Funnyman Bill Murray and Brothers Will Soon Open Their Chicago-Area Restaurant

Construction is finishing up in Rosemont on Murray Bros. Caddyshack and the restaurant’s tee time should arrive within the next two weeks or so. Co-owner Andy Murray told Eater Chicago that workers are finishing up millwork this week and he’s targeting to open around April 17 or 18 in the suburbs. Meanwhile, new executive chef Jereme McGovern is onboard and shared how he convinced the brothers, including comedian/actor Bill Murray, to hire him.

“It’s a very unique brand,” McGovern said. “It’s a very unique opportunity being a Chicagoan and knowing Bill Murray and his impact on the city.”

The Murrays grew up in Chicago’s suburbs and the restaurant is a tribute to Caddyshack, the 1980 movie co-written by Brian Doyle-Murray and co-starring Bill Murray. The restaurant was first announced in December 2016, a spinoff of the St. Augustine, Florida location that opened 17 years ago. McGovern flew down to Florida and served dinner to the brothers at their original restaurant. He served them his versions of items already on the menu. While he didn’t share their exact reactions, he said Bill and Co. provided valuable feedback.

“They all bring a lot of comedy into it and make it fun,” McGovern said.

The new chef’s experience includes stints working for esteemed chefs like Charlie Trotter, Paul Kahan, and David Burke. He most recently worked as senior kitchen manager at The Cheesecake Factory. The Rosemont restaurant will serve Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beefs, prime rib, and more. McGovern described a signature dish: crispy golf ball-sized fried potatoes that served loaded with horseradish sauce. Being near O’Hare International Airport, the kitchen should remain open until 2 a.m. on weekends. They’re also working on a bar bites menu. Andy Murray pointed out their wine list is notable with around 38 selections.

“We’re not fine dining,” Murray said. “But we’re consistently good.”

The restaurant sits inside the Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare Hotel at 5440 N. River Road. The kitchen takes up 4,000 square feet of the 8,600-square-foot space. The space seats 240 with room for 50 at the bar. There’s a lounge area that includes a fireplace.

The Murrays also hired Michael Avella as the restaurant’s GM. He’s a Gibsons Restaurant Group veteran. Service will be a little different compared to Florida where they’re at a golf resort. They’ll be more serious in Rosemont.

“St. Augustine is a bit more summery beach, it’s a little more laid back,” Murray said. “Everything just moves slower it seems.”

As construction winds down, the Murrays — including sister Peggy — have started hiring for front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house jobs. Those interested can apply at the link.

The Murrays’ love of the Cubs has been well documented. Andy Murray would have loved to be open in time for the home opener on Monday. He’s also not sure if he can make it to Wrigley.

“No one’s given me a free ticket yet,” he quipped.

Can anyone help a brother out?