Chicago Gets to Drink From the Big Cup: Lord Stanley's

It's been 49 years but Lord Stanley's Cup has finally made it back to Chicago.  The Blackhawks fought their way through a tough road to end up beating the Philadelphia Flyers in six games to take the NHL's greatest prize.  Loyal Chicago hockey fans have endured years of failure and disappointment: trading away Phil Esposito, Ken Hodge, Fred Stanfield, Jeremy Roenick, Eddie Belfour and Chris Chelios, Stanley Cup losses in '62, '65, '71, '73 and '92, failed draft picks, early playoff exits ('91- ouch!) and one of the worst ownership/management duos of "Dollar" Bill Wirtz and Bob Pulford.  I have to admit that I gave up on the 'Hawks after the Chelios trade and even refused to watch hockey.  But a fresh front office, young talent and a winning attitude has changed the losing culture and brought all the closet Blackhawk fans out to celebrate!

Since the Cup came to Chicago, it's been touring all over the city.  It was on parade, at Harry Caray's, the United Center, Wrigley Field, Stanley's Kitchen and Tap, Market and the Viagra Triangle among many other restaurants and bars.  Still waiting to hear of South Side appearances, as there are many die hard 'Hawks fans down there, but I'm sure it'll make an appearance or two.  Suggested places: US Cellular Field, Cork & Kerry, Schaller's Pump and Harrison's Brew Pub.

It's been filled with beer and wine and even babies have found their way in the Cup!  Here's a couple of suggestions for drinking out of the Cup: Goose Island Green Line Pale Ale, Raimondi Valpolicella (Italian wine made by a Berwyn born doctor), Wild Blossom Hibiscus Mead (made in Beverly), Half Acre Gossamer Golden Ale (brewed in Chicago) or Lynfred Winery Merlot (made in Roselle).

Where would you like to see the Cup or drink out of it?  Write a comment and let us know!