Tommy Guns...the Whole GANG
© Oak Park Journal photo by Dan Peters

It may be cold outside, but inside the speakeasy at Tommy Gun's Garage, living is hot and fast.

Recently Dan and I went out with a group of friends to celebrate 
our friend's anniversary. It was mid December, where to go? We wanted a fun evening and some good food,  I discussed pricing
with our mutual friend Scott, and he was agreeable to the rate. 
And Tim and Deanna left it up to me to choose a place, (no 
pressure there). Tommy Gun's did not disappoint on either count. 

When we entered, we were asked for the secret password (which you are given when you make your reservation). I was greeted by the 'gentlemen' at the door by "Hi ya doll" and "Hey good lookin',
if this guy gives ya any trouble, we'd be glad to take him out back
for ya." The 'fella' at the door was making sure no unauthorized individuals were going to get in, with his tommy gun in one hand resting across his chest as insurance. 

I was pleasantly surprised to see how close Tommy Gun's was to 
the el train. Being a born Chicagoan, transplanted to the suburbs at an early age, I know what to expect when heading downtown. The speakeasy was only a block off the red line, which is an easy (and free) hop off the blue line. It cost us an el ride down (at the time $1.50, currently $1.75) and an easy walk. No parking and no headaches. 

There are many different entrees to choose from, prime rib, steaks, lasagna, fish, pork chops, and chicken. The prime rib was done as ordered, and the lasagna was several inches high with my option of meat or not. A very tasty fresh marinara sauce was poured over all. Sides were adequate with a choice of soup or salad. (truth be told, 
I took 1/2 my lasagna home, and enjoyed it for breakfast the next day, I couldn't wait for lunchtime.) Dinner is included in the price 
of the dinner theater show package, soda/coffee, as well as gratuity. It does not, however, include alcohol. Which is always a good 
thing when doing theater. Especially interactive theater.

Not to say that they don't have some great "hooch". After all, 
when you step into the speakeasy you take a step back into the 
20's prohibition era. There is always a chance that it will get raided by the cops, so the audience is instructed what to do in case this should happen. When officer Murphy arrives, he keenly peruses 
the "revival meeting" amidst all the amens and hallelujahs, looking 
for possible lawbreakers. 

The show is both on and off the stage, with the entertainers 
doubling at the tables as servers, all in character. Audience participation is encouraged, and special occasions are noted by 
the Boss man (M.C.) on stage. 

We had a great time with the flappers and the mugs entertaining 
the folks. We happened in during Christmas time, so there was holiday music and related entertainment as well as the normal 
show of songs, merriment, and The Charleston. 
 

"Mugsy" at Tommy Guns
© Oak Park Journal photo by Dan Peters

"Peaches"
© Oak Park Journal photo by Dan Peters

I recommend Tommy Gun's Garage if you are looking for a good time in the city. Weather can't ruin your good time, and no matter how cold it may be outside, the action inside is 'sizzlin'. For more information on Tommy Gun's Garage, go to www.tommygunsgarage.com. The site provides pricing, days, and times, as well as phone numbers that will get you in. When you see them, tell them "Summer from the oakparkjournal.com sent ya" (but this will NOT help you get in). Remember the password they give yas, when yous book your 'gang' into da show. You don't wanna have ta see da Boss 1st thing. Dress is casual, so yous can sit back and enjoy the place without worrying about where that Gucci purse went to.

Hoodlums, guests, and journalists.
© Oak Park Journal photo by Dan Peters