After eight years of business, Roots Restaurant and Cellar, 1818 N. Hubbard St., closed yesterday. Owner John Raymond wants to focus on his Cedarburg farm and so developer Tim Dixon, owner of the building, plans to open a new restaurant on Oct. 31.

Executive Chef Daniel Jacobs will remain on staff. More information about the new restaurant will be announced in mid-October, but according to Dixon, who also owns the Iron Horse Hotel (Smyth, Branded, The Yard) as well as Stack'd Burger Bar, the menu will be "more approachable" while continuing its commitment to local, seasonal ingredients.

"We're incredibly excited about this new direction and believe it appeals to the way people eat today. More casual and definitely more communal," says Dixon.