Park 52

Photo: Nolan Wells

CLASSIC BEHAVIOR When Jerry Kleiner opened Gioco on South Wabash Avenue, people snarkily asked him just who exactly he expected would travel to eat there. That was eight years ago; now, Gioco is just one of a slew of South Loop restaurants that people flock to every night. The restaurateur hopes to achieve something similar with his new joint, Park 52. Kleiner is betting that the restaurant, located in Hyde Park’s Harper Court, will be something worth traveling for: a homey, classic American spot for chef Chris Barron’s blue cheese–wedge salads and pork chops—a place, as Kleiner says, that’s “got style” and “soul.” The fairly straightforward look of the place and the relatively low price point (entrées hover around $20) are factors that Kleiner admits are “not something I’m used to.” But he was in his element nonetheless, because he was, as always, creating “something that didn’t exist.” 5201 S Harper Ct at 52nd St (773-241-5200).