Hoffmann Commercial acquires downtown Wilmette building

Another North Shore building is now under the Hoffmann umbrella.

Winnetka-based Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate recently announced its acquisition of 1114-1116 Central Ave. in downtown Wilmette, a building that currently houses the Japanese fast casual restaurant Koya and toy shop The Wild Child.

The purchase of 1114-1116 Central is the second of the five promised acquisitions, following 64 Green Bay Road, home of Aboyer, a French-inspired fine-dining establishment in Winnetka.

While Hoffmann’s remaining three recent acquisitions are yet unknown, the moves further cement the firm’s designation as the largest commercial real-estate owner along the North Shore. Hoffmann owns more than 30 properties from Wilmette to Lake Forest, including 20-plus in Winnetka.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence in Chicago’s North Shore with these strategic acquisitions,” said Greg Hoffmann, principal and CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate in a press release. “Our goal is to invest in and enhance these vibrant communities, providing premier commercial spaces that support local businesses and contribute to the area’s financial growth.”

In May, Hoffmann Commercial acquired Oberweis Dairy, the iconic Illinois brand that filed for bankruptcy protections in April.

Along with its promise in August of new local acquisitions, Hoffmann officials said they would open three new Oberweis Dairy and Ice Cream locations in the area, including one in Wilmette.

David Hoffmann, the founder of Hoffmann Family of Companies, told The Record that the new Wilmette building is a potential home for an Oberweis location; however, that has yet to be decided, and the current tenants — Koya and Wild Child — have active leases.

The Wild Child toyshop has occupied 1114 Central since 2019 and is the business’s second location. The original is at 657 Vernon Ave. in downtown Glencoe.

Koya reset its concept in 2020, transitioning from a full-service restaurant to a fast-casual spot.

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