DISH: SAVOR Chicago Grind

Formerly Coffee Chicago, Chicago Grind (5256 N. Broadway; www.chicagogrind.com/) reopened in September. The location may be the same, but the look is decidedly different—with a makeover including lights that make the spot look brighter and a re-design that give the space a much sleeker/contemporary appearance (thanks, in part, to new tables and seating such as couches).

The overhaul also includes bookshelves complete with popular fiction and nonfiction works, including tomes on individuals ranging from President Bill Clinton to Mike Tyson. Being in there recently, the place was almost spookily quiet (even though it was almost filled with people), adding to the library-type feel.

Jim Dababneh—who also owns the nearby Pizzeria Aroma—and his wife, Reem, run Chicago Grind. Jim recently told EdgevilleBuzz.com, “Professionally, it was necessary for me to grow, so I decided to open Chicago Grind as my next business. With my other restaurant, Pizzeria Aroma, less than a block away, it offered me the chance to walk back and forth to each location easily. I am a very hands-on owner who enjoys interacting with my customers.”

Chicago Grind’s changes also extend to the menu. There are many more options than Coffee Chicago offered, including artisanal flatbreads (including chipotle chicken, breakfast items and S’mores Bliss), salads, sandwiches (such as the Fool’s Silver—a concoction with peanut butter, strawberry jelly and banana), and a ton of desserts, including gluten-free items. (I tried the orchard chicken-salad sandwich, which was pretty good.)

And, yes, there are coffees, lattes and espressos (courtesy of Bow Truss Coffee Roasters). Although I don’t drink java, it certainly smelled good enough to almost convince me to try it.