Ela Modern Greek Taverna will open Saturday, September 26, at 1551 N. Wells Street in Chicago’s Old Town, bringing a fresh approach to Greek Mediterranean dining built around real ingredients, thoughtful preparation and the idea that a great meal doesn’t always need to be a big commitment.
Founded by Shaina Hurley, the entrepreneur and television personality who rose to national prominence on Netflix’s Love Is Blind, Ela marks a new chapter for one of Chicago’s most recognizable hospitality-adjacent personalities. Shaina and her husband, Greek American restaurateur and developer Chris Lardakis, have remained in the national spotlight since their marriage, most recently sharing exclusively with PEOPLE that they are expecting their second child following Shaina’s highly publicized journey with cervical cancer.
Ela grew from Shaina’s deep appreciation for Greek culture, first introduced to her through Chris and strengthened through their marriage, family and time spent in Greece. In creating the restaurant, she has intentionally surrounded herself with partners whose own lives and careers are deeply rooted in Greek food, culture and hospitality…