A Juicy Scoop: RAWNRGY Juice Bar Coming Soon To Wilson & Magnolia

RAWNRGY Juice's future home at
4600 N. Magnolia Unit F

We've noticed workers in the retail space along Wilson Avenue just west of Magnolia for a while now. Old-timers might recall this space as the former home of Alma Pita. 

Signs are up around the butcher paper and we now know what to expect: RAWNRGY, a veteran-owned shop specializing in cold pressed juices, wellness shots and cleanses. This appears to be their first brick and mortar location after starting online several years ago.

They have a Facebook and Instagram page as well. We wish RAWNRGY much success!

Futatsuki Ramen Seeks New Home, Looking For Suggestions

Futatsuki Ramen, an Uptown gem, suffered serious water damage to its storefront after a fire last September that originated in the tenant spaces above it. It has not been able to open since then, despite hopes of a quick turnaround.

In a Facebook post today, the family that owns it said they are looking for a new space in which to reopen and are looking for suggestions. 

We'd love to see them stay in Uptown, and think a spot close to Truman College would be ideal. Maybe the previous Alma Pita space at Wilson between Malden and Magnolia? The former Snacks 4 Less space at 1144 West Wilson?

If you have any connections or would like to suggest a spot, preferably one that's already set up for a restaurant, please get in touch with the owners through the Facebook page.

The building, located at 4621 North Broadway, dates back to 1902 and is considered a contributing building to the Uptown Square Historic District.

FelFel Grill Opens On Broadway Across From Wilson Yard

FelFel Grill at 4429 N. Broadway

If you have been longing for a new spot to get your fix of delicious Mediterranean food since the closure of Alma Pita and Tik Tok Falafel, you might be in luck.
"FelFel Grill" is now open at 4429 N. Broadway, just across the street from Wilson Yard. The business has been in operation for a while now solely as catering, but the owner decided to switch the concept to catering and dine-in. We stopped by recently and tried the falafel and a chicken shawarma. Both were delicious and as you can see by the price list below, very reasonable. FelFel is open 11:30am-9pm Monday through Saturday. Welcome to the neighborhood!

The full menu at FelFel Grill

Tik Tok Falafel Makes Their Location Official

Tik Tok Falafel, 4600 N. Magnolia, Suite F

Tik Tok Falafel, which took over the former Alma Pita space back in April, has now made it official. We spotted new signage outside their storefront just west of Magnolia on Wilson, which hopefully means they aren't going anywhere anytime soon. Team UU has dined here quite a few times and everything has always been fresh and the portions are generous. If you love Mediterranean fare like we do, be sure to stop by.

A Visit To Tik Tok Falafel

Tik Tok Falafel opened a month ago, in the former Alma Pita storefront (Wilson between Magnolia and Malden), but yesterday was the first chance we've had to eat there.  In a word: delicious.  Two big thumbs up for the falafel wrap, and there are many menu items we're looking forward to trying in the future.  The interior has also been redone, with a counter running along the front of the store, and lots of light coming in through the front windows.  Alma Pita fans will like that the chairs with the "cedars of Lebanon" cut-outs are still there.

We talked to the owner, Moe Jaber, about why he decided to open Tik Tok Falafel and to get more information on one of Uptown's newest eateries:

What are the restaurant's hours?  They're currently being determined.  Right now, they're 10am-9pm, Monday through Saturday.

Do you have any other restaurants, or is Tik Tok your first?   Moe has previously opened Shami Kabob & Grill in Orland Park, and spends his time in both restaurants.  When he's not at Tik Tok, his father runs the show.

Whose recipes are you using?  Family recipes?  Turns out that Moe trained at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago, and all the recipes are his own.  After graduation, he spent a year in Jerusalem, perfecting his falafel, and other, recipes.  He is particularly proud of the Falafel Burger on the menu, something most Mediterranean restaurants don't offer.

Why Uptown?  One of the big draws was that the storefront is located so close to Truman College, and he hopes to attract many of the students across the street to Tik Tok.  He also says he likes Uptown because it's a lively, diverse neighborhood full of friendly people and he thought moderately priced, good ethnic food would be successful here.

Why should people come to eat at Tik Tok?  All the food is made fresh to order with only fresh ingredients.  Nothing is prepared in advance or sits around waiting.

Moe also mentioned that even people who have dietary restrictions can find lots to eat at Tik Tok.  The hummus and the soups, among others, are vegan, and most of the appetizers (for example, baba ganosh, kibbesh, shami dip) and salads (Tik Tok Salad, Jerusalem Salad, Tabbouleh) are vegetarian. In addition, all foods are prepared in compliance with zabiha halal.

