Tour The Tankard, Wicker Park's Temple of Tater Tots, Now Open

Wicker Park has grown up, according to the owners of The Tankard, a new restaurant/bar that soft opened Wednesday in the former Lucky's Sandwich Co. space. That maturity means the neighborhood doesn't need another sports bar, and with a mighty wine list and a more refined look, The Tankard owners aim to go upscale.

Patrick Wrona, the co-owner of Compass Bar, has teamed up with partners Philicia Mizell and Rob Colon, who worked at both Boka and Celeste, and they're bringing in a menu of tater tots, charcuterie and kebobs. Wrona doesn't want the spot to be known for wine, but if a couple wants a nice bottle and doesn't have a dinner reservation, The Tankard is their spot.

Wrona said they've created a more comfortable space that doesn't alienate customers the way many post-college sports bars do. While they didn't do major work inside the former Lucky's, they changed up the furnishings to reflect a warmer atmosphere. There's new wallpaper, green booths and they've kept Lucky's dartboard. Don't worry sports fans: Baseball caps are still welcome.

Check out the photos below.

The Tankard, 1635 N. Milwaukee Ave., open 4 p.m. to midnight on Monday to Thursday; 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Saturday; 10 a.m. to midnight on Sunday.