Chef Zubair Mohajir is not done with bringing new concepts to the city.
From recent reports, Mariela is a new restaurant with Southeast Asian and European flavor coming to 1 W Washington Street in The Loop. Mohajir is partnering with fellow restaurateurs Rishi Kumar and David Mor for the project. He told What Now Chicago the opening date right now is April 22.
Along with Mariela, Mohajir is opening a new concept in Lincoln Park, Muhajir, another spelling of his last name. Behind this, he plans on debuting a speakeasy called BoBo inspired by the father of his restaurant partner, Jacob de la Cruz. Mohajir continues to find joy in bringing new projects to the city.
“You got to do it while you’re young,” Mohajir said.
Mohajir has been a driving force for international cuisine across Chicago, cooking at concepts like Mirra in Bucktown and Lilac Tiger in Wicker Park. From a young age in India and Qatar, he was interested in cooking and moved to the U.S. to pursue this craft. He has worked in many other restaurants around the country including at Bouchon, a Michelin-starred establishment in Yountville, California.
While the menu remains unreleased, Mohajir will debut a very “coastal” menu with seafood dishes. He is again taking inspiration from his time in India, so cuisine from this region is to be expected. It is described as a “concept with nostalgia.”
Mariela is coming to The Loop at the corner of N State Street. This is at the base of the Staypineapple Hotel building, also sharing space with a Nordstrom Rack. This is next to Washington Hall, a growing food hall with concepts like Chicago’s Dog House and Bhoomi Modern Indian Grill.
No social media has been set up for the restaurant right now. More updates on Mariela and Muhajir will be released in the coming weeks.
