Kitty's Cosmopolitan Club, a new speakeasy from Lettuce Entertain You, will join Crying Tiger at 51 W Hubbard in River North this spring; no official date yet.

El Che chef John Manion is taking over the former Proxi spot on Randolph Street; details about the concept and opening timeline remain limited.

Mercadito has filed for a liquor license at 2421 N Lincoln Ave and is targeting a spring Lincoln Park opening, bringing River North favorites like empanadas and pollo tacos.

An application shows Al Diar plans to open a Yemeni restaurant at 1900 E. Touhy Ave in Des Plaines, replacing Evan's Place.

Chef Zubair Mohajir will open Mariela in the former Atwood space at 1 W Washington, promising a coastal, seafood-forward menu and an April 22 debut. The project comes as Mohajir expands his Chicago footprint.

A new Oak Lawn coffee shop aims to brew craft coffee and community through mentoring programs and a family‑friendly space.

Kumiko in Chicago's West Loop won the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award, adding to its James Beard and North America 50 Best recognition.

City photos show a new awning at Skinny Park as Vicolo, an Italian restaurant and pastificio, gets ready to open next door.

Three‑gallon tubs of House of Flavors “Chicago Vanilla” have been recalled after egg was left off the label. Affected lots were sold at retail in Illinois and refunds are available.

Rising fertilizer and diesel prices are squeezing Midwest growers and could push grocery bills higher in the months ahead.

A 7 Brew drive‑thru is proposed for Prairie Centre in St. Charles, with city planners reviewing plans and a late‑August target if permits are approved.

A popular Ogle County coffee trailer will open its first storefront at Valley Plaza in Stillman Valley this April, bringing seasonal drinks and biscuits to Wilson Street.

Country Club Hills’ Baby’s Cheesesteak & Lemonade has opened a downtown Joliet location, serving its signature crispy cheesesteaks and lemonade slushies with carryout and catering options.