Restaurant News: The Bentley Tavern Opens, Half Acre Adding Food

By Anthony Todd in Food on Sep 6, 2013 4:20PM

The exterior of the new Bentley Tavern.

- The Bentley Tavern, which we announced back in July, has finally opened after some permitting delays. The Lakeview/Southport restaurant, helmed by Chef Ian Flowers, has an extensive raw bar menu alongside what they call "nouveau bistro cuisine" - think pork shoulder with spatzle, steak frites, grilled cheese and plenty of cheese and charcuterie. On September 14, they will also begin brunch service.

- Half Acre's Tap Room has become one of the most popular beer haunts in the city - full pretty much around the clock. There's been one big thing missing, however: no food to wash down with the excellent beer. That's about to change. Chicago Grid reports that Half Acre is planning to turn the neighboring space into a restaurant. There aren't any details yet on the food, the chef or the opening date, but we do know that the plan is to not apply for a liquor license. Diners will be able to bring their beers over from the tap room.

- The Armitage Avenue retail area is about to get a local food farmstand. Of course, since it's Lincoln Park, the farmstand will also sell "carefully curated gifts," but there will still be seating for 40 and a selection of coffees, teas, juices and dishes made from local ingredients. Blue Door Farm Stand will open in October.