As Brewers-Cubs series shifts to Chicago, visitors getting a mixed reception

CHICAGO (CBS 58) -- Looking south from the iconic Wrigley Field marquee Tuesday afternoon, light blue Brewers flags were visible about two blocks down from the ballpark on N. Clark St. Those flags went up this week as the National League Division Series between the rival Brewers and Cubs moves to Chicago.

A total of four Brewers flags are now draped outside Home Away From Home, a bar catering to fans of every team but the Cubs.

Owner Chris Johnston said Wednesday he'd first considered the concept about 15 years ago. This year, everything finally lined up, and he was able to open the bar in July. Inside, there are logos on the walls for just about every other team in Major League Baseball.

This week, the target audience is Wisconsinites and transplants now living in the Chicagoland area.

"Our goal is we're sitting here right next to the Friendly Confines," Johnston said. "So, we might as well be the friendliest sports bar in the world by welcoming all of our out-of-town guests."

Johnston said the business recently expanded into the space next door, which has a kitchen. Ahead of Game 3 Wednesday, the bar is offering a 'Yelich Special,' which includes a bratwurst, cheese curds and a beer for $22, a price set after the Brewers outfielder's uniform number.

"We're gonna crack the doors open at noon," Johnston said. "My partner is a huge Milwaukee Brewers fan. He's from southwest Wisconsin, so he's throwing a whole party together starting at noon."

Elsewhere on the north side of Chicago, others have been less welcoming. A famous hot dog stand, The Wiener's Circle, changed its outdoor marquee on Friday to read 'Milwaukee is a suburb.'

The Brewers may have gotten the last laugh, as they're a win away from eliminating the Cubs. On Tuesday, cashier Antoinette Morris offered some advice to visitors from a counter that's known for its colorful commentary.

"Don't put ketchup on your f***** hot dog," Morris said. "Drag it through the garden, yes. That's it."

Morris referred to the traditional construction of a Chicago-style hot dog, which includes mustard, neon-green relish, diced onions, tomato slices, a pickle spear, sport peppers and celery salt.

Noting she doesn't watch much baseball, Morris said she wasn't overly concerned about the Cubs' predicament.

"Go Cubs! You all need to switch over and become Cubs fans," she said. "We're loyal. Don't ever have to win. All you have to do is be there, get drunk and do the wave."

Back in Wrigleyville, few fans were out and about around the park. They'll arrive in droves Wednesday and, Johnston hopes, on Thursday should the Cubs force a fourth game. After all, another game at Wrigley provides more revenue for the fledgling business.

He hopes offering visiting fans a taste of home will leave a lasting impression.

"We do have cheese curds, without a doubt," he said. "So, we're gonna bring those over and get those situated."