Hard Rock Hotel Rockford
Hard Rock Casino Rockford announced a $90 million expansion to add an adjacent 8-9 story hotel with 200-225 rooms, a spa and fitness center, new food and beverage offerings, and a 15,000-sq-ft convention center. The only Hard Rock Hotel in Illinois. Will feature memorabilia including guitars from Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen. Funded via Rockford […]
Bally’s Chicago
Bally’s Chicago permanent casino, hotel and entertainment complex under construction at the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center site along the Chicago River. $1.74 billion project. Topping-off ceremony held April 30, 2026. Plans early 2027 opening. Temporary casino currently operating at Medinah Temple in River North since Sept. 2023.
Bally’s Chicago
500-room hotel as part of $1.7 billion, 34-story entertainment complex including casino, 3,000-seat theater, restaurants, and food hall along Chicago River
Gallery Grounds
Art-centric coffee shop featuring brews and pastries from around the world, with a ‘coffee passport’ concept allowing guests to choose different regional brews. Co-owned by sisters promoting local artists and community gathering.
North Shore Distillery
Award-winning distillery relocating from Green Oaks to Mundelein after 10 years. Will include production facility and tasting room. Known for Distiller’s Gin No. 6 and craft cocktails.
Two Brothers Tap House
Two Brothers Brewing is planning to move their existing tap house to a new location in an upcoming apartment development. The project is awaiting city council approval. They currently operate at 30W315 Calumet Avenue W in Warrenville and want to move closer to the road for better accessibility.
Gunny’s Pub
New pub concept with full kitchen in Lincoln Park featuring traditional neighborhood tavern in front and restaurant/lounge space in back. Owner has hospitality experience from Lucky Dorr and Mordecai. Menu described as upscale casual fare with appetizers and entrees.
Chicago Pickle Eatery
Chicago Pickle Eatery is reopening their Avondale location following a fire last September. The concept will be changed to half deli and half dessert bar, similar to their recently opened Wicker Park location.
Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark’s new restaurant
James Beard Award-winning chefs Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark are opening a new restaurant in Bookman’s Alley. The restaurant will be open from morning until evening and aims to bring high-quality food to downtown Evanston. Restaurant name and menu details not yet disclosed.
Duce’s Wild
Duce Raymond, son of Sweet Baby Ray’s founder, is opening a new restaurant in Wood Dale. He’s an accomplished chef carrying on his family’s barbecue legacy with Sweet Baby Ray’s Catering, Duce’s Wild BBQ and True Cuisine.