New Restaurant ‘Hash’ is ‘Breakfast with a Stoner Vibe’

New restaurant Hash Chicago celebrated its first day in Wicker Park Wednesday, sporting oldies music, smells from your mom’s kitchen and a bright interior.

Owner Maggie McCoy, formerly of the now-closed Bagel on Damen, says her new 24-seat restaurant at 1357 N. Western Ave. is all about staying relaxed and serving up the tasty basics that are easy on the pocketbook.

“I had this idea while working at Bagel on Damen, and it’s just—breakfast with a stoner vibe,” laughed McCoy. “Not like I’m encouraging drug use or anything.”

The fast-casual restaurant used to be Bismark Restaurant before McCoy did a complete gut-rehab at the corner storefront.

“I’m hoping for a slow and steady opening, compared to The Bagel where on opening day there was a line out the door.”

Using her degree in interior architecture from Columbia College Chicago, McCoy transformed the space over about six months, replacing literally everything. The windows, drywall, wood floors and ceiling are all brand new.  

McCoy says the fresh look will hopefully accompany Hash’s slow and steady start in Wicker Park.

“This is kind of a weird corner with not a lot of walking traffic,” McCoy said. “I’m hoping for a slow and steady opening, compared to The Bagel where on opening day there was a line out the door.”

The soft opening isn’t the only thing that’s different than McCoy’s former experience at The Bagel on Damen. Leaving about a year before the store shuttered, McCoy says she could recognize the restaurant’s failed business model. It’s something she won’t replicate at Hash.

Combining both in-house dining with what McCoy hopes will be a strong delivery business, Hash is vying to be the next hot brunch locale in Wicker Park. And with an entire menu under $8, it’s an easy choice to digest. 

Follow Us on Facebook!