Here are some recent Chicago restaurant (and bar) openings and closings.
OPEN:
Floriole Cafe & Bakery -- The Green City Market fixture opens up a new, two-floor spot in Lincoln Park. Don't miss the macarons.
The Shady Lady -- This punk-themed bar takes over the former Garrett Ripley's space in River North.
Flo & Santos -- Get pizza and pierogi at this Italian/Polish spot in the South Loop.
CLOSED:
Lincoln Restaurant -- No, not the diner with Abe's huge mug outside and the comedy club inside. The Korean eatery, further north on Lincoln.
Crobar -- The popular club spun its final record last weekend.
Check back here every week for more openings and closings, and be sure to check out Centerstage Chicago's lists of new restaurants and bars.
I am SO moved by the reaction you had to WCBF! Your description of how your views on burlesque have evolved was great.
I discovered burlesque accidentally, due to my love of documentaries. I went to see "A Wink & A Smile" at the Siskel Film Center last summer. In less than an hour, my past dance life was resusitated when I realized that there was a venue where I could return to my creative, proactive, and engaging performance life...
The result: WCBF was my first burlesque festival...on stage, that is. ;)
See you next year! :D