SAYONAIS

Japonais by Morimoto is closing. Despite the fact that all the tweets from its preview parties raved how good it was! Hey, where’d Morimoto go?

BRUNCHALENA

Chris Pandel & co.’s big barn of an Italian place bows to the inevitable of being popular in Lincoln Park and launches brunch. Yeah, that won’t add to a giant traffic jam on weekends.

BAR SIENEHHH

The Tribune hyped the opening of Bar Siena, now here comes Phil Vettel to review it and… one star. Ouch, But “it shows a lot of promise!” Yeah, that’s the “I think of you as a friend” of restaurant pull-quotes.

TERROIR IN THE AISLES

New Next video promises playful jokes about what comes from a vineyard, but still no hint of how they’ll explore the subject of terroir in their newest menu.

A NOD AND A BAO

Michael Nagrant in Redeye gives 2-1/2 stars to Baocos, the fusion-of-everything taco and bao place in Logan Square: “Baocos’ Asian-Latin flavor profile is a refreshing approach to the fast-casual, Chipotle-like sector of dining, but in order to pull it off better, the owners should tighten up the menu offerings and kill off the Creole influences.”

JOHNNY’S CHILL

The new Johnny’s Grill added a bar, and Chicago magazine liked its vibe: “If you’re looking for the latest in high-concept bartending, look elsewhere–the reincarnation of divey diner Johnny’s Grill is more of a comfy, neighborhoody spot for all hours.”

INA GONNA SEE THIS

Beloved breakfast joint Ina’s and the beloved lady herself return in a movie which will premiere at the Chicago Film Festival in October. See the trailer.

LE NUGGET

Another rave for The Blanchard from Amy Cavanagh in Time Out, including praise for a foie gras dish that comes off like “amazing chicken nuggets.” Guess she had a happy meal.

DROPPIN’ HOTS IN ANDERSONVILLE

A-ville lost two places this week: the Hot Doug’s-like exotic hot dog stand Hoppin’ Hots, and the homey Japanese Sunshine Cafe, though a longtime employee says he hopes to buy it. (Reader)