New: Ziggi's Restaurant
Formerly Nothing but Noodles, Ziggi's debuts with a new name and an expanded menu of dishes made fresh on the premises, including pizza, panini, salads, chili and soup. For a complete menu, check out the Web site. Ziggi's is open at 2500 N. Silverbell Road (624-0020) and 3225 N. Swan Road (322-7042).
Coming Soon: Grumpy's Grill
The same folks who own Ziggi's--Lorrie and Tim Klump--are busy opening yet another dining concept called Grumpy's Grill at Ina and Shannon roads. Unlike Ziggi's, which is fast casual, Grumpy's offers table service for burgers, wings, root-beer floats, sandwiches and some dinner entrées in a casual atmosphere with a full bar and four televisions.
New: Rio Café
Nonie's is but a memory. Now, Rio Café warms its space serving new Latin-fusion Caribbean, Cuban, Brazilian and Mexican food under the direction of Richard Epling and Eduardo Huerta, seasoned food-service partners transplanted from Chicago. Rio is located at 2526 E. Grant Road; 323-5003. Rio Café is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.
In-n-Out Update
According to In-n-Out corporate, the El Con location will open in late February or March. Last time I spoke to them, they said the restaurant was slated to open in fall 2006. Of course, nothing is ever on schedule when construction, permits and city red tape are involved. The starting salary will be $9.50 per hour; visit the chain's employment page.
'Eggs From Hell'
At the Cup Café, the new year brings new executive chef Lucius Wesson and manager Steven Dunn, along with some additions to the menu, including voodoo steak and eggs for breakfast, made with fresh green chiles and cayenne pepper; two new sandwiches; an artisan cheese plate; and swordfish Lulu--named after the chef who adds a taste of New Orleans to the menu. Inside Hotel Congress at 311 E. Congress St.; 798-1618.
