Republic Calhoun, Beacon Public House, Louis Now Open

1) Uptown: The second location of popular West Bank bar Republic opened in Uptown's Calhoun Square last night. The 6,600 square foot space—previously home to The Independent—features 52 beers on tap. The menu will start out the same as the Republic Seven Corners location, but with a kitchen that is twice as big, it may soon evolve. It's open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to to 1 a.m. for lunch and dinner; Saturday and Sunday, it opens at 10 a.m. for brunch. Status: Certified Open; 3001 Hennepin Ave S., 612-886-2309.

2) University: The Beacon Public House, the new gastropub in The Commons Hotel near the U of M, has opened. Roly Cruz's menu includes dishes like blue cheese baked dates, salmon carpaccio, and pasta with lamb ragout, as well as reinventions of classic cocktails. It's open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day. Status: Certified Open; 615 Washington Avenue S.E., 612-362-6666.

3) St. Paul: Louis Ristorante & Bar, the latest addition to the Cossetta's Italian emporium in downtown St. Paul, has opened. Louis is a sit-down restaurant located on the third floor of the same building that already houses the pizzeria, pasticceria, and market. Status: Certified Open; 211 7th St. W., St Paul, 651-222-3476.

[Photo: Republic Facebook Page]