When AO Hawaiian Hideout announced it would close on Oct. 31, owner Betty Hlavka reached out on social media asking local businesses to hire her staff. The call was answered by a number of South Loop restaurants, demonstrating the neighborhood’s commitment to looking after one another.

Local eateries step up

Joe Liakopoulos, owner of Panchos Rooftop & Cantina (327 S. Plymouth Court) and its sister speakeasy La Diabla, said he tried to provide a “quick landing spot” for the displaced workers. He hired a cook from AO Hawaiian Hideout who began on Nov. 3, though the employee later found another position.

“We don’t want people to be without employment for too long,” Liakopoulos said, noting his own experience in the tough restaurant industry.

Italian spot Il Culaccino and Polish‑Italian restaurant Flo & Santos, both located nearby, also extended offers. “It’s very few and far between that you have business owners that are concerned about their staff,” Il Culaccino owner Frank Ruffolo said. Flo & Santos manager Jio Garcia added, “After COVID, there were only a few of us around in the block, and Hideout is one of them. So we got to look out for each other.”

Potential partnership falls through

Hlavka also explored a partnership with Da Local Boy, a Hawaiian street‑food concept owned by Nate and Dianne Domingo. The Domingos hoped to keep AO Hawaiian Hideout’s staff and menu items, including Hlavka’s long‑standing Mai Tai recipe. However, lease‑term disagreements with the landlord prevented the deal from moving forward. The Domingos are still offering catering equipment to help Da Local Boy expand.

Owner’s gratitude

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Hlavka thanked patrons and staff, calling the restaurant her “home away from home.” She expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of support from fellow restaurateurs and the community.

“We are sooooo appreciative of EVERYONE’s support this past week,” she wrote, wishing the South Loop “peace, good health and prosperity.”

Community spirit in action

This collaborative response underscores the strong ties among South Loop businesses. By offering immediate employment opportunities and sharing resources, these restaurants are helping preserve jobs and maintain the neighborhood’s vibrant culinary scene.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.