SOUTH LOOP — After 15 years of sitting empty, the constructing previously occupied by a preferred Latin fusion restaurant might change into a brand new restaurant later this yr.
Joji Tirumalareddy instructed Block Membership he goals to open Rhumbar at 2030 S. Wabash Ave. in six months. Tirumalareddy has been attempting to open the bar and restaurant in south suburban Frankfort since 2019, however pandemic-related delays and issues from close by residents has slowed progress.
Tirumalareddy has owned the South Loop property for a number of years. He started work on the restaurant in 2020 however the pandemic compelled him to place every little thing on maintain. Now he’s able to get again to work, lately making use of for a liquor license underneath Tulips Chicago LLC.
Tirumalareddy is within the means of renovating the kitchen and eating space so patrons will be capable of get a glimpse of the “behind the scenes” motion. He envisions a restaurant serving upscale American bar meals, with uncovered brick partitions and large display screen televisions.
The title is a play on his personal final title — however a bit less complicated for American audiences.
“I wish to put an actual American title, one thing folks can join with,” Tirumalareddy mentioned.
Tirumalareddy continues to be searching for a chef to companion with and workers to run operations.
If the entrepreneur pulls it off, Rhumbar will likely be the primary restaurant to open within the location since Cuatro, which completely closed in 2010 after four-and-a-half years.
Final week, Frankfort’s planning fee denied Rhumbar particular use permits that might have allowed it to function as a full-service restaurant with a drive-up service window. Regardless of the setback, Tirumalareddy mentioned issues are transferring ahead.
“I needed to rent a contractor and a lighting guide however I’m reapplying [for permits] quickly,” Tirumalareddy mentioned.
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