Bridgeports Sausage Queen Moves To The Burbs As Family Meat Empire Grows

Nicole Makowski, known as the Sausage Queen of Chicago, will relocate her family business, Makowski’s Real Sausage Company, from Bridgeport to Lansing in November to accommodate increased production needs. The company produces over 60,000 pounds of sausage weekly and supplies various restaurants and grocery stores in Chicago, including Portillo’s and Costco. Makowski expressed her commitment to Chicago, stating, “I will always be the sausage queen of Chicago. ” Founded in 1920 by her great-grandfather, the company has experienced multiple relocations and name changes over the decades. Makowski, who took over the business at just 22, has maintained a focus on quality and family values.

She has developed strong relationships with local chefs, including Ed Marszewski, who emphasizes her impact on their culinary identity. The move marks a significant transition for the family-run business, reflecting its growth and adaptation to changing demands. Despite the relocation, Makowski aims to preserve her ties to the Chicago community.