Roots Latin Grill has closed after almost seven years in business.
The restaurant located at 4127 W. Wabash Ave. announced its closure on Facebook.
“Over the last years I have been putting everything of myself into this business trying to keep it a float, and it has taken a big toll for me, economically, mentally, emotionally and physically,” owner Luis Morales said in post about the closing. “I truly wish things would be different, but I have no other option, it is what it is.”
Morales, who is originally from Bolivia, opened Roots in October 2019. The restaurant’s menu featured signature dishes from Brazil, Venezuela and Peru. In 2022, Morales expanded to open Socavon, a bar and lounge just two doors down from Roots. That business closed at the end of 2025.
“Over the years, we barely survived the pandemic, awful economic times, everything that could have happened happen,” Morales said in the post. “We put lots of love, resources, personal sacrifice, time and effort into making it, but in life sometimes that it is not enough to succeed.”
Morales said there were many factors that made keeping Roots open unsustainable.
“Honestly sometimes is hard to understand how difficult it is the day to day life of a small business trying to survive,” he said in the post. He went on to thank his staff, customers and other supporters of the business.
“I have to praise my amazing customers for their patience and loyalty, and I can not leave without saying thank you!!” he said. “For everything!!!”