Maple & Ash Wednesday? Gold Coast Steakhouse Finally Opening Next Week

Three years in the making, Maple & Ash, the swanky new steakhouse in the Gold Coast with an all-star staff and food grilled on a wood-burning hearth, will finally open next week. Wednesday, October 14 could be opening day, a date that slipped out of an invitation for a wine event the following day, which says "with the restaurant opening just one night before, this will be one of the first events at the venue." The restaurant hasn't confirmed the exact opening date yet, as reps will only confirm that it's opening sometime next week.

Work continues at the site at Maple and State streets, as details such as the awning and signage aren't yet installed. Staff is training throughout this week. The first-floor bar seems to be stocked as crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling.

Steakhouses aren't new to the area, with Morton's, Gibson's and Tavern on Rush already forming three points surrounding the Viagra Triangle. Maple & Ash shares a building with Urban Outfitters on the first floor, part of the space that replaced The Hunt Club, which closed in 2012. A lawsuit and other hinderances delayed the project, which was originally slated to open in fall 2013. That wait is almost over.

[UPDATE: Reps now say it isn't opening on Wednesday, but is opening sometime next week.]