Joseph Fontelera is taking Boonie Foods away from Revival Food Hall and opening something new in Lincoln Square, located at 4337 N.Western Ave.
While details on the name and opening date are unknown, Fontelera tells Eater Chicago he will be bringing a few of his Filipino American dishes, including silog, lumpia, and dinuguan. After a two-year run, Boonie Foods will have its last day of service on December 22. On the other hand, Crab Pad Lincoln Square will have its last day of service on December 17 but will keep its original location in Logan Square open. Dimo’s Pizza will be replacing Boonie Foods early next year in Revival.
Crab Pad opened on Western Avenue at the beginning of this year under Theresa Tran, who is Fontelera’s Cousin. She tells Eater construction has significantly disrupted her business in Lincoln Square. Fontelera, who was already planning to exit Revival, had proposed to take over the space around Thanksgiving. Tran, who has always supported her cousin’s passion for food, thought it would be a good idea, knowing Fontelera’s success. The new restaurant is expected to open sometime next year.
“Leaving the Crab Pad Lincoln Square was such a tough decision because I really wanted to make it work,” Tran tells Eater Chicago. “However, knowing someone like Joe, who is talented, passionate, and genuine, is coming into this space makes it easier to say goodbye I wouldn’t want to give this space up if it wasn’t for someone like him because I know he will make great use of the space and do great as he always does. It’s a better fit for him and me. I feel he can succeed over there,”
