Is Michael Jordan's Restaurant Still Open?

Current Status and Location

Michael Jordan’s restaurant in Chicago is closed. The original venue, located at 620 N State St in River North near Chicago Avenue, operated from 1993 until it permanently closed in 2020. There is no active, currently operating Michael Jordan restaurant under that original name at this location or elsewhere in Chicago.

This evergreen status overview explains the history of the concept, why confusion persists, and what diners seeking Jordan-related experiences in Chicago can consider instead. Use this guide to clarify expectations and avoid outdated information about the restaurant’s availability.

History and Concept

Opening and Brand Partnership

The restaurant launched in February 1993 as a joint venture between Michael Jordan and celebrity restaurateur Arnie Morton, operating under the name Michael Jordan’s Restaurant. It was positioned as a high-profile dining destination in Chicago, leveraging Jordan’s global fame and Morton’s established Steakhouse 620 brand. The menu focused on upscale American cuisine with premium steaks and seafood, and the space featured photos and memorabilia celebrating Jordan’s career.

Ownership Changes and Later Years

Over time, operational control shifted, and the venue was managed by various partners. Despite periodic promotional efforts tying the name to the basketball legend, the restaurant struggled with mixed reviews and evolving market conditions. In late 2020, the location at 620 N State St ceased operations, citing pandemic-related challenges and long-term profitability issues. There has been no official reopening or relocation of the original brand since then.

Location, Hours, and What to Know Before Visiting

Original Address and Site Status

The former restaurant occupied 620 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654. As of 2024, the space remains vacant and is not operating as a restaurant under the Michael Jordan name. Nearby businesses include retail, office uses, and other dining establishments that are unrelated to the Jordan brand.

Why People Think It Might Still Be Open

• Ongoing online listings and map pins that have not been updated since closure.
• Social media posts and older travel content mentioning visits before 2020.
• Confusion with pop-up concepts, themed events, or Jordan-branded merchandise experiences.

Important Considerations for Diners

If you are planning to visit the original Chicago location, confirm in advance that the venue is no longer operating under this name. For current dining options, consider established steakhouses or restaurants in the River North area with transparent, up-to-date websites and recent guest reviews. Always verify hours and availability through official channels or recent, credible sources before traveling.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Although the physical venue has closed, the restaurant remains a notable part of Chicago’s dining history and the broader narrative of celebrity-branded hospitality in the 1990s and early 2000s. Its closure reflects broader shifts in the restaurant industry, changing consumer preferences, and the economic pressures that affected even high-profile concepts.

Summary and Quick Reference

Comparison with Other Chicago Concepts