 photo by steed media service
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Owner, Ace’s Soul Food Café
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this for a new reality show: the trials of a hard-working African
American businessman, in a depressed community, trying to make a
success of a once-popular eatery on the South Side of Chicago. If the
new owner of the former H & A Restaurant has his way, this could be
the pilot for a series.
A longtime resident of the area, Ace
Reed grew up on the tasty, comfort foods once prepared at the storied
restaurant, which opened in 1945. When the restaurant fell on hard
times and closed, its biggest fan came to the rescue. “I had a chance
to jump right in and keep up the soul food tradition in the area,” says
Reed.
Since reopening as Ace’s Soul Food Café a little over three
months ago, Reed has had his hands full. When he is not busy upgrading
the kitchen equipment, and handling the day-to-day affairs of the
restaurant, he usually acts as a counselor to the myriad of locals
passing through his door. Customers who walk into the revamped spot
will notice all the positive changes Reed has incorporated. He added
new amenities and furniture that he says reflects his personality. But
he is quick to note, “You have the same Southern feel.”
Life is about second chances and this restaurant, which had been a
local anchor for over half-a-century, is getting a chance at a
comeback. And Reed is the perfect man for this awesome responsibility
because he genuinely cares about down-home cooking and the people
patronizing his establishment. “My satisfaction is at the end of the
meal seeing the customers smile – I like that feeling,” he says.
–tony binns
For more information, call (773) 324-8060 or visit www.acessoulfoodcafe.com.
