4-2-26-Illinois St. Food Emporium Part 1
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Matthew Williford is carrying forward a nearly 50-year Indianapolis tradition at the Illinois Street Food Emporium. Since taking over the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood staple in August 2025, Williford has focused on preserving the restaurant’s legacy as a community gathering place.
Located at 5550 North Illinois Street, the Emporium has served as a bakery, deli, and cafe since 1979. Founded by Ernie and Sue Kobets and later owned by Vivian Farris, the business helped pioneer the upscale fast-casual dining concept in the city.
Williford, the owner and operator of the Illinois Street Food Emporium, grew up in the neighborhood and frequented the shop as a child. He chose to acquire the business rather than start a new concept to give back to the area…