Openings

Hopewell Brewing Co. (2760 N. Milwaukee Ave., Logan Square) is now ready, pouring three tap beers in pints, half-pints, and (soon) growlers. The head-brewer/co-owner is a Brooklyn Brewery alum, and his rotating offerings will favor lagers.

Kate’s Thai Kitchen (1132 N. Ashland Ave., West Town), a BYO lunch and dinner restaurant, has taken up residence in the former space of late-night Mexican haunt La Pasadita. (La Pasadita’s location across the street is still open.)

Gina Stefani, daughter of venerated restaurateur Phil Stefani, has opened her American food spot Mad Social (1140 W. Madison St., West Loop).

Morsels

Chef Zoe Schor always planned to strike out on her own once she left Ada St. Now she’s got some more details on what she’ll be doing—an eclectic American small plates spot called Split Rail, slated to open at the end of this year. More details will probably be coming soon, as Schor is prepping to sign a lease in an undisclosed location, but if you want an early sneak peek, she's got plans for a pop-up at White Oak Tavern (1200 W. Webster Ave., Lincoln Park) on February 21. Tickets are available here.

Screw Punxsutawney Phil’s prognostications. The surest way to know when spring is coming is the seasonal reopening of Original Rainbow Cone (9233 S. Western Ave., Beverly, 773-238-7075). This year, the big day will be March 5.