Exciting Times Ahead: North & Maple in New Lenox Ready to Open its Doors!

NEW LENOX, IL — An official launch date has been established for North & Maple Kitchen + Bar in New Lenox, owner Jimmy Kollintzas informed Patch on Thursday.

Following several trial operations, numerous training sessions, and menu tastings, Kollintzas and his crew believe they are prepared to reveal their offerings to the community. They will be opening in the previous Bulldog Ale House on Monday, January 20, at 4 p.m.

It has been just over a year since Jimmy Kollintzas revealed his intentions to transfer his Tinley-based brand to the now-closed sports bar, and he has admitted to becoming increasingly restless each passing month. Nevertheless, he wanted to ensure everything was as near to flawless as possible prior to the opening.

At last, it’s time to proceed.

“Now the enjoyment commences,” he stated.

Some individuals may have already received an exclusive preview, as Kollintzas has invited a select group of longtime customers from the Tinley Park establishment, along with family and friends. Representatives from the village are also scheduled for a visit before the opening.

Kollintzas has been diligently examining each dish and beverage, ensuring that staff members are thoroughly ready for the anticipated surge of customers. So far, the feedback has been exceedingly favorable, he mentioned, with many acknowledging the significant changes from its former operation as Bulldog.

“I am thrilled to hear that,” he remarked, noting that the space required a substantial renovation and extensive upgrades. It is his brand now, and a fresh experience.

“We are now North & Maple.”

He is aware that many have been intrigued about what has been happening behind the doors of the former sports bar at 2387 East Joliet Highway. The Tinley Park location has been receiving numerous phone inquiries regarding the opening date for weeks, he stated.

Renovation of the venue has been quite a significant effort, he explained. The large, wooden wraparound bar has been removed. In its place is an sleek new bar with extra seating and televisions mounted on the back wall. The dining area features a combination of high-top tables, booths, and family-oriented seating.

This marks a clear transition from the sports-bar atmosphere, yet patrons can still enjoy a game. Kollintzas has timed the launch to align with the college football national championship game, scheduled for January 20 at 6:30 p.m. The Ohio State Buckeyes will face off against Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish.

The menu, available online, displays an extensive variety of dishes from wings, pork chops, steaks, and pastas, as well as popcorn chicken, cheese curds, and tacos. Everything is made fresh, never frozen, Kollintzas affirmed.

Seasonal dishes—like prime rib for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, corned beef and cabbage for St. Patrick’s Day—are planned to be rotated in the menu. The burgers are half-pound, he noted, and the nachos are “enormous.” The chicken parmigiana and Asiago-filled gnocchi should not be overlooked. The beverage menu will include beers, seltzers, cocktails, wines, and a wide array of whiskey and tequila.

Mayor Tim Baldermann expressed his anticipation to welcome Kollintzas and the business.

“We are always grateful for entrepreneurs that develop or redevelop properties in our community,” Baldermann stated. “The team at North & Maple has invested a substantial amount of time and resources into transforming this location into a premier restaurant. Their outstanding reputation, along with this beautifully renovated space, will be warmly embraced by both existing and new clientele.”

North & Maple Kitchen + Bar, located at 2387 East Joliet Highway, will officially open to the public on Monday, January 20 at 4 p.m., closing at 11 p.m., according to Kollintzas.

Initial operating hours will be from 4 to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

RELATED: