A Local Deli's Brief Journey: What Went Wrong?

In La Salle, a small business venture didn't quite make the mark. Illinois Food and Deli, a promising deli, shut its doors permanently on April 30, just under a year after it opened. The deli was a joint effort by Nizar Tharani and his partners, Pankaj Chaudhari and Nilesh Chaudhari, who had some experience in the food industry.

The deli had a short break in February 2024 but reopened in August under new management. The new owners put in some work, fixing the roof, making structural changes, and upgrading the refrigeration. They had big plans to turn the place into a family-friendly sports bar and grill. Amber French took over, planning to add a full bar and a working kitchen.

But things didn't go as planned. The property, which has been around since 1973, is now up for sale at $1.5 million. It's a reminder that even with good ideas and investments, running a business is tough. Maybe the location wasn't right, or the market was too competitive. Whatever the reason, it's a lesson in the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

The deli's story is a mix of hope, effort, and disappointment. It shows how quickly things can change in the business world. For now, the building sits empty, waiting for its next chapter. It's a spot that saw a lot of activity but couldn't quite stick around.