Peoria restaurant owner seeks 'somebody to take over'

Original source (on modern site) | Article images: [1]

After taking ownership of the Hungry Moose in 2015, Chad Zike said he is ready to pass the reins along to a new owner.

While Zike said he enjoys working, he added that "retirement is sounding really (good)." Even so, he said he does not plan on closing the restaurant's doors anytime soon.

"My employees are still there," Zike said. "I've assured them that I'm not looking just to close down and walk away. I'm looking for somebody to take over at the helm and run it."

More:Get the scoop on food news with our weekly newsletter

Initially, Zike thought his daughter would take over the Peoria restaurant, but he said she decided to focus on Davis Brothers Pizza, located at 2402 E. Washington St. in East Peoria.

Zike posted the announcement on Facebook on May 23. He said he has received "lots of interest" from the community so far. Anyone interested in taking over the business should reach out to (309) 645-9888.

The restaurant moved to 3000 N. Sterling Ave. in 2019 after previously operating at 4808 W. Farmington Road.

More:Longtime East Peoria seafood restaurant makes the 'jump' to Peoria with new cafe

Looking back, Zike said he is proud of the success the business has had over the years, especially in offering live, local music to guests. He said he also enjoyed seeing menu items, such as the pancakes and tenderloins, become favorites for those in the community.

"I can walk through just any given public place and people know who I am because of the Hungry Moose," Zike said.

Connect with Cassidy Waigand by emailing her at CWaigand@gannett.com or by following her on Twitter at @justxaxwriter.