‘Beetlejuice’ Bar Continues Chicago’s Pop Culture Pop-Up Craze

A ‘Beetlejuice’ pop-up bar is coming to Chicago

Chicago’s throwback pop culture pop-up bar bubble shows no signs of bursting anytime soon. The Bassline at 2239 S. Michigan Avenue will host the latest, based on Tim Burton’s classic 1988 movie Beetlejuice, which starred Michael Keaton as the crude and comedic spirit. House of Beetle will offer themed cocktails, scavenger hunts, live entertainment, and more, according to a news release and Block Club. It’ll run from October 17 through November 1 and tickets and more information are available on its website.

Avondale’s Eastern European stalwart is back on the market

The reconcept of Avondale’s longtime Eastern European restaurant Little Bucharest Bistro has fallen through, according to owner Branko Podrumedic. In August, San Francisco native Phillip Martinez announced plans for a new American restaurant called Gurst in the space at 3661 N. Elston Avenue, but he and Podrumedic have since parted ways. Podrumedic is now seeking a new partner for the nearly 50-year-old stalwart. The bistro remains open and owners have not scheduled a closing date.

Popular Logan Square bar Spilt Milk closes food operation as chef departs

Logan Square tavern Spilt Milk garnered headlines back in March for starting to serve creative bar food in a new kitchen operation named the Feller, but that service is on hold for now. Management announced on social media yesterday that they closed the kitchen until further notice following the departure of chef Adam Wendt, who previously garnered accolades for work at the Delta and Bangers & Lace before masterminding fancy chicken nuggets, a dry-aged burger, and more at Spilt Milk. Ownership is currently pursuing a new chef/partner to take over its food program.

West Loop’s modern Indian hotspot to offer rare Diwali dinner

And finally, Rooh, the modern Indian restaurant that opened earlier this year along Randolph Restaurant Row, will soon offer something Chicago has rarely seen. On Sunday, October 27, the restaurant will offer a special four-course tasting menu in honor of Diwali, the Indian fall festival of lights that’s observed by mostly Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists for four to five days. Rooh’s ticketed dinner costs $85, has an optional beverage pairing, and course options include lamb keema Hyderabadi, tuna tostada, and the vegetarian jackfruit and yam shami. Tickets are available at the link.