Shuttered Bowman's Location to Open as New Gastro Sports Pub

New owners are opening a gastro sports pub where Bowman's mysteriously shut down last fall. 

Monty Gael's Tavern and Grill will be a neighborhood pub, but with craft beer offerings and a higher quality of food than a typical bar. 

Owner Kevin Vaughan hopes to be open at 2201 W. Montrose Ave. by Sept. 1, just in time for NFL and college football season. 

The name is a play on Montrose Avenue with an Irish twist. Vaughan said the bar will have Celtic influences like Guinness and ciders, but won't be "in-your-face Irish." 

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More than 20 beers on tap will include a mixture of craft brews and eight to 10 mainstream brands. Along with beer, owners plan for craft cocktails and more than 20 wine options. 

"It's what we like to call a hybrid gastro and sports pub," Vaughan said. "It won't be a crazy sports bar—it'll be a nice blend of craft beer and neighborhood bar.

Seven TVs—including a 110-inch projection will cover the walls, with an outdoor dining area for 50 people. 

The owner and his two partners, Eamonn and Kristan Vaughan own five other bars in the Chicagoland area, most locally Lake View's Mystic Celt on Southport Avenue.

But unlike the group's typical Irish bars, Vaughan said he'll be bringing in an executive chef to create an elevated menu. 

Food prices range from $10 to $15 for sandwiches with entrees below $20. Small plate offerings will also be available. 

Vaughan said the change stems from the neighborhood's expectation of good beer and food. 

"We love the corner; it's a very happening spot with Welles Park and a lot of foot traffic," he said. "And it's the crossroad between Lincoln Square and Northcenter."