A longtime Illinois restaurant known for burgers, its famous onion loaf, and generations of family memories is preparing to close one of its most recognizable locations. The decision marks the end of a 71-year chapter, but the restaurant’s story in the area is not over yet.
Hackney’s on Lake is closing
Hackney’s on Lake in Glenview will permanently close its Lake Avenue location in early September 2026 after more than seven decades in business. The restaurant announced the closure this week, saying the decision was difficult given the location’s long history in the community.
The Lake Avenue restaurant opened in 1955 and grew into a major gathering place for Glenview residents. Over the years, it hosted birthdays, school banquets, sports celebrations, and other events, while also becoming known for Hackney’s signature burgers and French-Fried Onion Loaf.
Why Hackney’s is closing the location
The restaurant’s owners pointed to changing customer habits and the enormous size of the Lake Avenue operation.
The 700-seat restaurant was designed for a different era, according to CEO Mike Masterson. The family said a restaurant of that size made sense in the 1960s, but no longer fits the way customers dine in 2026.
Rather than leave Glenview entirely, Hackney’s will consolidate its operations at its Harms Road location, roughly 1.5 miles away.
Another Hackney’s location will continue
The Harms Road restaurant is currently undergoing updates to its bar, lobby, and booths. The goal is to create a more modern space while maintaining the roadhouse character that has defined the family-owned restaurant for decades.
Hackney’s traces its roots to 1939, when the Masterson family began operating the business. The company says the consolidation is intended to strengthen its remaining Glenview restaurant rather than mark the end of the Hackney’s brand.
For longtime customers, however, the September closure will still represent the loss of a familiar Illinois dining landmark — one that has served the community since 1955.
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