Restaurateurs Hope Glenview is Ready to MoonWok

If you stop by the recently opened MoonWok restaurant in Glenview, diner Julie Smith recommends the green curry or the Thai basil.

"And I like getting my own vegetables at the stir-fry bar," she added.

Smith's lunch companion, Renee Pappas, said everything is good — from the service to the fresh, healthy food.

"I think it's fabulous," Pappas explained.

In addition to the often-mentioned make-your-own-stir fry, the restaurant sports a fully-stocked bar with "traditional and exotic drinks," according to the website. The restaurant also features an open kitchen and bright artwork and photographs on the walls.

The goal of the restaurant, which has been open at 1615 North Milwaukee Ave. since October, is to offer a healthier alternative, said Nick Philippas. His wife, Connie, owns the restaurant.

"It's a healthier concept," Philippas explained. "You can create your own stir-fry, at the stir-fry bar where people get their own stuff and control their diet. We've decided it's just a healthier way to do it, with an organic selection."

Locals who want to learn how to MoonWok an visit the restaurant Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. or on Sunday between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m.

It took the couple about a year to open the restaurant, but Philippas said the community response has been good.

"It took a long time to do, but when it was finally open, everybody loved it."