Thomas & Dutch, an upscale restaurant housed on the ground floor of the Hilton Orrington Hotel in downtown Evanston, closed its doors on Oct. 8 after six months in business. 

On Oct. 13, Evanston Corner Bistro commenced operation in the same space, 703 Church St. The new eatery offers classic American food items, such as wings, salads, pasta, burgers, chicken and French fries.

The causes of the closure of Thomas & Dutch included the lack of a market for upscale dining in Evanston, as well as a reduction in occupied storefronts downtown which reduced foot traffic.

Evanston Corner Bistro, which bills itself as a family friendly ‘American bistro,’ offers an ambient and modern interior with booths and table seating, an outdoor French inspired terrace (with heating that’s provided during the colder months) and a bar serving locally brewed craft beers, wines and classic cocktails. The restaurant also has a foosball table for guests to play while waiting for their food.

The bistro is owned by LM Restaurant Group, a family-owned business that was founded in 2009. LM owns seven other restaurants: three other bistros and four ‘Land & Lake Kitchens,’ one of which ceased operation on Oct. 8 of this year. All of the other restaurants, with the exception of a Rosemont Land & Lake Kitchen, are located in Chicago.

Saunders Irving, a server at Evanston Corner Bistro, said that “[other LM restaurants] have been successful in Chicago,” and hopes the Evanston location can replicate that success and attract a blend of clientele; both Evanstonians and guests from the adjacent Hilton hotel.

Evanston Corner Bistro is intended to be a hosting site for events and parties, and therefore offers private dining experiences. The establishment is open all days of the week, and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.