Travelle Team Opening Casual Mediterranean Taco and Punch Spot on the Riverwalk

It won't look like Travelle [Photo: Timothy Hiatt]

Coming sometime in May: A patio on the riverwalk to grab Mediterranean-inspired tacos and boozy punches and soak in some sun, assuming the weather cooperates. Travelle chef Tim Graham is finalizing plans for Elle on the River at the foot of the Langham Hotel, which will be "totally different than Travelle" and feature just four types of tacos, punches in individual coolers poured tableside, and three desserts.

Graham feels the 80-seat patio space, in between the State and Wabash bridges, is different than anything else on that stretch of Chicago River real estate. It will be filled with tables and umbrellas, couches, and bar seating. He hopes to capitalize on downtown lunch business, happy hour, and to-go orders.

Graham's team will build four types of tacos on roti flatbreads: Piri piri chicken with pickles, roasted pork shoulder with radish and tzatziki, mahi mahi with avocado and slaw, and fried chickpea with hummus and tabouli. Three whimsical desserts such as Creamsicle and strawberry shortcake will be served in lunchroom-inspired paper cups with lids and eaten with little wooden spoons.

The beverages, which also include house-made sodas and a few beers and wines, will focus on the punches. After choosing a flavor and liquor, servers will bring out a cooler with a spigot for your group and pour mix in the liquor at the table.

Graham hopes to get Elle on the River open by mid-May, weather permitting. It'll be open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. weekdays, open at 3 p.m. on Saturdays, and close on Sundays. Get your sunscreen and punch glasses ready.
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