The Publican

The Publican is a beer hall and farmhouse-style restaurant at 837 W Fulton Market in the Fulton Market district of Chicago, Illinois. It opened in 2008 as part of the One Off Hospitality group led by chef Paul Kahan and is credited with helping to turn a former meatpacking neighborhood into one of the city's dining destinations. The cuisine is farmhouse and beer-focused, built around pork, oysters and seasonal vegetables designed to be shared. Oysters are a staple, and the menu leans on pork-forward plates, charcuterie and rustic dishes that pair with a long craft beer list, often featuring Belgian-style and farmhouse ales alongside wines. The dining room has a communal, barn-like character, with long shared tables, high ceilings, wood finishes and a bustling, often loud atmosphere that fits the beer-hall concept; dress is casual. Beverage selection is a main reason to visit, and servers can guide diners to beers that match the food. Hours include weekday lunch from 11AM to 2PM, dinner Sunday to Thursday 4PM to 9PM and Friday to Saturday 4PM to 10PM, and weekend brunch from 9AM to 2PM. The price tier is upper-moderate. Reservations are recommended, particularly for dinner and weekend brunch, and booking several days to a week ahead is typical for peak times. The phone number is (312) 733-9555. The restaurant is a walk from Fulton Market's galleries, markets and other restaurants, making it a natural anchor for an evening in the West Loop. Sharing several plates among a group is the usual approach, with oysters to begin and a pork dish as the centerpiece. It suits groups and food-oriented travelers who value beer as much as wine.