Wicker Park’s Rhyme or Reason Closing to Become a Mexican-American Restaurant

After a 20-month run in Wicker Park, Rhyme or Reason — the funky ‘70s-style restaurant and bar that took over the Jerry’s Sandwiches space — is closing, a statement from ownership confirmed. Ownership will shut down the restaurant in late November — signs point to November 26 — and in December they’ll debut a modern Mexican-American restaurant from the same chef. TuKo Cantina should open two weeks after Rhyme or Reason closes at 1938 W. Division Street.

Ownership, including managing partner Le’Qoinne Rice, will also open a TuKo in suburban Evanston at 817 University Place, according to a statement from Rice. That’s the former Las Palmas space — it closed in 2010 after a 21-year run. Evanston city officials are sorting through the permit process. The Evanston location is slated for a “mid-winter” opening.

Rhyme or Reason chef Chris De La Cueva will create a modern Mexican-American menu for TuKo. The rest of the restaurant’s staff will reinterview for their jobs. Rhyme or Reason’s music was a big component and the restaurant built a large weekend boozy brunch following. Ownership isn’t ready to divulge more details about TuKo, but they did say they want to expand and open other venues.

Look for more details in the coming weeks.