Partner: Country Saloon in Oak Forest 'Will Be Done Right'

The biggest problem facing three businessmen hoping to bring a country saloon to Oak Forest, is creativity. 

The partners keep envisioning additional features for the 6,000-square-foot space at 5200 W. 159th St. Picture empty Jack Daniels bottles transformed into light fixtures, saddles positioned as stools pulled up to the bar. Sawed-off tree trunks crafted into tabletops. 

The ideas keep coming, said former Oak Forest mayor Jim Malecky—one of the three working on the business along with At the Office owner Jamie Marcanio and one other partner.

"There really isn't any country-type bar in the area," Malecky told Patch. "The location has been many things before, but never a country bar."

Marcanio's attempt at Oxygen Teen Nite Club in the space was short-lived; the space has also previously been bar DelRocks. 

The location is prime for the saloon, said Malecky, who served as mayor from 1985 to 1993. Positioned near a stoplight on heavily trafficked 159th Street, they hope to attract country fans nearby with a rustic exterior, outdoor seating and true "country" interior. The saloon will feature an expanded bar area, refurbished wood—and enough space for fans to line dance. The bar will feature live music on weekends, and a "higher quality," yet limited food menu, he noted.

The partners have yet to formally go before the Oak Forest Plan Commission, Malecky said, and no date has been set.

"I don't anticipate many problems," he said. 

Malecky, who owns Malecky Builders, also previously owned and operated a steakhouse in downtown Frankfort. Malecky, Marcanio and a third partner with experience in construction could be the ideal combination to bring a flourishing business to the long-struggling spot. 

They're still tossing around ideas for the name, but seem to be debating between two, he said. 

"I certainly hope the people of Oak Forest will embrace it," he said. 

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