According to a recent article from the Chicago Eater, Tama will soon take over the space that was formerly home to Claudia at 1952 N Damen Ave.
A representative of Tama was not immediately available for commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request.
According to the article, the planned opening date for Tama will be sometime in February. Avgeria Stapaki and Adalberto Olaez will be behind the new venture, with the two sharing ownership.
“Stapaki shares ownership with Adalberto Olaez, her former chef de cuisine at Nisos who has also cooked at Lao Peng You, Boeufhaus, and now-shuttered GreenRiver in Streeterville. The duo aims to take a wide view of global cuisine with an emphasis on Mediterranean regions and plenty of room for innovation.”
“The menu, which is nearing completion, promises surprises like avgolemono ramen, an unusual spin on the traditional Greek lemon soup. Instead of rice, Tama’s team will use noodles made on-site. Stapaki also teases creations like maitake mushrooms grilled with soya and citrus, as well as Swiss chard dolma with tabbouleh and beurre blanc. There’s a decidedly vegetarian bent to the dishes, but meat eaters won’t be short on options. Stapaki is Greek, after all.”
“Stapaki wanted to bring more life into the space with a colorful palette that draws on terra cotta and vivid blue hues associated with Mexico and Morocco. Customers can also expect plant life like flowers and olive trees, which may come as a relief to diners when Tama opens amid the winter doldrums after Valentine’s Day.”
