If so, this would leave Stix, PK's and the Icebox as the only bars in town without an adjoining outdoor area designed for that purpose. PK's is working on getting an easement allowing the bar to close off the east end of the alley running just south of the building, making a patio area there, but it is moving very slowly.
Given Illinois state law, it appears almost an imperative for a successful bar to have an outdoor smoking area, preferably covered, for the convenience of their customers. Both Traz and The Cellar have installed screened off patio areas in the past year. No idea how their business has been affected but The Cellar has a steady traffic stream during open hours.
