Usually we're well into a bottle of cheap tequila before we start seeing flying elves and pink elephants, but Lala's and the Carousel offer those childhood charms from the moment you hit the door - it's always Christmas at Lala's, and at the Carousel the circus never stops. So if you're the type who likes your nostalgia on the rocks, strap on your jumpers, hop on your Big Wheel, and grab a high chair at either of these fine northside institutions.It's always Christmas at this unobtrusive, blue-collar little place on Justin Lane, with Santa Claus and reindeer decorations perpetually on the wall and a tree forever in the corner. La-La's is the classic lounge, and not in the hip, retro way - it just never stopped being what it always was. Look for the elves to dance over the bar whenever someone heads for the restroom. And tip the waitress - she's great.
