Wok’d, a full-service Asian restaurant, will soon open its doors in downtown Lemont at 116 Stephen Street. Founder Angela Terrafino brings her 24 years of restaurant industry experience to the downtown area. The combination of Terrafino’s expertise and love for Asian cuisine piqued her interest in opening a restaurant.
“I used to say I would never want to own [a restaurant]. But then that changed. I was commuting into Chicago every day for work, and I think it was a combination of my experience, my love for Pad Thai and my hatred of the long commute that started to get my wheels turning,” Terrafino said.
After working at local Lemont restaurant Wooden Paddle for three years, Terrafino “instantly fell in love with Lemont” and moved there shortly after. With a bustling downtown area full of small businesses, Terrafino knew it was the right place to open Wok’d.
“I truly believe that being in a small town will have such a positive impact on the business,” Terrafino said. “The way this community works together is impressive and rare. I’m honored and thrilled to be part of it.”
With Wok’d being one of few Asian restaurants in Lemont, Terrafino looks to have “all the classic favorites,” including beef and broccoli, orange chicken, Pad Thai, fried rice and many other dishes.
“The unique thing about our menu is that these classic recipes have been updated to incorporate better-for-you ingredients without sacrificing taste or quality. Everything is made with avocado oil or olive oil. All our base sauces are gluten-free and vegetarian. Most are vegan, too,” Terrafino said.
Along with aiming to make healthy, tasty dishes for customers, Terrafino makes it a goal for Wok’d to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
“I’ve seen a lot of allergies and dietary restrictions throughout my years in the industry, and being able to accommodate those needs is something I truly enjoy,” Terrafino said. “I want to create a space where everyone can enjoy delicious food and feel confident that they’ll be safe.”
Although there is no official opening date for Wok’d, Terrafino looks to open before the summer. To support and learn more about Terrafino and Wok’d, visit https://wok-d.com/.
