Applicant for 'Hatrick's Irish Pub' wins board nod to proceed with liquor‑license application

The Mundelein Village Board on Feb. 23 permitted an applicant to proceed with a liquor‑license application for a proposed new business, Hatrick's Irish Pub, at the former Teddy O's location, 320 East Holly Street.

Applicant Jeff Erso told the board he owns and operates bars and restaurants in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, and said he plans to convert the space into an American‑Irish sports‑bar concept. "My name's Jeff Erso... we'd like to call it Hatricks Irish Pub," he said, describing upgrades that would include new flooring, paint, additional TVs and cleanup of an outdoor area adjacent to the railroad tracks.

The board questioned Erso about remodeling plans and whether any gaming would be part of the operation. Trustee Swank said he has not supported gaming licenses historically and added he would not vote for gaming if one were proposed; Erso said ownership of the property is contingent on licensing and next steps at the village. Several trustees praised Erso's track record: Trustee Grieco and Trustee Lambert said his existing restaurants are well established and welcomed the prospect of an upgraded downtown tenant.

After discussion, the mayor asked trustees to indicate whether to proceed with the liquor‑license application; the board signaled approval to move the applicant to the next step in the licensing process.

The village did not take a formal roll‑call ordinance vote on a final liquor license at the meeting; the board's action authorizes staff to accept and process the application. The applicant will now follow the village's licensing review steps, including any required background checks, inspections and formal hearings if needed.