Oooh Wee It Is Reopens in Chatham

The previous Chatham location of Oooh Wee It Is, at 33 E. 83rd St., was a vibrant community hub opened in early 2021 by husband-and-wife team Mark and Shae Walker. Mark Walker, a Chatham native, aimed to bring a unique dining experience to his own neighborhood, moving into a 5,000-square-foot building that was formerly Mather's Place. The restaurant quickly became a popular destination, known for drawing long lines. The Walkers' venture into the restaurant business was a significant expansion from their original successful enterprise, Oooh Wee Sweet Tea, which Mark Walker started selling at a Harold's Chicken in 2014. Their "soul food with a twist" concept was designed to appeal to both older residents and millennials, offering a fresh take on classic dishes. This success led to a rapid expansion, with additional locations opening in Burnham, Wicker Park, and Beverly. The former Chatham spot was known for its eclectic and lively atmosphere, featuring unique decor such as swings for seats and life-size statues of comic book characters like Iron Man and Batman. A standout feature was its cereal bar, which offered over 75 different types of cereal that could be enjoyed any time of day. Patrons flocked to the restaurant for its inventive menu. Signature dishes included pot roast cupcakes, Hennessy wings, fried lobster, and oxtails and grits. The restaurant also made a point to support other local Black-owned businesses by featuring and selling their products, such as Michele's Syrup and Riley's Ribz Sauces.