Chooch - y - Chooch - y - Choo

This guy was spotted hanging from the scaffolding over the middle of South Grove Avenue today ready to pounce on somebody.

Actually, he was apparently put there to draw attention to the fact that work is being done at 64 South Grove Avenue for the new Chooch's Pizzeria.

Long planned, there were delays due to facade improvement and energy updating grants, as well as state grants for the planned reconstruction of the riverfront. The project is finally moving forward. A definite opening date hasn't been set.

One of the most interesting aspects of the project is a rear patio along Riverside Drive.

With the demolition of the crumbling old parking deck over the river and the construction of the new river walk, the owners are hoping to take advantage of outdoor seating overlooking the Fox River. It is said to be the first outdoor restaurant seating on the river in over 75 years.

Hopefully, they will have figured out how to battle the river moths and gnats at the height of summer by then.  Either that, or offer them as an exotic topping.