LINCOLN SQUARE — The long-vacant Boomer's restaurant, viewed by many as a major stumbling block to the revitalization of north Lincoln Square, finally has a new tenant: Pizza Hut.
Ald. Pat O'Connor's (40th) office confirmed that the restaurant chain has inked a deal to lease the former Boomer's at 5035 N. Lincoln Ave. "Finally, Boomer's is going to be occupied," said Tim Czarnecki, O'Connor's chief of staff.
Pizza Hut did not respond to requests for comment.
A building permit, issued Sept. 18, for "interior alteration to the existing 1st floor retail space" for a Pizza Hut at an estimated cost of $100,000.
Boomer's, which was one part restaurant, one part bar/nightclub, has been shuttered since at least 2010. It anchored a strip mall now partially occupied by medical-related operators.
News of Pizza Hut's plans met with mixed reaction from neighbors, with comments on EveryBlock ranging from dismay — "So so so disappointing" — to resignation.
Though few were ecstatic about Pizza Hut, the consensus among commenters seemed to be that while an independent business would be the ideal, something is better than nothing: "I hate to see a chain go up but on the other hand, it's a lot nicer to see a Pizza Hut than a vacant building with a vacant lot."
According to Czarnecki, O'Connor had referred a number of entrepreneurs, some of whom were interested in opening a breakfast/brunch spot, to Boomer's leasing agents.
"The owner made his choice," Czarnecki said.
Boomer's, which was one part restaurant, one part bar/nightclub, has been shuttered since at least 2010. It anchored a strip mall now partially occupied by medical-related operators. [DNAinfo/Patty Wetli]
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