Dan and Linda Bacin, best known for Bacino`s Pizza, have opened Bella Vista, 1001 W. Belmont Ave., which is rapidly becoming Chicago`s must-see restaurant. The restored bank building has been lavishly decorated and features marble floors, African hardwoods, an art deco painted ceiling, copper pizza kitchen and much more. The progressive Italian menu is overseen by chef Jeff Felsenthal, previously with Charlie Trotter`s. Open for lunch and dinner; valet parking; reservations recommended: 312-404-0111.
– Even as Dan Rosenthal and Cathy Newton were shuttering Rooney`s Original Lobster House two weeks ago, they were putting the final touches to Vern`s Chicken & Rib Garage, which opens May 4 at North Pier (435 E. Illinois St.). The very casual Vern`s will offer Kentucky barbecue cooking, and will feature live country and bluegrass music. Vern`s is certain to provide side-by-side competition with neighbors Dick`s Last Resort and A-1 Border Bar and Beanery.
– A six-course, ”East Meets West” dinner is being sponsored jointly by Restaurant Suntory and Yoshi`s Cafe. At 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday at Yoshi`s, 3257 N. Halsted St., chefs Yoshi Katsumura and Kazuhisa Yamanoi will alternate Japanese and French creations. $120 per person includes wine, tax and gratuity; proceeds benefit the Children`s Memorial Medical Center. Call 312-248-6160.
– After 17 years, the Bennett-Curtis House, 302 W. Taylor St., Grant Park, closes Thursday. For one last meal there, call 815-465-2288.
– Changes already are in the works at Le Perroquet, 70 E. Walton St. Michael Foley, who reopened the venerable restaurant less than a month ago, will adjust the menu. The fixed-price lunches and dinners remain, but they`ll be augmented with a la carte dishes that will be more in line with a sophisticated bistro concept. The menu additions, Foley says, will help give the restaurant a less-formal air; Foley wants the sweater-and-slacks crowd to feel welcome at Le Perroquet.
