Look Inside Ella Elli Before Lakeview’s Latest Opens Next Week

Take an early look inside Ella Elli, the sleek, new, and decidedly-more adult restaurant from the owners of Crosby’s Kitchen. The 75-seater, located just around the corner from Crosby’s at 1349 W. Cornelia Ave., should open on Tuesday, March 7. It’s the eleventh restaurant from 4 Star Restaurant Group.

Four Star’s Doug Dunlay raved that the new space would be more romantic compared to his group’s other restaurants. SPACE Architects + Planners has gone for a more modern look with a 1920s vibe. Check out the lounge and bar areas, with loveseat bar stools and private alcove booths. The look is more sophisticated than many of the restaurants near the Southport Corridor. There’s no trace of the dental offices that once occupied the address. Grip assisted in designing the concept and with branding.

Galdones Photography

They’ll open with dinner service before expanding to brunch in May. The menu takes cues from a variety of places, blending Italian, Mediterranean and other flavors. Dunlay has talked about how his newest restaurant would allow executive chefs Matt Eversman and Nolan Narut to cut loose with more freedom. Four Star has been expanding their portfolio. Back in September they opened opened Tuco & Blondie, a Mexican restaurant located just around the corner from Ella Elli.