Ann Sather Diner Expands with Move Back to Lakeview

Ann Sather, well-known for its sizable homemade cinnamon rolls, plans to return to Lakeview, taking over the former location of Stella’s Diner. Owner and operator, former Alderman Tom Tunney, previously closed the diner’s Belmont Avenue site in June after 81 years in the area. Tunney remarked, “Lakeview has been good to me.”

This move to Stella’s site comes despite the diner’s temporary July closure following a failed health inspection. According to Tunney, the discussions to buy Stella’s began years ago with owner Marvin Barsky. This relocation follows the lease expiration of the Broadway and Roscoe location, prompting Ann Sather’s transition rather than an expansion.

Stella’s, closed after failing a health inspection on July 9, needs renovations before reopening as Ann Sather. The inspections revealed over 50 trapped cockroaches in the kitchen equipment. After necessary repairs, the city approved its reopening. Tunney emphasized the decision to relocate is not inspection-related but motivated by the Broadway lease expiry and the vacant Lakeview spot. Renovations on Stella’s 100-year-old building are underway, and the reopening as Ann Sather is expected in about eight weeks.

Last month, Ann Sather moved from Belmont Avenue to the former Yolk location at 1819 W. Division St., after the Belmont property sale for new apartment developments. Tunney intends to rehire many Stella’s former staff, noting their customer service skills and breakfast expertise.

Barsky, Stella’s owner, didn’t comment directly but acknowledged responsibility for recent events on Instagram. His other business, The Bagel Restaurant and Deli, also faced temporary closure due to heavy cockroach infestation but reopened after passing a re-inspection.

Once the transition to Stella’s site completes, Ann Sather will operate four locations until at least the year-end. Ann Sather’s rich history spans back to 1945 when it started as the Swedish Diner before the name change in 1955. Tunney took over in 1980, expanding operations until moving to an adjacent building in 1984.

In broader restaurant news, Wishbone in West Loop announced closure on social media. Owners Joel and Julie Nickson expressed gratitude for the 36 years of service, noting the beginnings at 1800 West Grand Avenue in 1990. The Southern-style brunch spot, popular among Oprah Winfrey’s Harpo Studios’ staff, cites unclear reasons for closure but aims to operate until the end of August.