CHICAGO Bull & Bear, an upscale sports bar from the owners of Stone Lotus, opened in River North January 22. The stock-market mascots inspired the venue's name, and the theme continues with a customizable 40-foot stock ticker above the bar and newspaper-like menus that bear the title "The Wells Street Journal." 

At the front of the space, a main bar area seats 70 or can host 100 for cocktails; an elevated seating area in back offers the same capacities. The back room features its own bar and U-shaped tufted-leather banquettes that wrap around tables outfitted with personal beer taps. Designed to eliminate lines at the main bar, the tabletop beer taps offer one domestic and one imported draft and allow guests to pour their own drinks on a pay-as-they-go basis. (LCD screens embedded in the tabletops meter each pour.)

Chef David Blonsky (formerly of Tru) oversees the menu; selections include tempura-battered white fish with grapefruit tartar sauce and Kobe beef burgers topped with melted Gruyere and onion marmalade. The venue can accommodate seated dinners or prepare passed hors d'oeuvres; buffet service is also an option.

Available for full buyout, Bull & Bear can host approximately 230 guests; during the warmer months, a sidewalk patio will seat an additional 75.