Opening Report: Goose Island Opens Tasting Room; Heisler Debuts Pub Royale; More

NEAR WEST SIDE—After housing the majority of its local brewing operation since its inception in 1995, Goose Island is opening its Fulton and Wood brewery for public tippling and tours for the first time today. The Goose Island Tasting Room offers many unique brews on tap—including Bourbon County Stout—and a peek into the operation and retail sales Thursdays through Saturdays. Status: Opening today, 1800 W. Fulton St.

[Photo: Daniel Gerzina]

WICKER PARK—Pub Royale, possibly the latest in Heisler Hospitality's string of hotspots, opens to the public tonight in the former Smallbar space. Take a look around the Indian-inspired pub and check out the food and drink menus on the website. Status: Opening today, 2049 W. Division St.

WEST LOOP—With a forecasted high of 64 degrees, it's not quite patio weather—but Element Collective is rolling out its al fresco-only concept Expat for the first time today regardless. Look for lots of rose, including in a selection of boozy snow cones, as well as crudo, raw vegetables, small plates, summery desserts, and shot pairings on the sidewalk outside RM Champagne Salon. Status: Opening today, 118 N. Green St.

WEST ROGERS PARK—Cajun-style seafood is reaching trendy status, as another one has opened near the very busy The Angry Crab. The Rim Seafood serves an array of shellfish both boiled and raw, fresh juice, and is BYOB. Status: Certified open, 5657 N. Lincoln Ave.

[Photo: Facebook]

BOYSTOWN—Longtime dance club Manhole is returning once again tonight to the former Spin space at Belmont and Halsted. The adjoining cocktail bar, The Den, is delayed but management expects to open it sometime next week. Status: Opening tonight, 3200 N. Halsted St.

WEST ROGERS PARK—The far North Side neighborhood also has a new Mexican street food spot, El Carrito, that even houses a food cart. In addition to many standard Mexican items, the menu also includes mole fries. Status: Certified open, 6019 N. Lincoln Ave.