Act One Cafe opened in Rogers Park last week. Housed in a 1912 building that formerly served as a Vaudeville theater, the eatery is available for full buyout and can seat 80 or hold 100 for receptions. Executive chef Jimmy Madla uses local produce in his menu of internationally influenced comfort food, which includes burgers with veggie tater tots, bistro steak, and house-made artichoke ravioli. Madla can provide snacks or dinners for as many as 80 guests but encourages hosts to bring in outside caterers for larger parties.
Adjacent to the restaurant and also available for buyout, Mayne Stage is set to open today. With a 299-seat auditorium, the space has broadcasting and cinema capabilities. Available equipment ranges from recorders to microphones, amplifiers, and a concert grand piano. For private events, entertainment booker Denise McGowan can bring in comedians, musicians, or psychics. Outside the main theater, a two-level bar area can host private events for 30.
