Overview
- The Maxwell Street staple said it must vacate 1250 S. Union Ave. by June 30 because the University of Illinois Chicago plans to redevelop the property.
- The flagship will relocate to 551 W. 18th St. in Pilsen with an opening targeted for the fall of 2026.
- Owners said they are negotiating with UIC for a later move-out date or a longer stay until construction begins.
- The business cited rising rent and other operating costs as added pressure behind the move.
- Jim’s Original has served the Maxwell Street area since 1939, moved to Union Avenue in 2005 after UIC expansion, then saw late-night hours cut in 2021 to deter crime.