Salamone’s
Salamone’s, a popular pizza spot from Cherry Valley, IL, is opening a second location at 9901 Orlando St in Machesney Park (former Freddy’s Frozen Custard site). The space will be renovated to include more sit-down dining. The family-owned chain, founded in 1999 by Benny and Rosalie Salamone, plans to open late next year (2027). Menu […]
Alibi Coffee House
New coffee shop concept opening at the former Kuhn’s Delicatessen space in a plaza at the intersection of W Golf Road and S Elmhurst Road, near O’Hare International Airport. Co-owners Daniel Kurek and Erik Trojak are currently renovating and expect to open in approximately six weeks from article date (2026-07-22). The city of Des Plaines […]
La Nieta
New vegan cafe and market from Casandra Flores, owner of Abuelita Coco in Oak Lawn. Will serve sandwiches, baked goods, tacos, cold-pressed juices, and exploring seafood dishes like fish tacos and calamari. Will share space with Youma’s Kitchen and Beanokio Cafe. Opening anticipated about a month from article date (July 23, 2026); official date to […]
FARE
Chicago-based fast-casual restaurant FARE is opening its first location outside Illinois at Queensbridge Collective inside the Vivian luxury residential tower. The approximately 1,500-square-foot restaurant will feature indoor and outdoor seating and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with scratch-made bowls, sandwiches, and seasonal dishes. Investment of more than $1 million. A second Charlotte location in Plaza […]
Tyber Creek Pub
Tyber Creek Pub owners Maynard Goble, Tommy Timmins, and Kevin Devin are planning to open a new neighborhood pub (phase two) at 1501 S. Mint Street in Charlotte’s Gold District. The project involves converting a 2,000-square-foot brick building into a pub, with up to $500,000 in investment. Currently in permitting with Hood Architecture as architect. […]
Zaxby’s
Franchise owner Sam Mahalingam is opening a new Zaxby’s location at 1726 Alleghany Street in Charlotte, NC. A land disturbance permit has been filed for site work. Owner stated hope to open before year-end 2026. Additional permits expected before construction begins. Will serve Zaxby’s standard menu including Chicken Fingerz, wings, sandwiches, and signature sauces.
Burrito Shak
Fast-casual Burrito Shak franchise planned for Tuscan Ridge Commons, a 13,664-square-foot retail development at the intersection of N.C. 42 and Tuscan Ridge Way in Clayton, NC. Franchisee Chase Riker is also developing the shopping center and targeting a 2027 opening. Concept serves chef-crafted burritos, tacos, bowls, quesadillas, and salads. Brand was founded in Hampstead, NC […]
Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s Pizza franchise operated by Gerald Rhodes is set to open at Tuscan Ridge Commons, a new 13,664-sq-ft strip center near Flowers Plantation. The retail center is expected to be delivered in Q4 2026. Domino’s will occupy one of nine retail spaces in the development led by Chase Riker through Tuscan Ridge Commons LLC.
Harry Hare’s
English-inspired fine dining restaurant with subtle Indian influences, taking over the former Beacon Hill Pub space at 149 Charles Street. Named after owner Patrick Lyons’ late father-in-law. Boston Licensing Board approved the liquor license transfer, clearing the way for the new concept. Lyons is a veteran restaurateur with 40+ years of experience and founder of […]
Hinata Shokudo
Chef Moe Kuroki, formerly of Oisa Ramen Slurp & Go, is working to open Hinata Shokudo, a Japanese neighborhood restaurant in Jamaica Plain, Boston. The concept translates to ‘sun-filled eatery’ and will focus on teishoku (traditional Japanese set menus), home-style Japanese cooking, ramen, and potentially cooking classes and Sunday brunch. The intimate space will seat […]