Trenchermen’s Pat Sheerin Exits As Heisler Restaurant Will Reconcept Next Year

This year has been a difficult one for brothers Mike and Pat Sheerin, with family difficulties and the closings of Packed and Trinity Bar. Now comes word that Pat Sheerin is leaving Trenchermen, the acclaimed Wicker Park restaurant he and his brother helped open as co-chefs in 2012. Dec. 31 will be the last service for the longtime Eater 38 restaurant as diners currently know it, as Heisler Hospitality close it temporarily to tweak the menu, decor, and bring in a new chef. It’ll reopen early next year under a slightly new name, Trench.

Pat Sheerin told the Tribune that he needed to take some personal time off to regroup. His brother had already left Trenchermen in 2013. The New American restaurant took advantage of a unique space overlooking North Avenue, one that formerly housed a bath house before serving as home to Spring and chef Shawn McClain. The pending departure of Trenchermen’s chef forced Heisler’s decision.

"As we acknowledge that the restaurant cannot continue in its current existence without the heart and soul of the brand at the helm, we also recognize that there is too much good to simply close our doors," a statement from Heisler read. "Rather, we will take this moment to reimagine the brand and get back to our historic roots in the North Avenue Bath House location—a place that was once a gathering spot for the community."

Many regulars and staff already called the restaurant "Trench" so the transition won’t be a difficult one. Brunch and the bar remained popular and Heisler will continue that by "building a neighborhood brunch program." A Heisler spokeswoman said they’ll release more info in the coming weeks.