Moe would recommend that on your first visit, try the Tik Tok Mix appetizer (hummus, baba ganosh, falafel, tabbouleh, and Shami dip, $8) or the Tik Tok Royal Plate (grilled skewers of shish kabob, chicken tawook, shawarma, and kefta kabob served with onions and bell peppers, $10) as a way to get acquainted with the various menu items.  He also recommends the falafel plate, the kefta and the chicken shawarma.

You can follow Tik Tok on Facebook; the website is still under construction.

When we were there, most of the tables were full, so we hope people are getting to know this little gem.  Drop by and pick up a menu, or better yet, order a meal.  Takeout is available as well as dining in.

A Visit With Alma

It's not our usual practice at Uptown Update to promote businesses in the west suburbs, but if you're out near Streamwood, we recommend stopping in at Beef Kabob.  Why?  One word: Alma.

A reader recently sent us these photos and post about a trip to Beef Kabob:

"I thought your readers might like to hear about what Alma from the former Alma Pita is up to now.  I was a regular customer when she was in Uptown, love their falafels!  It was sad when the new owner took over and the food didn't measure up.  I was happy to read on UU that Alma had a new restaurant in Streamwood.

I went out to visit a friend who lives near there, so we decided to stop by and have an early dinner.  Alma remembered me and was so surprised I had come out to eat there.  Beef Kabob is in a strip mall on Lake Street west of Barrington Road.  It looks very similar to Alma Pita!  Even the Cedars of Lebanon logo on the menu is the same!  It's about twice as big as Alma Pita was, with a lot of seating.

Alma told me that she has lived in that area for years and that it was an hour drive each way to Uptown.  Alma Pita was open until 9 at night, so she was spending all her time traveling or at the store.  When she had a chance to sell the business and open one closer to home, she decided to do it.

My friend is a vegan and it's hard for her to find something to eat when we go out, so she was really happy to find a lot of vegetarian options at Beef Kabob.  The name had made her doubt there would be anything for her there, but she ended up loving it, just as much as I did.  Since it was Alma's cooking, I enjoyed my falafel plate and got an extra order to take home.

Alma said her son has recently moved to this country from Lebanon and will be helping her with the store.  I don't get out to the suburbs very often, but I will be going to eat at Alma's new place as often as I can.  I would urge your readers who enjoyed eating Alma Pita to drop by and have some really tasty food at the same reasonable prices that were found here in Uptown."

Beef Kabob is located at 5034 N Valley Lane in Streamwood (corner of Lake) and the phone number is 630-289-2877.

Tik Tok Time

Middle Eastern fare is coming back to Wilson Avenue, as Tik Tok Falafel prepares to open in the former Alma Pita space a few doors west of Starbucks.

It's got new owners and a new menu, which is posted in the window.  Check out what's available by clicking on it for a larger version.

They expect to open this week, possibly as early as Wednesday.  Hours are yet to be determined.

We wish them a long and profitable run in Uptown.

End Of A Long Run On Wilson

It kind of breaks our hearts to run this: Alma Pita, a long-time Uptown stalwart, has closed its doors.

We knew something was up when readers told us that the counter inside had been demolished and black shades had been put in the windows.  Now the butcher paper and the "Space Available" sign confirm its demise.

Alma Pita was always one of our favorite places.  You'd run into a real cross-section of Uptown there, from Uptown United presidents to Peter Holsten to Truman College students.  It was a place to bring vegetarian friends and visiting relatives, a place where Alma herself ran the kitchen, and potato chips were free with every sandwich.  Where the signs on the wall read "Drugs, Racism, Outside Food. A few things we are STRONGLY against."

Of course, it wasn't easy.  Alma once told us that every time there was a gang shooting on Wilson or Magnolia, it would take months for her customers to return and for business to go back to normal.  There were a couple infuriating break-ins, where the cash register was destroyed and the front door smashed.  It isn't easy being a small business owner when the criminals have such an adverse effect on how many people walk through your front door.

Things seemed to change about a year ago when new management, and presumably a new owner, took over the restaurant.  Alma was rarely -- if ever -- seen after that.  The menu changed and so did the preparation of the food.  We heard from several readers who were disappointed with the new way of doing things, a real testament to Alma's hospitality and cooking skills.

From the phone number on the front door, it appears that the same realtor who's handling the listing for the strip mall across the street, at Magnolia and Wilson, is handling the rental of the restaurant.

We realize that all things are transitory.  But it's a very sad day for those of us who really loved this place.

Alma Pita Plans To Expand

The future doorway to the expanded Alma Pita on Wilson.

A reader writes in:
"Not sure if you are aware but I spoke with the new man who appears to be running Alma Pita at Wilson and Magnolia. The interior of the restaurant has been freshly painted and none of the artwork or signs are gracing the walls anymore. I noticed a doorway into the former home of Agnes Cleaners and asked the gentleman if they were expanding and he said "yes." I don't know if this man is the new owner or is just an investor but I thought your readers would like to know.
Speaking of expansion, it would be nice if Starbucks would expand into the old "Unique so Chique" space since the place is always packed. I can dream."

