Rubbed Temporarily Closes For Overhaul

It's been a little over a year since Abbey Markell and Jason Frenkel introduced their deli concept Rubbed to Corktown. Since then, the shop has undergone all sorts of tweaks and alterations, introducing a Rubbed After Dark dinner series last winter and following it up with brunch and a small-scale produce market. Now, Frenkel tells Eater that the shop is receiving a major revamp over the holidays that will do away with its primarily takeout menu and its short-lived market in favor of table service.

Frenkel says the past year has been a trial and error process in finding out what format works best for the space. He now sees Rubbed's future in a sit-down format restaurant with new tables, chairs, and real plates, and silverware. The updated menu will feature fewer sandwiches and more steakhouse offerings such as steak, chicken, seafood, pastas, salads, and soups. The co-owner also wanted to offer customers lower prices. Whereas diners could get in and out for lunch with a bill of around $15, Frenkel is adjusting menus so that diners can enjoy a meal for around $10. Rubbed is temporarily closed now and is estimated to reopen on December 29. Stay tuned.

Rubbed's new hours will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Lunch service will be available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Dinner service will be offered from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.