Windfree Solar Cafe opened on Dempster Street in Evanston, pairing espresso with on-site solar consultations and demos. The shop aims to make going solar easier by putting experts where people already go for coffee.

Permit filings show Au Cheval has targeted a 4,435‑sq‑ft unit with a 575‑sq‑ft patio inside Ashwood 12 South. A local partner is reportedly involved.

Naperville’s Pho Thien is opening a second location in Aurora near Chicago Premium Outlets, with construction underway and an estimated April 10 opening.

Max and Issy's Pizzeria in Lincoln Park will close March 28 after owners accepted an unsolicited offer; staff are expected to move to Kaiser Tiger.

Mayor Brandon Johnson cut the ribbon on The Original Mr. Beef’s new Midway outpost as the airport rolls out its refreshed Central Market and concessions program.

Con Azucar Café will open in Printer's Row this May, bringing its viral conchas and candy‑inspired lattes to the South Loop.

DineAmic will bring a Mediterranean restaurant, private riverfront lounge and Greek coffee bar to 300 N. LaSalle as part of Irvine Company's $37M overhaul, adding terrace dining to River North in 2026.

Tune-Up, from the owners of Estelle’s and The Owl, has opened in Avondale in a converted auto shop with garage-chic decor and a big back patio. The new late-night bar will host pop-ups, DJs and neighborhood nights.

Bar None opens in the West Loop this weekend, pairing zero‑proof cocktails with hemp‑derived microdoses for a sober‑curious night out. The pop‑up runs Fri–Sun evenings.

A 21-year-old Garfield Ridge native reopened Mini Hut, rescuing the neighborhood’s beloved butter‑crust fried chicken and planning a Sunday grand opening.

Nashville’s Hattie B’s opens at Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville on Thursday and plans River North and Wicker Park locations. The chain brings its signature spicy chicken and Southern sides to Chicago.

Dots Cafe, a family-run coffee shop from brothers Michael and Rob Young, is taking shape at 2000 W. Addison in Roscoe Village with a spring opening targeted.

The Publican has removed its communal tables and refreshed the dining room as chef Rob Levitt updates the menu under Donnie Madia's oversight.