Two Downtown Evanston Eateries Close

There are now fewer places to find cupcakes and smoked meats in Evanston. As of Jan. 1, both Merle's BBQ and Tiny Dog CUPCAKE! have closed up shop.

A note posted on the Merle's website noted that the business lost its lease on Jan. 1.

"We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. We will miss you very much but wish you all a great 2012," the site reads.

"We will be happy to serve you at Davis Street Fishmarket, 501 Davis Street."

Merle's faced negative publicity in February after the city blamed it for an illness outbreak at Haven parent/teacher conferences. Thirty people became sick from chicken that was served "buffet style" at the school, and the

A spokesman for the restaurant later said that the city blamed Merle's without solid evidence.

"We’re trying to clear up our reputation and we’re trying to let people know that the city screwed up," the spokesman

Tiny Dog, on Davis Street, was a small cupcake shop that only lasted a little over a year.

The shop and served cupcakes and drinks, later expanding to ice cream and brunch items.

A voicemail left for was not returned at press time. The listed phone number for led to an answering machine that has not been updated since it closed, as it still included information about making reservations at the restaurant.

While the two places are now closed, there has been a small boom in new restaurants in downtown. Austin's Tacos is now open just up the street from Tiny Dog, and a few blocks away are an Asian sandwich shop, Soulwich, and a new Asian take-out spot, Bento Express.

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