Ann Sather Moves Back to Lakeview, Wishbone to Close Permanently

Ann Sather, famous for its large, homemade cinnamon rolls, is returning to Lakeview. This move comes shortly after opening a new location between East Village and Wicker Park. Owner Tom Tunney, previously an alderman, announced the diner will occupy the former Stella’s Diner, which recently shut down permanently.

Tunney closed the last Belmont Avenue site of Ann Sather in June after 81 years in the neighborhood. The deal to take over Stella’s was in discussions for years, according to Tunney. Stella’s had to close following a failed city health inspection in July due to cockroach problems. The required corrections were made, and the restaurant was allowed to reopen shortly after.

The Ann Sather restaurant currently at Broadway and Roscoe will close by the year’s end, as the lease is expiring. This transition represents a relocation rather than an expansion. Renovations are planned for the Stella’s building at 3042 N. Broadway, with reopening anticipated in about eight weeks.

Tunney previously moved Ann Sather’s Belmont Avenue establishment to a former Yolk location on Division Street. The sale of the original Belmont property led to this relocation. He intends to recruit many former Stella’s employees, recognizing their customer service skills.

Stella’s Diner closed after a health inspection on July 9 revealed significant pest issues. Marvin Barsky, Stella’s owner, accepted full responsibility on Instagram. He faced similar issues with his other restaurant, The Bagel Restaurant and Deli.

With the reopening at Stella’s site, Ann Sather will have four locations by the end of the year. The Belmont location has changed spots five times over its 81-year history. The diner was originally purchased in 1945 as the Swedish Diner by Ann Sather herself and later renamed.

In other news, Wishbone in the West Loop will close permanently. Owners Joel and Julie Nickson shared this on social media. The restaurant had been a staple for Southern-style cooking for 36 years. They had started on a small budget at West Grand Avenue in 1990.

Nickson expressed gratitude to patrons and staff, highlighting Wishbone’s history. Rising rent was previously cited as a challenge. Although no closing date is set, they intend to keep the restaurant open through August, offering patrons a chance to say farewell.