Israel Idonije, formerly of the Chicago Bears, has unveiled his new restaurant in the South Loop.
Israel Idonije, a former member of the last Bears team to compete in the Super Bowl, continues to make a significant impact in Chicago since his retirement a decade ago. He has ventured into various fields, from entrepreneurship and comic book publishing to running his charitable foundation. Now, he's venturing into the restaurant business with the launch of Signature in the South Loop, seamlessly blending his love for sports, business acumen, and commitment to giving back to the city.
Known for his fast-paced approach, even off the football field, Idonije set an ambitious goal for Signature's opening. He aimed to have the restaurant up and running within four months to coincide with the Bears' season. The project involved bringing in designers and various experts to elevate the space and hiring a staff of 53 employees.
Idonije's tenure with the Bears, spanning from 2004 to 2012, paved the way for his philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of his foundation in 2007. His latest venture follows the same pattern. A portion of the restaurant's revenue will contribute to the Impact Fund, with a particular focus on addressing food insecurity in the city. Idonije's commitment to giving back reflects his appreciation for the unwavering support he received from Bears fans during his decade with the team.
His journey from fighting for a starting position in the NFL to becoming an entrepreneur has taught him valuable lessons, which he now imparts to his team at Signature. He emphasizes the importance of creating a winning culture, where every member, whether in the kitchen or front of the house, plays a crucial role in the restaurant's success.
One of Idonije's greatest joys is seeing Signature filled with passionate Bears fans on game days, especially after an offseason filled with optimism about the team's progress. He believes that the Bears are moving in the right direction, with improvements on both the defensive front and coaching staff. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Idonije hopes for a "Signature" win for the team and its dedicated supporters.
Signature, co-owned by Idonije and renowned chef Stephen Gillanders, is located in the South Loop�a significant departure from Idonije's football beginnings in Manitoba but a stone's throw from his time playing at Soldier Field as a Chicago Bear.
