'Little Place That Felt Like Home': New Lenox's Songbird Café Closes

NEW LENOX, IL — A New Lenox café has closed its doors, leaving many fans heartbroken to see their favorite go.

Songbird Café, 21950 Howell Dr., announced its closing via social media April 6. Its last day open was April 15. The breakfast and lunch spot was open five years.

"Thank you for always knowing we gave you the best renditions of our homemade recipes, cooked to your liking," owner Maria Kopulos shared on social media. "Thank you for always coming by to share in your story, which became 'our story.' Thank you for smiling and making our days better and brighter for knowing you all. Thank you for always being you, being truthful and being honest.

"Honestly it has been a blessing, and we will all miss the wonderful days we had behind us at the café."

People were shocked to hear the news, with comments of appreciation and sadness shared on the business' social media page.

"So sorry to hear this," one fan wrote. "You’ve been a favorite of ours since you opened, always amazing food, but just as importantly, amazing, warm, friendly service. Good luck to you in all you do, Songbird Café will certainly be missed!"

It's unclear if Songbird will reopen elsewhere someday, but the New Lenox location's time has ended.

"One day we may meet again, but for now Songbird will take flight from this location," Kopulos wrote. "Please continue to follow us as we may not know the future but we know how she ends the race."

The message was an ode to the café's namesake, a racehorse called Songbird.

"It has been a pleasure to serve the New Lenox community for the past 5 years. Songbird is taking flight! Giddy up!"

Fans showed their support.

"Nooooooooo! This is so sad," one wrote. "Thanks for being a welcoming, fun and delicious place for us to eat over the last 5 years. You will be greatly missed."

One reflected on her discovery of the café and her time getting to know the staff.

"The first little place that felt like home, working with my laptop from a booth when I first moved here five years ago," the fan wrote. "Then later, sharing breakfast with my kiddo, who you guys have seen go from sleeping infant, to baby, to toddler who now walks in and asks for (okay, demands) sausage. Always time for a quick chat, a funny story, a word of encouragement. Always felt welcome and always well-fed.

"Maria, you are a treasure, your staff is wonderful, and Songbird will forever be a part of many great memories, especially for me and Beau. Best of luck for whatever’s next, and if it involves food— let me photograph it."