New Lenox Jack In The Box Opening Slated For Summer 2025

NEW LENOX, IL — Fans of iconic, California-based fast food chain Jack In The Box have a little longer to wait for one to open in New Lenox.

The openings are currently tentatively slated for summer 2025, the company said in an earnings report last month. The New Lenox location—moving into the former Arby's at 672 E Lincoln Hwy—is among eight south suburban company-owned locations announced as coming to the Chicago area. Its New Lenox location initially unknown, Mayor Tim Baldermann confirmed in January that the chain would take over the shuttered space.

Other locations include Tinley Park, Joliet, Naperville, Plainfield, Carol Stream, Lake in the Hills, and Countryside. Two additional franchisees are also set to expand into Chicago, according to the report. It's been 40 years since the chain last operated in Chicago and Illinois; they hope to open 125 stores in the Chicago market.

"This strategic expansion into Chicago allows us to not only satisfy long-standing customer demand for our brand, but also to become a key member in the region’s thriving restaurant scene," said Darin Harris, former CEO. "We’re excited to bring our unique menu where customers can order any item at any time—day or night and we’re confident Jack in the Box will quickly become a favorite local destination."

Of note, the company announced in late-February that Harris was stepping down from the CEO role for a position outside of the restaurant industry. Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Lance Tucker stepped in as interim principal executive officer, effective Feb. 24.

Jack in the Box is known for its iconic menu that features customer favorites like burgers, tacos, chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, breakfast, and late-night snacking options. The new locations will offer dine-in, drive-thru, and mobile ordering options and will be open 24 hours per day. The company also said in January that it was adding new Jack Wrap flavors onto menus, including a Fajita Jack Wrap and a Caesar Jack Wrap.

The brand currently has approximately 2,200 restaurants across 23 states, according to its website.