Census figures show that between 2000 and 2010, the area’s population increased by 74 percent, bringing it to 40,000 residents—who are apparently pretty hungry. With the recent arrival of TLC Cafe, Overflow Coffee Bar and Flavor 180, the South Loop seems to be on the verge of an eatery expansion. “The new residents are mostly upscale and younger—in the age range that will go out to restaurants, bars and clubs,” Thomas said.Within the article you will find brief updates on some highly anticipated places that are supposed to open this year including:
- The Scout (1301 S. Wabash) - rumored opening in June
- Tribute (800 S. Michigan) - rumored opening in June
- Ryan McCaskey's new restaurant (1639 S. Wabash) - rumored opening in September
- Trader Joe's (Corner of Wabash and Roosevelt) - rumored opening in Q3 2011
- Mainstay Hospitality/Kendal Duque restaurant (1416 S. Michigan) - opening TBD
None of these places are a surprise to knowledgeable Sloopers and not a ton of new information in the article. Regardless, it's nice to have a positive article bringing attention to the neighborhoods retail/dinning/night life scene. Let's not get ahead of ourselves, but hopefully this momentum continues and we don't take one step forward and two steps back.
Here are some interesting tidbits in the article that we found interesting:
- Trader Joe's corporate office said the store is scheduled to open in Q3 of this year
- No news on the old Grace O'Malley's space...we hope we hear more soon...
- At McCaskey's restaurant you will be able to watch the chef and sous chef
- Tribute will have locally made hard liquor (we're hoping they have 18 vodka from South Bend...it's good stuff)
- The Scout will have 10 patio tables
These are probably the 5 highest profile openings this year in the Sloop, but let's not forget their are some others as well (like the new breakfast/brunch spot at 1400 S. Michigan or Pita Heaven at 1250 S. Michigan). Good news and glad to see some positive attention for the Sloop!