This is the home of barbecued baby-back ribs so famous they've been photographed in all their glistening glory by Gourmet Magazine, recommended by the New York Times and heralded as one of the best meals in America by The Times of London. More than a tavern on a street corner in Chicago's famous Old Town, Twin Anchors offers a generous and delicious slice of Chicago history.

This corner tavern will make anyone feel as comfortable as a neighborhood local. From the original recipes to a bar that is nearly 100 years old, the tavern has gone to great lengths to retain its original charm. In such a historically rich area on the north side of Old Town, Twin Anchors is the kind of place where genuine neighborhood gossip can be overheard, along with ecstatic exclamations coming from all corners of the tavern as patrons attempt to describe that legendary slab of ribs.

The tavern was a speakeasy during prohibition called Tante Lee Soft Drinks. It opened as Twin Anchors in 1932 serving ribs and since then the original sauce recipe has barely changed. Sinatra discovered the place in the 1950s (the juke box is loaded with his songs) and used to tip his waiters a hundred bucks each after dinner.

Curved leather booths line the wall across from the bar and point the way toward a small dining room that’s always busy. Get there early because guests are always lined up, waiting for a table. Patrons pack the place nightly looking for the traditional favorite - Twin Anchors Baby Back Ribs for $19.95: meaty, succulent and basted with either the zesty or mild special barbecue sauce. The restaurant's sandwich list includes burgers, a Zesty "Soy" Sandwich for Vegetarians, a delicious Barbecue Pork Sandwich and Grilled Fish of the Day, all between $7.00 and $10.00.

The Perfect Place For: Ribs known round the world, a low-key dinner