Bongo Room Co-Founder John Latino Helped Define Chicago’s Brunch Culture - Eater Chicago
"Bongo Room, opened in 1993 by John Latino and Derrick Robles, became a renowned brunch spot in Chicago's Wicker Park. Known for its specialty pancakes such as fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes and banana bread French toast, the restaurant attracted a dedicated following. Despite challenges, Bongo Room expanded to South Loop and Andersonville, although the South Loop location closed in 2019. The restaurant was a significant part of Wicker Park's transformation into a brunch destination, maintaining its popularity without advertising its LGBTQ ownership. After Latino's passing, the future of the restaurant remains uncertain." - Naomi Waxman
