About Last Night: Epic Eats, Haitian Relief

Epic restaurants holds grand opening, Trader Todd's hosts earthquake relief fundraiser

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When they named this restaurant Epic, they weren't kidding.

One thousand-plus people were packed into the new River North resto's 14,000 square feet of space for its grand opening Thursday night, drinking and eating their way through the industrio-rustic, two-floored space which includes a large front bar and two dining rooms with lofty mezzanines.

Coming this spring: a 3,000 square foot rooftop lounge.

Executive Chef Stephen Wambach offers a contemporary American menu with some French touches, but we're guessing it'll be light on the butter. This is the type of see and be seen crowd that likes to watch their calories.

Meanwhile on the North Side, Lakeview's Trader Todd's offered a twist from its usual alcohol and karaoke-fueled evening to donate funds to the Haitian earthquake relief effort.

Patrons paid $15 for two hours of passed apps and cocktails, with all of the proceeds benefiting the American Red Cross.

"It's awful. Obviously America's trying to do everything it can, and it made me think about what I could do to help the effort," said Amy Dombrower, who attended the event.

More local restaurants are also kicking in to help. Click here to see where else you can eat, drink, party and support Haiti at the same time.

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