweries from all over the nation.
I’ve not been to one of these, but people tell me they are not be missed.
There is one coming up in April, with weekends. All major charge cards are
accepted. Enjoy the music, and I hope to see you there soon.
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