A Famous Polish Eatery in Niles is Shutting Down

A well-known place in Niles, the White Eagle Events and Convention Center, is saying goodbye forever at the end of this year. This spot has seen big names like a pope, a president, and famous stars. It all started in 1947 in Chicago, but moved to Milwaukee Avenue in 1967. The place was a big deal in the Polish community, especially for its tasty mushroom-barley soup. It was also a go-to spot for funeral gatherings, right across from a Polish cemetery. The owners, Ted Przybylo's six kids, took over after their dad passed away in 1992. They sold it in 2015 to Mario Ferraro, whose family has been running Victoria Banquets since 1937. This venue could fit 1, 500 people and has hosted some serious big shots. Think President Jimmy Carter, Pope John II, and even Muhammad Ali. It was also a hotspot for political fundraisers. A 1989 Sun-Times article called it "the gatehouse to today's Polonia, " highlighting its strong ties to Poland. Victoria Banquets still has two other places: Victoria in the Park in Mt. Prospect and Mission Hills Club in Northbrook. These spots focus on weddings but also do corporate events and charity fundraisers.