A compact West Loop neo‑bistro from the Elske team blends French technique with Midwestern comfort; critics praise its roast chicken and inventive desserts.

A House committee advanced a bill to extend Illinois’ voluntary pension buyout program, part of Gov. Pritzker’s plan to chip away at the state’s massive pension debt. Supporters tout multibillion savings while critics call the gains limited.

Supper‑club veterans Daniel Parker and Liz Bendure have opened Txa Txa Club’s all‑day cafe at 3268 W. Fullerton, serving an eclectic, seasonally rotating menu. The space doubles as a steady kitchen for their event work.

QXY is opening a Wicker Park restaurant at 2018 W. Division St., pairing its dumplings with wine and a tea‑lager collaboration while a liquor license is pending.

Bob's Pizza closed its Harper Court outpost last Friday after about three years, the owner confirmed. The chain's Pilsen and Old Town locations remain active.

A vehicle rammed the Golden Apple diner in Lakeview early Monday and thieves removed an ATM, police say.

Witnesses in Park West chased off a man who reportedly tried to lure a child Saturday morning; police are asking for tips and any footage.

Astor Club will convert a landmark Lake Shore Drive mansion at 1516 N. Lake Shore Drive into a daytime clubhouse with lake views, a library and a rooftop deck. The club plans to keep its underground supper club while adding new member amenities.

Video shows a car torn in half near Columbus and Central Park in Ashburn, leaving wreckage across the roadway and forcing a temporary closure while crews worked the scene.

A woman on a motorized scooter was struck and killed in South Shore; police say the driver fled and have released no vehicle description. Investigators are seeking tips.

Patchy fog Sunday morning and gusty north winds later. Gusts to 40 mph and Small Craft Advisories for Lake Michigan nearshore waters.

A man was found shot to death early Sunday in the 8000 block of S. Hermitage Avenue in Auburn Gresham; Area Two detectives are investigating.

A West Garfield Park mother was found shot behind her home on March 13; her family has started a fundraiser as detectives search for answers.