Everyone is welcome at Ali’s Pantry

GRANVILLE — On the north end of the business district in Granville sits a local landmark. Serving since 1997, Ali’s Pantry has been the go-to place in town for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a family tradition of good food and hospitality.

From the outside, the building looks small, almost cramped. The feeling disperses once you walk into the restaurant. It’s still cozy, but a very welcoming atmosphere greets you, as does the aroma of food done right. Come in more than a few times, and it’s a sure bet Ali will be able to call you by name.

Although Ali Zulbeari’s name is on the marquee, Ali’s Pantry is a family affair. Ali and his father, Adem, purchased the former Panther Pantry on March 11, 1997, and opened its doors after a short remodeling just 11 days later on March 22. Ably assisted by his brother Safet — known to everyone as Sam — Ali serves up a great variety of food six days a week.

The story of Ali’s starts with Adem, who came to Illinois from Nerashte, Macedonia, in the northernmost section of Greece. Adem worked in Sandwich at his brother’s restaurant. When his son, Ali, immigrated from “the low country,” the two decided to open their own restaurant. They found the Panther Pantry was up for sale and soon were in the restaurant business for themselves.

Food is great and plentiful. From the opening door at 6 a.m., the locals bring their healthy appetite for eggs, pancakes, omelettes and Ali’s signature biscuits and gravy. Lunch is a wide and varied selection with burgers, sandwiches and daily specials. For something different, try an Ali’s Roll, a homemade flatbread wrapped around ham, beef, turkey or gyros meat and stuffed with mozzarella, green peppers and onions. Dinner selections include seafood, fried chicken and Italian dishes.

New to the menu is Ali’s pizza. Served after 4 p.m., pies start at 8 inches for a personal treat to the 20-incher which feeds an entire family and possibly a neighbor or two. Pizzas are lovingly handmade and baked in the new pizza oven. The dough is homemade, and the pizza sauce is made fresh daily.

Ali’s is open at 104 S. McCoy St. from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Carry-out and delivery are available at 815-339-6575.