Restaurant News: Chizakaya Closes, Alain's Gets Evicted Temporarily

By Anthony Todd in Food on Sep 27, 2012 7:00PM

- Alain's, the restaurant that opened with a strange lack of fanfare earlier this year, was evicted on Monday. Yep, you heard right - evicted. Sloopin caught it first, and pointed out that the former tenant of the same space had also been evicted - perhaps a really intense landlord? Chicago Magazine reported yesterday that "things will be up and running again" by Monday, October 1. This is not an auspicious beginning for the new restaurant, which has so far received some pretty decent reviews.

- Chizakaya, the Japanese pub-style restaurant on Lincoln Avenue, has closed. Last time we were there, the place was totally empty on a Friday night. Plus, their chef has moved on to Jellyfish, so we can't say we're totally surprised. It's possible that the restaurant may relocate, but don't count on it.

- Waffle sandwiches are apparently a thing. At least, they will be in October when BEL 50, a fast-casual waffle sandwich shop, opens in River North. The restaurant will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the waffles won't be sweet. According to Chef Joey Altman, they "taste similar to textured country bread." Some options will include Egg and Sharp Cheddar, buratta with basil and olive oil, and a peanut butter and banana with local honey.