Venerable Stefani Restaurants Bringing New Spot to River North

The Stefanis, one of Chicago’s most-revered restaurant families, are working on a new restaurant in River North. Though she said it’s too preliminary to share details, Gina Stefani confirmed her family is working on something inside the Sushi Naniwa space, which is nearly next door to another project the Stefanis are involved in, Flamingo Rum Club. The Japanese restaurant at 607 N. Wells St. closed on New Year’s Eve after a 19-year run.

Construction in the former Sushi Naniwa space appears to be underway. The Stefanis filed for a $176,425 building permit on June 2, which included the addition of a new one-story 1107-square-foot building, of which Phil Stefani is listed as owner.

Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants, which is well known for its own spots including the Tuscany mini-chain, often partner with other groups too. Stefani has been involved with the three Broken English Taco Pubs, Flamingo Rum Club, and is working on a project in suburban Lincolnwood. Gina Stefani carved out a place in her father’s company last year when she opened the acclaimed MAD Social in the West Loop.

Stay tuned for more details on their new restaurant.