CHIReview
Analogue
This spot is Permanently Closed.
Upon first glance, Analogue is another Logan Square bar. It’s got the dim lighting and the “hand-crafted” cocktails by men with questionable facial hair. It’s got the mediocre quality chairs and stools because it builds character or something. And while you can order a creative top shelf Malort cocktail, it’s also got the $3 Miller High Life and Budweiser draft because crappy American beers are all the ironic rage. If you don’t order food, you'd probably leave feeling like you've seen this show before. And you would be wrong.
Analogue is actually some of the best Cajun food in Chicago tucked away in the most unlikely setting. It’s two parts dive bar, one part classy cocktails, and all parts bomb *ss food. Po Boys and Old Fashioned's may seem like an odd combination, but the strength and often sweetness of the drinks pairs perfectly with the saltiness and spiciness of the food. The hearty and rich Cajun food combined with lackadaisical and low-key vibes instantly transports you to a muggier New Orleans evening. All the while, you’re still sipping on top-notch cocktails mixed by two former Violet Hour dudes in the middle of this hipsterized neighborhood.
Analogue is low-key but high quality. It’s nice enough to bring a date, but not so nice that you can’t YUP in your white tee like Dem Franchize Boys. The waitstaff gets full points across the board for overall pleasantry and knowledgeable menu-steering, but they’ve still got enough sass to accompany their voluminous and gravity-defying hair. Overall, Analogue is easy and pleasant and delicious, so next time you’re in the neighborhood, don’t pass it up. Come for the cocktails, stay for the gumbo. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.