The Arcada Theatre is in the process of several new renovations in downtown St. Charles, located at 105 E Main St.
Two new restaurants and a new club will soon open in a few weeks, as president and owner of Onestil Entertainment Ron Onesti is nearing the completion of an extensive renovation. The first restaurant set to open is Rock ‘N Za, expected to open in early May. Next is Studio 64, a dance club that plays on the former disco Studio 54 nightclub in NYC, scheduled to open in Mid-May. Finally, the second restaurant, Rock ‘N Ravioli, is opening in about six to eight weeks, or early Summer 2022.
Rock ‘N Za will feature wood-fired pizza, salads, Chicago-style hot dogs, and other fares, according to Shaw Local. The other restaurant will feature some of Onesti’s ravioli from homemade recipes. Some examples of upcoming dishes at the Rock /N Ravioli include chicken Vesuvio ravioli and braised beef ravioli. The club, on the other hand, will be located in the building’s former VIP Lounge. Onesti believes this new club, which is currently serving special events, will serve as a much-needed dance space for the area.
“I think St. Charles and the area could use that,” Onesti said. “People love to dance. We’re just expanding on the dance aspect.”
The Arcada Theatre and its sister operation, Club Arcada, reopened last year after more than a year and a half of closure due to the pandemic. This renovation project was expected to be completed a few months ago, but ongoing complications, such as supply chain problems and labor shortages, have delayed plans into mid-2022. Onesti is also opening The Arcadian Suites, with 11 suites, each with a musical theme.
“It’s been a challenge,” Onesti said. “We’ve had trouble getting the materials to finish the projects. We’ve also had labor problems — finding people to be severs, busboys and dishwashers. Hopefully in the next 120 days, we’ll have all the restaurants and the hotel open.”
None of these restaurants are open yet. I think they are probably in financial trouble based on the complete lack of progress. Last night they had a Santana Tribute band and an Eric Clapton tribute band. Both bands were over the top amazing. My guess is maybe 200 people showed up. That’s not even enough revenue to pay those bands let alone the staff.
It breaks my heart that locals and area people aren’t coming out in big numbers to support The Arcada and Ron. This guy took huge risk to renovate the place. The renovations are amazing and true to the era. The bands are all great and you won’t meet a nicer or more welcoming owner than Ron. I bought four tickets to last night’s show. I couldn’t go, but 3 of my family members did. They sent me vids of the bands and the venue. I was so bummed when I saw how empty the place was.
I have a bad feeling that if all of us don’t get out there and support the business, it may disappear. That would be a real shame. It’s a one of a kind venue. We’ve seen dozens of shows there. 3 this year already. I’d love to see the restaurants open so we could support Ron even more. If you’re reading this, please consider buying some tickets and showing a one of a kind local business some support. I’ve read that many are disappointed because shows were cancelled due to the pandemic. That’s NOT The Arcada’s fault folks. Mandates are mandates. Instead of folding and giving up, Ron chose to renovate the classic building in a time of great difficulty for all of us. I feel the need to support local business more than ever. Like most, I’m on a budget and things are rough with all the inflation we’re dealing with. But, I’ll be danged, I’m finding ways to spend a few bucks to go out and see a good show and hear some great music. I pray that things get better for all of us. I’m not affiliated with The Arcada or Ron in any way. I’m not a prompter nor do I have any business dealings with any music venue. I’m just a customer who appreciates Ron for busting his butt to bring the area a high quality venue with a wide variety of acts/shows. Sorry for the rambling musings, but I wanted to share my opinions and ask people to get involved. Local business is the heart of our towns.
Thanks