Almost thirty years after she co-founded Cafe Jordano in Lakewood, Elisa Heitman moved the eatery from its small storefront space to a larger unit next door at 11068 West Jewell Avenue. “Some people say, ‘I miss the little hole-in-the-wall look,’” she says. “I’m like, ‘I don’t.’”

Now, a little over four years after the move, Heitman is proud of how Cafe Jordano has grown, gushing over its “functionality” and more professional look, including an updated kitchen and more room for regulars. The neighborhood staple came from humble beginnings when Heitman, who was born in Italy, and her now-ex-husband decided to start a restaurant after she fell in love with the industry following a series of “boring” gigs.