According to new owner Abraham Khalil, Jim's will reopen this summer after extensive remodeling as Kan Zeman, a full-scale eatery with a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influence. Jim's will remain open until the renovation begins. Though some Jim's regulars have expressed sadness at the change, Khalil said he will try to retain the appeal of the popular landmark. People are afraid of losing the history, but we're not going to. We're not changing the history but rather bringing out the beauty of it.
Some patrons remain wary of the change.
I'm very worried. Khalil plans to retain previous owner Barney Kang's breakfast menu and doughnut tradition, but will offer more upscale items in Mediterranean-style lunch and dinner menus. He said he hopes to keep the atmosphere as warm and friendly as Jim's. It's a habit, a refuge, a routine. Although Khalil said he will strive to incorporate the history of the shop in the decor, the bar and vintage vinyl booths will be replaced with European-style tables and booths.