According to a recent article from The Record, Small Cheval will be taking over the space of Depot Nuevo in Wilmette at 1139 Wilmette Ave.
A representative of Small Cheval declined further commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request at this time.
While an official opening date has yet to be confirmed, the historic former train depot, which found its new home at 1139 Wilmette Avenue in 1974, has undergone various iterations over the years. Leased by a cable company and subsequently serving as the foundation for the Old Ouilmette Depot restaurant since 1992, the space’s evolution has been rich and diverse.
In 2008, Depot Nuevo emerged as a culinary beacon within the depot’s walls, inviting patrons to savor an array of flavors. However, The Village of Wilmette, Small Cheval, and Depot Nuevo came together to craft a strategic arrangement that ushers in Small Cheval to take Depot Nuevo’s place.
On July 19, Jonathon Fixler, a spokesperson representing the ownership group of Small Cheval, addressed zoning commissioners. He conveyed that the restaurant’s intentions are centered around interior modifications, with a commitment to maintaining the building’s exterior, aiming for minimal to no alterations, according to The Record’s article.
Small Cheval is described as renowned for its mouthwatering burgers that have captured the hearts and palates of patrons across Chicago. The company, with its six Chicago locations, has been said to consistently deliver a stripped-down menu of essentials: cheeseburgers, hamburgers, and fries. Patrons can indulge in a medley of beverages, ranging from shakes to shots, beer to draft cocktails. When the weather permits, the spacious patio beckons, offering a relaxed and inviting ambiance.
Drawing inspiration from its parent establishment, Au Cheval, which has garnered national acclaim for its burgers and, at times, hours-long queues since its inception in 2012, Small Cheval continues its legacy. Three years after Au Cheval’s success, Brendan Sodikoff and Hogsalt Hospitality introduced Small Cheval, a casual and fast-paced option, according to the company website.
