Papaspiros Plans Dec. 1 Opening in Former Velvet Rope Space

Papapiros Agora, a new version of Oak Park Greek eatery Papaspiros will open at its new location at 728 Lake St. Dec. 1, according to the restaurant's website. 

The restaurant moved from its former location across the street at 733 Lake St. to the space formerly occupied by the Velvet Rope Ultra Lounge, which was destroyed by a fire last year. 

The building sustained significant damage after an early morning fire on June 3, 2012. Frank Elliot, 26, who operated Velvet Rope Ultra Lounge, was charged earlier this month with arson and insurance fraud for the fire.

Papaspiros closed the restaurant after 15 years at 733 Lake St., with plans to downsize to a "cozier" space, owner Spiro Papageorge told the Wednesday Journal in February. 

Papageorge told the Oak Park Liquor Control Review Board at a Sept. 24 meeting that the new restaurant menu would be based on the former Papaspiros menu with an "organic twist." He also said he would like to sell packaged wine and other items in the new space, according to a meeting document.

A phone recording at the business says anyone who purchased a Groupon for the business can still redeem them until Dec. 31. More than 230 people bought the $40 deal, according to Groupon.

For more information, go to www.papaspiros.com or visit the restaurant's Facebook page. 

-----------
Keep up with Oak Park and River Forest news: Sign up for our free email newsletter, then like us on Facebook for a slightly different take.