New restaurant coming to former IHOP in New Lenox

Village Board approves Waffles Kafe, outdoor expansion of The Creamery

New Lenox is getting a new breakfast and lunch spot.

The shuttered IHOP restaurant at 411 E. Lincoln Highway will soon be home to Waffles Kafe. The Village Board this week approved a liquor license for the new restaurant, which is expected to open sometime in June, village administrator Kurt Carroll said.

IHOP closed its doors last year.

Waffles Kafe is the latest in restaurant openings for the Les family, which also owns Williamson’s Restaurant and Bar in New Lenox along with other restaurants, Carroll said.

“The Les family has had a long, successful business here and we wish them the best in this new endeavor,” Carroll said Wednesday.

Also this week, trustees approved plans to relocate outdoor dining at a popular ice cream shop. The Creamery, 918 Timber Place, requested moving its outdoor dining area from the front of the restaurant to the back, Carroll said.

Will County is widening Laraway Road, making the move of the outdoor dining area necessary, according to a letter from the restaurant owners. The restaurant last year also made adjustments to their parking area, Carroll said.