New in Town is an ongoing bulletin on new businesses in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. To be considered for future listings, email anna@makeitbetter.net.
Eats
Bellemore
Located in the West Loop, Bellemore is the latest restaurant from Boka Group and former Bohemian House chef Jimmy Papadopoulos, who’s crafted a menu of French classics with an American twist.
The Draft Room
A riff on the traditional sports bar, The Draft Room has 40 beers on tap and a 75-foot-long bar. Taking over the restaurant section of Kings Dining & Entertainment in Rosemont, it’s the ultimate game-day location.
The Esquire Champagne Room
Tucked inside Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House, The Esquire Champagne Room — which made its big debut on New Year’s Eve — boasts an extensive list of 50 champagnes and over 1,700 wines.
Lowcountry
This January, the restaurant will open its second location in the South Loop. With a seafood-focused menu (think boil-in-a-bag crawfish) and backyard-like environment, it’s a hangout spot like no other.
S.K.Y.
Stephan Gillanders left his position as executive chef at Intro Chicago (now closed) to open S.K.Y., his first restaurant. Located in Pilsen, it dishes out American cuisine with global influences.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Stumptown Coffee Roasters’ first Midwest outpost has opened in the lobby of Fulton Market’s Ace Hotel. The café features a range of drinks and pastries, and vegan and gluten-free items are coming soon.
Beauty
Deka Lash Studio
Following the success of its Glenview locale, Deka Lash Studio is opening a second spot in Lake Forest this January.
Experiences
Chicago Magic Lounge
This February, The Chicago Magic Lounge is moving from its Uptown Underground location to a new space in Andersonville. Known for tableside magic, it’s the perfect spot for an out-of-the-box date night.
Shopping
The North Face
Just in time for winter, the popular outdoor apparel company The North Face has opened a new location on Damen Avenue in the Bucktown neighborhood. stores.
Simply Luxe No. 2
Simply Luxe Bridal recognizes the significance of finding “the one.” Operating by appointment only, the new Highland Park boutique provides an intimate, personalized experience.
Health & Wellness
The Well North Shore
This meeting and event space opened on Jan. 2 and offers a place for health, well-being, spirituality, and career professionals to work and individuals to find resources, take classes, and more.
Avery Hansen recently graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas where she studied journalism and fashion media. During her time at SMU she was published in the school’s newspaper, The Daily Campus, as well as Beyond the Boulevard and HerCampus. When Avery is not writing, she is playing with her pug, Emmy, or cheering on the Blackhawks at the United Center. She is a proud supporter of PAWS Chicago.
