The Duke of Perth

The Duke of Perth is one of Chicago’s scant handful of Scottish pubs in a city of hundreds of Irish Bars. The pub itself is small and is certainly a hangout for locals. The colors are warm with hard wood floors, painted tin ceilings and collections of Scottish prints and artifacts adorning the walls. Best of all, the Duke of Perth is a “proper pub" void of televisions, a jukebox, and silly sweet and trendy cocktails. What you will find is straightforward and honest pub food (the all-you-can-eat fish & chips on both Wednesday and Friday evenings is a powerful draw). You will also be treated to a selection of British & Irish Ales on draft and one of the best selections of Scotch Whisky found this side of the pond. More than 80 Single Malts are available along with a dozen plus blended Whiskies. Luckily, and refreshingly, the pours and the prices are fantastically levelheaded.
The Duke is a must stop while entertaining visiting Scot friends. They always find it to be a comforting slice of home while seamlessly incorporating the renowned Chicago sensibility. This is a pub for conversations with friends and strangers alike. Be cautioned that once you enter the Duke, you may not want to leave. This is especially true on inclement winter days when the lure of the soft wood tones, fresh pints, vast Whisky collection, or radiating fire may conspire to keep you in your seat for much of the day.
The service is friendly and informal as a neighborhood pub should be. Mike Miller behind the bar is knowledgeable and generous with his time to first timers as well as the regular crowd always willing to introduce you to the appropriate malt. I’d write more but they are expecting me at the far barstool.