Grand Social House & Tavern to open early next year in downtown Wauconda

A previously unnamed new restaurant promises to bring elevated cuisine, fresh energy and a renewed sense of community into a familiar spot in downtown Wauconda.

As planned, The Grand Social House & Tavern will offer homestyle Italian comfort food, handcrafted cocktails and more beginning in early 2026 at the former Middleton’s at 110 S. Main St.

The name pays homage to the original use of the building as the Grand Hotel, said to date to the mid-1800s. The building also has been home to a stagecoach stop, theater and tavern, according to Greg Walsh, who is partnering with wife Alexandra in the venture.

“We even have the original sign in the basement ready for display,” he said.

Middleton’s closed nearly four years ago. Village officials last month approved an economic incentive with the building owner of up to $35,000 for upgrades.

A condition of the agreement was that a new restaurant open by March 1, but at the time the future tenant wasn’t identified. An official announcement was made last week after word began to percolate.

The venture is being pursued by GM Hospitality Partners but is powered by the vision and expertise of entrepreneurs Greg and Alexandra Walsh.

He said the couple has worked on or around Main Street in Wauconda for about a decade, have been active in various events and have “grown a tight bond with the people and the community that make Wauconda so special.”

The Grand leadership team also includes sommelier Phil Castello, co-owner of The Side Lot restaurant, and creative director Ryan Timmer.

Veteran chef Chris Blackburn of Cary, who has worked in restaurants and resorts in Massachusetts, Vermont and Florida and been executive chef at restaurants in Crystal Lake and Woodstock, also is on board.

“By reopening the doors to this landmark at the heart of our downtown, we hope to inspire others to fill our empty storefronts and join in revitalizing our community,” said Brittany Barth, a partner in GM Hospitality.

The Side Lot was established in 2015 at 110 Slocum Lake Road near downtown. The Grand is a totally separate concept with its own team and identity and not a Side Lot project, according to Castello, who co-owns that business with Barth.

Filling gaps of what are referred to as stubborn vacancies has been a priority for village officials.

“It’s (Middleton’s) been closed for four years this December,” said Village Administrator Allison Matson. “Every time we’ve talked to the public about Wauconda’s future, these empty storefronts have been a priority.”

Guests at the Grand can expect an inviting atmosphere with a full-service dining room and private event space.

“The beautiful, original bar will become a hub for sports fans and neighbors alike — a perfect spot to savor a delicious meal while catching the game,” according to the announcement.

Visit thegrandsocialhouse.com for updates and announcements.