Joliet, IL – A new era is dawning for the iconic Joliet Union Station in downtown Joliet, as the city prepares to welcome Casa Catrina Joliet Mexican heritage cuisine. The restaurant group, La Sociedad, which boasts several establishments in the Chicago area and beyond, plans to fill the long-vacant space formerly occupied by MyGrain Brewing Company. This development promises not only a sophisticated dining experience but also the potential revitalization of the space’s brewing heritage, all within the anticipated new Joliet restaurant, Casa Catrina Joliet.
A New Culinary Destination: Casa Catrina Joliet in Historic Joliet Union Station
The city-owned restaurant and brewhouse space within the historic Joliet Union Station has been a point of focus for Joliet’s economic development efforts since MyGrain Brewing Company closed its doors in August 2023. After reviewing multiple proposals, the City of Joliet has chosen La Sociedad, Inc., operating as Casa Catrina Joliet, to bring new life to the venue. Partners Eduardo and Jorg Vazquez, along with Jose Vazquez, Joaquin Anguiano, and Angel Zamudio, are behind this venture. They describe Casa Catrina Joliet as offering “more elevated Mexican cuisine” and aim to create a vibrant, celebratory guest experience. This news marks a significant step in the ongoing downtown Joliet revitalization, a key goal for the city and a promising future for Casa Catrina Joliet.
Reviving the Brewhouse: A Commitment to Beer and Food at Casa Catrina Joliet
While the proposed lease agreement with the city does not strictly mandate the reopening of the brewhouse, the La Sociedad partners have expressed a strong desire to see it operational again. Eduardo Vazquez emphasized the symbiotic relationship between food and beer, stating, “Food goes with beer; beer goes with food. I think that will be a great space.” The group is reportedly in discussions with Dan Rosenberg, the former brewmaster at MyGrain Brewing, about the possibility of him returning to his role. This indicates a commitment not just to dining but to the craft beverage aspect that once defined the location, a feature that will complement the Mexican cuisine at Casa Catrina Joliet. Notably, the Vazquez family brings a background in alcohol production, having owned a tequila factory in Mexico, suggesting a comprehensive understanding of beverage operations for Casa Catrina Joliet.
Lease Agreement and Projected Economic Benefits for Casa Catrina Joliet
The proposed lease agreement, set to be voted on by the Joliet City Council, outlines a five-year term with two five-year renewal options, potentially extending the lease to 15 years. La Sociedad would commence monthly rent at $7,000, with a planned 5% increase annually. Over the initial five-year period, the city projects that Casa Catrina Joliet will generate approximately $696,000 in rent and tax revenue, including $464,000 from rent and $232,000 from sales, food and beverage, and property taxes. This financial projection highlights the anticipated positive economic impact for the city, which has sought to activate this key downtown vacancy, a significant part of the downtown Joliet revitalization and a promising venture for Casa Catrina Joliet.
The Experienced Team Behind Casa Catrina Joliet
La Sociedad is not new to the restaurant industry. The group currently operates three restaurants in the Chicago area, including Tequila CJ Cantina Grill on Archer Avenue, and has additional ventures in Alsip and Stone Park. Their existing restaurants, like Tequila CJ, are known for their focus on authentic Mexican flavors, celebratory atmospheres, and diverse culinary experiences, often incorporating regional dishes and cultural events. This established track record in the competitive Chicago restaurant scene provides confidence in their ability to succeed with Casa Catrina Joliet. This new Joliet restaurant is poised to make a significant impact, bringing elevated Mexican food to the heart of the city.
A Historic Venue’s Next Chapter: Casa Catrina Joliet at Joliet Union Station
Joliet Union Station itself boasts a rich history, built in 1912 and designed by noted architect Jarvis Hunt. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the station underwent significant renovation in 1991 and serves as a transportation hub for Amtrak and Metra, in addition to housing leasable space and a private event venue, The Grand Ballroom. Bringing a dynamic food and beverage establishment like Casa Catrina Joliet into this historic setting is seen as a vital component of Joliet’s downtown revitalization strategy, aiming to attract more visitors and residents to the area. The city has actively sought an experienced operator to bring a “family-friendly business” to this prime location, contributing to the downtown Joliet revitalization. The intention is for Casa Catrina Joliet to be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, contributing to the vibrancy of the downtown district and offering a unique Mexican cuisine Joliet experience.
With plans to open as early as January, and potentially sooner, Joliet eagerly anticipates the arrival of Casa Catrina Joliet Mexican heritage cuisine and the revival of its brewhouse, heralding a new chapter for a beloved historic landmark. This news offers exciting prospects for local food enthusiasts and the broader community, reinforcing the downtown Joliet revitalization efforts and marking a significant addition to the landscape of Joliet Union Station.
