For Rent Signs Appear on Alain's Building in South Loop

For Rent signs at Alain's [Photo: Sloopin]

Large red "for rent" signs have been slapped up on the windows at Alain's at 1355 S. Michigan, signaling that the restaurant is, in fact, not re-opening. Alain's, you may remember, was served with an eviction notice from the city in late September, which often is a result of unpaid rent, according to a rep from the city. That action helps substantiate comments left on Eater that staffers and contractors hadn't been paid.

Eater has attempted to get in touch with owner Alain Njike numerous times, but has been unsuccessful. While the phone at the restaurant is still connected and the website live, no voicemail is set up and emails sent through the site bounced back.

Eater has received a number of emails and comments claiming Njike didn't pay rent or employees and neglected to pay contractors that built out the restaurant. This reportedly resulted in mechanics' liens allegedly being filed on the property, according to one source who claimed they were a victim of unpaid billings. These claims have not been able to be confirmed, however. Whatever happened, it's too bad that a promising restaurant in a burgeoning area failed so quickly.
· For Rent Signs Mean Alain's Apparently Will Not Re-open [Sloopin]
· Alain's in South Loop Served With Eviction Notice [~EChi~]