Urbanbelly
Urbanbelly restaurant by Chef Bill Kim opening in the Boulevard Food & Drink Hall at the new Hollywood Casino Aurora resort. Asian food concept featuring dumplings, noodles and Korean-American dishes with a ‘tighter’ menu than previous locations.
Guzman y Gomez
Australian-born fast-casual chain expanding in Chicagoland with new freestanding restaurant featuring drive-thru. Permit issued February 2026 for demolition and new construction of 2,668-square-foot restaurant.
HoneyComb
Dual-concept business offering bakery service in mornings (7am-2pm) and speakeasy-style cocktail restaurant in evenings (5pm-1am/2am). Located in former Busy Bee Bakery space. Already approved for liquor license.
Pelago Cafe
Italian cafe opening in early May 2026, run by two Italian cousins serving coffee, sandwiches, pastas, and authentic Italian food. Converting former nail salon into cozy Italian osteria with casual counter service and private dining options.
The Ives
Contemporary American dining concept by Boka Restaurant Group with chef Chris Pandel, replacing Cherry Circle Room at Chicago Athletic Association hotel. Will serve breakfast, entrees, parlor snacks, seasonal cocktails and coffee.
Unique Sweets Cafe
Sweets business that gives opportunities for autistic adults is moving from pop-ups to a permanent brick-and-mortar cafe location. Currently seeking storefront likely in the Belmont corridor on the North Side. Will offer cafe items, coffees, teas, light sandwiches and pastries.
Momentum Coffee
Momentum Coffee is relocating their South Loop location to a new spot down the road at the former Burger Point restaurant space. Co-owner hoping to open first or second week of May 2026.
Billy Bricks Pizza
Billy Bricks Pizza, a 20-year-old chain known for Neapolitan and New Haven inspired pizzas, will debut a new brick-and-mortar location in downtown Oswego. The company operates 11 locations and is still determining when to break ground.
Mendocino Farms
Third Chicago location for the California-based sandwich chain known for signature sandwiches and fresh ingredients. Located in Fulton Market District next to Aba Mediterranean restaurant.
Hometown Coffee & Juice
Family-owned coffee and juice company opening their sixth cafe location at the Hinsdale Metra station. This will be their first venture in the western suburbs, offering espresso bar, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, and other cafe items.