52nd City

Zito's No More

Rumor has it that the former Zito’s (and current eyesore) at the corner of Columbia and Hampton may soon become Hillside Bistro and Market. The owners of Nick’s Pub have the financing and are looking into developing the location into a small restaurant that might also sell packaged wine and imported beer. They presented their plan to the Clifton Heights Neighborhood Association (CHNA) last night and it was met with overall optimism and enthusiasm—until Alderman Waterhouse informed residents of the moratorium on liquor licenses in the 24th ward. Apparently the moratorium was put in place in an effort to keep QuickTrip from moving into the space. So it seems things are somewhat up in the air and this point and we’ll all have to hang tight and write letters of support if we want to see it happen. Residents (including me) have been jonesing for a decent restaurant or coffee shop to go into that space. Other news of the area—Bartolino’s will be relocating to the new Drury Inn going in at Hampton and 44. Nice that a local restaurant is going in the space rather than a chain. No news yet on what will happen to Barolino’s old space.