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 […]
Patio
New cafe and bistro concept serving upscale Mediterranean cuisine in Chicago’s Near South Side/Prairie District. Owner Shaw Farokhi plans a soft opening in mid-June 2026, full cafe opening in July, with the bistro to follow. Menu not yet released. Described as a space for coffee, brunch, cocktails, and late nights.
Sassy Mac Boys
Sassy Mac Boys, a mac and cheese concept that started as a food truck in 2023, is opening a second location inside CherryVale Mall. Owner Donald Czyzyk is targeting a June 20 opening. Menu includes mac and cheese bowls, nachos, and milkshakes. Owner also plans to expand via franchise model throughout Illinois and potentially Chicago […]
Monarch Community Cafe
Community-focused all-day cafe in Rogers Park neighborhood. 3,500 sq ft space offering coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches, salads, yogurt bowls, specialty milkshakes, and a retail market. Open 6am-8pm Mon-Sat. Raised $32,000 via Kickstarter. Owners Josh Marshall (former Intelligentsia Coffee) and Lynn Marshall. Targeting June 15 opening pending final inspections and licensing.