After 60 Years and a Shock Closure, Iconic Illinois Restaurant To Return

Throughout my lifetime, I have witnessed numerous restaurants come and go. Only a few have ever truly disappointed me.

Remembering Maria’s in Rockford

The two I remember the most are Maria's in Rockford, which closed over a decade ago. That was such a bummer. Great food, good people. Nice little restaurant. Loved the ambiance of that place. You couldn't duplicate it anywhere in town, and Rockford has missed a place like that ever since they closed their doors.

READ MORE: Chicago’s Guide: 25 Best Restaurants You Must Try in 2025

A Chicago Favorite From My Childhood

The other, although not in Rockford, is an Illinois restaurant; however, this one is located in Chicago and closed suddenly just this past summer. My relationship with this joint goes back to my childhood.

READ MORE: Hungry? Here Are 25 Delicious Places To Have Lunch In Rockford

Growing Up Near the Gale Street Inn

I grew up in the Jefferson Park neighborhood and frequented many of the establishments in the area. There wasn't a place I loved to eat at more than the Gale Street Inn. When they closed in June, seemingly out of nowhere, I was shocked.

Sixty Years of Great Meals and Memories

Honestly, though, I couldn't say I was surprised. Restaurants aren't forever. Failure rates in that industry are astronomical, so while it sounds crazy for me to say it was a remarkable 60-year run for the Gale Street Inn, I was content to say it was over. I was glad I had the chance to eat there as much as I did, and I have some great memories from over the years.

Surprise Comeback: Gale Street Inn Reopening in Chicago

Then, out of nowhere, just as shocking as the closure itself came this nugget from WGN in Chicago:

Five months after closing its doors, an iconic Chicago restaurant is reopening in the city’s Jefferson Park neighborhood. Gale Street Inn is set to reopen its location at 4914 N Milwaukee Avenue, under new leadership in early December.

What to Expect When It Reopens

The "new leadership" remark makes me a bit nervous, but this addition helps alleviate some of my concerns: "The menu will remain the same with some new additions, including a kids' menu."

The Gale Street Inn has been around since 1963, and when it reopens, try it for yourself at 4914 North Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago.