Business & Tech

Western Ave. McDonald's Opens With Sleek Design, Chicago Details (PHOTOS)

Bucktown's Western Avenue McDonald's opened its doors last week. Although the restaurant has occupied its current spot for decades, it was demolished and rebuilt via a project that started at the end of February.

The shiny replacement for a three-decade old Bucktown McDonald's officially opened for business last week, revealing a modern, sleek design and urban details.

The first 52 people to walk through the doors at midnight on Friday, May 24, received vouchers for a free Big Mac once a week—for an entire year. 

The restaurant has occupied the busy corner of Western and Milwaukee avenues—specifically, the parcel at 1951 N. Western Ave.—since 1983, company representatives have said.

Its new building is a contemporary, mostly red-brick structure with a black, red and white interior decor. Black-and-white photos of Chicago greet customers at both entrances and accent several walls behind red booths and other seating areas.

The eat-in area was bustling around lunchtime on Thursday. Among diners was Marianne Winternitz, 38, who had her 7-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son in tow.

"I live right down the street and I didn't come here that often before it was renovated—only as a special reward for (the kids)—but it definitely looks much better now," she said. "I like how modern everything is. It's different than other McDonald's I've been in."

A bike rack outside is easily accessible to riders and a drive-through area has been expanded to include two separate lanes.

Check out our accompanying photo gallery for a look at the details.

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