Jim’s Original — the Chicago hot dog stand known for its Maxwell Street Polish sausages — is moving from its flagship location because its landlord, the University of Illinois Chicago, plans to redevelop the property.
In a social media post, Jim’s Original’s operators said UIC informed them of its plans to redevelop the location at 1250 S. Union Ave., forcing the business to move by June 30.
The post, also citing rising rent and other costs, said Jim’s Original will open in the fall at 551 W. 18th St., about a mile away in Pilsen and that the hot dog stand’s operators hope to strike a deal with UIC to remain “at least” get a later move-out date, until redevelopment begins.
UIC officials didn’t respond to a request for comment.
The Union Avenue location, which used to be open 24 hours, has been a staple for late-night diners, especially UIC students. In 2021, the university told Jim’s Original it had to close between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. in an effort to deter crime around campus.
Jim’s Original has been at the location since 2005. It’s close to the original hot dog stand that opened in 1939 at Maxwell and Halsted streets. James “Jimmy” Stefanovic, the original owner, operated the stand at the northwest corner of the intersection.
He’s credited with creating the Maxwell Street Polish sausage sandwich, topped with grilled onions and mustard.
Jim’s Original also has a North Side location at 2775 N. Elston Ave.