After a four-decade absence, fast-food giant Jack in the Box is making a significant return to the Chicago area. The company plans to open multiple new locations across the city and suburbs, bringing its diverse menu and 24/7 service back to eager customers. This strategic expansion marks a major re-entry into a key market.
Jack in the Box Returns to Chicagoland
Jack in the Box, a popular West Coast fast-food chain, is set to re-establish its presence in the Chicago area after exiting the market in the 1980s. The company has announced plans for a substantial expansion, with initial openings slated for 2025 and 2026.
- The return aims to satisfy long-standing customer demand and integrate the brand into the region’s vibrant restaurant scene.
Expansion Plans and Locations
Jack in the Box CEO Darin Harris confirmed the initial development of eight company-owned stores, with potential for up to 125 locations through corporate and franchise development across the broader Chicago area, including parts of Northwest Indiana and Southeast Wisconsin. The first wave of restaurants will include:
- Chicago: 7807 S. Cicero Ave. (September 2025)
- Countryside: 5656 S. La Grange Rd. (July 2025)
- Tinley Park: 9550 179th St. (September 2025)
- New Lenox: 672 E. Lincoln Hwy. (August 2025)
- Plainfield: Specific address pending (2025-2026)
- Naperville: 1600 E. Ogden Ave. (August 2025)
- Carol Stream: 441 E. Geneva Rd. (August 2025)
- Lake in the Hills: 320 N. Randall Rd. (September 2025)
These new establishments will offer dine-in, drive-thru, and mobile ordering options, operating 24 hours a day.
Menu and Offerings
Known for its extensive menu, Jack in the Box will bring back its signature items, including:
- Burgers
- Tacos
- Chicken sandwiches
- Milkshakes
- Breakfast items
- Late-night “24/7 cravable menu”
The chain also recently introduced new Jack Wrap flavors, such as Fajita Jack Wrap and Caesar Jack Wrap, which may be available at the new Chicago locations.
Strategic Growth
This re-entry into Chicago is part of a broader expansion strategy for Jack in the Box, which also includes new markets in Utah, Kentucky, Arkansas, Montana, Wyoming, Michigan, Florida, Georgia, and internationally in Mexico. The company is actively seeking new franchisees to support its growth ambitions.
Sources
- Fast-food chain Jack in the Box announces return to Chicago area with McHenry County restaurant, Lake and McHenry County Scanner.
- Jack in the Box coming back to Chicago area, WGN-TV.
- 10 new restaurants in city, suburbs opening Summer 2025 – NBC Chicago, NBC 5 Chicago.
- 8 restaurants planned for city, multiple suburbs – NBC Chicago, NBC 5 Chicago.