Wing-Free Bar Zones

The end of Monday means you've passed the worst day of work, the weekend hangover is mostly recovered from, and the big game is on. For many, not adding wings at your favorite bar is almost a criminal offense. But sometimes, for any number of reasons, you might need to take a break from Monday Wings. Need to class it up? Looking for something out of the ordinary? Just want to eat a different animal? These Chicago bars and restaurants will take care of your non-wing desires.

Sono Wood Fired

1582 N. Clybourn
Chicago, IL 60642
www.sonowoodfired.com

So you've got a fancy date in lieu of the Bears game, or maybe you just want to class it up for a week. Head to Sono Wood Fired and try any of their 30 different wines by the glass, all $5 on Mondays. If you can make it past those and the appetizers, there's also a selection of Neapolitan pizzas nicely sized for two.

Marble

3281 W. Armitage
Chicago, IL 60647
www.marblelogansquare.com

If you're really stretching the budget and don't want to give up eating sub-dollar food, Marble offers an equally cheap alternative. 50-cent hard shell tacos are available on Monday – a choice of chicken, beef, or veggie. And add some cheese curds or a pita pizza without guilt– nothing on the menu is over $5.

Lion Head Pub

2251 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
www.lionheadpub.net

Steak. Do you need to hear much more? For $6.99, you can get a charbroiled New York strip steak with coleslaw and chips, fries or tater tots. Add a $1.50 Miller draft and your Monday night is off to a regal start for under $10.

Four Moon Tavern

1847 W. Roscoe
Chicago, IL 60657
www.fourmoontavern.com

If you've decided on a wing-less night but are still looking for a spicy snack, Four Moons offers their own Jambalaya with bacon corn muffins for $9. If you're not quite up for a full order, a half is only $6 – opening up your budget for any of their many available craft bottle beers.

Plan B

1635 N. Milwaukee
Chicago, IL 60647
www.planb-chicago.com

While the DJ booth and poles might not clue you in to this Wicker Park bar having much beyond drinks and a party, the menu offers a selection of specialty burgers worthy of your time – especially when they're only $5 with a drink on Mondays. Try the Zagat-rated Block Burger, with marinara sauce and a homemade block of mozzarella, or the southwest burger with pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, bacon and spicy mayo on a ciabatta bun. If you've got room afterwards, ask about the deep-fried Oreos…