According to a recent article from Block Club Chicago, SmallBar will soon undergo renovations and a change of hands at 2956 N Albany Ave in Logan Square.
A representative of SmallBar was not immediately available for commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request.
According to the article, “Owners announced Footman Hospitality, which also owns Bangers & Lace and Quality Time in the neighborhood, will take over the bar, with the deal closing Friday. The bar will be closed for several weeks to renovate the bar and patio, owners said on social media.”
“The dive bar at 2956 N. Albany Ave. was established in 2002 by co-owner Ty Fujimura, who runs several other restaurants under Fujimura Hospitality. Thursday is the last day to visit the neighborhood institution and say goodbye to the longtime owners, Fujimura said.”
“Terry Marks, the bar’s manager, and longtime patron told Block Club on Thursday he and the staff are thrilled to know the new owners will keep the same vibe and popular menu items at SmallBar — and even the dartboard is staying, though it may be upgraded, he said.”
“The business needs some much-needed repairs and upgrades, like fresh coats of paint, a repaved patio floor, and fixes to the front bar, Marks said. He said the menu will change slightly but favorites like the popular mac n’ cheese, wings, and burgers will stay.”
“Jason Freiman, Footman Hospitality founder, was not immediately available for comment, but he told Eater he’s a longtime patron of SmallBar and wants to see it stay in the community. He has tapped Siren Betty Design to spruce it up. The design firm previously worked on the California Clipper, the Understudy, Hi-Lo, and more.”
