Barbecue eatery to open in ex-John Barleycorn

Plans are under way for Schaumburg's former John Barleycorn Sports Bar & Restaurant to change concepts to an Old Crow Smokehouse similar to one that recently opened in Chicago's Wrigleyville neighborhood.

Schaumburg Economic Development Manager Matt Frank said the business will remain under the ownership of the same company, which told the village the change could happen before the end of the year.

"It's our understanding they would do some cosmetic changes on the main floor, but everything else is in good shape," Frank said.

Old Crow Smokehouse boasts a barbecue and country music theme, with live acts already booked at its Chicago location at 3506 N. Clark St. The same would be possible at the Schaumburg site at 1100 American Lane, Frank said.

The business has named Tony Scruggs of the Fox Network's "MasterChef" program as its executive chef.

Back in June, Schaumburg's John Barleycorn ceased its daily restaurant operations but has remained open strictly as a venue for private parties and special events.

Frank said the company intended to open the new concept in Wrigleyville first to see how it went there before moving forward at the Schaumburg location. This wait-and-see period is expected to be short, he added.

A representative of the company said Tuesday that the Schaumburg site is currently under construction, but could not provide an expected opening date.