Blind Robin
853 N. Western Ave. 773-395-3002
The owners of neighborhood pubs Green Eye Lounge, Lemming’s and Underbar just opened this tavern in the space last occupied by Hitchcockian spot Bar Vertigo. Despite a new look, hipsters may still get a case of deja vu when they realize the back bar is from the old Lava Lounge on Damen Avenue. Green walls and hints of orange (a nod to a robin’s breast color) warm up this laid-back hang, which is all about cold drinks and chit chat. Bartenders double as DJs to provide the night’s soundtrack, and board games are at the ready for patrons looking for some friendly competition.
Tabu
738 N. Clark St. 312-787-9900
Looking for some eye candy? This recently opened second-floor nightclub, located at the former Ice Bar address, features an all-female staff dressed in boy shorts, fishnets and colored corsets. Go-go dancers (who are seemingly everywhere these days) get you inspired to hit the dance floor; DJs spin hip-hop, house and mashups to keep your feet moving. Belly up to the 30-foot bar for a drink or chill out on mocha-colored couches. Low-slung banquette seating is available for lounging and table service.
English
444 N. LaSalle St. 312-222-6200
This soon-to-open spot from the Eat Well, Drink Better boys is shooting for a late June/early July debut. The group — also behind neighborhood faves The Central, Union Park, Grand Central and Bar Celona — is taking a more mature, gastropub approach to this venture, designed to cater to a professional lunch crowd and River North locals. Set in a historic LaSalle Street building, English offers three levels for dining, drinking and lounging, including a third floor available for private parties. The building’s art deco facade inspired the interior, which boasts terracotta and glass tiles, walnut flooring and cast iron bars and columns.
WestEnd Bar & Grill
1326 W. Madison St. No phone yet
Another team with a stellar track record is behind this West Loop bar and restaurant, set to open in late August/early September. Four Corners Tavern Group (Kirkwood Bar & Grill, Sidebar Grille, Brownstone Tavern & Grill, Schoolyard Tavern & Grill, and Gaslight Bar & Grille) knows what works; at this new outpost, they’ll feature a similar menu in addition to a pizza kitchen. WestEnd will likely be the largest space for the group: Think Kirkwood — including the spacious beer garden. Future plans include a sidewalk cafe, free valet parking and shuttle service to nearby United Center.
The Yard
3441 N. Sheffield Ave. 773-477-9273
With summertime weather in full swing, we’re scouring the city for the best beer gardens. (Our Beer Garden Guides are also hot on the case. See Page 39.) So, we were excited to hear that the owners of Underground Lounge are opening this brew-tastic tap in late June/early July. They plan to have 15 beers on tap and 40 to 50 in bottles, and you’ll be able to soak up suds in a half-yard or sip a pint on the back patio. The beer garden boasts three old brick horse stables, which are being converted to cabanas for groups. Inside, the bar takes on a pub vibe — it’s a fairly small, rectangular room with European draft towers and a rich mahogany bar.
Chaise Lounge
1840 W. North Ave. 773-342-1840
This just-opened eatery and bar in the former Iggy’s space features a seasonal American menu with international flair, courtesy of Chef Isaac Holzwarth, formerly of RL. The sophisticated interior of calming colors opens onto the patio. The best part? It’s BYOB until a liquor license comes through.
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kmbudell@tribune.com
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What else is coming (and going) soon …
You heard it here first: The guys from hot spot Stone Lotus are opening a 5,500-square-foot upscale sports lounge in River North. More details to come …
Three Headed Productions (Cans Bar and Canteen, Salud Tequila Lounge, EvilOlive and Junior’s Sports Lounge) just bought Le Passage (937 N. Rush St.) in the Gold Coast! The late-night spot will stay open on Fridays and Saturdays for now; stay tuned for details on a new look and new concept for the lounge.
Look for Paddy Long’s (1028 W. Diversey Pkwy.) to spring up in the former Lawry’s Tavern space. The new owners, Dublin natives, say to expect a traditional Irish pub to complement the very Irish name.
The owner of Lakeview’s LBC is opening LMC on Friday. Lakeview Manufacturing Co. (952 W. Newport Ave.), a lifestyle boutique, will carry on the vibe of sib LBC, but will offer rock-chic clothing and a Blow Out Bar for hairdos and makeup.
— K.B.
