Illinois Sues West Loop Restaurant Over Alleged Wage Theft Violations

The state has filed a lawsuit alleging an Illinois restaurant and its managers failed to pay workers earned wages, tips, and overtime in violation of state law.

State Alleges Unpaid Wages at Popular West Loop Restaurant

According to a press release from the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL), a complaint was filed in Cook County Circuit Court against That's Gino and Marty's, LLC, its management firm White Glove Service and Management, LLC, and several individual owners and managers.

The IDOL is alleging widespread wage violations at the Chicago West Loop restaurant, and the lawsuit claims the businesses violated the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act and the Illinois Minimum Wage Law.

Claims Include Missing Tips, Overtime, and Subminimum Pay

According to the complaint, employees were allegedly denied earned wages between December 2023 and August 2025.

IDOL alleges that workers were not fully paid for tips and gratuities, received wages below Illinois' minimum wage, and were not properly compensated for overtime hours worked. The state contends these practices affected multiple employees over an extended period.

Investigation Finds More Than $20,000 Owed

Following a preliminary investigation, IDOL determined that at least nine employees are collectively owed more than $20,000 in unpaid wages.

The lawsuit also seeks additional damages and statutory penalties as allowed under Illinois law, potentially increasing the financial exposure for the defendants.

State Vows Enforcement as Case Moves Forward

According to IDOL Director Jane Flanagan, "Illinois law is clear: workers must be paid fully, fairly, and on time." The case was filed by the Office of the Illinois Attorney General on behalf of IDOL.

Officials note the allegations are claims only and have not yet been adjudicated, according to the press release.

What Workers Should Know

IDOL is encouraging employees who believe they may be owed wages to file a claim with the department as the case proceeds through the court system.

CLICK HERE to file a workplace complaint in Illinois.