Liquor License Denied for Potential Buyer of Big Pappa's Gyros

The Oak Lawn Board of Trustees decided Tuesday not to grant a liquor license to Anna’s Gaming and Gyros, the potential new name of the Big Pappas Gyros restaurant that owner Sandi DiGangi is trying to sell.

When Mayor Sandra Bury called for a motion on the liquor license request at the meeting, the board members responded with silence.

DiGangi announced two weeks ago that she’d be selling Big Pappas Gyros on Cicero Avenue in light of her recent health issues, but her lawyer, Michael Walsh, said Tuesday that the sale will likely fall through without the liquor license.

Big Pappas Gyros is currently licensed for both gaming and serving alcohol, but a new owner would have to get new licenses.

Walsh said the restaurant would operate “almost identical” to how it is now, just with a name change and a new owner.

“By not calling this to a vote, I fail to see who or what is being protected,” Walsh said. “No one is being protected, but someone is being hurt. Sandi is going to be hurt by this. She won’t be able to sell business or get her investment back.”

Trustee Carol Quinlan (Dist. 5) said she didn’t approve of the new name, which made gaming a prominent part of the business, instead of just the food.

“That’s not Oak Lawn,” Quinlan said. “That’s not what our community is about.”

Trustee Terry Vorderer (Dist. 4) said he is opposed to gaming at fast food restaurants. Trustee Mike Carberry (Dist. 6) said Walsh and DiGangi’s story is compelling, but he echoed Quinlan in saying he doesn’t think this is the right fit for Oak Lawn.

The request failed for lack of a motion.

Related:

• Restaurant Owner Launches Campaign To Help Secure Seniors’ Homes After Home Invasion
• Big Pappas Continues Charitable Mission of Serving Turkey Dinners on Christmas

ALSO ON PATCH