Johnnie St. Vrain: What's new at Longmont's old Old Chicago?

Jul. 17—Dear Johnnie: I just wanted to know if anyone at the Times-Call knew what was going on at the old Old Chicago building. It looks like there is finally activity going on since they closed two years ago. — HS

Dear HS: I used to frequent that Old Chicago, and I have many good memories of time spent there with family and friends. And some, not so good. It's where I, my sons and a few friends of mine watched the Broncos lose to the Ravens in overtime in the 2012 Divisional Playoffs. At least I have good memories of the Italian nachos.

It's been a bit depressing to see that building sitting vacant, and your question gave me a good reason to go take a closer look. When I dropped by, a team was demolishing the interior, so I got the attention of someone who looked like he was in charge. He directed me to Kenny Chiang, owner of East Moon Asian Bistro in Longmont.

When I dropped by East Moon, Chiang was preparing to open for lunch and had time only to exchange cards with me. True to his word, he got back to me later with answers to my questions.

Chiang said he is moving East Moon, now at 2144 N. Main St., into part of the former Old Chicago building, which is at 1805 Industrial Circle. The remainder of the building will be Kenny's Tavern, serving American-style food.

"I have been looking for my own commercial property for years," Chiang said in an email. "This one provides the space I need to offer restaurant-goers convenient access to either of my restaurants."

While he doesn't have a firm date, Chiang — who has owned East Moon since February 2010 — said he expects the restaurants will move/open in or around November.