In Chicago, what used to pass as a neighborhood restaurant is changing. Angelo's Wine Bar in East Albany Park is trying to stay ahead of the trend.
Serving the neighborhood since the 1960s, just more than a year ago Angelo's abandoned its florescent lights, and expansive pizza/italian/sandwich/mexican/ice-cream take out and delivery menu. In its stead? Wine, a seasonal beer list, fresh pasta, specialty pizzas, and cocktails featuring vermouth that’s been barrel-aged in house.
Steps from my apartment, Angelo's used to be a means to an end. Somewhere to grab a quick sandwich to fit a busy schedule, or a slice of pizza to settle a stomach after a night out drinking. Now, it is a place to settle, have a conversation, enjoy some wine or beer, grab pizza to go, and settle a stomach after a night out drinking—closer to home.
—Mark Spence