Chicago Legend Jim's Original Is Coming to 18th Street — and Pilsen Is Ready to Welcome It
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Pilsen ·
Pilsen is about to get a serious taste of Chicago culinary history. Jim's Original — the iconic Maxwell Street-style Polish sausage stand that has been feeding Chicagoans since 1939 — has announced it is heading to East Pilsen, setting up its next chapter at 551 W. 18th Street.
The move comes after the University of Illinois Chicago, which owns Jim's Original's longtime home at 1250 S. Union Ave., announced plans to redevelop the property. The owners called the news "bittersweet" but are embracing the future with open arms, telling fans on Facebook: "We're grateful for this community, and we can't wait to serve you in East Pilsen soon." The new 18th Street location is expected to open this fall, and the team is also planning to add a breakfast menu — a first for the legendary stand. In the meantime, Jim's Original hopes to negotiate an extension to stay on Union Avenue until redevelopment formally begins.
For Pilsen, landing one of Chicago's most storied food institutions on its most iconic street is a genuine milestone. Whether you're a longtime Jim's devotee or a first-timer ready to taste the famous Maxwell Polish sausage, keep an eye on Jim's Original's Instagram at @jimsoriginal for updates on the big Pilsen debut. A piece of Chicago history is coming to the neighborhood — and it's bringing breakfast.
Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/05/10/jims-original-the-iconic-polish-sausage-stand-moving-to-pilsen-due-to-uic-development/
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/jims-original-uic-hot-dog-stand-maxwell-street-moving-east-pilsen/
3. https://whatnow.com/chicago/restaurants/jims-original-relocating-to-new-pilsen-storefront-adding-breakfast-menu/