Portillo’s plans to open ‘pick up’ restaurant in Joliet

The new location is planned for the former IHOP building on Larkin Avenue

Joliet, Portillo's, business, restaurant

Portillo’s announced it is planning to open a unique pickup location in Joliet.

The future 3,750-square-foot restaurant will feature three drive-thru lanes and a pick-up area for orders, according to a news release.

The new Portillo’s location will be at 1444 N. Larkin Ave., where an IHOP used to be. The fast-casual chain said it expects to open the new location this winter.

“This new restaurant is unlike anything Portillo’s has ever done,” Portillo’s CEO Michael Osanloo said in a statement. “We’re bringing the inside out in Joliet. With this new model, guests will get the signature Portillo’s experience with our unrivaled Chicago street food exclusively via our pickup and delivery channels. We know our guests enjoy the convenience of our drive-thru and delivery, so we’re excited to double down on those efforts.”

The popular chain began in 1963 when Dick Portillo invested $1,100 into a small trailer to open his first hot dog stand in Villa Park, which he called “The Dog House.” It now has more than 60 locations.

Portillo’s already has locations in Shorewood, New Lenox and Bolingbrook.

“Portillo’s is a popular regional eatery that I am proud to welcome to Joliet,” Joliet Mayor Bob O’Dekirk said in the release. “This new restaurant concept combined with the popularity of Portillo’s is a promising addition to the North Ridge Plaza shopping center. This is another outstanding development for Joliet and its residents.”

Portillo’s added it will soon begin hiring in anticipation of the opening of its new restaurant.

Those interested in applying to work at Portillo’s can visit portillos.com/careers.