Medici in Normal

The Medici Story
The first Medici opened in 1957 in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, near the University of Chicago campus, but was not sucessful. After a fire in 1962, Hans Morsbach purchased it for $1,700. There was not enough money for a new sign, so the name has remained ever since. The Medici eventually became a hit, has survived for more than 40 years, and has evolved to become a beloved institution. When Hans wanted to establish a new Medici in Normal, he was eager to choose this spot. “Other Ports” was previously at this location and the owner, Bob Steinman, did not want to sell. Yet, as both Hans and Bob are experienced at restaurant operation, they realized their ideas could converge.	Hans and Bob decided to form a partnership. Rounding out the ownership is Paul, Hans's son. Paul was always on hand in several other restaurants Hans owned and has known the Medici in Hyde Park all his life. The owners are very pleased to have settled in Normal where local citizens, the mayor and city administration have been very helpful. We are happy to be part of the refurbishing of this district. While the Medici in Hyde Park enjoys much popularity in the university and Hyde Park community, Hans has long entertained a more spectacular vision of his “Dream Medici.” The Medici on 57th is located in a dry district, and the possibility of having a delicious drink in an amazing atmosphere, where his passion for woodworking and people	could meet and join forces was a pinacle achievement for Hans. The Medici in Normal fulfills his aspirations and he proudly stated this at an opening party he hosted for friends. “This is a beautiful restaurant and if somebody else had done it, I would be jealous.” We hope you feel at home here. As the general manager, I will try to make your visit as pleasant as possible, and would love to hear about your experience. Please feel free to talk to me about any comments or suggestions you have. Our staff and management aim to please. Ariel Johnson, General Manager

The Medici Story

The first Medici opened in 1957 in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, near the University of Chicago campus, but was not sucessful.

After a fire in 1962, Hans Morsbach purchased it for $1,700. There was not enough money for a new sign, so the name has remained ever since.

The Medici eventually became a hit, has survived for more than 40 years, and has evolved to become a beloved institution.

When Hans wanted to establish a new Medici in Normal, he was eager to choose this spot. “Other Ports” was previously at this location and the owner, Bob Steinman, did not want to sell. Yet, as both Hans and Bob are experienced at restaurant operation, they realized their ideas could converge.

Hans and Bob decided to form a partnership. Rounding out the ownership is Paul, Hans's son. Paul was always on hand in several other restaurants Hans owned and has known the Medici in Hyde Park all his life.

The owners are very pleased to have settled in Normal where local citizens, the mayor and city administration have been very helpful. We are happy to be part of the refurbishing of this district.

While the Medici in Hyde Park enjoys much popularity in the university and Hyde Park community, Hans has long entertained a more spectacular vision of his “Dream Medici.”

The Medici on 57th is located in a dry district, and the possibility of having a delicious drink in an amazing atmosphere, where his passion for woodworking and people

could meet and join forces was a pinacle achievement for Hans. The Medici in Normal fulfills his aspirations and he proudly stated this at an opening party he hosted for friends.

“This is a beautiful restaurant and if somebody else had done it, I would be jealous.”

We hope you feel at home here. As the general manager, I will try to make your visit as pleasant as possible, and would love to hear about your experience. Please feel free to talk to me about any comments or suggestions you have.

Our staff and management aim to please.

Ariel Johnson, General Manager