Prairie Moon owner Robert Strom said today he’s working with the developer of a planned 16-story mixed-use building on the site of his existing Sherman Avenue restaurant to include a new version of the familiar dining spot in the proposed building.
The Albion Residential plan calls for ground floor commercial space, including at least one restaurant, in a mostly-residential building.
Strom says the new development will be a great asset to the Evanston business community. “A well-planned residential building like this will give a much-needed shot in the arm to downtown businesses and enhance the character of our neighborhoods.”
Strom, a lifelong resident of Evanston, said he is engaged in positive discussions with Albion about the option of opening an updated Prairie Moon or other restaurant concept in the development.
Prairie Moon would need to relocate during construction, but Strom sees an opportunity for long-term growth. “Our plan right now is to open a new concept in Evanston and then open an updated Prairie Moon into the new development,” he says.
Strom opened Prairie Moon in 2002 and says he can’t image it being anywhere but Evanston.
“One way or another, we intend to stay in Evanston.”
Albion Vice President of Development Andrew Yule says he welcomes the opportunity work with Strom to keep Prairie Moon in Evanston.
“Our goal is to offer the community and our residents a restaurant that is fun, inventive, accessible and uniquely Evanston. For 30 years Rob Strom has opened some of the Evanston’s best-loved restaurants, so he’s particularly qualified for this location,” says Yule.
Strom also owns and operates Moxee Barbecue and Mad Mouse Brewery in Chicago’s University Village.
Although there are many months before construction of the 16-story building would start, Strom is actively looking for a space for his expansion.
In the meantime, Prairie Moon is open and serving its brand of American regional cooking, and Strom says he’s looking forward to the opportunity to continue to serve Evanston.
Will support Rob
Will support Rob wherever he opens!