It’s only June, and it seems like every week there’s a new glamorous restaurant popping up—and let’s be honest, we’re not mad about it.
However, this latest spot is something special. If you wandered the streets of Chicago over a decade ago, you’ll remember the famous Barney’s Store right on Oak Street. While we would be remiss to say we miss it, there’s finally something new taking over the former Fred’s at Barney’s.
In its place will be ARLA, a sprawling new rooftop dining venue.
Next Thursday: Arla opens in the former Fred’s at Barney’s Space
The 8,500-square-foot establishment and 230-seat rooftop restaurant was conceptualized by Chef/Partner Soo Ahn and Hospitality Included, which are also behind Chicago’s Adalina Italian and Adalina Prime.
When you walk into the dining room, you’ll notice features like terracotta plaster, walnut millwork, polished brass, and jade quartzite. Architectural details include curved banquettes and arched reeded-glass screens that provide views of the kitchen. Two outdoor terraces with retractable floor-to-ceiling windows will seat an additional 60 guests, offering sightlines of Oak Street and Lake Michigan.
Chef Soo Ahn’s menu will blend Japanese and Mediterranean ingredients. Raw bar and sushi options will include Japanese Yellowtail Crudo with amba and toasted sesame, a Caviar Sando on Shokupan bread, and a Tzatziki Salmon Maki made with Ora King salmon and mint yogurt. Shareable plates will feature Charred Scallion Pita paired with dashi butter, a Japanese-inspired hummus with white miso, and Crab Spanakopita with feta.
Hearth-fired main dishes will consist of Citrus-Marinated Skirt Steak topped with nori salsa, hoisin-glazed Lamb Chops, and Grilled Cod served with enoki mushrooms and caramelized miso. Plant-based options will include a Cauliflower Steak crusted with black lime and served with a brown butter purée.
“We wanted ARLA to reflect the kinds of meals and places we dream of coming back to while traveling,” Ahn stated, noting the menu’s foundation in fresh, shareable items rooted in various coastal cultures.
The restaurant will be open from 4 p.m. to midnight from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays, the hours will extend until 1 a.m., and on Sundays, the restaurant will close at 10 p.m. Reservations can be made here.
