According to a recent article from Shaw Local, Magpie’s Joy of Eating will soon open in the former Thayer Bros, located at 753 Ruby St.
A representative of Magpie’s Joy of Eating was not immediately available for commentary upon What Now Chicago’s request.
While an official opening date has yet to be confirmed, according to the article, “Margaret Mary Gillespie, daughter of the late Gordie Gillespie, said she is opening the restaurant at 753 Ruby St., in the space of the former Thayer Bros. Deli and Grille.”
“Gordie Gillespie was the head coach at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Lewis University in Romeoville, and Ripon College in Wisconsin. He also served as a coach at the former Joliet Catholic High School, now Joliet Catholic Academy. Gillespie said her father nicknamed her “Magpie” when she was a child.”
“Rick Thayer of Joliet, the former owner of Thayer Bros., confirmed that Gillespie is buying the assets of the family business and will open Magpie’s Joy of Eating in that space. Still, Thayer said he feels customers will notice the spirit of Thayer Bros. in Magpie’s. For instance, he can envision Gillespie talking to the customers, “just like we always did.”
“Gillespie likens Magpie’s Joy of Eating to a “farm-to-table” experience because of its hyperlocal focus. The menu will be seasonal, and she will buy all ingredients – including herbs – locally, she said. Breads will be freshly baked, and soups will be homemade. Gillespie said she used to work for Ann Thayer when Thayer had a restaurant on Midland Avenue and Jefferson Street. Thayer was more than her employer; she was her mentor, Gillespie said.”
“Magpie’s Joy of Eating will include a Sunday brunch, a pub menu featuring a bison burger, a soup club, and fresh herbs on the tables, Gillespie said. Local artists will display and sell their work at the restaurant on a rotational basis, with 100% of the profits going to the artist, Gillespie said. Local musicians will provide live entertainment, she said,” the article adds.
