Most Leona's Sold to New Ownership; New Spike Show Casting; More

CHICAGOLAND—Owner Leon Toia has sold nine of the 11 Leona's locations to attorney Tania Marvakis, who will give the restaurants new menus and "facelifts." The two other locations, including the original on Sheffield off of Belmont, will now be named Lina's. Toia blamed a "sales slump." Three suburban locations shuttered in February. [DNAinfo]

ROSCOE VILLAGE—Want to appear on a new food-based Spike TV show? The network is casting for "Frankenfood" and is looking for "food lovers that mix outrageous and unexpected ingredients to create delicious and revolutionary flavors to compete for a cash prize," according to a release. Open calls take place at Theatre Momentum (1800 W. Cornelia) on Dec. 6 and 8 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. [EaterWire]

WICKER PARK—The reopening of Underdog, under Flash Taco at 1570 N. Damen, happens today. They serve "Mexi-dogs," Chicago-style hot dogs, burgers, gyros, and more. [EaterWire]

LINCOLN PARK—Geja's Cafe is kicking off its three-month-long champagne festival with a Laurent Perrier tasting on Sunday. Sip bubbly for two hours (1-3 p.m.) for just $30. They're also hosting a four-course champagne dinner the next night at 6:30 p.m., reservations required. [EaterWire]