Construction progress can be seen for the single-story addition at the former site of the iconic Al’s Beef Restaurant, situated at 169 W Ontario Street in River North. The existing single-story masonry building was home to the famed restaurant from 1985 to 2020. YIMBY reported on the initial foundation work in December 2021.
169 W Ontario Street. Photo by Jack Crawford
Jeremiah Johnson of CBD Architects is the architect of record for the work, and the general contractor on the project is Blackwood Group LLC. Details regarding a completion timeline or future tenant are still unavailable, however, the team has made significant headway on the construction of their 3,100-square-foot space which is adjacent to the original low-rise. The new build features an updated patio and a trash enclosure. YIMBY will continue to provide updates as the construction moves closer to completion.
169 W Ontario Street. Photo by Jack Crawford
169 W Ontario Street. Photo by Jack Crawford
Those curious and interested will find southbound bus service available in the form of Route 37, which is situated along the adjacent intersection of Wells & Ontario. Additional transportation options are available within a two-block radius including Routes 65, 125, and 156. The CTA L service for the Brown and Purple Lines at Chicago station via a six-minute walk northwest.
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Um, Jack, was there supposed to be another pic here? One showing the construction side?
There was, and this was a mistake on my end as to which day this would run. Photos are up now
River North still has countless undeveloped or underutilized lots. So much untapped potential for the neighborhood but Fulton Market’s rise has probably pushed growth back for decades to come.
Definitely agree – I think it will ultimately give way to some really impressive projects
It was at one point going to become Big Star, but I don’t think that’s happening anymore.