The L Station Luxe & Soul, a Black-owned restaurant and lounge at 186 N. Wells St., is a downtown spot unlike any other.
Upon entering the newly opened eatery that still sports celebratory balloons (as it opened on Nov. 11), you’re greeted by smiling staffers, inviting smells and 1990s/2000s R&B that will have you closing your eyes and groovin’ before you know it.
In an interview with The TRiiBE on Nov. 15, manager Tenyiah Patterson was asked how she felt about the restaurant. She’s the mother of the owner, 23-year-old Le’Roy Patterson.
“I’m excited. I’m grateful for what we’re bringing to this community and to the city of Chicago. It’s an upscale atmosphere; this is not your normal soul-food restaurant. This is an experience; this is a vibe. I feel grateful more than anything. I can feel the vision; I can see where it’s going,” the younger Patterson said.
And where might that be? “It’s going everywhere,” Patterson responded. They already have plans for expanding to other cities.“This is big. We want to master the art of what God gave us here and then we’re going to take it further,” she added.
The restaurant has already experienced booming business, thanks to social media —primarily, The L Station’s Instagram account. Lines were reportedly down the block on opening day.
Talking about The L Station a little more, Patterson said, “This is what we deserve and what you guys deserve. People should be able to come here and eat some food in a safe environment. It just feels good in here.”
When asked why the Loop was chosen for their location, Patterson casually replied, “Why not? This is downtown Chicago. This is prime. This is where we want to go. This is our city. It’s the perfect location—look at all the customers walking by. We’re right off the Chicago River for the summer and there are the city workers. We want them to come in and get a good vibe. We welcome everyone—and people will get a good meal at a good price.”