Pekara Bakery & Bistro
Pekara Bakery & Bistro is opening a new downtown Champaign location at 500 N Walnut Street, next to Martinelli’s Market (also owned by founders Lauren and Jeffrey Brokish). The menu will feature breakfast and lunch items including french toast, eggs, sandwiches, and espresso drinks. No official opening date announced but rumored to debut in fall […]
Jeffery Java & Juice
New breakfast and coffee concept featuring vegan donuts, breakfast waffle sandwiches, and Ethiopian coffee. Located at the former Sunnytown Food Mart at the intersection of E 71st Street and S Jeffery Boulevard in the South Shore neighborhood. Interior construction is currently underway. Project is being opened with the help of a Community Development Grant. Previously […]
Lake Avenue Tavern
Johnny’s Kitchen and Tap is rebranding to Lake Avenue Tavern at the same location. Last day for Johnny’s is May 10, 2026. Lake Avenue Tavern is set to debut in mid-June 2026, though an official opening date has not yet been confirmed. The new concept will feature elevated All-American comfort food, cold beers, and crafted […]
Mini City Play Cafe
Play cafe concept for children ages 0-6 co-owned by Amandou Lam and Adam Motz. Space will include playhouses and a full cafe serving coffee from Magnifico Coffee Roasters (lattes, espressos). Will host special events, classes, and birthday parties. Located at intersection of W Grand Ave and N Pauline Street in West Town. Currently under construction […]
FARE
Healthy restaurant chain FARE is opening a new location in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood at 868 N Wells Street. The brand already has multiple locations in Chicago and North Carolina. Menu focuses on bowls, plates, and breakfast items with many gluten-free options. Opening is expected sometime in summer 2026. Owners are Kasia Bednarz and Britni […]
Soul Ramen
Soul Ramen is a soul food and ramen fusion concept opening soon in Bronzeville on Chicago’s South Side. Founded by realtor and entrepreneur Airian McDuffy, the menu will feature gumbo ramen, jerk ramen, oxtail ramen, and other creative dishes. Chef Lance serves as culinary and culture director. Described as the first Black woman-owned ramen shop […]
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.