Cantu's Berrista Has Signage; Plans December 8 Opening Without Jam's Mauro

The upcoming coffee shop from Homaro Cantu (Moto), Berrista, originally scheduled to open this past spring, is now anticipating opening on Monday, December 8. Located in Old Irving Park, the coffee shop will feature donuts, sodas, and, of course, coffee (the provider of which has yet to be revealed). The trick is that Cantu will make everything sugar-free and will employ the "flavor tripping" West African "Miracle Berry," which is able to change sour flavors to sweet.

Jeffrey Mauro, the chef/owner of Logan Square's Jam, was originally announced as the chef/partner, but is no longer involved. An exact reason for Mauro's departure was not given, but representatives say that Mauro and Cantu, who both served time at Charlie Trotter's, are still on good terms. In Mauro's place is a Moto vet, Azeez Yusuf, who has been working with Cantu on the menu.

Also expect sandwiches, and reps revealed three items that will make the menu: a blueberry turnover, a raspberry coffee cake, and a chicken and waffle sandwich with sugar-free maple syrup. Cantu's concept for Berrista is to give customers the flavors that they crave, but to do so in a way that's healthier for them.

Cantu hopes to take Berrista into multiple locations in time, but for now look for the first one to arrive at 4219 W. Irving Park Road On December 8. Planned hours will be from 6:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m.