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In an intriguing instance of Controlling The Spin, the folks behind Mambo Grill have sent out a press release letting everyone know that they're closing the restaurant (temporarily) on March 31st, and will be letting go (also temporarily) 75% of the restaurant's staff.

"This is not ideal," said Susan Frasca, president of Frasca Hospitality Group, owners of Mambo Grill. "I had hoped to extend my current lease for 90 days, but the building owner and landlord, Dr. Shahid Sarwar, would not give us a lease extension," said Frasca. "We have no other choice than to close our doors and temporarily layoff employees."

...She adds, "It makes me sick to my stomach to have to tell my employees in these economic times that they have to find work elsewhere during the transition."

Frasca also owns Kinzie Chophouse at 400 N. Wells Street just two doors south of the new Mambo Grill location. "I will take about 25% of the employees from Mambo with me over to Kinzie Chophouse but that is about all we can absorb." Says Frasca.

Points to Mambo for not closing permanently, considering that darn economy. And a gold star for preempting disgruntled employee fallout. But two raised eyebrows for the bright orange press release festooned with brightly colored images — shouldn't you be feeling somber and contrite since this is breaking your heart?

The restaurant will be reopening sometime this summer at its new, larger location at 410 N. Wells.

Mambo Grill [MenuPages]
Mambo Grill [Official Site]