A Cheesesteak Whiz Returns to Lincoln Square 17 Months After A Devastating Fire | Eater Chicago

"After a fire nearly a year and a half ago, I watched Monti’s Cheesesteaks move back into its former Lincoln Square spot at Talman and Lawrence with almost its entire staff and menu intact. Owner David Weissner used the insurance-covered remodel to upgrade infrastructure like wiring and to adapt the operation for the COVID era—official move-back-in day was October 28, about 13 months after the fire, though it took a few more months to fully settle. Having spent a year operating takeout and delivery from the Rockwell Food Center ghost kitchen, Weissner realized those services were essential and added a separate delivery window and three dedicated parking spots so drivers and takeout customers don’t need to go inside. He kept the look as close to the old Monti’s as possible (the bar is now straight instead of L-shaped) and the dining area holds roughly 48 diners so “favorite” tables remain in the same spots, but nearly all the Philly memorabilia was lost and is being replaced—including a replica of the Robert Indiana “LOVE” statue that lights up when the doorbell rings and a rotating triptych mural of Philly scenes (he’s even accepting college pennant donations). The cheesesteak and hoagie offerings are unchanged—authentic Philly cheesesteaks served on Amoroso rolls with Black Angus rib-eye—along with fries, wings and other bar snacks; pizza was dropped (it accounted for about 3% of sales) to make room for cheesesteak prep, though Weissner plans to offer flatbreads soon. The menu also features drink specials, appetizers, fresh soups and salads and gluten-free options, and overall both Weissner and his customers are glad to be back home." - Aimee Levitt