Lawry’s to close at year’s end after 46 years in downtown Chicago — but leaves room for return
Lawry’s the Prime Rib, which has been a fixture on Ontario Street (just west of Michigan Avenue) for 46 years, is calling it quits at the end of the year. Staffers were notified on Saturday.
The coronavirus, recent civil unrest and an expiring lease all contributed to the decision, said Ryan Wilson, CEO of Lawry’s Inc.
“In a year of incredible turmoil, this is a tough one for sure,” he said. “But with the industry in general in such a state of flux, we felt we had to push the pause button.”
Note the use of “pause button,” and not “stop button.”
“I think there’s a future for Lawry’s in the Chicago area,” Wilson said. “It was always a favorite of my grandfather’s; after visits, he always brought home boxes of Frango Mints. And I think Chicago is the best food city in the country.”
Lawry’s last day of service will be Dec. 31; Wilson said the restaurant will look to make the most of its remaining 16 weeks.
“We’re excited about celebrating 46 years in business for the next 3 and a half months,” he said. “We’re in the early stages, but we’re coming up with some fun things. We hope people will still find us accessible and safe. We will decorate for Christmas; there will be carolers. We don’t know the specifics yet, but they’ll be dressed up.”
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