Spring Restaurant Openings and Re-Openings in Chicago
Verve Wine + Provisions
As spring signals a refresh for Chicago in the form of more sunshine, weekends on the patio, and pretty blooms across the city, we have also seen more restaurant doors opening (or re-opening) to diners. New restaurant and bar openings, as well as the re-openings of some of our favorites, mean all new dining possibilities for this season and beyond. Every new door opened in the world of Chicago food is a new chance for all of us to support this community and find spots that are sure to be our favorites for years to come. Here are some of the latest new restaurants to check out right now…
NEW OPENINGS
Apolonia {2201 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.363.2431}: The team behind popular Pilsen spot S.K.Y. has opened this new restaurant with a focus on seafood and Mediteranean dishes like Hearth Baked Calamari and Roasted Mussel Toast. Make sure to try one of their colorful cocktails with your meal!
Lirica {1000 East Grand Avenue, Chicago; 872.710.5700}: Navy Pier’s newest waterfront patio is the perfect summer spot! Amazing views of Lake Michigan paired with a very shareable menu of Latin-inspired dishes make for an amazing place to take out of town guests or really just appreciate our home town.
Verve Wine + Provisions {2349 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 773.904.8536}: Vino-lovers will want to run here! The national wine shop chain has opened their first ever bar and restaurant in Lincoln Park, meaning you can now come and dine on amazing wine/food pairings AND take your favorite bottles home, all with one stop.
Rose Mary {936 West Fulton Market, Chicago; 872.260.3921}: Top Chef winner and Spiaggia alumn Joe Flamm has opened his own restaurant with a menu focusing on a combination of Italian and Croatian flavors that’s already getting a ton of buzz. Make your reservations for this Fulton Market spot ASAP and get ready to dig in to dishes like Pork Ribs Pampanella and Cavatelli 'Cacio e Pepe’ on your next date night.
Hinoki Sushiko {1721 North Elston Avenue, Chicago; 773.687.8898}: Kyoten chef Otto Phan has an expansive two-floor omakase restaurant and izakaya, bringing his unparalleled sushi presentation to more Chicagoans. The first floor is a more casual izakaya setting, perfect for a group meal, while the second floor is a limited-seating, high-end omakase experience for the true seafood-lovers out there.
avec River North {141 West Erie Street, Chicago; 312.736.1778}: The second location of this long-time Mediteranean favorite brings a breath of fresh air to River North. Diners can expect the same community atmosphere and delicious shared plates (don’t skip the chorizo-stuffed medjool dates with bacon) we have all loved at their original West Loop restaurant.
Tatas Tacos Lakeview {2826 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 773.741.0934}: While this second location of the tacos favorite is not an entirely new addition to Chicago, their stunning patio space is newly opened for the season. And any new Chicago patio is worth celebrating with a taco…or the El Chapo nachos that come served in a giant shovel. You have to see (and taste) it to believe it ;)
RE-OPENINGS
NoMI Garden {Park Hyatt Chicago, 800 Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.239.4030}: Part of NoMI Kitchen, this elevated patio provides the perfect escape in the heart of lots of downtown hustle and bustle. You’d never know you’re right above Michigan Avenue in this relaxing space, so plan to take your time with a light and fresh meal, paired with a bright cocktail.
The Loyalist {177 North Ada Street #001, Chicago; 773.913.3774}: This cozy West Loop spot has finally re-opened its doors after closing them last fall, and that means the return of the famous The Loyalist cheeseburgers! Whether you choose The Loyalist Original (aka. “The Dirty Burg”) or The Loyalist Classic, you’ll fall in love at first bite. Plus, as the weather warms up, The Loyalist will also be opening a seasonal sidewalk patio on Ada Street in the near future.
The Signature Room at the 95th {875 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.787.9596}: Make your next celebration or big date night out one with epic views! Signature Room’s menu of classic dishes like Lobster Bisque and New York Strip Steak are perfect for a decadent meal out on the town.
Websters Wine Bar Chicago {2601 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.292.9463}: A 400-bottle wine list awaits you at this Logan Square wine bar! They’re only open for limited hours currently, but are always worth a visit for a glass of wine curated by their top notch team. This is a wonderful spot both for wine newbies looking to learn more, or for experts who want to find their next unique bottle.
The Bar at Hotel Zachary {3630 North Clark Street, Chicago; 773.302.2300}: For a more elevated Wrigleyville destination, come to Hotel Zachary for stunningly delicious cocktails at their picturesque bar. While the hotel’s kitchen remains closed for now, the bar area will be open from 11:30AM to 10PM on home game days, and 3 to 10PM for night games, away games and non-game days. Cheers to lots of good news!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor