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The formerly Michelin-starred gastropub Dusek’s Tavern in Pilsen announced via Instagram Wednesday that it will close at the end of the year, after its New Year’s Eve dinner service.
“During these 10 years, we have welcomed so many friends and family through our doors,” the Instagram post said. “During these 10 years, so many wonderfully talented people have made Dusek’s the special neighborhood place that welcomed all.”
The music venue that houses Dusek’s, Thalia Hall, will remain open as well as the bars Tack Room and Punch House.
Dusek’s, at 1227 W. 18th St., was named after Thalia Hall builder John Dusek, according to the tavern’s website. The hall, built in 1892, was modeled after the Prague Opera House and was a hub for the neighborhood’s Bohemian population at the time.
In 2013, the hospitality group 16″ On Center restored Thalia Hall. Partners Bruce Finkelman and Craig Golden revamped the space with fresh music, food and drinks all while sticking to the building’s original integrity. Dusek’s earned two stars in a review from former Tribune dining critic Phil Vettel in 2014.
[ Dusek's cuisine all over the map, in a good way ]
In light of the Dusek’s announcement, Thalia Hall is also set to expand with a “two-story addition and outdoor cafe,” according to a public notice posted on the building from the city’s Department of Planning and Development. The sign said an application for the expansion was filed on Nov. 1.
Eat. Watch. Do.
Finkelman said in an email statement Thursday the team “achieved everything we set out to do and more,” citing the Michelin star and other proud moments, like “serving some of our favorite artists and friends.”
“It truly is the end of a decade, and the support has been amazing,” Finkelman said. “Dusek’s was the blood, sweat and tears of so many talented people over the years who lived and breathed it. If anyone would have told me that our little slice of Pilsen would have lasted for almost 11 years, I would have never believed it.”
The tavern was highlighted in the 2016 Michelin Guide for Chicago, earning one Michelin star that year.
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A trip to Dusek’s is “a culinary journey” with a menu that is inspired by traditional tavern fare like burgers and beer, the website said.
Dusek’s said in another Instagram post that New Year’s Eve is the “last chance” to try the prix fixe menu by executive chef Geoff Thompson. Each course gives diners a choice of dishes, like the scallop curd with capered gooseberry, finger lime and shio kombu or the dry-aged duck breast with bruleed leeks and piquillo pepper jus.
“Thank you, Pilsen,” Dusek’s said on Instagram. “Thank you, our amazing employees. And thank you, our cherished customers, for letting us serve you. Stay tuned for what’s next ...”