14Forty Bar & Grill Opened in Chicago
The new restaurant brings a family legacy back to life in the North Lawndale neighborhood.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Shatondrea Cox-Williams and Patrick Williams have opened 14Forty Bar & Grill at 1440 S. Kedzie Ave. in Chicago. The establishment officially celebrated its grand opening on September 26, 2026.
Why it matters
The owners aimed to revitalize a family business site while fostering neighborhood gathering and increased economic activity in the area. This project represents the revival of a space once operated by the founder's grandparents.
The business secured a Neighborhood Opportunity Fund grant in 2023 after four separate application attempts. The site address, 1440 S. Kedzie Ave., serves as the inspiration for the bar's name.
The players
Shatondrea Cox-Williams
She is the co-owner of 14Forty Bar & Grill who managed the family's former bar at the same location for a decade.
Patrick Williams
He is the co-owner of the new business venture located in North Lawndale.
Marchetta Hawkins
She serves as the professional chef responsible for developing the restaurant menu.
Greg Arnold
He manages bar operations and brings 25 years of industry background to the team.
The details
The restaurant features a menu curated by chef Marchetta Hawkins, offering ribeye steak, salmon, braised chicken, and spinach dip. The space previously functioned as a bar under the management of Cox-Williams from 2003 until its closure in 2013.
Timeline
The original family bar operated at this location starting in the 1980s.
Shatondrea Cox-Williams managed the previous establishment from 2003 to 2013.
The site remained closed from 2013 until the recent reopening.
City officials approved the business for a Neighborhood Opportunity Fund grant in 2023.
The restaurant held its grand opening on September 26, 2026.
Market Landscape
This opening reflects a broader trend of small business owners leveraging the Chicago Neighborhood Opportunity Fund to restore historic community landmarks. By reclaiming shuttered storefronts, these entrepreneurs are attempting to bridge the gap between neighborhood history and modern retail viability.
Local residents and visitors can now access the establishment's full menu of steak and poultry dishes. The owners have also announced plans to roll out specific sports-focused promotions in the coming months.
The takeaway
This opening highlights how small business owners can successfully navigate municipal grant processes to preserve neighborhood history. Interested patrons should look for upcoming sports promotions as the restaurant integrates into the local community calendar.
Further reading
Explore more local business developments in the Chicago Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Defender.
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