Applebee’s, which closed its doors just a few months ago, is being replaced by a new restaurant in McHenry, Illinois. The vacant space will soon be home to Yummy Bowl Mongolian Stir-Fry and Sushi, marking a fresh start for the location. The new eatery is set to open in the spring, as indicated on the chain’s website.
Applebee’s had been located in a 5,164-square-foot building since its opening in 2004, but it shut down on May 8, 2024. The closure was not directly linked to two complaints lodged with the McHenry County Department of Health regarding the condition of the facility. One complaint detailed issues such as disrepair in the bathrooms and possible mold found on a dining room wall. Subsequent inspections uncovered six violations, including cleanliness problems and presence of sticky residues on carpets. However, health officials have clarified that these complaints did not initiate the closure of Applebee’s.
The transition to Yummy Bowl is being positively viewed by local officials. McHenry Economic Development Director Doug Martin commented on the excitement surrounding the new tenant, emphasizing that the Yummy Bowl chain is familiar with the area and is expanding significantly across Illinois and Indiana. The plan involves work to improve the structure before the new restaurant opens, which is seen as beneficial for the community.
In light of recent restaurant closures nationwide, including various major chains facing challenges in profitability, the opening of Yummy Bowl represents a hopeful possibility for revitalization in McHenry. Mayor Wayne Jett remarked that the swift changeover demonstrates a positive direction for the locality’s economic development.