Hecky's Barbecue Mural Unveiled in Evanston

A new mural honoring Hecky Powell was revealed at the restaurant to mark its 43rd anniversary.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Barbecue

Hecky's Barbecue Mural Unveiled in Evanston

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Evanston residents gathered to unveil a new mural honoring Hecky Powell at Hecky's Barbecue. The artwork was commissioned to celebrate the restaurant reaching its 43rd anniversary.

Why it matters

The mural serves as a vibrant community tribute to the late owner, reflecting the restaurant's long-standing cultural role in Evanston. Current owner Cheryl Judice commissioned the work to provide a joyful visual representation of the business's history.

The mural was completed in six days by artist Milton Coronado on the side of the restaurant at 1902 Green Bay Rd. Coronado has painted 32 murals across the Chicago area over the last 10 years.

The players

Hecky Powell

Hecky Powell was the founder of Hecky's Barbecue who passed away in 2020.

Cheryl Judice

Cheryl Judice has served as the owner of Hecky's Barbecue since 2020.

Milton Coronado

Milton Coronado is an artist who has completed 32 murals throughout the Chicago area.

The details

The mural depicts Hecky Powell alongside his signature sauces and soda, incorporating logos for Evanston Township High School and Northwestern University. It also features the Grosse Point Lighthouse, fulfilling owner Cheryl Judice's request for a display focused on happy local imagery.

Hecky's Barbecue opened on October 13, 1983.
Artist Milton Coronado started painting murals in 2016.
Hecky Powell died in 2020.
Residents gathered for the mural unveiling on October 13, 2026.

Culture Shift

The installation follows the established trend of using public murals to anchor neighborhood identity and commemorate local cultural icons. This movement highlights a growing shift toward community-led urban beautification projects that celebrate legacy businesses over standard commercial signage.

Residents and customers can now view the new mural on the exterior of the building at 1902 Green Bay Rd. The artwork creates a new visual landmark for the area while marking the long-term presence of the restaurant in the community.

The takeaway

The mural project demonstrates how legacy businesses can revitalize their physical presence by integrating local history and art. Business owners looking to commemorate milestones may consider commissioning public art that highlights both their founding legacy and community spirit.