West Town locals are wondering what will occupy a vacant storefront.
From a recent liquor license application, two concepts called Madina West African Fusion Cuisine and Nima Speakeasy + Lounge are coming to 2700 W Chicago Avenue, Floor 1. This is at the former Heritage Restaurant + Caviar Bar space which closed last year. Owner Martin Bonsu Jr. told What Now Chicago he is hoping to open around New Years Eve.
The restaurant and bar will occupy both the first floor and basement of the building. Bonsu has been planning it for a while, and has been going through building inspections. For food additions, he wants to fuse flavors from West Africa, the Caribbean, and the U.S. with African seasonings and spices.
“It’s derived from West Africa, like Ghana,” Bonsu said.
Madina and Nima are coming to the northwest side of the W Chicago-N Washtenaw avenues intersection. This is close to other restaurants and bars including Suncatcher Brewing, Taco El Jalisciense and Continental Lounge. The W Grand Avenue intersection is a short walk west.
Bonsu and the team will be releasing more information on Madina West African Lounge and Nima’s Speakeasy + Lounge will be released on their website in the near future.
