Dirk Flanigan Scouting; New Piccolo Due Menu

WEST LOOP—Over 1250 people attended the sold-out First Bites Bash at Union Station last night, over 50 top restaurants providing samples in the pre-restaurant week party. Host Dirk Flanigan, recently on his own, said he's scouting for locations and investors for a 100-plus-seat space. He says it's just the first in a coming restaurant group. [EaterWire]

RIVER NORTH—Piccolo Sogno Due launched a new winter menu this week, shaving some prices, adding more pizzas, and changing seasonal items. Tomorrow is Todd Stein's last night helming the kitchen. [EaterWire]

RIVER NORTH—Sushi Samba Rio reopens tomorrow, a couple days early after closing for renovations. They originally were going to open the doors January 28. [EaterWire]

NORTH CENTER—Sola turns seven tomorrow and they're celebrating by offering $7 glass pours and classic Hawaiian specials like kalua pork. Time flies.