DeKalb’s long-standing, late-night food staple, Lukulo’s, is moving to a new location.

Located at the corner of Lincoln Highway and Annie Glidden since January 3, 1997, Lukulo’s is no stranger to pulling up roots. This will be the fourth move and fifth location for Lukulo’s in 23 years.

Lukulo’s owner Pete Matarangas said the bad economy and large overhead are a few reasons for the move.

“We’re down-sizing,” Matarangas said, “We’ve dropped prices, now we have to drop some bills.”

Matarangas said he has planned on moving since February 2010. Three weeks ago, he signed a lease for the new location, 890 Pappas Drive, where Jenna’s used to be located.

“Our first location was near Greek Row. They were 90 percent of my business,” Matarangas said. “We do a lot of catering with them now, and 40 percent of my total business comes from the college students in the surrounding housing.”

While Matarangas seems optimistic about the move, some students worry about the new scene.

“It’s an interesting move for Lukulo’s,” said senior communications major Jon Kite. “I believe it’s a closer location to the clientele they’re trying to reach. However, there seems to be a curse on that location. I’d hate to see Lukulo’s go down the same road as F and J’s, Jenna’s and Mango’s.”

The previous owner of Jenna’s could not be located for comment. Coldwell Banker’s online ad for the property read, “owner relocating to D.C. and wants a fast sale.”

Lukulo’s plans to move out of its current location over winter break and be open at the new location for the start of the Spring 2012 semester.

“I think it’s a good location to stay at, and who knows, if I do well, if the economy gets better, then maybe I’ll expand again,” Matarangas said.