WICKER PARK — Those who've avoided the notoriously long lines at West Loop's famed burger spot Au Cheval will (hopefully) get some relief as restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff opens a "faster, more accessible version," Small Cheval, in Wicker Park Saturday at 11 a.m.
The new eatery, taking over the former Roxie's spot at 1732 N. Milwaukee Ave., will serve up burgers, shakes, cocktails beer and shots, it was announced last week by Sodikoff's Hogsalt Hospitality.
The space will feature a 72-seat outdoor patio with an additional 36 seats inside, said Rachel Gillman Rischall, Hogsalt spokeswoman. On Thursday evening, the patio was decorated with overhead string lights, colorful Adirondack chairs, wicker chairs with cafe tables and longer picnic-style benches.
The West Loop flagship Au Cheval has a cheeseburger that ranks among the best burgers in the nation, but the wait times are notoriously long.
Alisa Hauser says Small Cheval's arrival was a bit of a surprise:
Guests at Small Cheval can order a burger, cheeseburger or fries with the option to add bacon, lettuce, tomato and condiments courtesy of Sir Kensington’s, a purveyor of all-natural condiments partnering with Hogsalt on this venture. The beverage list features shakes, draft cocktails, beers and shots.Small Cheval will include both dine-in and carryout, with all meals packaged to-go for convenience. Hamburgers will be $8.95; cheeseburgers $9.95; and "Golden Fries" $2.95, according to a menu.
The abrupt closure of Roxie's just six months after it opened a puzzled some locals, eager to catch a bite or drink off the trail. Its mural was painted over last week in preparation for the new burger joint.
Offering lunch and dinner hours, Small Cheval will be open from 11 a.m. to midnight Wednesday through Sunday.
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