Moretti’s expansion approved; new ‘Famous Freddie’s Red Hots’ planned on W. Higgins Road

Mark Hoffman, owner of Moretti’s, told the Village of Rosemont Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 3 that he is seeking a special‑use amendment to expand Moretti’s into several adjoining storefronts along W. Higgins Road and to add a separate fast‑service concept. He described the incremental plan as using the former Subway at 9517 W. Higgins Rd., adding Moretti’s Unique Events at 9511 W. Higgins Rd., and expanding events space into the former Cilantro at 9509 W. Higgins Rd. The proposal also includes a new restaurant, “Famous Freddie’s Red Hots,” at 9503 W. Higgins Rd., and additional parking to meet the village’s requirements.

Hoffman said the new fast‑service operation will be “a fast‑service restaurant with a minimal menu featuring hot dogs, fresh‑cut fries, Italian beef, pizza by the slice and ice cream.” Christopher Stephens moved to approve the findings of fact for the amendment; the motion was seconded by Larry Cullerton and carried unanimously. Stephens then moved to approve the special‑use amendment itself; Augie Sansone Jr. seconded and the motion carried unanimously. The Zoning Board did not record individual roll‑call votes in the minutes beyond noting the motions carried.

The amendment as presented would repurpose multiple existing tenant spaces on W. Higgins Road for expanded restaurant and events use and add parking to satisfy code requirements. The board’s written minutes record the unanimous votes to approve the findings of fact and the special‑use amendment. No conditions, amendments to the motion, or dissenting remarks are recorded in the minutes. The meeting opened at 3:00 p.m. and adjourned at 3:17 p.m.