Headquarters’ Wicker Park Restaurant Debuts Foie Gras-Topped Burgers and More Next Week

Another of the year’s most anticipated restaurant openings, Machine, is set to debut next week in Wicker Park. The project is from the owners of Headquarters Beercade, and as spring approaches, the Machine team’s new spot will also include a flower shop. It’s an organic contrast to the restaurant’s mechanical name.

Machine will officially power up on March 11 at 1846 W. Division Street — the former Taus Authentic and Prasino space — according to a news release. The menu includes items like a burger topped with foie gras and maitake mushrooms. There’s also carrot tartare, braised pig tails, and smoked mushrooms with chicken skins. Chef Trevor Hoyte’s resume includes stints at Tru and AraOn. His global and Midwestern menu influences are diverse.

Co-owner Brian Galati and Chireal Jordan have hired a beverage director, Aneka Saxon, who worked at Wicker Park’s acclaimed Violet Hour cocktail lounge. As the owners told the Tribune, they imagine a happy hour with Saxon’s drinks with flower garnishes. Edible flower garnishes, popular in tropical climates, continue to gain popularity in Chicago.

Galati and Jordan said they’ve held on to the idea for Machine, a neighborhood restaurant with a creative menu, for a while. Their River North arcade bar continues to attract customers, but this is a new direction for ownership. Check back soon for more coverage and check out some photos of the food and drink in the meantime.

Machine/Sophia Mathias

Machine/Sophia Mathias

Machine/Sophia Mathias [Official Photo]

Machine/Sophia Mathias