Some Stuff To Get EXCITED About . . .

A mysterious image from La Sirena Clandestina's interior. (Photo: La Sirena Clandestina)

There's so much going on right now that it'll make your head spin.

Allow me to get you up to speed . . .

• John Manion's working overtime to open the Argentinean-focused La Sirena Clandestina in the West Loop in early August. As I wrote back in March, he's secured Poi Dog Pondering's Frank Orrall to act as music curator.

Another great contributor to La Sirena will be San Diego native Justin Anderson, who's set to create an all-Latin-inspired cocktail menu. Formerly of The Bedford and Branch 27, he's planning extremely approachable elixirs for the first few months.

"We want to make this experience fun and approachable for those coming in dining," Anderson said. "Six months from now, I'd like to be more technical with the cocktails."

One thing you can expect right out of the gate is a permanent section on the menu that he's calling "Latin Classicos." That's where he'll put his spin on the daiquiri, caipirinha, Pisco sour and mojito. He'll also include Fernet Branca & sugar cane Coca Cola, which he said is the unofficial national drink of Argentina. Look also for every wine to complement each dish.


Square One interior via Urban Daddy Chicago.

• Over in Streeterville, deca RESTAURANT + BAR is hooking up guests with a gratis bottle of vino when they order entrees in the dining room (for two or more guests). Just have a couple of drinks at the bar, and get a comped bottle of red, white or rosé Chapoutier wine at the table.

• West Town's Homestead is now open, directly over Roots Handmade Pizza. Those who live in the neighborhood are particularly excited because it's the area's first-ever rooftop bar. It features 85 outdoor seats with a full view of the L-shaped, 1,000-square-foot organic rooftop farm. This cocktail sounds like one helluva winner: No. 6 of Pierre Ferrand 1840 cognac, blackberries, mint, lemon juice and simple syrup. This is a great addition to the area's cocktail scene because even though we love Bar DeVille down the street, the only time you can get some food there is when the tamale guy pops in.

• I've been thirstily awaiting the arrival of RM Champagne Salon in the West Loop. The team over there confirm now that it'll open by month's end. Good, because I'm looking to get my bubbles on!

• And speaking of sipping, Square One is set to open in the South Loop Saturday. According to Urban Daddy Chicago, the highlights of this haute hangout will be a wine vending machine and charcuterie from Publican Quality Meats. Yummmmmmmmmm.