Thursday, December 27, 2007

Tucci Benucch goes buh-bye

Should've known something was brewing over there at the 900 Shops (900 N. Michigan Ave.) when Frankie's Fifth Floor Pizzeria suddenly appeared out of nowhere in that little cafe area right in front of Tucci Benucch.

Now comes word that Tucci Benucch is closing for good on Jan. 5, making way for a new Italian concept called Frankie's Scaloppini. Not many details are available yet about this new spot other than that it's opening in February once owner Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises totally renovates the space. Man, LEYE is busy as hell these days!

It's over for Spy Bar—for now

Yet another long-standing venue bites the dust.

Spy Bar (646 N. Franklin St., 312-587-8779), which lost its major A-Lister appeal five or six years ago, has its last party on Saturday, Dec. 28 with a big blowout featuring local deejays Dino G, Agent 47 and Brent Brewer. There's no cover, and the party goes on until 5am.

But it's not going away forever. They're planning a major renovation and a reopening in the spring.

NYE: Costumed Countdowns

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With New Year’s Eve and Halloween being the two most festive holidays of the year, it only makes sense to combine them.

So if you’re looking to step into character as you celebrate, here’s where to go:

Fat Cat (4840 N. Broadway, 773-506-3100). The sleek, retro-style lounge hosts a Roaring 20s party with a deejay spinning swing and contemporary sounds, passed hors d’oeuvres, a top-shelf bar package as well as a champagne fountain for the midnight toast. Make sure to come dressed to the nines in your flapper dresses, zoot suits, boas, pearls, garter belts and thigh highs for the occasion. A costume contest for the sharpest dresser will be held and the winners will receive prizes. 9pm-1:30am. $75 in advance; $100 at the door.

Opera (1301 S. Wabash Ave., 312.461.0161). Guests are encouraged to show up in masquerade or other costumed attire for this end-of-the-year bash. All staffers will be dressed up, and the menu is a la carte. Dinner reservations are available 5:30pm-midnight.

Prosecco (710 N. Wells St., 312-951-9500). The bangin’ new River North eatery transforms into a Fellini-esque setting for the night. Guests may order from the a la carte menu or from a pre-fixe menu for the night for $80. The last seating of the night will include feathered masks, merrymakers, sparklers, female impersonators and more.