Osteria Gilberto
New Italian osteria concept planned for Lincoln Park neighborhood at the corner of Webster and Magnolia. Owner Sergio Barbone (also owner of Bakehouse Chicago bakeries) submitted a liquor license application and is aiming for a July 2026 opening. Restaurant is currently under construction. Menu details and social media pages forthcoming closer to opening.
The Layover
Air travel-themed cocktail bar and small plates concept from chef Jay Ruff, who also owns Lincoln & Wicker in Schererville. Menu divided into carry-on (starters), layovers (shareables), first class (entrees), and final call (desserts). Also features Neapolitan pizzas, kebabs, and a raw bar. Currently under construction on the west side of St. John near the […]
Heritage Hospitality Group Firehouse Concept
Developers Ryan Cummings and Michael Salvatore are planning a food-and-beverage hospitality concept in the former Engine Co. #102 firehouse. Plans include a café, bar, or similar concept on the ground floor with event/co-working space on the second level. The city-owned property is set to be purchased for ~$350,000. No exact opening timeline announced; financing still […]
Old Town Pour House
Old Town Pour House, a gastropub chain owned by Bottleneck Management, is taking over the former City Social space at 120 N LaSalle Street in Chicago’s Loop. The 6,206 sq ft space will seat 285 inside and 36 outside. Menu includes Nashville hot chicken nachos, smash burgers, and over 90 beers on tap. Planned hours […]
Lolo Y Lola
New concept from Bonhomme Group (Spain and Chicago-based restaurant group) planned for 2576-2580 N Lincoln Avenue in Lincoln Park neighborhood. Space will include an outdoor patio. Liquor license application filed. No menu or opening date released yet. Concept may be Spanish or Latin American based on the name.
Deepwell
New Orleans-inspired steakhouse concept from Joe and Katy Kindred, with Craig Deihl as executive chef and co-owner. Features an in-house dry-aging program with Wagyu beef from NC-based W8 Ranch. Dinner service planned; reservations to become available closer to opening. Expected to open late summer or fall 2026 in a historic Main Street building.
Casa Nama
Japanese fusion restaurant from JalMex Restaurant Group, slated to open late 2026 at East End Market. Will occupy approximately 5,000 sq ft in the former Giorgios Epicurean Market space. Menu will include sushi rolls, ramen, dumplings, tacos, and ceviches. Planned as a larger, full-service counterpart to Yatai.
Drift Coffee + Kitchen
Drift Coffee + Kitchen is opening its fifth Triangle-area location at Raleigh Iron Works in the Bow Truss Building, leasing 1,963 sq ft. The cafe will serve espresso drinks, brewed coffee, breakfast sandwiches, bowls, toasts, salads, and sandwiches. Plans to open later in 2026.
Lucky Asian Fusion
Lucky Asian Fusion, a modern sushi concept operated by EAT Restaurant Partners, is planning its first North Carolina location at Ridgewood Shopping Center, 3540 Wade Avenue, in a space facing Ridge Road next to Ridgewood Wine & Beer. Expected to open by end of 2026. The restaurant will feature high ceilings, outdoor seating, a bar […]
Le Petit Comptoir Wine & Cheese
Wine-and-cheese concept opening next to Marblehead House of Pizza. Menu focuses on small plates, charcuterie boards, grilled cheeses, salads, and baked Brie alongside wine and zero-proof options. Owner Alex Lewis envisions an all-ages inclusive gathering space. Tentatively targeting July 2026 opening pending final preparations and hiring. Currently conducting pre-opening wine-and-cheese tasting events and classes.