Franks for the Memories - A Journey Through 40 Years of Family and Flavor in Mundelein

In this episode of "Discovering Lake County," the host David Woll chats with Jim, the owner of "Frank's for the Memories," a beloved Mundelein, Illinois restaurant celebrating 40 years. Jim shares the rich history of the family business, founded by his parents in 1984, and the evolution of their menu to include Buffalo-style hot dogs and wings. The conversation is filled with nostalgic anecdotes, from Jim's childhood in Loch Lomond to his family's roots in Buffalo. Jim highlights the challenges and joys of running a family business, emphasizing the importance of quality, consistency, and community connections that have made Frank's a local favorite.

Discovering Lake County: The Heartwarming Legacy of "Frank's for the Memories"

In this episode of "Discovering Lake County," we dive into the rich history and enduring legacy of "Frank's for the Memories," a beloved restaurant in Mundelein, Illinois. Celebrating 40 years of operation, Jim, the current owner, shares the story of how his parents founded the restaurant in 1984 and the journey that has made it a staple in the community. From the significance of Buffalo-style hot dogs and wings to the challenges of running a family business, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into what makes "Frank's for the Memories" a cherished local gem.

The Origins of "Frank's for the Memories"

A Dream Realized
Jim begins by recounting the early days of the restaurant, which his parents started with a dream of opening a hot dog stand inspired by the charbroiled hot dogs they enjoyed in Buffalo, New York. Initially, the idea was to set up a small trailer, but it eventually evolved into a brick-and-mortar establishment. The name "Frank's for the Memories" was conceived by Jim's mother during a car ride back from Buffalo, inspired by a song from Bob Hope. This creative touch reflects the family-oriented nature of the business, which has seen contributions from various family members over the years.

The Addition of Wings
Interestingly, wings were not part of the original menu. A pivotal moment came when a cousin from Buffalo suggested they include wings, a staple of Buffalo cuisine. Despite initial hesitation, a successful taste test with Jim's brother and his friends led to wings becoming a signature item. This decision has since become a defining feature of the restaurant, drawing customers from near and far.

The Challenges and Rewards of a Family Business

Perseverance and Dedication
Jim reflects on the challenges his parents faced in the early years, crediting their perseverance for laying the foundation for the restaurant's success. His mother played a crucial role, working long hours to ensure the restaurant's success while his father continued his sales job. Jim acknowledges that the restaurant business is demanding and requires a strong commitment from everyone involved.

Transition to Full-Time Operation
The decision to transition to a full-time operation came after about two years, as the business began to pick up. Jim's father was able to focus entirely on the restaurant, contributing to its ambiance by doing much of the woodwork and renovations himself. Jim's pride in his family's hard work is evident as he recounts the transformation of the space from a produce store to a thriving restaurant.

The Importance of Consistency

Quality and Customer Experience
Consistency is a key theme in Jim's philosophy. He emphasizes that a single bad experience can lead to negative word-of-mouth, especially in the age of social media. "One customer with a bad experience will tell 10 to 15 people," he warns, underscoring the need for quality service and food. Jim takes pride in the restaurant's offerings, particularly its wings and burgers, which he describes as fresh and well-prepared. He encourages customers to try different menu items, even if they have their favorites, as he believes everything on the