Celebrating 65 Years: A Tribute to Paul’s Family Restaurant

Paul’s Family Restaurant marks a significant milestone, celebrated as an Elgin “institution” after 65 years. Located at the corner of Lawrence Avenue and McLean Boulevard, the establishment hosted about 75 friends, family members, and local dignitaries on Friday.

State Senator Cristina Castro recognized the restaurant’s importance, reading an Illinois Senate proclamation. She remarked, “This is an institution. We need to celebrate, cherish it and keep it safe. It’s like coming home to your family.” The owner, Elaine Paul, expressed her gratitude as Castro shared memories of the establishment.

Elgin Mayor David Kaptain also noted the restaurant’s longevity, recalling a consultant’s words about most restaurants surviving only two years. “Sixty-five years in business in this town and still be as successful is incredible,” he said.

John and Stella Paul, Greek immigrants, launched their eatery as Douglas Coffee Shop at 158 Division St. in Elgin in 1961. With $200 for opening day supplies, they operated a 19-seat establishment before relocating to the current location at 1300 Lawrence Ave. Elaine Paul took ownership in the mid-1990s to maintain family ties when her parents retired.

Elaine Paul revealed her parents’ focus on education, as she attended Northwestern University and graduated from law school, later working in Washington, D.C. She said, “I thought I’d keep it a few years, and here we are 30-some years later.” Her mother Stella passed away in 2015. Her father, John, now 97, was recently diagnosed with stage 1 colorectal cancer and hoped to attend the event but returned home from a hospital stay.

Elaine Paul acknowledged the pandemic’s impact on business but remains committed to continuing her parents’ legacy. “It’s really been a labor of love,” she stated, emphasizing her pride in honoring them.

Rick West is a reporter for the Daily Herald.