Lokal Bringing Euro-Inspired Comfort Food to Second Location on Ashland

Lokal, a Wicker Park staple for interesting Euro-inspired comfort food at dinner and brunch, cocktails, and DJs since 2009, is ready for expansion. Owner Art Wnorowski says he's taking over the long-shuttered Players Sports Bar & Grill at 2500 N. Ashland and is aiming to open a second, larger Lokal this summer. The space that last held the racing-inspired bar with the gaudy red corner signage has been vacant since early 2013.

Wnorowski says he'll utilize the larger locale to offer an extensive bourbon and whiskey list, more craft beer, a similar food menu with a few tweaks, and "focus on late night food and craft drinks." While the Wicker Park location is known for its DJ booth and live jazz music at night, the new spot will have a smaller booth and will have performers on a per-event basis rather than a regular feature.

"We are extremely excited to bring Lokal to the Lincoln Park area," Wnorowski says. Look for it this summer.