The Claremont Diner
The Claremont Diner was a retro-styled neighborhood diner in Chicago’s Tri-Taylor area (also known as part of the Near West Side or Little Italy vicinity), located at 2325 W. Taylor Street. Owned and operated by executive chef Steven Rife (previously of Al Teatro Ristorante and Puck’s at the MCA), it opened on April 19, 2019, with a concept focused on affordable, locally sourced American classics updated with gourmet twists to serve as a community gathering spot.
The menu emphasized breakfast and brunch items like skillets, waffles, and omelets (including a standout filet mignon version with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and cheddar), along with lunch options such as a Monte Cristo sandwich with house-cured ham and Gruyère. It also featured daily dinner specials under $20, such as rack of lamb with carrot puree, beef Wellington, or scallops and grits, plus desserts like peach cobbler and beignets. No alcohol was served to keep it family-friendly, and it offered coffee from Sputnik Coffee Company (with free drip for police and firefighters). The interior blended retro and modern elements, with black-and-white tiled floors, teal booths, counter stools, an open kitchen, and seating for about 48 inside plus a patio for 35-40.
It earned strong reviews for its food and value (4.4 stars on Yelp from 66 reviews) but closed temporarily on March 23, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and never reopened. As of December 2025, the space is occupied by a different restaurant, Indian Dhaba.
