The long-awaited Portillo’s in Schertz is rapidly transforming from a construction site into a nearly complete restaurant, with visible progress signaling the Chicago-based chain is closing in on its debut along the busy corridor.
While official signage has yet to be installed, the Portillo’s structure is now unmistakable. The exterior buildout appears largely complete, with fresh concrete sidewalks, curbing and a defined drive-thru wrapping around the building. Landscaping elements have also begun to take shape, further indicating the project is entering its final phases.
Inside, the momentum is just as noticeable. Tables and booth seating have been installed, and signature interior elements bringing that Chicago street-scene aesthetic appear to be coming together. The kitchen buildout, a critical component for the chain’s famously fast service, also looks to be nearing completion.
Although an official opening date remains under wraps, the timeline is beginning to narrow. A Portillo’s media representative previously told MySA the company was aiming for a summer debut, and the current state of construction suggests that window is still within reach.
The project itself has had a longer road than many expected. State filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation initially listed $6 million construction beginning in April 2025 with an estimated completion date of September 2025. However, the site saw little visible activity for months, sparking concern among locals and fueling speculation across social media platforms about potential delays.
In recent weeks, steady construction progress has reassured fans that Portillo’s is not only alive, but accelerating.
The roughly 6,160-square-foot restaurant is part of the larger 72-acre Schertz Station development, a rapidly growing commercial hub along I-35 that continues to attract major national brands. Once open, Portillo’s will join nearby tenants like Dave’s Hot Chicken, Chipotle and CAVA, adding to the area’s growing reputation as a dining destination for commuters and residents alike.
Founded in 1963 in Villa Park, Illinois, Portillo’s has built a loyal following across the country thanks to its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries and towering slices of chocolate cake. Its expansion into the San Antonio area marks a significant milestone for the brand, and a long-awaited arrival for Alamo City fans who have spent years calling for a location closer to home.
For now, the clearest sign of what’s coming isn’t a logo, it’s the steady stream of progress visible from the highway. And with construction now entering its final stages, it may not be long before that first Italian beef sandwich is finally served.
MySA reached out to Portillo’s for comment.
Find it: 18678 I-35 N., Schertz TX 78154