GLENVIEW, Ill. – For the first time since the Roaring Twenties, the hypnotic rhythms of belly dancing filled a Glenview restaurant on Thursday night, as The Clove Indian and Nepali Cuisine (The Clove Glenview) hosted a historic performance, blending rich cultural traditions with a bold vision for the suburb's dining scene.
Dancers Phaedra Darwish of Chicago and Becca Rose of Evanston from Belly Dance By Phaedra (Phaedra Darwish) captivated a packed house, performing two sets and even inviting patrons like Glenview’s Battseren Sharavdor to join them on stage.
“I had a wonderful time dancing,” said Sharavdor. “My friends and I have been wanting to explore new types of culture, and we were so excited when we discovered there would be a belly dancer performance in Glenview.”
The event marks the first restaurant belly dance show in the village since 1928, when such performances were held at the infamous Garden of Allah roadhouse on Waukegan Road.
Co-owner Ankur Sharma said this is just the beginning. The evening was the latest installment of the restaurant’s new “Entertainment Night,” which they plan to host at least once or twice a month.
“We feature a different type of entertainment,” Sharma explained. “For example, one week we might have belly dancing, while other weeks could feature stand-up comedy, cultural performances, or even DJ nights. We’re also launching a cooking show soon.”
The entertainment is paired with a themed buffet menu that will change weekly to match the event’s vibe. Thursday’s performance featured a Nepali-themed spread.
The Clove, which opened on May 7, 2025, at 1827 Waukegan Road, aims to be more than just a restaurant. With an elegant 30-table dining room on one side and a spacious bar area on the other, all adorned with culturally inspired décor, it positions itself as a vibrant dining and entertainment destination.
“We’re creating more than just a place to eat—we want to bring the community together and support local artists and businesses,” Sharma said. “Our goal is to offer a unique space in Glenview, and we’d love for you to be part of this exciting journey.”
This community-focused mission is shared by co-owner Ramakant Kharel, who brings over 30 years of restaurant experience. “Customers are the heart of the restaurant,” Kharel said. “We are here to serve you.”
That service extends to a diverse menu crafted in three dedicated kitchens: one for Indian-Nepali cuisine, another for Indo-Chinese dishes, and a third for live culinary demonstrations. Standout dishes include clove chicken, schezwan eggplant, and innovative desserts like baked gulab jamun cheesecake.
For performer Phaedra Darwish, a 14-year veteran of the art form, the night was an opportunity to fulfill her mission as an artist: to increase cultural awareness and appreciation by sharing the dances of her heritage.
As the new blue LED lights drape the entrance of The Clove, signaling its fresh approach, the restaurant invites Glenview to explore a world of flavor and culture without ever leaving town.
“Come join us for a fun, memorable night,” said Sharma.
For updates on upcoming Entertainment Nights, follow The Clove on Facebook or Instagram.
