Gemini, Lincoln Park’s Reborn Neighborhood Gem, Reopens Today

Lincoln Parkers were a bit stunned four months ago when Gemini Bistro closed and management announced their plan to rehab the eight-year-old restaurant. It’s common in the industry for restaurants to close and dangle the possibility that they’ll reopen, but often that return never happens. That’s not the case over at 2075 N. Lincoln Ave., as today the renovated restaurant—now simply known as Gemini—reopens (click here for photos).

Partners Pauly Graves and Ryan O’Donnell have added a U-shaped bar (they want more of a bar scene), draft cocktails (enter the “Squirtsky,” a carbonated mix of citrusy Squirt with vodka), and weekly live lounge music (Piano Stu is not related to Disco Stu). There’s one 60-inch TV in the 92-seat dining room and outdoor seating for 60.

Gemini Bistro enjoyed success, earning Michelin Bib Gourmand status, but ownership felt it was time to modernize. While most of the staff remains the same, they’ve brought a new chef, albeit someone familiar. Chef Miguel Ortiz worked at O’Donnell’s sibling restaurant, the since-shuttered Rustic House. Ortiz’s menu features elevated bar bites, such as duck confit nachos (to go with a nice selection of local craft beer and wines by the glass), as well as heartier fare including steak frites slathered in bone marrow butter. There’s also a new late-night menu available until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Will these changes restore the buzz surrounding this Lincoln Park neighborhood favorite? Check out Gemini starting today.

Gemini, 2075 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 525-2522, open 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday to Thursday; 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Weekend brunch service starting soon.