LINCOLN PARK — A revamped Ranalli's pizza is open again on Lincoln Avenue after the restaurant group behind Benchmark and Trellis made the joint more "modern" — and even added a table with its own beer taps.
The restaurant had continued slinging pizzas for delivery and takeout during the renovations process, but the new and improved interior at 1925 N. Lincoln Ave. has been custom-tailored for sports fans.
There is one nook in the restaurant that sticks out: the "King's Table."
Instead of jamming three or four tables into what was once a bad pocket of the restaurant to sit in, the new owners created a 12-seat King's Table equipped with two beer taps that customers can use as they need a refill.
The table is surrounded by four TVs and its own sound system.
Customers can pick the two beers they want on tap with a little notice to Ranalli's ahead of arriving.
The table is being billed as the ultimate spot to host a fantasy football draft or to bring your softball team after a game.
As for the pizza, Four Corners Tavern Group, which took over the restaurant around Thanksgiving, decided to stick with about 60 to 70 percent of the old menu.
"I think it's a modern more-updated version of the pizza joint," said Ryan Indovina of the Four Corners Tavern Group. "Pizza is very subjective in the city. We tried to bring in some fresh ingredients and upgrade some of the consistency."
The restaurant reopened with about 200 seats and room for another 175 outside once patio weather returns.
The Four Corners Tavern Group also owns Benchmark, newly-opened Trellis, the Crossing, Schoolyard and are in the process of renovating Mickey's and reopening it as Gaslight in June.
"We have a couple other deals that we are looking at," Indovina said. "We are aggressive. I think you will hear some more from us in the next month or so."
