BOTTOM’S DOWN: Chicago had as many as 7,600 taverns in the early 1900s but is down to just over 1,300 today.

WINOS vs. WHINERS: Some residents call taverns magnets for everything from prostitution to littering and would rather see a bistro than a bar on the corner. But tavern owners and others say wealthy newcomers are turning once blue-collar enclaves into pricey hot spots.

SHOT OF MODERATION: Residents have voted dozens of precincts dry to get rid of bars, but the mayor is seeking a new ordinance that would allow residents to take on individual taverns instead.