It’s not big nor is it fancy but the Insomnia Deli and Grill is definitely popular. The North Donahue restaurant has attracted students to its gyros and falafels as well as cheeseburgers and chicken fingers. The recent addition of hookahs to the restaurant has brought in even more customers.
Just when things couldn’t have gotten any better for owner Elgaily Elawad, a fire tore through Insomnia’s kitchen. The fire, whose exact causes are still unknown, caused Insomnia to close for two months. Grills, fryers, coolers and other small cooking equipment were harmed in the fire. Extensive smoke damage was also evident on the walls and ceiling. The July fire’s exact causes aren’t known, but Elawad believes grease or heat from the equipment is the most likely culprit.
On Friday, Sept. 14th, Insomnia reopened its doors to the public. The location and lay out of the restaurant are unchanged, but the decor and menu have both been altered. The inside has taken on a more Auburn-themed style with bright orange and blue walls surrounding new tables and chairs. The menu still has all the favorites but has added a few extras including fish. Elawad hopes the changes will draw an even larger crowd.  “This is just a good place for Mediterranean food,” he said. “It’s different from the other restaurants in town.”