According to a recent job posting, Ema plans to open a second location in Glenview, with a goal opening date in the summer of 2024.
A representative of Ema was not immediately available for commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request.
While the official address for the second location has yet to be confirmed, Ema is described as a Mediterranean restaurant that will be offering a taste of Chef CJ Jacobson’s lighter California-style cuisine.
The menu is stated to celebrate local produce, featuring unique spices and ingredients, and is artfully crafted around mezze, or Mediterranean small plates designed for sharing. The signature dishes on the menu are the Spicy Hummus, Charred Eggplant Spread, House-made Labneh, Stracciatella, Green Falafel, Grilled Octopus, and Chicken Kefta Kebabs.
Complementing the menu offerings is a wine list that sets out to showcase selections from the Mediterranean coastline, its neighboring islands, and California producers, all curated in an old-world style, according to the job posting previously mentioned.
Ema is also a part of Lettuce Entertain You. On June 10, 1971, Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants embarked on a culinary journey, born from the ideas of Rich Melman and the business expertise of Jerry A. Orzoff. With a successful real estate background, Orzoff became an influential figure in Melman’s life, serving as both a close friend and mentor.
After the inaugural opening of R.J. Grunts in 1971, Melman and Orzoff embarked on a remarkable partnership, giving rise to various restaurant concepts. Tragically, Orzoff’s life was cut short in 1981, but the principles of partnership, shared responsibilities, collaborative growth, and a profound “culture of caring” that he and Melman championed continued to be the driving force behind the company.
Fast forward 50 years, and Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants remains a family-owned enterprise, overseeing a vast portfolio of over 60 distinctive brands and 130 restaurants across a dozen states, including Illinois, Minnesota, Maryland, Nevada, Virginia, Washington D.C., Texas, and Florida. From fast-casual eateries to Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, Lettuce’s commitment to innovation and its unwavering dedication to fostering opportunities for its talented teams remain at the core of its culinary legacy, according to the company website.
