Guillotine Bakery
French bakery opening in West Town neighborhood of Chicago. Co-founded by Alizé Bikard, Vincent Didry, and head baker Vince Le Bec. Specializes in French pastries and breads using imported Normandy butter and French flour. Menu includes croissants, kouign amann, pain au chocolat, baguettes, and sandwiches. Coffee program in partnership with Sparrow Coffee. Located in a […]
F1 Arcade
F1 Arcade is opening in River North (former Rock Bottom Brewery space) this summer. Features 70 full-motion racing simulators, first-ever F1 Arcade rooftop terrace, full-service Octane Bar, and food menu by Netflix Drink Masters champion LP O’Brien. Will host Grand Prix watch parties. Seventh U.S. location. No official opening date announced but private event bookings […]
Fine Dining Restaurant / Rooftop Bar (Jewelers Building)
The historic Jewelers Building at 35 E. Wacker Drive is undergoing a $25M renovation that includes a fine dining restaurant, a rooftop bar, and an all-day lobby bar. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with restaurant and bar concepts slated to open in 2027. Developed by Clayco/CRG and The Prime Group Inc. Specific restaurant […]
Hugh’s Chophouse
Classic and modern steakhouse described as Chicago-style chophouse and American bistro specializing in steaks, chops, and seafood. 7,100 sq ft, 2-story restaurant with 76-seat dining room and 16-seat bar on first floor, plus lounge, private event space (~90 people), wine tasting room, and small stage on second floor. Will operate 7 days a week for […]
Home Bar
Cocktail bar from the owners of Aged & Infused, an at-home cocktail kit business. Taking over the former Rhine Hall Distillery space at 2010 W Fulton St. Owners John Feller and Jessica Crawford are targeting mid-July opening. Inside space appears mostly finished. Awaiting licensing approval. Will serve martinis and cocktails featuring their flavored bitters (mango […]
Hello Kitty Cafe
Hello Kitty Cafe is coming soon to Westfield Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, IL. The cafe will offer merchandise, freshly baked cookies, cakes, donuts, seasonal goodies, and handmade drinks. Exact location within the mall and opening date were not disclosed. A separate Chicago Michigan Avenue location is also opening.
Altezza Rooftop
Roanoke Hospitality is opening Altezza Rooftop on May 28, 2026 at 101 E. Erie St. in Streeterville, Chicago. The rooftop concept focuses on Italian aperitivo culture with craft cocktails, shareable small plates, and wood-fired pizzas. Hours: Mon-Thu 4-11pm, Fri 3pm-midnight, Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-10pm. Reservations available via OpenTable.
Foundry Public House
Edwardsville City Council granted a liquor license for Foundry Public House under new ownership, indicating an upcoming reopening or new operation at this location.
Mezza House Mediterranean Restaurant and Cafe
Mezza House Mediterranean Restaurant and Cafe is coming soon to Downtown Champaign on Church Street, located between Himalayan Chimney and the empty Art Theatre in the former La Bahía Grill space. Will feature fast, fresh Mediterranean food. No opening date announced yet.
New McDill’s Restaurant (name TBD)
Co-owners Pat and Louise McDill plan to open a new restaurant in Troy, IL, across US 40 from Henning Elementary School on the planned Spc. Patrick McDill Road. The new concept will have a different name and menu from their existing McDill’s Irish Pub in Collinsville. The 3,000 sq ft building on a 4.5-acre commercial […]