NORTH CENTER — If you didn't know that the building currently under construction at the intersection of Lincoln and Montrose avenues was a Lou Malnati's, you do now.
A 15-foot Malnati's sign was hung on Friday, pointing the way to pizza below.
Lou Malnati's has hung out its shingle on its new Lincoln Avenue restaurant. DNAinfo/Patty Wetli
Built by Best Neon Sign on Chicago's South Side, the marker will light up at night once the building has power, according to Malnati's spokeswoman Mindy Kaplan.
The sign's retro design is 100 percent intentional and also hints at what patrons can expect from the interior decor — which differs for each Malnati's — once the restaurant opens, she said.
"We wanted to evoke an atmosphere reminiscent of childhood family vacations throughout the 1950s and '60s," Kaplan told DNAinfo Chicago via email.
"Sunshine, Winnebagos, muted blues/greens and oranges and a live green wall are just some of the inspirations that went into bringing the decor alive," she said.
Patty Wetli says the restaurant may have a retro vibe: The North Center Lou Malnati's was announced in August 2013 and takes over the location formerly occupied by the Golden Angel. DNAinfo/Patty Wetli
Announced in August 2013, Malnati's has hit a few stumbling blocks on its way toward opening in North Center.
The first hurdle came in the form of community objections to Malnati's proposed 60-seat sidewalk cafe, since reduced to 42 seats.
The size of the outdoor sign was also capped at 100 square feet as another concession to neighbors.
Next, Malnati's was forced to scrap plans to simply renovate the existing building, formerly home to the Golden Angel, when the condition of the pancake house proved much worse than anticipated.
But now all indicators point to an imminent debut for the pizza joint at 4340 N. Lincoln Ave.
Along with the addition of exterior illumination, Malnati's has advertised job openings for wait staff, cashiers and delivery drivers, among other positions.
Those interested in applying should call 847-313-4949 or email lshiring@loumalnatis.com.
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