Brunchy’s opens in former Panera spot in Buffalo Grove

A new brunch restaurant is helping to fuel the revival of a Buffalo Grove strip center near Dundee and Arlington Heights roads.

The west side of Strathmore Square is still mostly empty, as developer Manny Rafidia works to fill vacancies. But it is a lot less lonely now that Brunchy’s Pancakes & Cafe, 1224 W. Dundee Road, is bringing new life to a dormant space.

Restaurant owner Victor Manuel Soberanis brings to the table 36 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Soberanis, who grew up near Acapulco, Mexico, and studied accounting in Mexico City, has worked at hotels including the Hilton O'Hare, the Sheraton in Northbrook and the Palmer House in Chicago.

The Hoffman Estates resident also owns Fiesta del Mar, a Mexican and seafood restaurant that's been operating for 10 years in Streamwood. He’s owned five restaurants and has experience operating Mexican restaurants with attached groceries and butcher shops in Florida.

Brunchy’s is the outgrowth of a passion for breakfast places.

After two years of searching, Soberanis landed on the Strathmore Square spot once occupied by Panera Bread.

“We figured there's a lot of potential. It is in a huge plaza,” he said.

Soberanis said he handled much of the renovation work himself with a few helpers over three to four months leading up to its October opening.

“We bought all new equipment,” he added.

The menu blends American breakfast classics and Mexican cuisine. Diners can find omelets, skillets, French toast and pancakes — including quirky options like fruity pebble pancakes — and authentic Mexican breakfast dishes, like the barbacoa skillet, the beef tongue (Lengua) omelet and the chilaquiles.

His son, Victor Jr., and daughter-in-law, Melinda, have been helping five days a week, along with staff members from the Streamwood location.

As the restaurant gains firmer footing, Soberanis hopes to add delivery and catering services.

Recent customers Michelle DiCristo of Buffalo Grove and Donna Nelis of Arlington Heights gave the establishment a thumbs-up.

“I thought it was delicious food, and the presentation was very nice,” said DiCristo, who had French toast and a side of ham. “And I’m glad that something finally went in here where Panera used to be.”