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 menu is worth tasting.

Employee Relations
Jim also reflects on the value of treating employees with respect. He notes that he has had a loyal employee for over five years, attributing this to a positive work environment where respect is mutual. Jim recalls his early days in the business, where he learned from a good manager the importance of balancing criticism with praise. This approach, he believes, fosters a healthier workplace culture, akin to raising children—where positive reinforcement is more effective than negative feedback.

Community Connections and Customer Loyalty

A Beloved Local Establishment
Jim's passion for the restaurant and its history shines through as he discusses the building's history and its significance in the community. Originally constructed in the late 1960s for a business called Griff's Burger, the structure has a nostalgic charm that resonates with the community. Jim shares that many customers have fond memories of the restaurant, and he has received feedback urging him not to change anything about the establishment. This sentiment reinforces his commitment to preserving the restaurant's character and history.

Engaging with Customers
The host praises Jim's loyal customer base, highlighting how they actively promote the restaurant to others. Jim expresses gratitude for his customers, noting their enthusiasm and the importance of repeat visits in the restaurant business. He fondly recalls his childhood in Mundelein, reminiscing about riding bikes around the area and exploring the seminary, which adds a personal touch to his connection with the community.

Looking to the Future

Potential Expansion and Franchising
The conversation also touches on the idea of franchising the restaurant. Jim expresses interest in the concept but acknowledges the challenges involved, particularly the high costs associated with franchising. He explains that while many people assume they are making a fortune, the reality is that running a small, family-owned business comes with its own set of financial hurdles. Jim also reflects on the challenges of maintaining consistency across multiple locations if they were to franchise, emphasizing the importance of quality control.

Preserving the Legacy
Jim acknowledges that the restaurant business is demanding and that he doesn't want to burden his daughter, who has pursued a career in environmental science, with the family business. He expresses a desire for the restaurant to continue thriving, even after he steps back. Jim shares his thoughts on potential expansion, such as opening a takeout-only location focused on wings, but recognizes the complexities involved in making that a reality.

Conclusion

This episode of "Discovering Lake County" offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life of Jim and his restaurant, "Frank's for the Memories." It highlights the challenges and rewards of running a family business, the significance of maintaining quality and consistency, and the deep-rooted connections that make the restaurant a cherished part of the community. Jim's story is a testament to the dedication and hard work that goes into creating a lasting legacy in the restaurant industry.

Key Takeaways:
Perseverance and Dedication:** The foundation of "Frank's for the Memories" was built on the hard work and determination of Jim's parents.
Consistency is Key:** Maintaining high standards in food quality and customer service is crucial for long-term success.
Community Connections:** Building strong relationships with customers and the community is essential for a thriving business.
Employee Relations:** Treating employees with respect and balancing criticism with praise fosters a positive work environment.
Looking to the Future:** While expansion and franchising are possibilities, maintaining the restaurant's legacy and quality is paramount.

For those in the Mundelein area or planning a visit, "Frank's for the Memories" is more than just a restaurant—it's a place where food, family, and memories intertwine, creating a lasting impact on the community. Be sure to follow them on social media and visit their website for more information. And remember, a little kindness goes a long way in making the world a better place.