Tommy Habetz’s Very Big Week; Ataula Owners Announce 180 Opening Date

NORTHEAST—It was a very big week for BUNK Sandwiches’ Tommy Habetz. First, his mentor, Mario Batali chose him as one of this country’s three rising culinary stars. This accolade coincided with the opening of Bunk Sandwiches in Brooklyn, Habetz’s first venture outside of Portland. And at the end of last week, Habetz gave us word that Pizza Jerk, his first foray into the world of pasta and pizza, will officially open this Friday on NE 42nd Avenue.

NORTHEAST—Jose Chesa and Cristina Báez, the couple behind Slabtown’s much-lauded Spanish tapas joint, Ataula, has finally come close to settling on an opening date for one of their new Northeast Broadway restaurants. 180, their churros and drinking bar will open its doors by mid-December. No word, however, concerning the opening of Chesa, the pair’s paella-focused 180-adjacent restaurant.

NORTHWEST—Aaron and Jessica Grimmer, the husband-and-wife team behind Picnic House (outdoor-inspired fare), Barlow (craft cocktails in Gatsby-like digs) and High Noon (frybread), have taken over the old Subway space on NW 23rd Avenue, which will be home to their newest dining concept. Communicating with us via email, the couple says that CHKCHK will specialize in “a damn fine, responsibly-sourced chicken sandwich.” Expect to be eating one in January 2016.