Support Anna Maria Pasteria's Recovery & Staff

A mix of modern and traditional Italian cuisine, Anna Maria Pasteria has long been a local favorite. Sisters Anna and Maria, originally from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, first opened their doors at 4400 N Clark St in 1989. For 35 years, Chicagoans have celebrated birthdays and anniversaries here. Caught dinner before a Cubs game or performance at Black Ensemble Theater. Broken bread, crafted memories, and filled their bellies with delicious, lovingly prepared food.

Anna Maria's Pasteria has survived much over those 3+ decades, including the passing of co-owner Maria Spinelli in 2017 and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout those hardships, owner Anna Spinelli has kept the restaurant open, providing stability for her long-time and loyal employees while serving some of the finest Italian cuisine on Chicago's north side. Now, Anna needs our help to stay open and provide for her staff in the face of a new challenge.

On the evening of Friday, June 23, 2024, the driver of a westbound SUV lost control on Montrose Ave and crashed violently through Anna Maria Pasteria's window and into the dining room. The crash occurred less than an hour after the restaurant closed. Thankfully, no employees or guests were still in the dining area. However, the significant damage from the crash has forced Anna to close the restaurant indefinitely.

At minimum, the restaurant needs new windows and new signage. On the inside, they'll need to replace or repair the bar, host area, flooring, tables, chairs, glassware, and more. Combined with the cost of clean-up and the lost revenue from being closed, this is no small hurdle.

To help get Anna back on her feet and provide for her employees, the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce has established this GoFundMe on her behalf. Funds will be used to assist Anna Maria Pasteria's 6 employees, who will be unable to do work as repairs are made. Funds will also be used to cover costs related to repairs that are not covered by insurance.

Please, donate what you can so that we can help Anna and her team during their time of need.

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