Openings Wed Apr 09 2008

What's New, Chicago?

The next few weeks will bring a steady stream of newcomers to Chicago's culinary arena.

Late April/early May:

Jackson Park Bar & Grill, whose executive chef, Jason Paskewitz, is currently competing in the "Food Network Challenge," will offer modern-day Chicago dishes inspired by Italian, French, and Classic American traditions. 444 North Wabash.

Olo, coming soon to West Randolph Street, will feature rustic, Mediterranean cooking. Chef Sean Eastwood, lauded for his work at Isabelle's Estiatorio in Geneva, promises to feature much of the same cuisine that made Isabelle's such a success. 1152 W. Randolph St.

Early May:

Perennial (brought to you by the Boka team), will be fronted by Chef de Cuisine Ryan Poli, of former Butter fame. Park View Hotel, 1800 N. Lincoln Avenue.

C-House, which promises to "offer a new model for the American Seafood House," will offer a rooftop lounge and raw bar. Affinia Chicago, 166 E. Superior St.

June:

The word on the street is that early summer will bring a yet unnamed, super-secret, "beer, pork, and fish" pub from Blackbird to the Market District. 845 W. Fulton Market.

The same goes for Lula, everyone's favorite organic spot, which is launching an unnamed South Loop second location with sous-chef Jason Vincent in the driver's seat.

- Abbey Gillespie