Introduction to The Origin Restaurant and Lounge
BUCKTOWN — A restaurant that will feature rotating chefs cooking cuisine from Africa and beyond is preparing to open in Bucktown. The Origin Restaurant and Lounge is taking over the former El Rinconcito Sudamerica at 2010 W. Armitage Ave. El Rinconcito Sudamerica moved to a location in Belmont Cragin earlier this year.
Concept and Ownership
The new restaurant is owned by Chidi Durugo, who operates another Origin location in Newark, New Jersey. Construction is underway to retrofit the sprawling space with a bar, an upper-level VIP area and new decor. The Origin’s menu will feature Nigerian staples, such as jollof rice, goat meat stew and egusi soup. But central to the restaurant’s concept is showcasing revolving chefs — some for a few months at a time and others for just a week or two — and their cuisine spanning Africa, the Caribbean, the United States and elsewhere.
Expected Opening and Ambiance
Durugo said last week he hopes to open The Origin this spring, possibly even by the end of the month. “We want to be the best to tell the story of African food, the history of our food, the way it’s supposed to be presented,” said Durugo, who is originally from Nigeria. “We want to position ourselves that if you really want to have African taste, food, music, you come here.” Music, especially afrobeats, will be a big part of the ambiance of The Origin, Durugo said. He wants to host events, but he also hopes customers stop by for family gatherings, business meetings and more routine occasions.
VIP Area and Drinks
The Origin’s VIP area will have a full bar and can be used for special events, said Coco Shelton, The Origin’s senior operations manager. “Drinks will be all sorts of fresh flavors, infused alcohol. We’ll try to pull in some of the local beverages here as well, whether that’s some of the beers and some of the specialty vodkas or rums or different local spirits,” she said.
Cultural Significance and Expectations
Shelton said she hopes The Origin becomes a “cultural cornerstone” in Chicago and Bucktown, especially among the neighborhood’s current dining scene. “We think it’s going to be something crazy, new and fresh,” Shelton said. “I love the idea of the versatility that we think we’re bringing, whether it’s a soul chef, whether it’s a Southern chef, whether it is a Caribbean chef, a Haitian chef. Tapping into all of those different African cultures, I think, will make our place quite different.”
Conclusion
The Origin Restaurant and Lounge promises to bring a unique dining experience to Bucktown, with its rotating chefs, diverse menu, and lively ambiance. With its expected opening this spring, The Origin is set to become a cultural hub in the neighborhood, offering a taste of Africa and beyond.
FAQs
- Q: Where is The Origin Restaurant and Lounge located?
A: The Origin Restaurant and Lounge is located at 2010 W. Armitage Ave in Bucktown, taking over the former El Rinconcito Sudamerica location. - Q: What type of cuisine will The Origin offer?
A: The Origin will feature Nigerian staples and a rotating menu showcasing cuisine from Africa, the Caribbean, the United States, and elsewhere. - Q: When is The Origin expected to open?
A: The Origin is expected to open this spring, possibly by the end of the month. - Q: What can customers expect from the ambiance?
A: The Origin will have a lively ambiance with music, especially afrobeats, and a VIP area for special events. - Q: What makes The Origin unique?
A: The Origin’s unique concept of rotating chefs and diverse menu, along with its goal of becoming a cultural cornerstone in Chicago and Bucktown, sets it apart from other dining establishments.
