Mother Lula Mae Watson-Williams established the Williams Inn pizzaria and bar in 1969 after having worked at famous Chicago pizza establishments such as Pizzaria Due, Lou Malnati’s, and Gino’s. She was the mother of seven children. Her business offered good food and employment opportunities to the Englewood neighborhood. She also expanded it to include a full-service restaurant and a pool hall.

The original location at 5701 S. Ashland ran for 30 years in the Englewood neighborhood before it burned down. In 2021 a new location opened at 2210 South Michigan Avenue. It is still family owned and operated today.

Honorary Lula Mae Williams WAY *

South Ashland Avenue between 57th Street and 58th Street

Approved: November 2023 *

Ward: 16
Alderman: Stephanie Coleman
Neighborhood: West Englewood

near
Williams Inn Pizza & Sports Bar
5701 S. Ashland Ave (original location)

Source

20234791

https://www.williamsinnpizza.com/about-us

https://wgntv.com/news/chicagos-very-own/owner-of-iconic-black-owned-gay-bar-opening-inclusive-pizza-restaurant/

* May 2024 Amended - to “Lula Mae Williams Way” from “Mother Lula May Watson-Williams Way”