Sayat Nova Refused to Sell to the Developers
You’ve probably walked by this restaurant dozens of times in Streeterville and not noticed it (especially now- as construction on 550 N. St. Clair is happening right next door.) It’s right off of Michigan Avenue- next door to the Gap. But now, apparently, you not only can eat at Sayat Nova, you can live above the restaurant in a four story walk-up for pretty darn cheap.
Sayat Nova Restaurant is located at 157 E. Ohio in a cute little four story brick building that is now dwarfed by 550 N. St. Clair which built right up to its wall. Sayat Nova describes itself as:
Located just steps from Michigan Avenue in the heart of Chicago’s thriving Streeterville neighborhood, Sayat Nova is a cozy, romantic enclave tucked back from the city’s urban sprawl. Since 1970, we have offered Armenian cuisine that presents a slightly earthier variation on typical Mediterranean fare.
The restaurant’s namesake is inspired by the 18th century troubadour, Haroutiun Sayakian. He is remembered by the Armenians as Sayat Nova or King of Songs, an homage to his status in the Armenian community. His poems are sung and recited by Armenians all over the world.
The interior is cute:
The restaurant has been around for 27 years and still gets consistently good reviews on the various restaurant websites (such as Metromix.) They are similar to this review in the Chicago Reader:
The unassuming facade of this Armenian restaurant is misleading — the interior is cavernous yet cozy, with low ceilings, romantic semiprivate alcoves, funky hanging light fixtures, and interesting artifacts on display. The pleasantly seasoned cuisine makes for an enjoyable casual lunch, and a few Raters rave about the consistency, saying “We have never had a bad meal at this place” and “Been going for years! It is always good.” The jajik, a creamy, refreshing cucumber-yogurt spread, is a Rater favorite, as are the lamb chops, various couscous dishes, and nicely charbroiled kebabs of chicken, beef, and lamb.
Yes, there is a real estate angle to what I am talking about. I can’t find the article, but a few years back, the owner of Sayat Nova told reporters he had turned down an offer for his building by the big bad developers. Turned down a couple of million dollars apparently.
So if you walk by today- you ARE struck by how close the 550 N. St. Clair building is. But thank goodness. Sayat Nova is a cute little building and makes a statement in the neighborhood. Many people know the restaurant is there- but I didn’t know you could rent apartments above it.
From Craigslist: “2 bedroom , hardwood floors ceramic tile kitchen and bath , in unit washer and dryer. Includes heat and hot water available immediately”
They’re asking $1450 a month. Which, compared to what the flippers in the St. Clair will be charging- right next door- seems like a bargain to me. Here are some not so great pictures off the Craigslist ad:
Yes, you have to walk up four flights of stairs every day. But think of the exercise! You won’t have to join a gym.