Help the Iconic Palace Grill Rebuild From Fire

My name is Katrina Vlasich , and I am a Blackhawks season ticket holder and regular at the Palace Grill . Many associated with the Blackhawks have reached out with an interest in supporting a crowdfunding campaign to help the diner, George Lemperis, and its employees. I have decided to take this on with George's blessing.

On the evening of February 8, 2024 a fire caused extensive damage to the Palace Grill, a beloved and iconic Chicago diner located on the 1400 block of West Madison Street. Fortunately, no one was hurt during the fire, but it has left the owner, George Lemperis and his employees devastated and reeling. The restaurant and was just beginning to recoup after COVID...

The restaurant opened in 1938 as De Mar's Grill and has been in the Lemperis family since 1955. During its 86 years it's seen celebrities, politicians, and sports figures walk through its doors, and they all come to see George, who took over the restaurant in 1992, after his father passed away.

Anyone who has met George loves George, and anyone that knows George knows his love for the Blackhawks. Over the years the Palace Grill has become a bit of a museum, with Blackhawks memorabilia detailing the team’s greatest players, moments, and achievement, and much of it, if not all, was given to George by Blackhawks media, alumni, coaches, and players. As the great Pat Foley once said, "It kind of feels like United Center East."

It isn't just the Blackhawk fans that frequent this iconic neighborhood diner, it's your first responders, medical residents, and construction workers. It's the backbone of Chicago that comes here. They know there is good food and a smile waiting to greet them there. You'll often find George greeting people by their name, sitting with them to ask how parents or children are, or to tell one of many jokes. He is one of the most jovial people you'll meet and he truly cares for his customers. It is what makes him endeared by so many.

Lastly, let's not forget the 18 employees that greet, cook, and serve all the patrons that walk through the doors of the Palace Grill. George may be the heart and soul of the Palace Grill, but it's the staff that is the lifeblood that keeps it running.

It's time to pull together and rally around the Palace Grill, George, and the staff, as Blackhawks fans and a city. Let's help George rebuild an iconic diner where so many memories have been made, so it can help build more.

One hundred percent of all donations will be given to George Lemperis to rebuild the Palace Grill and support its employes.