One of the funny things about the Loop is that it contains lots of streets that have an “out-of-the-way” feel. The northernmost block of Plymouth Court, off Jackson, is this way.
It’s a backwater that the main currents of the city sweep past, unfrequented except for a valet loitering in the doorway of the Standard Club, waiting for something to do. Waiting for important people who have business in the federal courts, chauffeured cars loiter, along with the occasional television crew. Plymouth Court is the green room of politicians, lawyers, criminals: the class of people who make Chicago go.
The only notable thing on the block is this restaurant with its proud paint and retro sign. It’s called The Plymouth, but it used to be Binyon’s, a very famous hangout that closed in the 90s. I was too young to remember it, but I found this picture of what it looked like in the 1950s.
Someday I’d like to step in to the Plymouth and ascend to its rooftop deck for a drink.
Historical image courtesy of Chuckman’s Collection.
neverphoto says
I was standing on this street corner just the other day with no time to shoot thinking it was one of the better corners in The Loop. 🙂
Celia says
I really like the white-glazed buildings that the John Marshall Law School is fixing up. Plus there are some amazing things along nearby Wabash that are very difficult to see or photograph because of the el. The schools are buying up a lot of old buildings and restoring them. The South loop is happening again . . .
On the down side, it looks like Cal’s Liquors, at Wells and Van Buren, has closed. Its sign has been removed. That makes me sad.
K. W. says
Hi Celia,
I ate at Binyon’s a long time ago while on jury duty at the near by federal court house. Every day for a week or so our little jury group was escorted over to Binyon’s by two US marshals, where we all of us – marshals included – sat down to lunch. I can’t remember if we were allowed to order or if it came family style. I remember the place being very small scale and cozy.
Celia says
That’s a wild story, KW; I don’t think jury duty comes with extras like that anymore, do you? Were you able to enjoy your meal, under such close supervision, I wonder.
There could have been some Chicago-style bookkeeping involved in all that, too.
Harley says
I recall my folks used to eat at Binyon’s once or twice a year. It was well known to serve very good food and one of the house specialties was their very famous turtle soup…………That comment from K.W is great–what a story !!!!
Celia says
The house shrimp appetizer was also famous; I’ve seen the recipe for it knocking around. . .
K W says
No, I don’t think jury duty is like that any more at all! I don’t remember feeling self conscious around the marshals – they were pretty low key, and they seemed to enjoy their lunch!
Celia says
amazing recollection–so vivid–thanks for sharing!