SAVOR Another ‘Shameless’ giveaway, Avli expands, new bars
by Andrew Davis | December 1, 2025
Large and in charge: Avli Winnetka, the original location of founding partner Louie Alexakis’ modern Greek restaurant group, is undergoing a significant expansion and revamp in downtown Winnetka. The new Avli will debut in December.
The project will extend the restaurant to occupy 50% of The Laundry building, adding approximately 2,400 square feet—1,600 square feet dedicated to a new bar and lounge and 800 square feet to a front dining room. The remodel introduces the North Shore’s first vinyl-inspired bar and lounge, along with a complete concept and culinary overhaul led by Executive Chef Jorge Angulo, formerly of Vela (Celeste Group).
Cold mezes designed for sharing will include a meze platter along with traditional favorites like tzatziki with charred cucumber and taramosalata with chilled rock shrimp poached in clarified butter. Some of the hot mezes will include dishes like marrow with white anchovies; gamopílafo, a rendition of the famous Cretan wedding rice with roasted lamb and lemon broth; and dorade with skordolado (a bright garlic herb sauce) and shaved fennel salad.
