While Oberlin was in recess for winter term, Aladdin’s Eatery, a Middle Eastern restaurant franchise, moved into the space formerly inhabited by Java Zone.

Aladdin’s Eatery had scoped out Oberlin as a prospective location for some time before having the opportunity to expand their franchise here. Jamie Samaha, Executive Assistant to the President and CEO of Aladdin’s Eatery Systems Inc., said via email. “Our president, Fady Chamoun, has had his eye on Oberlin for the last five years. It’s his favorite college town where he feels that customers appreciate our concept and our food. Then the opportunity came when Java Zone became available.”

The Review was unable to reach Sami Ahwal, the former owner of Java Zone, for comment.

Samaha said, “We have always aimed for college towns because we like to educate our customers about our cuisine, and students in general are open to explore new tastes and are health conscious.”

“[Aladdin’s Eatery] fits in with the kind of business that the downtown development plan and zoning code looks to see happen in downtown,” said Oberlin City Planner Gary Boyle. “We’re excited to have them in downtown.”

Aladdin’s accepts Obie Dollars and plans to launch their full menu, which will include over 40 vegetarian and vegan items, within the next few days.