District Bar & Grill, Rockford

District Bar & Grill's menu is full of old familiars done well. For customers hunkered down at the bar, a range of appetizers can hit the spot, like potato skins loaded with crispy bacon, two cheeses, and tangy lime sour cream. More substantial meals can be anchored with a classic cobb salad, a half-pound burger topped with swiss and sautéed mushrooms, barbecue pulled pork, or golden-brown fried cod.

The restaurant also delivers on the entertainment front. Numerous flat-screen TVs broadcast all manner of professional and college sports for rapt crowds, while a pool table and dart boards help tide them over during halftime. A raised stage hosts DJ sets, local acts, and live music by nationally touring artists like rockers Trapt and up-and-coming country star Eric Paslay. As a supporter of Rockford's Main Street District, a community organization that promotes the downtown area, District Bar & Grill participates in its Two-Block Parties, which take place multiple times a year and hosts bands from around the country.