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Humboldt Park Getting New Bar With Patio, Food Stand From Ez Inn Owner

By Mina Bloom | February 28, 2017 1:28pm | Updated on February 28, 2017 3:06pm
 The new spot, 1108 - 1100 N. California Ave., will include a neighborhood bar, adjoining food stand and outdoor patio.
The new spot, 1108 - 1100 N. California Ave., will include a neighborhood bar, adjoining food stand and outdoor patio.
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DNAinfo/Mina Bloom

HUMBOLDT PARK — A stretch of California Avenue in Humboldt Park that has become a go-to spot for diners, drinkers and shoppers in recent years is getting another establishment: A new bar from the owner of EZ Inn.

Isaac Liberman is planning to open a "homey" neighborhood bar complete with an outdoor patio and an adjoining food stand serving what he described as "simple, tasty and fun" finger food at 1108 - 1110 N. California Ave., a pair of properties that have sat vacant for several years.

Still in its early stages, many details of the project have yet to be determined, including the decor, menu and name, but one thing is for sure: There won't be a theme.

"I don't believe in that kind of thing," Liberman said. "I love neighborhood bars. To the extent that EZ is a neighborhood bar, will this bar have that same vibe and feel? Absolutely."

Liberman said to expect more of a focus on cocktails at the new spot but the same unpretentious neighborhood vibe as EZ Inn, 921 N. Western Ave., which is known for its nondescript door and cheap drinks. He also plans to transform the outdoor patio into a green oasis where patrons can eat and drink during warm months.

Liberman recently closed on the two properties and is now waiting on the city's Zoning Board of Appeals to grant approval on a special use permit, which could take a few months. If all goes according to plan, rehab and construction will follow.

The new spot could open as soon as winter if zoning approval is granted more quickly than anticipated. But sometime around spring 2018 is more likely, given the city's usual lengthy approval process, he said.

Liberman said he was drawn to the area for its growing collection of thoughtfully executed independent businesses.

"I just think the care that goes into the businesses that exist there is second to none," he said, naming Humboldt House, 1045 N. California Ave., and Adams & Son Gardens, 1057 N. California Ave., as two of many spots he admires along the stretch.

"Everybody that's there is so passionate about what they're doing. I want to add to that and make the corridor the absolute best in the city."

In recent years, the stretch of California Avenue near Augusta Boulevard has become one of the most popular in the area for eating, drinking and shopping. In 2014, Humboldt Park landlord Gino Battaglia laid out a vision for the area, which has largely come to fruition.

Spinning J Bakery and Fountain, Haywood Tavern and Cafe Marie-Jeanne have all joined the mainstay California Clipper at the corner. Then there's a collection of eclectic home goods stores like Vintage Quest, Humboldt House and Space Oddities, among others, that have all joined the stretch.

"I can't wait to work with all of these businesses," Liberman said.