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Chicken Pop-Up "The Coop" Advances Towards Liquor License in Peoria

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/05 .. p-advances-towards-liquor-license-in-peoria.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 22:29 GMT by Journal Star

Chicken Pop-Up "The Coop" Inches Closer to Liquor License Approval in Peoria's Warehouse District

Peoria’s Warehouse District is poised to welcome a new, temporary dining experience – “The Coop,” a pop-up chicken restaurant – but the path to its opening isn't entirely straightforward. A recent meeting of the Peoria City Council Committee on Licenses and Consumer Affairs saw significant progress toward securing a liquor license for the establishment, though some lingering concerns remain regarding noise and neighborhood impact. The project represents an effort to revitalize underutilized spaces in the district while offering a unique culinary option for residents and visitors alike.

The Coop is spearheaded by local restaurateur Josh Conway, who also owns several other successful Peoria establishments including Rhythm Kitchen and Le Fancy Jim's. Conway’s vision for The Coop is a limited-run restaurant operating within a 10,000 square foot space at 234 State Street, currently part of the larger Warehouse District complex owned by developer Steve Rapp. This location has previously housed various temporary businesses and events as Rapp explores potential long-term uses for the building. The pop-up model allows Conway to test a concept without committing to a lengthy lease or significant renovations, while providing Rapp with an opportunity to showcase the space's versatility.

According to the Peoria Journal Star article, the Committee voted 4-1 in favor of recommending The Coop’s liquor license application to the full City Council. This recommendation is a crucial step towards final approval, though it doesn't guarantee success. The primary hurdle during the committee meeting revolved around concerns raised by nearby residents and business owners regarding potential noise levels and increased traffic associated with an establishment serving alcohol.

Several neighbors expressed apprehension about late-night activity spilling onto the street and impacting their quality of life. They cited previous issues with other businesses in the Warehouse District, highlighting a desire for stricter enforcement of existing ordinances related to noise and parking. One resident, speaking during public comment, specifically mentioned concerns about amplified music and potential disruptions on weekends.

Conway addressed these concerns directly, outlining several measures The Coop intends to implement to mitigate any negative impact. These include limiting outdoor seating hours, employing security personnel to manage crowds, and working with Rapp to ensure adequate parking is available. He also emphasized the pop-up nature of the business, suggesting that its temporary status provides a built-in mechanism for addressing any unforeseen issues. He stated his commitment to being a good neighbor and actively engaging with the community to resolve concerns.

Rapp echoed Conway’s sentiments, stating he's committed to ensuring The Coop operates responsibly and doesn't disrupt the surrounding neighborhood. He highlighted that the Warehouse District is undergoing revitalization efforts and businesses like The Coop are vital for attracting foot traffic and creating a vibrant atmosphere. He also pointed out that the space itself has limitations – it’s not designed for large-scale events, which should naturally limit potential noise issues.

The Committee's decision to recommend approval wasn't without conditions. Council members stipulated that Conway and Rapp must work with city officials to develop a detailed plan addressing noise mitigation strategies and parking management. This plan will be reviewed before the full City Council considers the application. Furthermore, ongoing monitoring of The Coop’s operations will likely occur to ensure compliance with these agreed-upon measures.

The proposed menu for The Coop focuses on elevated fried chicken dishes, alongside sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and biscuits. While details about pricing and specific offerings are still being finalized, the concept aims to offer a casual yet refined dining experience. Conway’s track record of successful restaurants in Peoria suggests he intends to deliver on this promise.

The success of The Coop's liquor license application hinges not only on Conway and Rapp’s ability to address community concerns but also on the full City Council’s willingness to support a business that contributes to the Warehouse District’s ongoing revitalization. The pop-up model itself represents an innovative approach to restaurant development, allowing for flexibility and experimentation while potentially breathing new life into underutilized spaces. The outcome of this application will likely serve as a precedent for future temporary businesses seeking to operate in Peoria's evolving urban landscape.

Ultimately, the approval process underscores the delicate balance between fostering economic growth and maintaining quality of life within a developing neighborhood. The Coop’s journey towards opening its doors provides a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities facing Peoria as it strives to create a vibrant and thriving Warehouse District for all. The full City Council meeting where the final decision will be made is scheduled for [Date - not specified in article], and will be closely watched by residents, business owners, and those invested in the future of Peoria’s downtown core.

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