SOUTH LOOP — The Chicago Firehouse restaurant is reopening in the South Loop on Friday, more than two years after a fire shut it down.
The restaurant, a converted fire station at 1401 S. Michigan Ave., will reopen at 5 p.m. Friday, according to a press release. In a statement, the restaurant's owners say they paid "thoughtful attention" to their post-fire renovations at the firehouse, a yellow brick and limestone 1905 building that was named a city landmark in 2003.
Matthew O'Malley opened the restaurant in 2000. An extra-alarm fire forced the restaurant to close in late 2014.
RELATED: Fire Ravages Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, But Owner Vows to Rebuild
"We extend our deep gratitude for your unwavering patience and encouragement," Matthew O'Malley, the restaurant's owner, said in a statement.
Firefighters battle the blaze in late 2014. [DNAinfo/Josh McGhee]
The new-and-improved Firehouse has retained some of its vintage charms such as glazed Tiffany bricks, tin ceiling, and custom millwork; but has added a solarium with floor-to-ceiling windows. The restaurant's walnut-paneled second floor can be reserved for private events.
O'Malley said it cost "millions" to reopen the restaurant. A "speakeasy" in the restaurant's lower level called "The Basement" will open later this year, he said.
Chef John Caputo of the Mag Mile's Labriola is behind the fare, which includes lamb lollipops with mint jelly appetizers, steak and seafood entrées, and desserts such as "creamy rum cheesecake." The drink menu includes specialty cocktails and more than 80 bottles of wine.
"Our commitment to the neighborhood and community has only deepened over time, and it is with great pride and humility that we warmly welcome you back," O'Malley said in a statement.
The menus are on the restaurant's website. Call (312) 786-1401 for reservations. The restaurant will be open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The bar will stay open till midnight Sunday through Thursday, and till 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Click the slideshow above or scroll down below for more looks at the new-and-improved Chicago Firehouse Restaurant:
This solarium is a new addition. [All photos by DNAinfo/David Matthews]
The "Palmer Parlor" upstairs can be reserved for private events.
So can the "Kimball Parlor," shown here.
The "Mayor's Room" upstairs can also be reserved.
This rooftop veranda will seat about 40 in the spring. A ground-floor courtyard will also have seats outdoors.
