Suspected Arson Investigated at Embattled West Loop Restaurant Habibti Amidst Licensing Disputes
The Chicago Fire Department is investigating a suspected arson that occurred early Sunday morning at Habibti, a West Loop restaurant and bar located at 116 N. Aberdeen St. Police and firefighters responded to two separate fires at the property around 5:43 a.m. The incident has been classified as arson by the police, though no injuries were reported. Security footage shows a silver SUV arriving in the alley, with two individuals exiting and breaking into the restaurant's glass garage-door entrance. After approximately four minutes inside, flames became visible, and the individuals fled in the SUV. The vehicle briefly returned before leaving the scene. This arson is the latest in a series of incidents involving Habibti, which has faced scrutiny from neighbors and Ald. Walter Redmond Burnett (27th) for allegedly operating as an unlicensed nightclub rather than a restaurant. Residents have reported months of late-night disturbances, including loud music, public drinking, and fights, leading to community meetin... 
