Evanston Could Get a Brewery From the Team Behind Two Popular Beachfront Spots

— Evanston’s strong brewery scene could get stronger in around a year. The team behind popular beachfront spots The Dock at Montrose Beach and Caffe Oliva, as well as Wilmette Neapolitan pizzeria Napolita, plans to open a brewery and restaurant at 2121-2125 Ashland Avenue in spring 2019, according to co-owner Luke Cholodecki’s proposal at a ward meeting on Thursday evening that was reported by Evanston Now. Details about the beer, food, name and more are yet to be revealed and the city still needs to approve work permits and a liquor license, so stay tuned. Evanston is already home to well-regarded breweries including Temperance, Sketchbook, and more.

— One of Chicago’s original craft beer bars could have new ownership soon. Quenchers Saloon, the Logan Square bar and music venue at 2401 N. Western Avenue that offers more than 250 beers and is a popular jumping-off point for local bands, is for sale, Chicago magazine reports. Owner Earle Johnson, who has run the bar for nearly 40 years, is retiring and hopes to find a buyer who will continue its legacy.

— Wabash Avenue in the Loop could become home to many more sidewalk cafes. The Chicago Loop Alliance is spearheading a plan that could have 20 existing restaurants on the downtown street add streetside seating, Crain’s reports. 13 restaurants on the strip currently have sidewalk seats.

— City Winery’s Riverwalk location will bring back its popular “River Domes” this spring from March 20 until May 6. Reservations, which are available here, cost $85 for two-and-a-half hours with a $60 minimum spend on food and drink.

— Chicago’s own multi-Grammy Award-winner Chance the Rapper had Valentine’s Day dinner at RPM Steak on Wednesday evening, according to a news release and Time Out Chicago. Chance, who ate with his girlfriend and young daughter, had the steakburger with only cheese and no horseradish, and they all shared four desserts.

— And finally, Avec is bringing in a slew of acclaimed local restaurants and bars for this year’s “Friends of Avec” brunch series. It kicks off this Sunday, February 18 with Estereo and continues every two weeks with Elske, Best Intentions, HaiSous, and Maplewood Brewery and Distillery also on the docket. Reservations are available on Avec’s website.