Kith & Kin Closes Unexpectedly

By Anthony Todd in Food on May 25, 2011 3:20PM

Financial strangeness seems to have been the downfall of Lincoln Park restaurant (and early ampersand adopter) Kith & Kin, which announced yesterday on Facebook that it was closing. "We have to start by saying Thank You. We have had the most incredible fans during our run with Kith and Kin and closing the doors was not an easy thing to do. As of May 24th, 2011 we have officially closed Kith and Kin. We appreciate all of your loyal patronage and it truly was an amazing experience to serve you." The exact reason for the closure isn't entirely clear - there are conflicting reports from around town.

312 Dining Diva reported yesterday that during a transfer of ownership, there were financial issues that prevented the liquor license from being renewed, and quotes Executive Chef Andrew Brochu (who may be out of a job): "The bank account is drained and there's no point in keeping it open." Eater Chicago asked the owners, who insist that slow traffic was the reason for the closure. The same group was set to open another restaurant in Andersonville, also helmed by Brochu. Those plans are now wavering. We must admit to being surprised by this one - we had trouble getting reservations for Kith and Kin just a couple of months ago. We'll miss the smoked oysters.