A horrible fire in downtown Jonesville, Michigan, burned the Chicago Water Grill and May’s Furniture Store in November of 2009. Both businesses were a total loss and had stood charred and boarded up through the winter months. In mid-March of 2010 the excavators came in and tore both buildings down. Now, the corner of Chicago and Water streets is empty. All of the debris is gone and clean fill covers the area that once was home to two fine businesses.
Conversations with Wayne Babcock, owner of the Chicago Water Grill, has us looking forward to a larger restaurant that will occupy the site of both businesses. There are still some issues that need to be resolved–including insurance, construction, financing, zoning, and the purchase of May’s property. The wheels are in motion to get agreements, proposals, and approvals to make the opening of the new grill a reality in November of 2010. An addition to the business is the idea for outdoor seating along with a banquet room for private parties and live entertainment to complement the larger restaurant.
The Chicago Water Grill was definitely the cornerstone of downtown Jonesville. As the owner of the Munro House Bed and Breakfast with a consistant flow of visitors from across the country and around the world, a great restaurant within 2 blocks had been a huge asset for virtually all of our guests. Rebuilding the grill will be a welcome addition to Jonesville and all of Hillsdale County.
Mike Venturini – Innkeeper
“Life is good in Jonesville”