Philly's Best Sports Bar; Four More Peet's; More Openings

ROGERS PARK—Local cheesesteak, sandwich and pizza chain Philly's Best is opening the first of its "new model" today—a sports bar. The first spot, at 6800 N. Sheridan in Rogers Park, features a "fry bar," TVs, a patio, and hopes to serve beer in addition to a familiar Philly's Best menu, which you can read below. [EaterWire]

LAKEVIEW/SOUTH LOOP/RIVER NORTH—The Peet's Coffee and Tea takeover continues as four more are slated to open next week. Look for them at 3025 N. Clark, 41 E. 8th, 600 N. Kingsbury, and 1328 S. Halsted. [Crains]

WEST TOWN—To-go tacos and burritos are the focus of a new storefront kitchen, The Big State.  Located in the former Gaudi Cafe space (624 N. Ashland), the small menu offers a handful of classic Chicago street food coupled with more adventurous fare such as the bean-topped Mexican Hot Dog. Currently the spot is cash only with plans for delivery later this year. [EaterWire]

EAST GARFIELD PARK—Crazy Bird Chicken, a chicken joint from barbecue legend Larry Tucker, has quietly been open for a month at 1138 S. California. [Reader]

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Stephanie Sack contributed to this story.