Update: The owners of Earwax have decided to reopen the restaurant. From the Earwax Facebook page: “Due to popular demand Earwax will re-open after a menu overhaul and cleaning tomorrow. Kurt Guzowski, formerly Executive Chef of Landmark Grill has spruced up the vegetarian and vegan-focused menu, keeping a few of the old favorites and adding some new dishes and ever-changing daily specials. You guys have convinced us to re-open, despite some difficulties, and to stick with the tried and true concept of the cafe.”
A Wicker Park institution for 21 years, Earwax Cafe will be closing its doors for good on February 28 for “financial reasons.” Its meatless menu options made it a popular hangout for vegetarians and vegans, but there are a lot more restaurants and cafes in the neighborhood now vying for a chunk of change from the great Wicker Park gold rush; the past few years alone have seen the openings of Big Star, Birchwood Kitchen, Cumin, and the Wormhole, among others.