February 2015 – Southport Corridor News and Events

Cullen’s Bar & Grill is now closed

As of today, Cullen’s Bar & Grill is now officially closed. Per The Mercury Theater:

“Hello from Mercury Theater Chicago, Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, announces the closing of Cullen’s Bar & Grill as of February 27th, 2015. An agreement was negotiated and signed allowing Cullen’s to extend their lease. The agreement included paying 5 months of past due rent. Cullen’s Bar and Grill did not pay the past due rent and the agreement was broken. Mercury Theater Chicago wishes to express their deep appreciation to Michael Cullen and Cullen’s Bar and Grill for the renovation and revitalization of this Southport institution. Mercury Theater Chicago will continue to honor the legacy of Michael Cullen by bringing people together in celebration of the performing and culinary arts.”

Cullen’s responded Friday afternoon on their Facebook page:

“Cullen’s family, we are trying to come to grips with this and will send out a response soon. For tonight stay warm and toast Cullen’s!”

You can read more about the closing of Cullen’s from the Chicago Tribune.

Your Southport Corridor for sale Condo of the Day: 3404 N Southport Ave # 3, Chicago, IL 60657

Live above Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in the heart of the Southport Corridor. Listed at $474,900 – see the full listing here.

Continue reading “Your Southport Corridor for sale Condo of the Day: 3404 N Southport Ave # 3, Chicago, IL 60657”

Einstein Bros Bagels on Southport Closing February 24, 2015.

Just posted on their window today and sent to us by a Facebook fan – wonder if there is something with that Chipolte rumor?

We have learned that many Einstein Bagel locations are closing this Tuesday in Chicago.

UPDATE: here’s the official statement from Einstein Bros Bagels:

“After careful evaluation, Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, Inc. (“ENRGI”) has come to the difficult decision to close 39 underperforming restaurants, effective Tuesday, February 24, 2015. The company will continue to focus on its high-performing restaurants to ensure the future growth and success of the business. ENRGI values the continued support of its customers, and the dedication and hard work of all its employees.”

Restaurant Rumors: Chipotle eyeing the Southport Corridor

We have heard these rumors for awhile, and today, the Lakeview Chamber also reported that Chipotle is eyeing a location south of Addison on Southport in the heart of the Southport Corridor. Would you welcome them to Southport?

Whole Foods confirmed at Lincoln, Ashland and Belmont; Opening in 2017

Target is out, Whole Foods is in. From The Chicago Tribune, Whole Foods has confirmed that it will be moving it’s Lakeview store across the street to the corner of Lincoln, Belmont and Ashland. The store is set to open in the spring of 2017 and will be 75,000 square feet, just 4,000 feet shy of the Lincoln Park flagship store. Even cooler – they will have a microbrewery as well.

What are your thoughts, neighbors?