Pizza and beer in Wrigleyville just got a whole lot better

The blocks of North Clark Street just south of Wrigley field are full of venues that cater to the sports enthusiast.  Among those offerings are a number of spots with good pizza and decent lists of beer.  None of them, however, quite live up to the high bar (no pun intended) being set by one of the newest spots on the block: Heating and Cooling Pizza Pub.  This is not just a spot for sports fans – this is one that everyone should try out.

Located at 3530 North Clark Street on the corner of North Clark and West Eddy, HVAC (as the sign announces out front) is setting a new standard for both food and beverage in Wrigleyville.  I was recently invited to bring a friend and sample some of their signature appetizers, canned beers, and artisan pizzas.  For appetizers, we sampled their bacon-wrapped dates (some of the best I have ever tasted) and their bruschetta.  The bruschetta was notable because it was served atop garlic/parmesan bread. Try them both and you will thank me.

The star of the evening, however, was the pizza.  Admittedly, I am not normally a huge pizza fan, but HVAC has just converted me.  I have never experienced such funky and intriguing choices.  You can always create your own version, but for more fun check their menu for information on a few of their unique pies, including:

• Graceland – The Pulled Pork: pulled pork, Carolina mustard BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, house cheese blend.
• Californication: chicken, roasted tomato, bacon, avocado, lettuce, ranch dressing, olive oil, house cheese blend
• The Baked Potato: garlic, potato, bacon, cheddar, sour cream, chives, olive oil, house cheese blend
• Dock of the Bay: shrimp, garlic, roasted peppers, spinach, tomato, olive oil, house cheese blend

The tap selection is good, but HVAC excels at their ‘beers by the can’ offerings.  Beer lovers of all types will definitely be excited by the choices available on the extensive menu.  Most of the beers are regional, and there are so many different styles available that it’s probably safe to say “there’s something for everyone.”

The interior is what I might call “funky urban.”  It’s just quirky enough to make HVAC different than any other spot in Wrigleyville, but not so odd that you will feel out of place.  There’s a relatively small stage set up at one end of the main floor, and every Thursday they offer live music.  You can get information on their “Thursday Night Live” schedule on the website.  There are also bands and singers on other nights, so definitely call in advance or visit the website to check out the schedule.

Heating and Cooling is located at 3530 North Clark Street.  You can reach them at (773) 789-8864.  Get more information on their website, their Facebook page, or on Instagram.