Welcome To Oakdale, Illinois! Page 3
RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTLIFE
Al’s Diner: This centrally located eatery is perfect for an unhealthy burger and fries, though former waitress Carly briefly persuaded Al to go organic. “That’s our throwback to the ’50s,” says Park. “That’s where it all happens. If you want to talk some serious stuff or toss around some gossip, that’s the place you want to be. And the doughnuts are real. Fresh. Take it from me. However, the bubble gum in the machine? That’s been there since 1957. There’s a trick to getting it out. You don’t need a quarter.”
Java: Because most people now go to Al’s for a cup of Joe, this coffee shop above Metro doesn’t get much buzz anymore.
The Lakeview: Part of Lakeview Hotel and Towers, this is where everyone ends up running into everyone else. “I’ve been to The Lakeview,” says Hastings. “It’s quite elegant. We never eat there, though. They usually give us food that’s inedible, and we’re always waiting for a wedding. We’ve had some of our bigger functions and fights there. Who owns that? Everybody owns something except Dr. Bob. His stethoscope is the only thing he can call his own.”
Mabel’s Red Hots: This out-of-the-way joint serves the best chili dogs around and was a sentimental place for Jake and Molly, and Lily and Holden. “Jack doesn’t go there. I think there’s something wrong with it — you can’t drink the water,” warns Park.
Metro: This is the recently converted Java Underground, owned by Craig, Dusty and Molly, though Donovan does most of the day-to-day business, teaching bar boys Aaron and Curtis the ropes. “There’s more money put into that place than anywhere else in Oakdale. Java is still upstairs. I think that inspired Fez under Time Cafe in New York City,” says Park.
Mona Lisa: Formerly the special-events spot, Lisa’s upscale eatery hasn’t been seen in ages. Carly and Hal wed here in 1998, but the day was ruined when James released a poisonous gas during the reception.
Yo’s: The dive where every man in town (most recently Paul) has drowned his sorrows at one time or another. Other highlights: The big Clark sting was here; a jealous Katie went after a rival for Simon’s affections with a pool cue; Jack once serenaded Julia during open-mike night with a slow and soulful version of “Hooked on a Feeling.”
Conversation
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