One is My Quiet Place, a Jamaican restaurant that just didn't get it. Crummy interior, no marketing to speak of, bad lighting, bad neighborhood. (See related story.) While we're sorry to see any business fail, we can't help but wonder why this one stayed open as long as it did.Contrast My Quite Place to the successful Grill Inn 1422 W Morse Avenue and Taqueria Los Portales at 1418 W Morse, just down the street. They have cozy, welcoming interiors. My Quiet Place made the mistake that too many Third World restaurateurs make - they seem unaware that most Americans have a low tolerance for creepy restaurant decor.
Another business that is closing is Mega Dollar Day at 7100 N. Clark Street. Not a failed business, they've simply had enough of the crime in Rogers Park. Or too much, actually.The Bench broke the story that Mega Dollar Day was robbed not once but twice - within a single week recently. I spoke to the owners yesterday and he said that after 13 years on Clark Street, they've decided that "enough is enough." The business is for sale and they are planning to close in about two weeks.
Will we hear about these success stories from DevCorp North? Will DevCorp Empress Kimberly Bares stand in front of either business, on a soap box, and proclaim the virtues of doing business in Rogers Park? Will Alderman Joe Moore ever get over Mega Dollar Day and give personal best wishes to the owners? Don't hold your breath.
