CHICAGO, IL – Joe Frillman, the acclaimed owner and executive chef behind the popular Logan Square restaurant Daisies, is poised to significantly impact the neighborhood’s dining and nightlife landscape with the introduction of a new concept. Named The Radicle, this venture is set to occupy a familiar address, signaling a transformation rather than a departure from the area Frillman knows well.
A New Vision for Logan Square
The Radicle is envisioned as an ambitious all-day cocktail bar and restaurant, poised to offer a distinct blend of culinary and social experiences. Chef Frillman’s goal is to marry the relaxed, vibrant coastal Italian drinking culture with the inherent warmth and bounty characteristic of Midwestern flavors and hospitality. This fusion forms the core identity of the new establishment, aiming to provide a fresh perspective on neighborhood dining.
Beyond its unique culinary and beverage focus, a primary stated objective for The Radicle is to actively contribute to the revival of late-night culture within Logan Square. As dining habits evolve, establishing destinations that remain lively and welcoming into the later hours can be crucial for a neighborhood’s overall vitality and sense of community. Frillman and his team are explicitly targeting this segment, hoping to create a consistent, appealing option for residents and visitors after traditional dinner hours.
Concept and Culinary Direction
The operational model as an all-day concept suggests flexibility, catering to different needs throughout the day, from daytime visits to evening dining and extending into the late-night hours. The emphasis on a cocktail bar highlights a dedicated beverage program, likely featuring both classic and innovative drinks designed to complement the food offerings and encourage lingering.
A key element underpinning The Radicle’s approach, according to Frillman, is a commitment to providing affordability within the local dining scene. In a competitive market, offering accessible price points alongside quality is a strategic move that can broaden appeal and ensure the establishment serves a diverse clientele. This focus on value is intended to make The Radicle a regular destination, not just for special occasions.
The culinary direction, while integrating Midwestern elements, leans significantly towards a seafood focus, as indicated by early reports and the specific menu items previewed. The menu is expected to feature a range of options suitable for various times of day and appetites. Among the specific dishes teased are fried snacks, ideal for casual grazing, and several intriguing vegetable dishes. Noteworthy examples include a golden raisin-dressed pepper carpaccio, offering a sweet and savory interplay, and heirloom tomatoes served with olive oil-poached albacore tuna, a dish that underscores the coastal and seafood influences while potentially leveraging seasonal Midwestern produce.
The Location and Timing
Adding a layer of significance to the launch is the chosen location: 2523 N. Milwaukee Ave. This address is particularly resonant as it is the former location of Daisies, Frillman’s highly successful and critically acclaimed restaurant which relocated to a larger space earlier this year. Returning to this site with a completely new concept allows Frillman to build upon his history in the immediate area while presenting something entirely fresh to the community.
The news of The Radicle’s impending arrival was initially reported by Eater Chicago, a respected source for Chicago dining news. Frillman’s team subsequently confirmed the plans and shared details through an announcement on social media on Tuesday. While a specific opening date was not detailed in the initial information, the announcement signals that preparations are well underway.
Anticipation Builds
The opening of The Radicle is anticipated to be a significant event in the Logan Square dining landscape. Leveraging the reputation established by Daisies, Chef Frillman’s new venture promises to bring a unique blend of culinary inspiration, hospitality, and a deliberate effort to inject new energy into the neighborhood’s late-night offerings. As the project progresses at 2523 N. Milwaukee Ave., residents and Chicago diners alike will be watching to see how The Radicle reshapes the possibilities for all-day dining and late-night enjoyment in the heart of Logan Square.
