Restaurant News: Eataly Chicago Sets Opening Date; The Dawson Opens Friday

By Anthony Todd in Food on Oct 22, 2013 3:20PM

Eataly's ricotta and spinach cannelloni. (Photo Credit: Chuck Sudo/Chicagoist)

- We suspected that something might be up with Dale Levitski, Chef at Frog 'N' Snail and Sprout, when Sprout revoked its famous no-children brunch policy a few weeks ago. Back then, he insisted that he was returning; now he admits that it's over. "In my time away both myself and the company have decided to part ways," Levitski told Eater. He doesn't have another gig lined up at the moment—instead, he's planning to take the rest of the year off.

- The Dawson, a new restaurant from Billy Lawless, owner of The Gage and Henri, is set to open in West Town this Friday. We've walked past, and the two-story space is cavernous and beautiful. The menu hasn't been released in its entirety (though Chicago Magazine got a look and was skeptical), but the food will be American and will include "playful, yet sophisticated versions of iconic dishes by Chef Rene De Leon. The cocktail list will be extensive (run by Clint Rogers of Henri), and we're particularly excited for the homemade soda program. The restaurant is at 730 West Grand Avenue.

- Eataly, the long-anticipated food-mall from Chef Mario Batali, finally has an opening date. Crain's reports that, during a Chicago Ideas Week session, Batali revealed that the 63,000 square foot complex, which includes nine different restaurants, will open either Nov. 22 or 29. Start lining up now.