CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Lakeview, Bucktown and Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, River North, Logan Square, Oak Park

Lakeview: Lakeview residents can already see the development of the new, six-story, mixed-use development next to the Belmont “L” stop. Now, the two ground level retail tenants are confirmed and scheduled to open in the spring. The first floor at 945 W. Belmont Ave. will be split into two 2,00 square foot shops. The first is Devil Dawg’s and the second is Stone Creek Coffee (based in Milwaukee). Mitch Goltz, an owner at the building’s development company, says, “They’ll be right off the train, so there’s a lot of consistent foot traffic. Coffee can be grab-and-go in the morning and burgers, hot dogs, and shakes appeal to the audience in that area.” The businesses will open this spring and applications for the 33 apartments will begin to be accepted next summer.

Bucktown and Wicker Park: This October, Wicker Park police officers will meet with residents during “Alternative Policing Strategy” meetings. According to a news release, these events have been deemed “Coffee with Cops” and seek to “break down barriers between police officers and the citizens of the districts they serve by removing agendas and allowing opportunities to ask questions, voice concerns, and get to know one another.” The first event will be held Wednesday October 11 at the Wicker Park Field House (1425 N. Damen Ave.) This meeting is for residents of Beat 1424: bordered by North Ave. on the north, Division St. on the south, Wood St. on the east, and Western Ave on the west. Find more information about specific beats and meetings here.

Lincoln Park: Lincoln Park Uncorked returns Thursday October 5, for its third year. Sponsored by the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce, this delightful wine stroll begins at Burnt City Brewing (2747 N. Lincoln Ave.), stopping at various businesses while heading south along Lincoln Avenue to Fullerton Avenue and east along Diversey. Kim Schilf, chamber president, says, “For our Lincoln Avenue stroll, we’ll have more of a food focus and are thrilled to partner with some of Lincoln Avenue’s great businesses.” Participating merchants include Delilah’s, Lincoln Station, Aloha Poke, Knife & Tine, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and more. The stroll takes place from 6 to 9 pm; tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. Find more information here!

River North: South Water Kitchen will close its doors later this year, making way for a new restaurant. This longtime Loop tavern, located at 225 N. Wabash, is closing on December 3. South Water, the restaurant inside of the Hotel Monaco, has been serving River North for 15 years. Kimpton Hotels, owner of the eatery, released a statement, saying, “The team is honored to have served their guests for the past 15 years and looks forward to welcoming them into the new restaurant where they can experience the same level of heartfelt service, creativity, and passion for food and beverage.” 

Logan Square: The Logan Square stretch along Armitage Avenue is being dubbed “Chicago’s other restaurant row”, as it’s exploded with trendy new eateries recently. Now, it’s getting two newcomers! A German sausage purveyor, boasting the best gourmet sausages and sausage products in the city, will open at 3301 W. Armitage Ave. soon. A sign recently posted in the window reads, “We’ll be coming to Chicago soon! The only company specialized in the production of gourmet sausages and sausage products will soon be in Chicago. We supply you the best American and European sausages in our city- without exception! We are looking forward to welcoming you at our opening!” Jet’s Pizza is also opening a new location, at 3510 W. Armitage Ave. The new location is listed on their website, but an opening date has not been officially announced.

Oak Park: Now that it’s October, Halloween events have officially started! You must check out “A Little Fright Music” in Oak Park. Held at the Cernan Earth & Space Center (2000 5th Ave), this laser light show is performed to the spooky and silly music of Boris Pickett (Monster Mash, anyone?), Pink Floyd, The Doors, Michael Jackson, and more. Showtimes are Saturdays at 8:30 pm, Sundays at 3 pm, and a special Halloween showing at 2:30 pm. Check pricing and plan your visit here!

RACHEL HOOVLER & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO