Jim’s Original, home of Maxwell Street Polish, told to move locations due to UIC redevelopment

The famous Jim’s Original — home of the Maxwell Street Polish sausages — is moving its flagship location because of planned redevelopment of the site, the business announced Friday.

The hot dog stand’s landlord, the University of Illinois at Chicago, has informed the business about plans to redevelop the location at 1250 S. Union Ave., forcing the business to move by June 30, according to a social media post by Jim’s Original.

The new location, expected to open in the fall, will be at 551 W. 18th St., about a mile away in Pilsen.

In the social media post, Jim’s Original also cited rising costs and rent as reasons to move.

“While it’s bittersweet, we’re looking forward to what’s next and building a great new permanent home for Jim’s Original,” the business wrote.

Business owners said they are trying to negotiate with UIC to remain at the location or “at least” a later move-out date until redevelopment begins.

UIC officials did not respond to a request for comment.

The location, which used to be open 24 hours, has long been a staple for late-night diners, especially university students. In 2021, UIC told Jim’s Original it had to close between 1 and 6 a.m. in an effort to deter crime around campus.

Jim’s Original has been at the location since 2005, according to its website. It’s just around the corner from the original hot dog stand that opened in 1939 at Maxwell and Halsted streets.

The original owner, James “Jimmy” Stefanovic, operated the stand on the northwest corner. He’s credited with creating the Maxwell Street Polish sausage sandwich, which is topped with grilled onions and mustard. The place is also famous for its bone-in pork chop sandwiches.

Jim’s Original also operates a North Side location at 2775 N. Elston Ave.