Community Corner

When Will Janson's Drive-In Reopen?

The long-awaited date is still an uncertainty, despite pleas from a hungry neighborhood.

It's the question I probably get asked most often from readers. 

Last week Ald. Matt O'Shea said that he heard from the owners of the much-missed neighborhood landmark that they are aiming to reopen in about two months. 

The answer might be unsatisfying for some, as it is similar to what we have heard for the better part of a year. If anything you should take it as a sign that a reopening is still a possibility on the hopefully not too distant horizon. 

Janson's Drive-In served its first hot dog back in 1960. The drive-in on 99th and Western harkens back to another time with its retro architecture and menu teeming with classic Americana offerings. 

The drive-in was purchased by its new owners in May of 2012. The Janson family sold the establishment back in 1996. The new owners had initially hoped to reopen by November of that year after renovations. O'Shea has said in the past that he made sure the new owners had all their permits in order so they could reach their planned opening date.

It never came, and in the months since cheese fry fans have been waiting impatiently for the big day. We'll let you know whenever that happens, but in the meantime let's take this opportunity to reminisce. 

Tell us in the comments section about your favorite Jansons memories and what menu item you are most craving. 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here