The new outdoor patio at Recess in the West Loop appears well-suited for serving customers during the pandemic. The patio, which spans 14,500 square feet, opened on June 2020, coinciding with the re-opening of patios across the city. The restaurant and bar area is enclosed by 30 shipping containers, resembling a child’s fortress, providing ample room to position tables at least six feet apart.
Although it is not confirmed, management claims that the patio is the biggest in Chicago. It is a spacious area with a central structure and a roof that provides shelter from the rain. Guests can go up either of the two stairs on opposite sides of the venue to access additional seating around the edges. The view of the city from the patio is exceptional, especially at sunset.
Image from: Eater Chicago
Indoor dining is permitted in the city and state if a window or wall can open up by at least 50 percent. Recess has a few indoor tables that are kept eight feet away from garage door windows and have the necessary resources to comply with the city and state’s safety guidelines for COVID-19.
Reservations are currently booked for Recess during the weekend and they will be offering a bar menu for now. However, according to Atomic’s COO Joe Manna, they plan to add entrees in the future. Additionally, an outdoor bar will be operational during the weekend. The original name of the space was City Hall and it still retains the government theme, as seen by the Mayor Lori Lightfoot cut-out at the host stand. Customers can enjoy a large-format drink served in a menu water cooler, which servers will leave on the table for self-serve.
Image from: Eater Chicago
This Chicago shipping container restaurant revolves around government employees having casual conversations around mini-coolers of drinks such as “Rum Emanuel,” “Liquor License,” and “Crony.” Although customers at a table may all touch the dispenser, Manna was surprised by their popularity. The use of QR codes at Recess allows customers to view menus on their phones, potentially reducing contact with servers and addressing health concerns.
Image from: Eater Chicago
Atomic Hospitality (which includes Morgan Street Manufacturing and Untitled) has taken measures to reduce anxiety for both customers and staff. They have provided hand sanitizer stations, staff members wear masks, and have marked queues with the venue’s name on the sidewalk. The tables are placed far apart to maintain social distancing, allowing for almost 300 customers. Previously, the space could accommodate around 600 people. Toula Georgakopoulos, who is the event sales manager at Recess, says that the focus is now on liability rather than the spread of the disease.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A shipping container restaurant in Chicago is a dining establishment constructed using repurposed shipping containers. It provides a safe haven during the pandemic by offering outdoor dining options, open-air seating, and spacious layouts. These features allow for proper physical distancing, improved airflow, and a reduced risk of COVID-19 transmission compared to indoor dining spaces.
Yes, shipping container restaurants in Chicago are required to follow health and safety guidelines set by local authorities and health departments. These guidelines may include implementing strict sanitation practices, enforcing mask-wearing protocols for staff and customers, ensuring proper ventilation, and limiting seating capacity to maintain physical distancing.
Absolutely! Shipping container restaurants in Chicago have adapted to the challenges of the pandemic by offering takeout and delivery services. Customers can still enjoy their favorite meals from these restaurants in the comfort and safety of their own homes, supporting local businesses while minimizing contact and exposure risks.
Shipping container restaurants contribute to the revival of the food scene in Chicago during the pandemic by providing innovative and unique dining experiences. These establishments add vibrancy to the city’s culinary landscape, offering diverse menus, creative concepts, and a safe outdoor dining option that allows people to enjoy delicious meals while adhering to health and safety guidelines.
While the future is uncertain, the concept of shipping container restaurants in Chicago has shown promise and resilience during the pandemic. Their adaptability, unique design, and ability to provide a safe dining experience make them an attractive option for both customers and entrepreneurs. It’s possible that shipping container restaurants will continue to be a part of Chicago’s dining scene even after the pandemic, offering a distinctive and memorable culinary experience.
