Milwaukee & California Produce (2294 N. Milwaukee Ave.) closed Sunday, Jan. 12. after more than 15 years in Logan Square. Building owner Peter Iatreades is planning to expand the store’s neighbor Cozy Corner (2294 N. Milwaukee Ave.), which he also owns and has been open since 1977. Iatreades has owned the building that has been occupied by Milwaukee & California Produce since 1997.
Residents react to the news
“I’m really sad right now. Everywhere else is expensive. I’ll probably have to walk more,” says Emma, a California & Milwaukee Produce customer at the register last week.
The market was located next to the California Blue Line station, many commuters patronized the store because of its convenient location along their daily commute. It offered fresh produce, dry foodstuff, meats and cheeses.
“[The grocery store was] something convenient, but I got other stores,” says customer Luol who was shopping with his two children before the store closed.
Cozy Corner expands
“The only reason [the store is closing] is [for Cozy Corner] to expand. We offered more money, but Cozy refused,” she says Lucy Garcia, while working the checkout.
Garcia is a 12-year Logan Square resident and three-year employee at Milwaukee & California Produce.
“I feel for them. But they’ll find some place.”says Terri Rivera, a Cozy Corner manager. “We’re expanding because it’s good for business.”
Cozy Corner’s current space fills up quickly during peak hours. Residents have been quoted 45 minute wait times for a table. With an expansion, diners should get to a table quicker.
Milwaukee & California Produce look for new space
Milwaukee & California Produce owners of are attempting to find a new space, but so far have been unsuccessful.
Grocery Store Manager Luis Perez says they’re confident they will find another location soon. The store will temporarily serve customers at 3647 W. Diversey Ave.
Outside the store Joe, a customer carrying a bag of fresh produce says, “There’s really no other grocery store around here. If they can open up another one that’d be great.”
Photo: Alex Cole
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