According to a recent permit filing, Little Joe’s will soon expand with a new location near the University of Illinois at 901 W Roosevelt Road.
“We plan to open in early 2025, coinciding with the UIC baseball season’s start in late February to early March. We will provide beer and alcohol options to parents and UIC alumni aged 21 and above while they watch a UIC baseball game from the best view in college baseball stadiums,” Director of Operations Kevin Gliwa told What Now Chicago.
“Little Joe’s, a neighborhood bar since 1946 on Taylor Street, is just a few blocks from our upcoming location. In 2020, Alex Haried and Ryan Phelan, longtime patrons and local residents, purchased the bar. Kevin Gliwa joined in 2021 to helm the ship and bring years of experience aboard.”
“During their first couple of years working together, they maintained the neighborhood feel while making subtle changes. Interior fixes to the bar without changing the old-school feel.”
“They added a kitchen, leasing it to LA Katrina Authentica, which serves authentic Mexican and American cuisine with a twist. With the kitchen’s addition, they aimed to expand the brand while staying true to their roots.”
“When the concept of partnering with UIC was initially discussed, numerous obstacles had to be overcome, including a moratorium that needed to be lifted. However, from the outset, it was clear that combining forces to expand the brand while maintaining a local presence would be ideal, culminating in the establishment of a Little Joe’s at the Ballpark.”
“Fast forward three years, and we are now discussing the grand opening and upcoming events. Although the bar will not operate year-round, it will be open for all UIC men’s baseball games, women’s softball games, and men’s and women’s soccer matches. We are also planning exciting events, including special celebrity guests throwing out first pitches.”
