Destination: Chicago Ave

Mr. Brown’s Lounge (2301 W Chicago Ave, 773-278-4445)
Jamaican food lives primarily on Chicago’s fringes—Far North, Far South, even Far West. Which is why a group of friends of Jamaican descent decided to open this bar-restaurant hybrid, named after a Jamaican folklore tale that Bob Marley later adapted into a song, in Ukrainian Village. In addition to twists on American foods like “Island-style” mac and cheese, Mr. Brown’s turns out Jamaican staples like jerk chicken, stewed oxtail and Jamaican rum punch. And because this is Uk Village, DJs will spin Thursday–Sunday.

The Beetle (2532 W Chicago Ave, 773-384-0701)
New owners closed the spacious, low-key Black Beetle for two weeks of renovations, reopening as—simply—the Beetle. The space came out relatively unscathed: Its wood-paneled bar and antique taps retain a sense of authenticity. It’s the menu that has moved into new territory, particularly this beast called the “Elvis” burger. The patty itself is underseasoned, but you won’t notice: The thing is topped with sweet plantains, crisp bacon and a dangerously delicious layer of peanut butter. Believe it.

Cabalo (2700 W Chicago Ave, 773-698-8958)
Nxxt and Cat’s Meow lived short lives in this Humboldt Park space, so it makes sense that the latest tenant is bringing a new spin: a European menu, heavy on sausage and other German specialties like Wiener schnitzel, spaetzle, sauerkraut—and the beers (Paulaner, Spaten) that go with them.

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