NEW LENOX, IL — A week after announcing its sudden closing, the owners of New Lenox’s Bourbons Smokehouse have issued a public plea for help.
Co-owners Joe and Tonya Regiro said they were devastated by the closing of their beloved business at 280 E. Lincoln Highway, and now they’re hoping someone will come forward to “keep our dream alive.”
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“We simply cannot afford to continue operating the restaurant and take orders for Thanksgiving and catering,” they wrote on social media.
“We are looking for a private investor or a group of investors to reach out to us to help us get out of this hole and get back to smokin’ every day.”
They are seeking anyone who “may be interested in working with Joe to figure it out and get the fire burning again.”
The smokehouse opened its New Lenox location in 2022. Previously it had been catering only, based out of Tinley Park. The New Lenox location was the first dine-in one. Pit master Joe Regiro spent the past 20 years working to perfect his South Side-style barbecue flavor. Regiro and his wife are well-known for their charitable spirit and contributions to the community.
“We are deeply saddened and devastated to close,” the owners said in the closing announcement.”… This was Joe’s dream and livelihood.”
Support from the community poured in after news of the closing.
“All those posts from some about wanting mom and pop restaurants instead of chains need to support them,” said Mayor Tim Baldermann in response to the news. “Your food was high quality, and your generosity with the community was awesome. My best to you in the future.”
“I’m so very sorry to hear this,” one commenter said. “I’m happy that you chased your dream and experienced this, though. Another door will open for sure! You are an amazing family.”
Inspired by the support, it appears this week that Joe and Tonja aren’t completely ready to give up on their venture, turning to their social media following for help.
“WE NEED YOUR HELP to keep our authentic smoke meats, homemade sauces and sides from disappearing for good,” they wrote.
“We do not have a lot of time. We need to figure it out by the end of November, so please help us. We cannot tell you how much this means to us to keep our dream alive.”
Anyone who is interested is asked to contact them via their business’ Facebook page. Serious inquiries only, they urge.
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