Jim’s Original, which bills itself as the longest continuously operating hot dog stand to have once done business on Maxwell Street, plans to move its flagship location from University Village to the city’s Pilsen neighborhood, according to a social media post.
In a Facebook post, the hot dog stand said its landlord, the University of Illinois Chicago, has shared plans to redevelop the location at 1250 S. Union Ave.
“While it’s bittersweet, we’re looking forward to what’s next and building a great new permanent home for Jim’s Original,” the post read, in part.
The hot dog stand said its working with UIC to negotiate an extension to remain several more years – or until redevelopment begins. The new Pilsen location, planned at 551 W. 18th St., is expected to open this fall.
Jim’s claims to have created the iconic Original Maxwell Street Polish Sausage Sandwich, which was first made by its founder Jimmy Stefanovic in 1943.
The restaurant also operates a North Side location at 2775 N. Elston Ave, which is at the corner of Western, Diversey and Elston.
“From day one to today, your support has meant everything to us,” the post continued. “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.”
