Let me start off by saying I should have listened to everyone and gone to this place a long time ago.
There are two sides to the Bavarian Lodge: the restaurant and the bar. I of course made it to the bar area where there has to be at least 20 tables and a huge bar (maybe 50 feet of bar). The inside is cosy with a faux tin ceiling, narrow aisle, and a feeling that you are no longer in Illinois.
The bar only has a single area to get beer but they do a good job of serving you. They had at least 15 quality beers on tap and have a beer list to rival most. It is a whose who in American craft beer with solid foreigns represented also.
Standing room was all Rich and I could find but quickly started talking with some guys that had room at their table and we sat with them talking about Midwest American craft beer.
Didn't order food but I scoped out the menu. I want to take the family here for dinner sometime but I felt as though it was a bit on the high side (probably the only thing keeping this place from not being rated a 10). Food is authentic German affair.
I would recommend this as a must stop to anyone that wants to have a quality experience in every aspect from a beer bar. Enjoy!