Chicago’s Portillo’s Set to Expand in Florida with Seventh Location

By Justice Nwafor • 1 week ago

Portillo’s, the Chicago-based restaurant chain, is set to expand its footprint in Florida. The restaurant recently received approval to construct its seventh location in the state. Lady Lake commissioners greenlighted the proposal during a unique conceptual meeting, with a voting result of 3-1 favoring the project.

The slated restaurant will be an impressive 7,800-square-foot establishment, complete with a drive-thru. The restaurant will also boast 131 parking spaces and a total of 212 seats. The initial application for this restaurant was submitted on April 27.

Fourth Portillo’s Restaurant in Central Florida

If the chain decides to proceed with the plan, this new addition will mark the fourth Portillo’s restaurant in Central Florida. Famous for its hot dogs, the chain had announced in July its plans to open a restaurant in Clermont. This restaurant is set to be located in a new development on Highway 50, east of the US-27 and Highway 50 intersection, and is expected to open its doors in 2023.

Currently, the company operates two other locations in Central Florida, specifically in Kissimmee and Orlando. However, Portillo’s has yet to release any information about its potential new location in Lady Lake.

Significant Expansion Move

This new development is a significant expansion move for the restaurant chain. This expansion solidifies its substantial presence in Florida and particularly in Central Florida. It follows the restaurant’s recent announcement that all locations will be transitioning to cashless payments in the drive-thru, aiming to speed up the ordering process and provide more safety for employees. This change is scheduled to take effect on January 16, with cash payments still being accepted for customers who prefer to pay for their food inside the restaurant.

Portillo’s in Florida

The Florida expansion is part of Portillo’s broader growth strategy. The chain is known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, burgers, and a signature chocolate cake. The establishment has become a favorite among residents and is quickly gaining popularity in the state. Portillo’s offers a unique dining experience, with its Florida garage theme and signature double drive-thru lanes. The restaurant chain also announced plans for a 7,700 square foot restaurant in Clermont with seating for 170 guests inside and an additional 50 on the outdoor patio.

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Justice Nwafor

Justice Nwarfor, a devoted and skilled journalist, concentrates on vital environmental concerns, climate change, and global health, primarily in West Africa. With a knack for uncovering underreported stories, Justice employs data-driven reporting techniques and is currently learning Python to further advance his abilities. Before joining BNN, he was a lead journalist at the Nigerian Tribune. His extensive journeys to remote communities have enabled him to amplify the voices of those frequently ignored by mainstream media. Throughout his career, Justice has highlighted the challenges faced by indigenous communities grappling with the consequences of deforestation, oil spills, gas flares, and rising sea levels. In addition, his investigations have exposed the severe realities of criminal gangs, illegal logging, and environmental devastation caused by mining.