The historic Pullman neighborhood will become the site of Chicago’s latest food-hall when three South Side food entrepreneurs open at One Eleven Food Hall the newest component of the 111th Street Gateway Retail Center developed by Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives in the fall of 2017.
Opening in January 2019, Majani’s Restaurant, Laine’s Bake Shop and Exquisite Catering will offer a variety of food options – from breakfast bakery goods to full Italian dinners in a casual restaurant setting. The Food Hall was designed by Pullman resident and architect Ann Alspaugh and will be managed by hospitality consultant James Gray, also a Pullman Resident.
“This will be a place where people can come in, choose from different food options offered by some of the community’s favorite vendors and socialize,” said Ciere Boatright, CNI Vice President, Real Estate and Inclusion. “We are creating a unique experience for residents and visitors to Pullman that’s sure to become a new gathering place for everyone.”
Chef Tsadakeeyah Ben Emmanuel will offer vegan or “soul vegetarian” dining options when Majani’s Restaurant, currently located in the South Shore neighborhood opens its second location at One Eleven Food Hall. Rachel Bernier-Green, baker and owner of Laine’s Bake Shop, will offer baked-goods, many of which are made from her grandmother’s recipes and are on the shelves at selected Starbucks and Whole Foods grocery stores. The third restaurant, Exquisite Catering, will offer food by Tiffany Williams, who has prepared dining experiences for President Obama, Beyonce, Chance the Rapper, Cold Play and others. The Pullman location will be Exquisite’s first restaurant.
“The arrival of a food hall in Pullman is the latest sign that the historic neighborhood is once again becoming a destination of choice for people both within and outside of Chicago,” said 9th Ward Alderman Anthony Beale.
Besides serving the community and the expected 300,000 annual visitors a year to the National Monument site, One Eleven Food Hall will provide the restauranteurs with opportunities to test new offerings and build their brands as they grow.