Mmmmm.... Soup!

Blustery weather has finally come to Uptown.  A reader writes in:  "Just wanted to remind your readers that The Purple Cow (838 West Montrose) is a great cold-weather option.  They have soup, which was perfect for a chilly Friday.  I just happened to stop there and had a bowl of homemade vegetable soup, a sandwich on pretzel bread, and took home a piece of homemade apple pie.  It was all delicious.  Oh yeah, they have ice cream and Belgian waffles too.  Please encourage your readers to stop by this shop in the winter as well as the hot weather months."

There've been a lot of comments and concerns this week on UU lately about what drives small businesses away.  Remember that not patronizing small businesses has the very same effect as a mega-store moving in next door!  Please remember to look close to home when you shop, so Uptown can retain the mom-n-pop shops that it already has, and attract more.

• For soup on cold days, we like Purple Cow and Cousins (Leland just east of Clark).
• For breakfast, we like Golden House Pancakes (next to the Riv) and Tiztal (4631 N Clark).
• For lunch, Alma Pita (4600 N Magnolia) and Thai Uptown (4621 N Broadway).
• For dinner, Dib (Kenmore & Lawrence), Fontana Grill (Beacon & Wilson), and Magnolia Cafe (1224 W Wilson).
• For pizza, Papa Ray's (4757 N Sheridan) and Michael's (4091 N Broadway)
• For drinks, Crew (4802 N Broadway) and Driftwood (1021 N Montrose)

But that's just us.  What are your favorite locally owned go-to spots?  Give them a shout-out in the comments.

Don't Let Construction Keep You From Alma Pita

A reader writes in:
"There has been more construction on Wilson in the past year than in recent memory between Truman College's renovation, the new street lighting, and now alleys between Malden and Racine are torn up for AT&T work. I stopped into Alma Pita (Wilson & Magnolia) recently and the owner, Alma, mentioned that business has been down from the sidewalk being closed and all the equipment in front of her restaurant. I hope you will remind your readers to stop by this neighborhood gem and have a lamb curry or hummus sandwich. I'm sure Alma will appreciate it and your belly will thank you."

50% Off At Andies With "Sweet Deal"

Not strictly within Uptown, but just a block or two from our north and south borders, so we'll include it.  A Groupon-ish site called "Sweet Deals" is offering $20 worth of food at Andies restaurants (1467 W Montrose and 5253 N Clark) for just $10.  If you're into Mediterranean or vegetarian cuisine, check it out here.

No coupon, but if you want Mediterranean fare right here in Uptown, we always recommend Alma Pita, on Wilson just west of Magnolia.

Another Reason To Eat At Alma Pita

Read all about it at BBC News.

Alma Pita is located just west of Starbucks at Wilson and Magnolia. Read the Yelp reviews here.

Agnes Gets New Name, New Location

Agnes Cleaners moved across the street and west a block from its longtime location next to Alma Pita. It's got a new name, too -- Malden Cleaners. The hours are 7am-7pm Monday through Friday, and 8am-5pm on Saturdays. Same great service and owners.

Call To Action: Support Restaurants On Wilson

Economic times are tough and your local Uptown restaurants are counting on your patronage now more than ever. There are so many great restaurants in Uptown, and on Wilson in particular; places like El Pollo Loco, Viet Bowl, Magnolia Cafe, Three Harmony, Unique So Chique, Alma Pita (vegetarian combo featured right), and Fontana Grill. These businesses are counting on Uptowners. We are asking our readers to make a pledge to dine in Uptown as much as possible. Your tummy will thank you and so will the great owners of these Uptown businesses. Be sure to tell them Uptown Update sent you.

Business Partners' Response To News-Star Article

Although many of Uptown Update's readers felt the recent article about "Two Uptowns" in the News-Star was spot on, Business Partners had a different take on it. They sent a Letter to the Editor that's printed in the current News-Star:

Regarding News-Star's editorial "A Tale of Two Uptowns" (January 15, 2009), we urge you to consider the following developments, all south of Lawrence Avenue: the attractive redevelopment of The Phoenix (Borders Building), the landmark Uptown Bank Building, the newly redeveloped Uptown Broadway building and The Riviera Office Building, MDT's award-winning rehab using green technology, Agami Sushi, Alma Pita, Magnolia Café, Café Too, Pegasus Players, Black Ensemble Theatre, and unique entertainment venues like The Spot and the Tattoo Factory Gallery. Consider also brand new businesses like Fontana Grill, Light Speed: Chicago and Kahawa Coffee House, and the scores of sustainable businesses that have operated in Uptown for decades. We could go on and on.

