EAST VILLAGE — Ever visited an art exhibit and suddenly felt inspired to eat fine food? The Cotton Duck, 941 N. Damen Ave., aims to satisfy on both fronts after opening this past Saturday night.
James Beard-nominated chef Dominic Zumpano teamed up with art gallery owner Cecilia Lanyon to create the 1,400-square-foot, 40-seat art gallery and restaurant. It will also have a 20-seat patio.
"We really want people to enjoy themselves and enjoy fine dining and not have to worry about being in a stuffy environment," Zumpano told DNAinfo Chicago last month.
READ MORE ON THE COTTON DUCK'S NEW RESTAURANT
The first featured artist will be Renee McGinnis, who will have her work featured for three months before rotating. Patrons may explore the gallery even when dinner is not served, according to a Friday news release.
The restaurant is BYOB and customers are invited to bring their own spirits, as there will be "spirit-free cocktails" ($4 a glass) and specialty pops ($5) available for mixing.
The art-inspired seasonal menu ranges from charred carrots with salsa verde and red wine ($8) to flat iron steak with glazed potatoes ($24).
The Cotton Duck, 941 N. Damen Ave., Open 5-10 p.m. weekdays, 5-11 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
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