Acting globally

Photo: Brian Wilette

Mitch Gundogdu has the same complaints about Lincoln Park as countless other people. “We’re sick of getting the same crowd, same music, same drinks everywhere,” he says. But unlike most, he’s not just complaining—he’s trying to do something about it by opening Olé Lounge. “Our whole idea was to take a stand in the neighborhood, get a diverse clientele,” he says. It’s too early to tell how diverse the clientele will be (the lounge is slated to have its soft opening Friday 9), but the menu offers cocktails like the paloma (a Mexican cocktail combining tequila and lime and grapefruit juice), a berry-studded mojito rojo, and two kinds of sangria to wash down the extensive selection of hot and cold tapas. So even if it attracts the usual Lincoln Park suspects, the place won’t be lacking in international flavor. 2812 N Lincoln Ave at Diversey Pkwy (773-388-3500).—David Tamarkin