Familiar Cafe Gets Face-lift, New Name

A familiar neon glow no longer illuminates the window of a hidden gem tucked near the corner of Clark Street and Wrightwood Avenues. 

But don't worry, Lincoln Perk hasn't shuttered its doors. The BYOB coffee shop and cafe has merely gotten a face-lift—and a name change. Although the black and red "Lincoln Perk" sign still hung overhead Wednesday at 612 W. Wrightwood Ave., signs and decals bearing the name "La Cucina di Laura" adorned the windows.

An employee stressed Thursday morning that the business remains under the same ownership and will continue to offer menu items Lincoln Park residents have come to know and love, such as homemade focaccia and egg and potato frittata. 

The cafe specializes in Sicilian treats and all food is made fresh on site using organic ingredients, according to the business' Facebook page. Owners originally acquired their license to open Lincoln Perk in October 2006 and the current license—renewed in 2011—is set to expire on April 15 of this year, according to city of Chicago data. 

Let Patch save you time. Get more Lincoln Park news like this delivered right to your inbox or smartphone with our free newsletter. Join us here!

An employee called the shop's recent changes a "re-branding and redesign." The latter is clear to those who have frequented Lincoln Perk. Typically defined by its bright red walls and floral patterned, wrought iron chairs, it now has a much more subdued black and white motif.

But signs of its typical spunk remain. The business still has the same black-and-white checkered floor and a features a new zebra-patterned bench seat. There's still room in the cafe to host open mic nights, too.

A sign on the door Wednesday indicated that "grab and go meals" and extended hours were coming soon. The cafe is currently open daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The owner did not immediately contact Patch, as requested, Thursday afternoon.

Follow us on Facebook!