(Above) Wollensky’s Grill, in the southeast corner of Marina City, will be utilizing more of its space farther west along the south side of the commercial platform seen here above the marina. The main restaurant, Smith & Wollensky, is housed in the smaller structure farther back and to the right.

July 8, 2014 – Smith & Wollensky’s downstairs, less pricey restaurant has closed for renovation that will expand it farther west along the Chicago River.

When Wollensky’s Grill re-opens this fall, it should be “more approachable,” according to the president of Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group, which owns the Chicago steakhouse and nine other locations.

“We know the steakhouse segment is quite a commitment when it comes to cost and dining out,” Michael Feighery (left) told Nation’s Restaurant News last week. “We want to make the grill a lighter, more casual version of the main dining room. It will be more accessible but still have a lot of the elements you would expect from the Smith & Wollensky dining experience.”

While the grill will still emphasize steak, portions and plate sizes will be smaller, more easily shared, and service will be faster.

(Above) A rendering of how the side overlooking the river will look after renovation. (Click on images to view larger versions.)

The restaurant is expanding into under-utilized space used for private events. The new décor, still green and white, will be what the restaurant calls “the speakeasy concept” and “an American look with a global perspective.”

The main restaurant and patio will remain open during the renovation.