The historic, idiosyncratic West Loop building that housed the now-shuttered Powerhouse restaurant might have some new tenants! The building’s owners are breaking up the massive 9,500 square foot pace, leasing Powerhouse’s restaurant area and bar area separately, Crain’s Chicago reports. The restaurant area is reserved for an unnamed “white-tablecloth” restaurant that has submitted a letter of intent. Powerhouse’s former bar has been leased to Steve Soble, bowling magnate and owner of the Daily Bar & Grill, who plans to call the space New Line, after the Chicago-Milwaukee railroad.
Soble is thinking fewer than 100 seats, with a casual atmosphere informed by the building’s history: “I like to take something that’s historic and do something based on that,” he said. “I like the area, and I think we’re coming in at a price point that’s a little bit more attractive to the neighbors than the previous tenant.” Considering that the Powerhouse team is now embroiled in bankruptcy court for over half a million dollars in unpaid debts, being attractive to the neighbors is pretty key here. [Crain’s Chicago]
Previously: Powerhouse Loses Power
