Introduction to Atelier’s New Location
LINCOLN SQUARE — Atelier could start serving diners this fall at its new Lincoln Square home. Lincoln Square’s Michelin-starred restaurant held its final service Saturday at its location at 4835 N. Western Ave., where it has called home since 2023.
Background and Fundraising
Now, thanks to a successful fundraising campaign — $485,340 was raised via investors — the restaurant is moving to a larger space at 4544 N. Western Ave., a few blocks south, said owner Tim Lacey. “We really wanted to stay in the neighborhood,” Lacey said.
The New Location
The new storefront was formerly home to La Catedral Cafe & Restaurant’s Lincoln Square location. Renovations are underway, and Atelier’s new location could open as soon as September, Lacey said. It will have space for a bar, and capacity will be increased to 36 seats.
Menu and Experience
The Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its 12- to 14-course tasting menu, which rotates weekly and is influenced by global flavors and ingredients sourced from small, Midwestern farms. The limited space at the restaurant’s initial home meant staff were sometimes on each other’s toes. The new location will give the business more room while retaining some of the aspects of Atelier customers have come to love — like an open kitchen.
Enhancements and Expansion
In addition to offering staff and diners more breathing room, the location’s bar will allow for the addition of a drink menu and a broadening of the non-alcoholic pairings offered, Lacey said. Lacey opened Atelier in 2023 with chef Christian Hunter, a James Beard Award semi-finalist. Its original storefront was previously the location of chef Iliana Regan’s Elizabeth restaurant, another Michelin winner. Elizabeth closed in 2022, according to Eater.
Atelier’s previous menu items. Credit: Photos Courtesy Ali Martin
Awards and Recognition
Within a year of Atelier opening, the restaurant earned a Michelin star, and Chicago Magazine noted the Lincoln Square spot as the second-best restaurant in the city in its 2024 list. Hunter stepped out of the executive chef role in early 2024, and Bradyn Kawcak was brought on as Atelier’s new executive chef, retaining Atelier’s Michelin star.
Upcoming Events
Ahead of the opening, the restaurant will host a garage sale 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday where visitors can buy plates, tables and other “bits ’n’ bobs.” The sale will be another way for diners to say goodbye to Atelier’s current home, Lacey said. “I was really committed to staying in the neighborhood. I like it here,” Lacey said. “There really isn’t a restaurant like this around here. And my wife and I have lived in the neighborhood for over 20 years. I’ve got a five-minute commute right now. Why would I want to make that longer?”
Conclusion
Atelier’s move to a new location in Lincoln Square is an exciting development for the restaurant and its patrons. With a larger space, increased capacity, and the addition of a bar, Atelier is poised to continue offering its unique and acclaimed dining experience to the community.
FAQs
- Q: When is Atelier expected to open at its new location?
A: Atelier’s new location could open as soon as September. - Q: What is the address of Atelier’s new location?
A: The new location is at 4544 N. Western Ave., a few blocks south of its current location. - Q: What changes can be expected at the new location?
A: The new location will have space for a bar, increased capacity to 36 seats, and will retain some of the aspects of Atelier that customers have come to love, such as an open kitchen. - Q: Will the menu change at the new location?
A: The Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its 12- to 14-course tasting menu, which rotates weekly and is influenced by global flavors and ingredients sourced from small, Midwestern farms. The menu is expected to continue to evolve and offer new experiences for diners.
