These new Lincoln Park venues offer private dining rooms and comfort food.
1. A third location of Small Bar, which also has outlets in Wicker Park and Logan Square, opened on Fullerton Avenue earlier this month. In a former pool hall, the venue has an upper-level room that seats 35 and can host receptions for 50. Referred to as "the Mezz," the space holds two 44-inch TVs that hook up to laptops and DVD players. Also available for full buyout, the restaurant and bar can host events for 150.
On the menu, hearty bar fare includes pulled-pork nachos and piles of hand-cut fries smothered in cheese curds and sausage gravy. Burgers come with toppings such as brie, caramelized onions, and fried eggs, and the chef can prepare slider versions of any flavor. The bar pours more than 100 kinds of beer.
2. Kith & Kin opened on Webster Avenue in December. Formerly of California's French Laundry restaurant, chef David Carrier prepares a seasonal menu of high-end comfort food. Selections may include crocks of eggplant puree with almond-and-raisin relish, fried egg sandwiches with wilted escarole and lardons, and lamb neck stew prepared with peppers and acorn squash. At the back of the venue, a 40-seat private dining room has its own bar and fireplace. Carrier will prepare anything from casual brunches to to five-course dinners for groups.