A brand new British pub called Monarch and Lion is getting ready to make its debut later this year in Streeterville, located at 302 E Illinois St.
This is the newest restaurant from the owners of Rooh Chicago and Bar Goa, moving into the former home of Bellwether in Summer 2023, according to Eater Chicago. Co-owners Rina and Manish Mallick will give an Indian twist to the British pub concept, including modern takes on the traditional fish and chips, onion & samphire bhaji, shepherd’s pie, and chicken tikka masala. On top of the elevated British pub fare, customers can expect grand chandeliers, wood paneling, and high ceilings.
A combination of jazz music and a centered electric fireplace will create a very “chill” environment, according to Rina. Every floor will have a bar, with the second floor being called “the Derby Room,” with three TVs and derby-green wallpaper covering the walls. This space will be used to host special events, hopefully attracting international sports fans hoping to watch cricket, soccer, and F1 racing events. The elegant interior will be matched with an excellent dining and drink program.
The Mallicks will have Boo Kim run the kitchen, who was recently brought into the company for Rooh. The Chicago chef will use his experience in local restaurants and Indian roots to create a simplistic menu, along with chef Jitin Joshi as a consultant. Joshi has worked in some of the best Indian restaurants in the world, such as Gymkhana and Gordon Ramsey’s Maze in London. Customers can expect fish and chips, venison scotch eggs, chicken tikka masala, and artichoke bhaji. Alex Lorenzen will be in charge of the drink program.
