- Credibility:
WICKER PARK — More than two years after announcing plans to open a cafe-bank in a prominent Wicker Park storefront, Capital One broke its lease and the site is once again vacant.
After “extensive reviews and much consideration,” the bank broke its lease at 1958 W. North Ave., a 12,000 square-foot site formerly occupied by Tavern North, spokesperson Laura DiLello said.
“We know Wicker Park is a great place to live and work and we are actively working with our landlord to help with the transition of the space and ensure the best outcome for the community,” DiLello said. “We have a longstanding history of giving back to the communities in which we operate and pride ourselves on being a good neighbor.”
This week, large “for lease” signs from Baum Realty hung in the windows of the building, which sits at the corner of North and Damen avenues overlooking Wicker Park’s prominent six-street intersection.
Credit: Hannah Alani / Block Club ChicagoDiLello declined to comment on why the bank broke its lease.
Doug Renner, the agent representing the property on behalf of Baum Realty, did not return multiple requests for comment.
Capital One first announced plans to open a cafe in Wicker Park in 2017.
At the time, the bank planned on a winter 2018 opening, a spokesperson said.
Capital One currently operates four cafes in Chicago: 1538 N. Clybourn Ave., in Lincoln Park; 3435 N. Southport Ave., in Lakeview; 100 S. State St., in The Loop; 1465 E 53rd St., in Hyde Park.
RELATED: ‘This Was My Cheers’: Hundreds Toast Goodbye To Wicker Park Tavern
Tavern closed in October 2017, ending the prominent corner storefront’s decades-long run as a bar. The sports bar — which went by the name Tavern — opened in 2005. Before that, it was Borderline.
The building, which also includes the recently shuttered Cafe Absinthe at 1954 W. North and the Annex upstairs dance club, has been owned by the Menetti family since 1979.
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