From a neighborhood tavern to Spanish tapas, a children’s boutique and today’s chiropractic practice, this Southport Avenue address has seen plenty of change.
Longtime Southport Corridor residents might remember Neybours Tavern & Grille, the neighborhood restaurant and bar once located at 3651 N. Southport Avenue, just south of the Music Box Theatre. Its wood-paneled facade and unmistakable NEYBOURS sign are reminders of an earlier era on Southport.
Before Neybours: Chezz Chazz and Otro Mas
The address has a long restaurant history. Chezz Chazz, a French bistro, operated here from 1988 to 1991. Otro Mas, a Latin-focused restaurant, was another earlier occupant before Neybours.
Remember Neybours Tavern & Grille?
By April 2004, Neybours was advertising in the Southport Neighbors Association newsletter, promoting lunch, dinner and brunch, with a menu including burgers, salads, steaks and Asian lime ribs. It was the sort of neighborhood hangout where you could meet friends for a meal or drinks.
The exact opening and closing dates have not been confirmed, but Neybours was operating in 2004 and was gone by early 2008.
Bull-eh-dia’s Brings Tapas to Southport
In 2008, the former tavern space was preparing to welcome Bull-eh-dia’s Tapas Bar, bringing Spanish-inspired small plates and paella to the block. In 2013, the restaurant announced a move to Ashland Avenue under the Bulerias name.
By November 2013, the former Bull-eh-dia’s property was listed for sale for $999,999, as we reported at the time.
The Red Balloon Company Arrives
In March 2014, plans were announced for The Red Balloon Company, a children’s clothing and gift boutique, to take over the address. The redevelopment replaced the former restaurant building with a retail storefront. See our original 2014 coverage.
The independent retailer opened on Southport in 2014 and announced its closure on January 1, 2020, while maintaining its Bucktown location. Read our 2020 closing coverage.
Today: Suvarna Chiropractic
Today, Suvarna Chiropractic occupies 3651 N. Southport Avenue, offering chiropractic and wellness services. It’s a striking transformation from the neighborhood tavern that longtime residents remember. Visit Suvarna Chiropractic.
What Do You Remember?
From Chezz Chazz and Otro Mas to Neybours, Bull-eh-dia’s, The Red Balloon Company and Suvarna, this address tells a story of Southport’s evolution. Do you remember Neybours Tavern & Grille? Did you visit Bull-eh-dia’s or shop at Red Balloon? Which long-gone Southport businesses do you miss most? Share your memories in the comments.