Restaurant News: Perennial Virant Open, Late-Night at Next, Reservations at Schwa(?), New Chef at Tribute

By Anthony Todd in Food on May 19, 2011 4:20PM

- According to Eater Chicago, Perennial Virant
(formerly Perennial, now with extra Virant goodness) is open tonight. Last night was the first night of operation, and it won't start taking reservations till May 23, but tonight or tomorrow night might be a good chance to get a sneak peek at Paul Virant's new menu for the Lincoln Park restaurant.

- Biz 3 Publicity is claiming to be able to help you get reservations for Schwa via Twitter. The restaurant, which often doesn't answer its phone or check its answering machine, gives type-A foodies headaches. Since the company reps Schwa, it might be for real.

- Next has announced extra tables, late at night. 312 Dining Diva reports that Next is opening up a 10:15 reservation slot, so if you like late night dining, you're all set. Remember, Next has been giving out tons of same-day reservations on Facebook, so hope is not lost if you aren't on the list

- Tribute, the yet-unopened South Loop restaurant, just lost its executive chef. Brandon Baltzley, formerly of Mado, has left the restaurant because of some personal problems and sous-chef Lawrence Letrero is taking over the opening. We wish Chef Baltzley the best.