Jim’s Original announces move after 85 years near Maxwell Street: 'Bittersweet'

Jim's Original to move from historic Chicago location after 85 years

Jim's Original, a Chicago institution, will leave its iconic location in the Maxwell Street area of University Village and relocate this fall.

CHICAGO - Jim's Original, a Chicago institution, will leave its iconic location in the Maxwell Street area of University Village and relocate this fall.

Jim's Original new location

What we know:

Jim’s Original, a familiar stop off the Dan Ryan Expressway, has served Chicagoans and visitors alike for more than 85 years.

For similar reasons tied to rising costs and redevelopment that led them to leave their first home at Halsted and Maxwell streets in the early 2000s, the business is moving again.

Owner Jimmy Christopoulos says the restaurant faces increased operating costs, including rent, while UIC is moving forward with plans to redevelop this site. As a result, the business must vacate its current location at 1250 S. Union Ave. by June 30, according to a Facebook post.

The Chicago staple is set to relocate less than a mile south to 551 W. 18th St. in East Pilsen, with the new location expected to open this fall. An exact date has not yet been announced. 

While Jim’s Original must be out by the end of June, the owner says he’s trying to "negotiate an extension" with the university to stay until redevelopment work begins — or until the food stand's new location is ready.

Jim's Original in University Village | Google Street View

What they're saying:

The business was started in 1939 by Christopoulos' grandfather, Jimmy Stefanovic. 

"While it’s bittersweet, we’re looking forward to what’s next and building a great new permanent home for Jim’s Original," Christopoulos posted on social media. "From day one to today, your support has meant everything to us. Thank you for showing up, spreading the word, and making Jim’s Original part of your story—we’ll keep the grills going and we can’t wait to keep serving you at our next home."

General manager Beata Domagala has worked for Jim's Original for more than 30 years. She says generations of customers have shaped the food stand into what it is today — and hopes they will follow the business to East Pilsen. 

"We get all kinds of customers — you see people in suits, doctors, nurses, contractors, truck drivers, all kinds of people," Domagala said. 

"I come here for breakfast, lunch, dinner — anytime I'm bobbin' and weavin' through the city, I always stop in for a pork chop, it's going to really stink that it's going," said Jimmy Roberson, a longtime customer. "This is where it's at. These onions taste delicious."

"I've been coming to Jim's since I was a little boy. My dad would always bring us here," said Darnell Shields, another customer. 

"Well, it's okay, I'll follow. I just like it. It's an original thing I do," added customer Sheila Roberts.

A spokesperson with the University of Illinois Chicago shared the following statement with FOX Chicago:

"In advance of the expiration of Jim’s Original lease agreement in Sept. 2025, UIC reached out to offer a lease extension with the option for UIC to terminate the lease. 

"Jim’s Original proposed alternative lease rates and terms, which UIC accepted. Jim’s Original chose to leave at the end of their new lease which terminates in June 2026.

"The university values its 20-year retail partnership with Jim’s Original and wishes it continued success at the new nearby location.

"Long-term plans for the 1250 S. Union site have not been decided."

What's next:

Despite the upcoming move, the restaurant remains open at its current UIC-area location until at least June 30. It is also continuing service at its Bucktown/Avondale spot at 2775 N. Elston Ave.

Express Grill, an unaffiliated business located next door at 1260 S Union Ave., confirms to FOX Chicago they are not relocating.