‘We Are Now Fully Entrepreneurs’: Paradise Sweets and Eats Builds a Business at Palos Lanes

When Sara Tanner and her husband Sam took over the restaurant inside Palos Lanes, they stepped into uncharted territory. “I’d never done burgers and fried food,” Tanner admitted in the Daily Southtown. But the community quickly embraced Paradise Sweets and Eats.

With support from the Southland Development Authority’s (SDA) Business Growth Services program, the Tanners are finding success building a business in a bowling alley. SDA Relationship Manager, Jamie Makuch helped the family navigate vendor events, expand marketing, and tap into new opportunities and grants.

The family-run eatery has become a hub for bowlers and neighbors alike. Their menu features burgers, hot dogs, fries, ice cream, and coffee all made without nuts because their son Isaiah is allergic.

Longtime bowling center owner Ed Cermak praised Tanner’s approach: “She has brought peace of mind to people at night. They trust going over there and getting a sandwich. She knows how to talk to people.”

Getting the business off the ground wasn’t without hardship. Just weeks after opening, Tanner suffered a ruptured ectopic pregnancy that left her sidelined for two months. Her husband reportedly stepped in despite losing his own job during that time. Employees at the bowling center also pitched in. Tanner credits the generosity of that community with helping Paradise Sweets and Eats survive its toughest moment.

The Tanners have carried that spirit forward by giving back through Bag Lady Outreach and Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, among other causes. “Ice cream brings happiness to kids and adults,” Tanner said. “It takes you to a nostalgic happy place.”

Paradise Sweets and Eats is open 6 to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday and weekends from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.