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A beloved piece of Tinley Park history has officially reopened. Teehan’s Tavern, a cornerstone of the community for more than a century, has returned following the completion of construction on its new building. Under the ownership of Tom McAuliffe, the new Teehan’s welcomes patrons back to a familiar yet refreshed space that honors its storied past.
The historic structure at 17329 Oak Park Ave. was demolished a year ago, marking the end of an era for the original building that was built in 1857. However, conscious efforts were made to preserve key elements, with signs, ceiling tiles, bricks, and parts of the original bar incorporated into the new version.
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“Teehan’s has defined the downtown Tinley area for decades,” Tinley Park Mayor Michael Glotz said at the official ribbon cutting that took place on none other than St. Patrick’s Day. “The new building brings us full into the 21st century while keeping us linked to our past.”
Former owner Regis Teehan, whose family had operated the tavern since 1917, retired in 2023 after 34 years at the helm, confident that the new ownership would uphold the legacy of the beloved Teehan’s.
“We tried our hardest to salvage and restore the original building, but it was just not possible,” McAuliffe, of Palos Hills, said. “We really wanted to bring back the old building into the new one. The reconstruction maintained the character and charm that made Teehan’s a local favorite – including relocating parts of the tin ceiling, some of the signage and original décor. It turned out great. It really looks beautiful.”
The village, which acquired the rights to the Teehan’s Tavern name, ensured that the name would remain, which is something McAuliffe, who was born in Tinley, takes great pride in.
“I talked to the Teehan family, and they were ecstatic to keep the name,” McAuliffe said. “The building has been standing in the same location for more than 100 years. It’s a part of Tinley’s history.”
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The reopening, which unofficially took place on Thursday, March 6, just in time for the Tinley Park parade, marked the next chapter for the tavern, now featuring updated amenities while still retaining its classic appeal. An official grand opening took place on Monday, March 17, a lively St. Patrick’s Day celebration that included village officials and countless enthusiastic residents.
One of the most anticipated additions is a rooftop seating area overlooking Harmony Square, a multi-use plaza at the corner of Oak Park Avenue and North Street. The space, designed by the Lakota Group, serves as a vibrant community hub with an artificial turf lawn, concert stage, seasonal fire pits, and a splash pad that converts into an ice rink during the winter.
McAuliffe is personally excited about the outdoor patio which features bricks from the original 1857 Teehan’s basement.
“These are actual bricks from the basement – how cool is that?” McAuliffe asked.
With construction now complete and doors officially open, Teehan’s Tavern once again serves as a gathering place for longtime patrons and new visitors alike. The spirit of the original remains intact, blending history with modern comforts, ensuring that Teehan’s continues to be a cherished landmark in Tinley Park for generations to come.
“Teehan’s familiar heart and soul is very much alive and well,” Glotz said.
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