Eater Chicago: A Weed-Themed Sandwich Chain With a Full Bar Is Coming to Chicago

According to Eater Chicago, the marijuana-themed sandwich shop concept Cheba Hut has signed two three-unit franchise deals in Chicago, with its first location slated to open by the end of 2019. The new franchisees are currently scouting real estate in Bucktown and near the DePaul campus.

While Illinois new marijuana laws will not directly affect the restaurants, Cheba Hut’s new business partners in the market feel their arrival is well-timed. And while a franchised business, Cheba Hut shops are uniquely local, and franchisee Chris Custer plans to add a taste of Chicago to his “joint”.

“We’re going to be hiring local artists to do the artwork in every location and we get to put different local beers on tap to make it our own,” Custer told Eater Chicago. “[Cheba Hut] gives you the freedom to try and develop a couple of sandwiches and put them on your menu, which I love.” Custer and his partner, Lance Frericks, are planning a play on the classic Chicago hot dog or Italian beef sandwich.