The Clove Stands Alone: Glenview’s Only 2026 1-Year Anniversary Party Set for Thursday, May 7

GLENVIEW, Ill. — While dozens of restaurant groups prepare to launch in 2026 thanks to heavy village funding, only one establishment in town is throwing a one-year anniversary party this spring.

The Clove Indian Cuisine — Glenview’s first-ever Indian restaurant — will mark 365 days of spicy triumphs, belly dancing comebacks, and record-breaking reviews on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. And everyone’s invited.

There’s no cover charge. Just live classical music, other entertainment, free appetizers, and a complimentary non-alcoholic drink for every guest.

“We choose Glenview because it offers a strong sense of community and a welcoming, diverse demographic,” said co-owner Ankur Sharma. “The support from local residents has been incredible.”

A Year That Belonged to The Clove

While 2025 proved “stonier” for growth along Glenview Road compared to the downtown area, The Clove flourished. The restaurant opened its doors on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 — and never slowed down.

According to Sharma, The Clove has since served more than 40,000 guests and fulfilled over 10,000 orders, with more than 80% of customers returning.

“That’s an incredible testament to the trust and support of the local community,” he said.

The numbers tell only part of the story. The Clove has earned more five-star reviews than any other restaurant in Glenview — and more than any Indian restaurant across Illinois — in just its first three months of operation. It now holds one of the highest Google ratings in Glenview and the highest among Indian restaurants in the United States.

As other heavily funded restaurant grounds and chains wait for 2026 to open The Clove in on their way to becoming one of Glenview's features.

Breaking Records — and Stereotypes

The past year brought historic firsts. For the first time since the Roaring Twenties, the hypnotic rhythms of belly dancing filled a Glenview restaurant when The Clove hosted a performance that hadn’t been seen in the village since 1928 — back when such shows were held at the infamous Garden of Allah roadhouse on Waukegan Road.

A Juneteenth event featured Nepali music and cultural fusion, drawing over 100 attendees. Cooking demonstrations, a Christmas party, karaoke nights, fire dancers, comedians, a New Year’s Eve celebration, and Super Bowl parties followed.

“We’re creating more than just a place to eat,” Sharma said. “We want to bring the community together and support local artists and businesses. Our goal is to offer a unique space in Glenview.”

Co-owner Ramakant Kharel, who brings over 30 years of restaurant experience, put it simply: “Customers are the heart of the restaurant. We are here to serve you.”

What to Expect on May 7

The anniversary celebration will feature The Clove’s regular menu alongside select new dishes planned for the upcoming season. Every guest receives a complimentary non-alcoholic welcome drink and a free appetizer, with full table service accompanied by soothing Indian classical music.

“We want to create a sort of community hub where everybody can come out and have a good time and a good dining experience,” Sharma said.

The event is gradually filling up — some experiences are already sold out — though limited availability remains. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

Going All In on Glenview

Unlike restaurant development groups that rely on village-funded parking, valet service, and municipal lots, The Clove is a true family-run business started by two owners who live in the area.

They have decided to go all in on Glenview — opening early, staying open late, and hosting several performances each month.

The Clove is a family run business both owners live in the Glenview area. Many of the other restaurants that Glenview funded their opening and purchases of buildings were restaurant groups out of Chicago and Wilmette or restaurants developers.

“The greatest joy comes not just from serving food, but from creating memorable experiences and being able to give back to the community — whether through food donations, supporting local initiatives, or simply being a place where people come together,” Sharma said.

Looking ahead, The Clove plans expanded hours, a new patio, and enhanced bar offerings.

“Our vision remains clear,” Sharma said. “To create a destination where guests can enjoy both exceptional dining and memorable experiences — right here in Glenview.”

A Lighthearted Memory

Sharma recalled one particularly funny moment from the past year: “A guest confidently ordered ‘Indian spicy,’ only to realize halfway through that they had bravely overestimated their spice tolerance — we all had a good laugh together!”

How to Join the Celebration

The Clove is located at 1827 Waukegan Road in an outdoor mall. A six-minute video packed with over 50 clips from 2025’s events will be released on the restaurant’s Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube channels.

For a two-minute video interview with Sharma, search “George LeClaire YouTube.”

“The year was filled with gratitude, growth, and the privilege of serving our community through food and hospitality,” Sharma said.

And on May 7, Glenview gets to say thank you back — with free appetizers and a belly dancing beat that hasn’t been heard in these parts for nearly a century.