Restaurant Rebuilds After Devastating Fire: The Unstoppable Spirit of Uptown Business Community

The local business community in Uptown is banding together to help a restaurant that was severely damaged when a driver crashed through its facade on Sunday night. At 9:45 p.m. Sunday, a 27-year-old man ran a red light while driving north on North Clark Street, causing a collision with a car traveling west on Montrose Avenue before crashing into Anna Maria Pasteria at 4400 N. Clark St, according to police. The driver received citations for various violations and was taken to the hospital for minor injuries.

The impact of the crash left the interior of Anna Maria Pasteria in shambles, with shattered glass covering the floor and furniture destroyed. Photos and videos show the extent of the damage. The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce has set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise $20,000 to help cover repair costs not covered by insurance, as well as to assist the six employees who are currently out of work while the restaurant remains closed.

Owner Anna Spinelli was reluctant to ask for help after the extensive damage left her business with limited options for recovery. However, she realized that she needed support from her community in order to get back on her feet. The restaurant will require new signs and windows, along with repairs to its bar, flooring, host area, and furniture. Despite these challenges, Spinelli hopes to reopen Anna Maria Pasteria as soon as possible so that her loyal customers can return and enjoy their favorite Italian dishes once again.