Is Buca di Beppo Leaving Shops at North Bridge? Is Seasons 52 Moving In?

Some changes may be coming to the Shops at North Bridge. First, it was reported last week that Eataly would take over the space at 43 E. Ohio, which is part of the adjacent complex. Now, there's talk that Buca di Beppo, the family-style, tourist friendly Italian restaurant chain, may have to vacate its space.

Crain's reported that Buca di Beppo is in danger of losing its space if it doesn't agree to a rent hike by Macerich Co., which owns the property. While Buca is attempting to negotiate a deal, it may make space for another, more upscale, chain to move in: Seasons 52.

Eater has been hearing rumblings for a few weeks that Seasons 52, which has 20 or so locations around the country with one in suburban Schaumburg and focuses on farm-fresh seasonal ingredients, will open in the city. The Crain's story about Buca di Beppo referenced something, but the company is not ready to confirm.

"Seasons 52 continues to grow, so our real estate teams are constantly looking for sites across the country," wrote Hunter Robinson, Seasons 52 media relations manager, in an email. "However, we do not comment on any specific plans until a project has received the necessary approvals." It sounds like they're waiting for the deal to be final before they make an official statement, so watch for that.
· Joe Bastianich Talks About Eataly Chicago, Opening 2013 [~EChi~]
· Buca di Beppo Faces Exit from Shops at North Bridge as Landlord Wants Higher Rent [CRED]

Seasons 52 in Schaumburg [Photo: Chicagonista]