Friday, July 11, 2008

Famed restaurants to vacate Harper Court by year's end

After much speculation from the Chicago Maroon and Crain's Chicago Business, it's been confirmed: Restaurants in Hyde Park's storied Harper Court will close by year's end.

The Jamaican-focused Calypso Cafe, Louisiana-themed Dixie Kitchen and contemporary American (with a twist of soul) restaurant C'est Si Bon are the victims of new owner University of Chicago.

According to C'est Si Bon owner Renee Bradford, this latest news was delivered to them three weeks before the Taste of Chicago, but thus far she's had no time for look for a new location.

"I've been so busy that I haven't had a chance to react," said Bradford, who added that on Dec. 1 she will celebrate her 18th year in her current location. "I'm going to start looking soon (for a new location), but it's all contingent on whether I find a space because it's not easy getting a permit with the city."

Finally, what does the U of C plan to do with Harper Court?! As of today, they haven't disclosed those details. Developing . . .