Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine held a sneak peek of its new Andersonville retail location and Appellation, the full-service wine bar & restaurant, on Oct. 23 at 5212 N. Clark St. Among those who attended were Ald. Greg Harris and artist Adam Thomas, whose work is on display at the site.
The store/restaurant hybrid ( which one could call a "restorerant" ) is a multiuse space that could be great for dates, friendly gatherings or group events. It is slated to open the week of Oct. 28.
Jessica "Jesse" Williams ( Uncommon Ground; Floriole; Lulu's Cafe ) is the chef of the 75-seat Appellation, which will, according to a press release, "serve as an extension of the Pastoral retail store, presenting dinner cuisine that highlights artisan cheese, charcuterie [and] bread, and pairs them with wine, craft beer and cocktails."
To accent and accompany its charcuterie station, Pastoral will feature a rotating French mustard on tap from Maille, which, in the United States, is available in just two locations outside of Chicago. Patrons will also be able to place takeaway orders for sandwiches and salads throughout the day in a separate to-go area. In addition, there will be many bottles of wine that can be inspected and purchased.
The best way to think of the space is as a store/gathering place that's open for dinner and brunch, co-owner Greg O'Neill told Windy City Times. O'Neill owns the spot along with life/business partner Ken Miller. The couple have opened three other Pastoral sites in Chicago: at 2945 N. Broadway, 53 E. Lake St. and Chicago French Market, 131 N.Clinton St. For more information about Pastoral, visit pastoralartisan.com .
Judging by the number of people who peeked through the windows before the official opening, the Andersonville neighborhood is ready to greet Pastoral/Appellation with open arms.