After introducing chef Terrance Brennan to readers almost a year ago, we’ve been tracking the progress of the Chicago outpost of his successful NYC Artisanal Bistro and Wine Bar, which was slated to open in the 900 N Michigan building in September, then pushed to January 2009 then pushed again to April 2009. Looks like the economy hasn’t been so kind to Brennan’s investors, and as of now, the project has been shelved.

"Because of uncertain economic conditions, the developers behind Chef Brennan’s Chicago restaurant have put the project on hold," a rep for Brennan explains. "Chef Brennan continues to aggressively look for an alternative space in Chicago in which to open Artisanal Brasserie and Wine Bar and remains passionate about joining the dynamic dining scene in Chicago."

I was among many who were excited about the potential restaurant (but then again, I’m suckers for any menu that includes housemade mozz, pork belly gnocchi and duck-foie rillettes), but I have to admit I was seriously concerned about the Gold Coast location. The concept of a neighborhood bistro seems to fly right out the door when perhaps .03% of Chicagoans actually live in said neighborhood, so here’s hoping that if Brennan does enter the Chicago market, he lands somewhere a bit cozier like Logan Square, West Town or Andersonville. Actually, the house next door to me is for rent.