By Carrie MacQuaidPLAY Writer

Hi-Tops is more like no tops at this frat-tastic Wrigleyville hangout. Bartenders are pouring ice down their shirts and rubbing themselves with lotion all to entertain an almost empty bar. Waitresses and their friends plop down on the bar top and flirt with customers to set the mood for this low key bar.

It’s hard to find a bigger bar in Wrigley, but this two-story place is a bit unnecessary for the 20 people gathered around a tinny karaoke machine on a Thursday night. The space is better suited for game days and Saturday nights, when the bar fills with patrons from all over. With seating for almost 500 people, it’s one of the few places where you can go and be somewhat comfortable.

If karaoke isn’t your thing, there’s also a variety of video games along one wall. Upstairs features two pool tables and a great view of Wrigley Field. On weekends there are usually DJs spinning for the college crowd. But what most people go for sports, and that isn’t a problem since there are televisions everywhere you look.

At a bar like this, the best choice is to stick with the drink special – a cheap draft beer in a plastic cup.

The kitchen features typical bar food – pizza, fries, sandwiches – and stays open late, which is a welcome treat. The Sunday brunch is also a popular time to go, with a $5 buffet and $4 mimosas.

The bar is comparable to others in the area, but it just comes up average. Bottom line, this bar is like strawberries, it’s only good when it is in season.

Hi-tops is located right off the CTA red line Addison stop at 3551 N. Sheffield Ave. Hours are 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Sunday; open for all Cubs games.

– Carrie MacQuaid