The world-famous Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonald’s in Chicago, a landmark celebrated for its vibrant music history and pop culture artifacts, is undergoing a significant transformation. Located at 600 N. Clark Street in the bustling River North neighborhood, this two-story restaurant, a long-time favorite for tourists and locals alike, closed its doors on December 30th for a comprehensive remodel. When it reopens in the spring, visitors will notice a striking change: the iconic rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia that defined its unique atmosphere will be removed, replaced by a more contemporary dining experience.
McDonald’s representatives have announced that the revamped location will offer a “restaurant experience of the future,” according to reports from the Chicago Tribune. This modernization includes the installation of touchscreen self-service kiosks, a feature already implemented at another River North McDonald’s at 10 E. Chicago Avenue in 2016. Furthermore, the remodeled Rock and Roll McDonald’s will introduce table service in select areas, aiming to enhance customer convenience and streamline operations.
While this location is known as the Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonald’s, it isn’t the original iteration. The first themed restaurant opened in 1983, capturing the spirit of rock and roll culture. However, to accommodate growing popularity, that original building was demolished and replaced in 2005 with the current, expansive 24,000-square-foot structure. Unusually for a McDonald’s, this location also requires customers to pay for parking, reflecting its prime urban setting.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9873545/16908825757_35d5036412_h.jpg)
This decision to remodel the Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonald’s follows closely on the heels of McDonald’s announcement to demolish its museum in Des Plaines, a replica of Ray Kroc’s first McDonald’s restaurant. These changes occur as McDonald’s is finalizing its new corporate headquarters in Chicago’s West Loop, underscoring a period of significant evolution for the fast-food giant.
For many, the Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonald’s was more than just a restaurant; it was a significant part of Chicago’s cultural identity. The restaurant’s unique ambiance even inspired local musician Wesley Willis to write a song about it, further cementing its place in the city’s cultural landscape. According to the Tribune, the vast collection of rock and roll memorabilia, a defining feature of the restaurant for decades, will be transferred to the personal collection of the franchise owner, marking the end of an era for this iconic Chicago establishment.
