Wishbone Chicago, a West Loop restaurant that opened its doors in 1990, will cease operations after 36 years of service, co‑owners Joel Nickson and Julie Nickson announced on August 3, 2026. The decision brings an end to one of the neighborhood’s longest‑standing dining establishments.
The restaurant is located at 1800 West Grand Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Since its opening, the venue has occupied the same address, becoming a familiar landmark for residents and visitors to the West Loop. The address will remain unchanged as the owners prepare to wind down the business.
The Nicksons, who have jointly managed the establishment since its inception, said the closure marks the conclusion of a three‑decade run that began in 1990. Over that period, Wishbone Chicago has witnessed the evolution of the surrounding district, maintaining a continuous presence while the area around it transformed.
Throughout its 36‑year history, Wishbone Chicago has been recognized as a fixture of the West Loop dining scene. The restaurant’s longevity reflects a sustained ability to attract patrons across multiple generations, contributing to the neighborhood’s culinary identity. Its consistent operation for more than three decades underscores the role it has played in the local community.
The announcement signals that the restaurant will close its doors later this year, concluding a chapter that began in the early 1990s. The co‑owners expressed gratitude for the support received over the years as they prepare for the final phase of the business’s lifecycle.