We acknowledge that there are safety concerns to be actively addressed, and this is happening through CAPS and the newly formed safety committees. Is there a lot to do? Of course. But to divide the community as you describe does not serve any of our businesses or institutions well. We need to build on Uptown's strengths and work together proactively to enrich the business community.

The board and staff of Uptown United and Business Partners, The Chamber for Uptown

Taggers Out In Full Force, Call 311

Here we are just finishing the first full week of the new year and sadly we have a lot of tagging to report. We spotted much more than the 5 photos shown here. As if the Wilson L needed any help to look more blighted, taggers have struck with a vengeance on all sides of the station.
Thankfully the woman who has been living in this urine filled CTA vestibule has moved out for the time being and hopefully to a shelter. Taggers have left their scribbles in her place. We dream of the day when it is a priority of Uptown Business Partners and the CTA to clean up and rent out these long vacant storefronts. Maybe Suellen Long of UBP will note the long standing condition of our station and these storefronts when she passes by on her way from Bridgeview Bank to the UBP Luncheon with Ald. Shiller. Maybe she will drive and avoid the situation altogether. We fear the latter.
Taggers also hit Alma Pita and the condo building directly to the west at Wilson and Malden. We urge our readers to call these tags in and any others you might see when you are out in the neighborhood.
There also appears to be Latin Kings graffiti on the former Express Chicken and Ribs at 1319 W. Wilson.

Quick Fix, Bad Sitch

A reader writes: "I made a point of going to Alma Pita for lunch today to show them some love after their break-ins. I was glad to see that the doors to both Alma Pita and Agnes Cleaners had been replaced. Both businesses had to pay for new cash registers since the ones they had -- past-tense -- were ruined by being thrown around the stores. They also had to pay for new doors and board-up service.

"Harjit and Alma told me they were devastated, as was Agnes, because they saw the neighborhood getting so much better lately. Plus, it's slow season, and the money they had to pay out-of-pocket is going to take quite a while to replace. Harjit confirmed that Three Harmony, across the street, had been robbed the same way Saturday night, and Mr. Salsa, too, so he suspects it's a couple thieves making the rounds.

"He will speak to a detective in the next day or so to see what evidence the police were able to collect. Harjit asked me to call the CAPS office and ask about getting a task force together since so many businesses have been robbed in the past few weeks. I was really sad to see this happen to two businesses that have been in Uptown for so long, true Wilson Avenue pioneers."

Break-In News: Alma Pita And Agnes Cleaners Hit

Thanks to the readers who let us know that Alma Pita and Agnes Cleaners on Wilson were broken into last night. When people passed there this morning, both doors were smashed and police were present. We hear a few things were taken from the dry cleaners; no information yet on Alma Pita.

This looks like the same thing that happened to Chinese Connection a few days ago, and rumor has it this is the eighth time businesses in Uptown have had their glass smashed in a robbery attempt.

We hope Agnes and Robert, and Alma and Harjit, can clean up the messes quickly, and hope they can reopen soon. What a pity for this to happen to some of our oldest - and best - mom-and-pop Uptown stores.

WAMA Holiday Decoration Viewing

Dear Businesses and Residents,

Wilson Area Merchants Association has been hard at work to put a plan in place this Holiday that will help to bring even more beauty and spirit to Uptown this Season. WAMA will hopefully be placing beautiful ornaments on some trees on commercial streets throughout Uptown. Our association will also be requesting that business owners install white lights inside their business windows. The goal is to have a common Holiday decorations theme among all businesses in Uptown.

On Tuesday, November 11th at 6:30pm, please come visit Unique So Chique, and possibly Alma Pita, to see a viewing of the Holiday Decorations. At that time (or you may do so in advance) we will take orders from those businesses who would like to particpate in the community decorating. The cost of the decorations is anywhere between $150 and $200 per business for all decorations and lights. These are very reasonable wholesale prices. WAMA will have the ornaments delivered to one location in Uptown on November 24th where you may go and pick them up. All businesses will also be responsible for hanging their own decorations, but WAMA will be glad to offer helpful installment tips. Now, the more businesses that particpate, the greater the price break. So let's go, businesses of Uptown. These decorations and ornaments are a long-term investment. Hopefully next year we can build on the existing ornaments to add even more beauty to Uptown. So please, do not dispose of these ornaments. Save the ornaments until next Year!!!

We recommend that you stop by Unique So Chique sooner than November 11th (if you can) to place your order. The wholesaler has a somewhat limited stock and once the ornaments are gone, they are gone. We will probably be able to get similar ornaments but they may not be exactly the same. We will do our best. We look forward to seeing you soon!! Thank you.

WAMA Team (http://www.wilsonareamerchants.org/)