The Loop’s Getting a Mussels and Beer Bar Run by an Acclaimed DC Chef

— Eaters and drinkers in the Loop will have an intriguing new spot this spring for mussels, beer, and more near the Chicago Riverwalk. Fisk & Co., the reconcept of South Water Kitchen at 225 N. Wabash Avenue, will serve a variety of the shellfish in multiple preparations, a large craft beer menu, and lots of other seafood in the new spot that’s inspired by Belgian bistros, according to a news release. It also has an acclaimed new chef — Austin Fausett, who was a nominee for Eater D.C.’s chef of the year this past November, among multiple other accolades.

Provided

— Fliers from Chicago to New York City will get free beer and wine on American Airlines’ forthcoming new shuttle route, according to multiple reports. The airline will start flying 15 times a day on weekdays between the cities on April 4. The deal will be valid even for those in economy.

— Rick Bayless and co. have revamped the brunch at his brewpub Cruz Blanca, adding DIY breakfast tacos, oversized avocado tostadas, and more. Check out the full menu at the end of the story. Cruz Blanca originally launched brunch last March.

Kathleen Gray

— Elske, Eater Chicago’s reigning restaurant of the year, will close on January 22 until February 6 for winter break.

— Much-acclaimed beverage director Jacyara De Oliveira has released her first drink menu at much-acclaimed West Loop restaurant El Che Bar. Her creations add to the fire theme at the restaurant in interesting ways in nearly every cocktail, as many include fire-roasted fruits, syrups, and sugars. That full menu is at the end of this story as well.

— And finally, the longtime owner of Moody’s Pub, which originally opened in Old Town in 1959 before opening in Edgewater in 1969, has sadly passed away, Edgewater Buzz reports. John M. Kahoun was 84.