RAVENSWOOD — Glenn’s Diner in Ravenswood is officially closed after 17 years in the neighborhood.
Owner Larry Jones put Glenn’s on the market in 2019, hoping to find a buyer interested in “carrying the torch” of the popular diner that had been featured on “Check Please,” and was named Chicago Reader’s best seafood restaurant in the city.
But after three years of fishing for a buyer, Jones apparently decided to close the diner at 1820 W. Montrose Ave. for good. He did not return calls for comment.
Those calling the diner now hear a recording that states: “I’m sorry to say our restaurant in Chicago is now closed.” The spot shut down July 31, according to a sign on the door.
“The Glenn’s Diner ‘experience’ is coming to the end of its long and winding road. We’ve really enjoyed all the friends that have been a part of this 17 year adventure. The time has come for us to say goodbye and wish everyone the very best,” the sign reads.
When Jones put Glenn’s up for sale in 2019, he was asking for $199,000 for the business. The listing was updated about two months ago and the asking price was dropped to $75,000.
As before, the 1,800-square-foot property is not for sale; only the business is, said Marcus Sullivan, assistant vice president at SVN Chicago Commercial, which is overseeing the listing.
Jones doesn’t own the building and Glenn’s lease is valid through Feb. 29, 2024.
Named after former co-owner Glenn Fahlstrom, the diner’s menu had a wide variety of seafood items available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The spot was also known for its lineup of 39 breakfast cereals.
Fahlstrom and business partner Jones created the Fahlstrom Restaurant Group LLC in 2005 to operate Glenn’s Diner.
After a falling out in 2009, Fahlstrom sold his share of the business to Jones for $1,000 before deciding to go to court “to invalidate the agreement,” a community newspaper reported at the time.
Fahlstrom lost the court battle in 2011 and decided to open Fahlstrom’s Fresh Fish Market at 1258 W. Belmont Ave. in 2014.
Fahlstrom announced he was closing his Fresh Fish Market in summer 2020 because of the pandemic’s impact on the restaurant and hospitality industry.
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