Airport incorporates hometown hits as part of overarching modernization effort
CHICAGO, IL, 2019-Oct-10 — /Travel PR News/ — The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and Midway Partnership, a joint venture with Vantage Airport Group, SSP America and Hudson Group, today (10/08/2019) welcomed back two local concessions brands at Midway International Airport.
Home Run Inn is the 21st concession location to open as part of a three-year, $75 million concessions expansion. This is the first time in 20 years that the airport is working to transform the lineup and offering travelers and families more reasons to choose Midway than ever before.
A family-owned business founded by Italian immigrants, Mary and Vincent Grittani, Home Run Inn began as a small tavern on Chicago’s South Side and took its name when a baseball from the neighborhood park smashed through one of the windows. The business has now expanded to include nine Chicago locations and serves as an emblem of Chicago’s rich, Italian heritage. Home Run Inn has been named one of “20 Great Spots to Taste Real Chicago Pizza: Tavern-Style Thin Crust,” by Eater Chicago.
Harry Caray’s Shortstop is also returning to Midway’s concessions program. Named for the late, renowned baseball announcer for both the Chicago White Sox (1971-1981) and the Chicago Cubs (1982-1998), the restaurant delivers homerun meals and service. Menu items include a wide range of appetizers, entrees, desserts and snacks – including favorites from Harry’s other iconic Chicago locations – as well as a full-service bar. And for early flyers, it offers a choice of breakfast options to eat in or have packed to go.
“I applaud the CDA Concessions and Midway Partnership teams for optimizing space in the concourse to include two additional restaurants, specifically these iconic, local brands” said CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee. “We are committed to enhancing travelers experience at Midway International Airport, and this is just one element of our overall strategy.”
The concessions upgrade is part of the ongoing Midway Modernization Program (MMP), a nearly $400 million investment in the future of Midway International Airport and the largest improvement program at the airport in nearly two decades. The MMP is expected to create over 2,500 jobs, and in addition to the updated and expanded concessions program, includes amenities such as, an improved passenger screening experience.
“Home Run Inn and Harry Caray’s Shortstop truly showcase Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene, and these additions are the latest development in our commitment to revolutionize the eating and shopping experience at Midway,” said Sammy Patel, CEO, Midway Partnership. “Along with our partners at North American Concessions, SSP America, and the Chicago Department of Aviation, we are ready to welcome visitors and locals alike.”
Today’s ribbon-cutting ceremonies come on the heels of 20 new retail and dining openings throughout Midway International Airport, including the new Concourse A Food Hall.
For more information about the Midway Modernization Program, visit www.MDWmod.com.
Source: Chicago Department of Aviation