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A new cocktail bar from veteran bartender Katie Renshaw is on its way to West Town. Bar Bambi, located at 1703 W. Chicago Avenue, will highlight classic drinks reimagined through molecular techniques, like fermentation, clarification, and forced carbonation — think a martini as a sparkling highball or an old fashioned transformed into a clarified whiskey sour. There will also be spirit-free cocktails, natural wines, Champagne, and bar snacks such as wings and burgers.
Bar Bambi will be designed to feel ethereal and dreamlike, blending playful, whimsical elements with grounded industrial touches. A mirrored back bar with neon accents and floor-to-ceiling front windows complement an adjustable electric light installation that lets the room shift with the hour and mood. Renshaw, who has worked at Moneygun, Billy Sunday, GreenRiver, and the Aviary, and was named the 2019 U.S. World Class Bartender of the Year, says in a release that the space balances surreal, otherworldly details with a sense of comfort, creating a lounge that feels both magical and distinctly Chicago. Bar Bambi is scheduled to open in late 2025 or early 2026.
West Lawn restaurant rallies community to help put food on the table
Iconic hot dog manufacturer delays new headquarters
One of 2025’s most anticipated openings has been pushed back to next year. Vienna Beef’s Bucktown cafe and factory store is now slated to open by mid-2026. The long-delayed project at 2501 N. Damen Avenue will offer hot dogs, Italian beef, corned beef sandwiches, soups, desserts, and beers on tap from local breweries, along with indoor and outdoor seating and a rentable event space. There won’t be a museum on site but visitors will be able to check out historical artifacts on display as well as experiences like build-your-own Chicago-style hot dogs.
An Ethiopian favorite is expanding to Bronzeville
Ethiopian stalwart Demera is headed to the South Side. After almost two decades in Uptown, the restaurant is planning a second Chicago location at 4528 S. Cottage Grove Avenue. The new Bronzeville spot, part of a mixed-use building with residential units above it, is expected to be completed in 12 to 18 months. Demera previously expanded with a Time Out Market Chicago outpost, which closed earlier this year.
Wicker Park Indian restaurant shifts to takeout-only service
Vajra is closing its bar and dining room but will continue takeout service. The Indian restaurant had resumed sit-down dining in 2024 after years of carryout-only operations in West Town and its current Wicker Park location, following pandemic closures. The team has also teased a new takeout-only spot on Instagram, Oma Mediterranean by Vajra.
Windy City Smokeout announces 2026 music lineup
Windy City Smokeout, the barbecue and country music festival put on by Lettuce Entertain You, will return Wednesday, July 8 through Sunday, July 2026. Taking place on the grounds outside the United Center, the event will feature headlining performances by Lainey Wilson, Jordan Davis, Hootie & the Blowfish, Treaty Oak Revival, and a to-be-announced artist. Tickets are on sale now.
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Jeffy Mai
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