Hot dog! New Portillo’s sets marks in New Lenox
By ERIN GALLAGHER For The Herald-News October 10, 2012 8:08AM
Portillo's pepper and egg sandwich is served on French bread with massive slices of red and green pepper. | Chad Merda~Sun-Times Media
Updated: November 12, 2012 11:47AM
NEW LENOX — To all the naysayers who thought construction along the New Lenox stretch of Route 30 would inhibit business, Portillo’s just thumbed its nose.
The privately owned hot dog chain opened a new location with the company’s best opening day ever, Mayor Tim Baldermann told the village board Monday. The restaurant also had a record first week, despite local construction.
“It demonstrates the strength of the market down here (in New Lenox),” said Nancy Hoehn, economic development director.
Retailers and other business owners are hesitant to open shop in the village largely due to construction. Also, they tend to lump New Lenox into the Orland-Tinley area or the Joliet area, she said. They aren’t yet recognizing New Lenox as an independent market.
Portillo’s just proved them wrong.
Baldermann said he stopped into other area businesses near the new Portillo’s at 2306 E. Lincoln Highway. Since the restaurant opened, those owners have experienced increased traffic as well, he said.
This new location is Portillo’s first south of Interstate 80.
