Comfort Food with Eastern European Flair at Maplewood Lounge

Introduction to Maplewood Lounge

Maplewood Lounge, situated in Logan Square, Chicago, opened its doors in 2017. In 2025, the venue expanded its culinary offerings under the leadership of executive chef Joanna Janczurewicz. Known for nostalgic American comfort food with Eastern European influences, the menu includes dishes such as lazy dumplings and pork butter. This unique fusion reflects Chef Janczurewicz’s background and culinary expertise.

Culinary Inspirations and Signature Dishes

Chef Janczurewicz, who oversees the cuisine at both the Lounge and the newly opened Maplewood Public House in Glen Ellyn, is celebrated for her innovative adaptations of Polish, Hungarian, and Czech recipes. Her lazy dumplings stand out as a signature dish, blending traditional pierogi ingredients in a simpler form. These dumplings are served with a creamy sauce enriched by bacon, peas, dill, and parmesan, topped with lemony breadcrumbs. Another notable offering is the pork butter, enhanced by spices and accompanied by sourdough bread and pickle spears.

Chef Joanna Janczurewicz’s Background

Originally from Dorchester, Boston, Janczurewicz developed her culinary skills through family traditions, later moving to Chicago after a career in program direction at Northwestern University. Her journey in the food industry began at Perkolator, eventually leading her to roles at Twisted Hippo, Owen & Engine, BiXi, and Publican Quality Meats. Her self-taught cooking style combines familial influences with modern techniques learned from chefs like Bo Fowler and Rob Levitt.

Maplewood’s Distinctive Menu

The menu at Maplewood Lounge also features mushroom baguette pizza, inspired by Polish street food. It incorporates roasted mushrooms, cheese, lemon garlic aioli, and a touch of ketchup for authenticity. Chicken Kiev, made with Slagel ground chicken, offers a tender experience enhanced by garlic herb butter. Potato babka provides a rich texture alongside a fresh tomato and cucumber salad. Polish meatballs and the kielbasa plate are also part of the inviting variety.

Seasonal Dishes and Beverages

Maplewood’s offerings extend to desserts and drinks, like the farmer’s cheese dip and the refreshing spirit-free Pink Is Punk cocktail. Seasonal influences are noted in dishes like the strawberry-rhubarb parfait and the Apple Express THC drink, which evoke flavors of different times of the year. For dessert, the Fat Pug brownie sundae remains a timeless favorite, inspired by the brewery’s oatmeal stout.

Atmosphere and Location

Both Maplewood Lounge and Maplewood Public House embrace an industrial loft style, aligning with their brewery and distillery foundations. Outdoor seating and friendly service are part of the dining experience, despite occasional service challenges. Communication issues with confirming opening hours and reservations have been observed, highlighting the need for improved customer service support.

Conclusion

The culinary excellence at Maplewood Lounge and Public House is unmistakable, showcasing the team’s talent and dedication. While service improvements are necessary, the memorable flavors and innovative dishes continue to attract patrons. Whether dining at the city location or the Glen Ellyn suburb, Maplewood offers a unique blend of comfort food with an Eastern European twist.

Locations & Contact

• Maplewood Lounge: 2717 N. Maplewood Ave., Chicago, 773-270-1061
• Maplewood Public House: 486 Pennsylvania Ave., Glen Ellyn; 630-547-2171

Open Hours

• Chicago: Monday to Wednesday, 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. – midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m. – midnight; Sunday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Glen Ellyn: Wednesday to Friday, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Prices

• Lazy Dumplings: $20
• Pork Butter: $10
• Mushroom Pizza: $15
• Chicken Kiev: $22
• Potato Babka: $22
• Strawberry Rhubarb Parfait: $9
• Pink is Punk Cocktail: $10
• Apple Express THC Drink Four-Pack: $14

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with restrooms on the same level

Tribune Rating: Very good to excellent, two and a half stars

Tribune writers provide insight into dining and entertainment experiences. For updates on great eats, subscribe to the free weekly newsletter: Eat. Watch. Do.