Pomeroy (844 Spruce St, Winnetka, IL) is a new French bistro set to open summer 2021 in downtown Winnetka. Ryan O’Donnell of Ballyhoo Hospitality has created a North Shore destination inspired by the great cafes of France.

“Winnetka is a very special place.  My family and friends are part of this community,” says Ryan. “I want to create a restaurant that fits snugly in town but also offers something new—a place with warm service and approachable cuisine to visit for any reason, on all occasions, during all seasons. Like all Ballyhoo restaurants, our priority is the neighborhood first and foremost.”

Pomeroy’s design will resemble a classic Parisian brasserie with vintage charm. Upon arrival, guests will feel instantly welcomed by way of the outdoor sidewalk patio and floor to ceiling operable windows. Once inside, guests are greeted by a u-shaped zinc bar that seats 22 and anchors the space. Details include patina brass, walnut millwork, varnished mirrors, and red leather booths and banquettes. 

The dining room will seat 154. The front sidewalk patio will seat 32 while a back private courtyard will accommodate an additional 100. A major focus of Pomeroy will be events and celebrations. The restaurant will feature two private dining rooms, perfect for a wide variety of North Shore gatherings. 

For selections on the half shell, a small oyster bar tucked in the back of the restaurant will serve fresh oysters shucked daily as well as chilled “Fruit De Mer” seafood platters. An entire section devoted to “… Avec Frites” will provide options for everyone, including chicken, steak, a burger and a grilled “lazy man’s” lobster. Other classic bistro fare will include Poulet Roti, Filet Au Poivre and Trout Almondine.

Ryan continues his partnership with Glenn Keefer of Sophia, Ballyhoo’s Jon Farrer, and, of course, co-founder and wife Anna O’Donnell on the project. Pomeroy follows the successful opening of Sophia in Wilmette and marks the restaurant group’s second opening on Chicago’s North Shore in the same year.  The restaurant group has made a name for its guest-first approach to neighborhood dining throughout Chicagoland. 

Pomeroy is being designed with COVID-19 safety precautions in mind, including flexible seating that follows social-distancing guidelines, expansive outdoor options, and large windows to introduce fresh air.

Industry News, NextGen Casual