Chicago’s last Native Foods in the Loop closed on Nov. 28; owner says sagging foot traffic and the shift to work‑from‑home forced the shutdown.

Robb Report ranked Chicago and Austin restaurants among the best of the 21st century, honoring places like Alinea for innovative cuisine. Franklin Barbecue in Austin was noted for its impact on the barbecue scene.

Smoke Daddy's Division Street location will close on January 4, 2026 after 31 years. Owners plan promotions, a closing-day tailgate and to repurpose the space into a new restaurant.

Unionized Starbucks workers strike on Red Cup Day, demanding better contracts, while the company continues festive cup giveaway and maintains most stores open.

Gino & Marty’s faces hundreds of thousands in liabilities, wage complaints and a landlord eviction while the owner vows to relaunch the West Loop spot. Court records and former staff accounts show the scale of the problems behind the closed facade.

Beloved Lakeview restaurant Dear Margaret won't reopen at 2965 N. Lincoln Ave after an October fire; the team plans to search for a new location.

Five neighborhood restaurants and bars — from Bucktown to Roscoe Village — closed or scaled back in late October, reshaping several local dining blocks. Owners and teams say some concepts will relocate or focus on private events.

Girl Scouts announce a new cookie, Exploremores, coming in 2026 while retiring S’mores and Toast-Yay! flavors in 2025. Exploremores feature chocolate, marshmallow, and almond flavors.

Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte, part of its fall menu, launches earlier this year on August 26 to boost sales, featuring both classic and new items amid competition.

New York's Katz's Delicatessen hosts a pop-up in Chicago, offering its famous pastrami sandwiches at Bub City. The event, part of the Windy City Smokeout festivities, extends to a second day due to high demand.

Chicago's Redhot Ranch is opening a new location in Skokie, with the same menu and hours, including a new cod sandwich. Owner Jeff Greenfield is also considering future expansions and collaborations.

Chicago launches a "Pizza Pass" offering discounts at over 25 pizzerias and a chance to win a pizza party or stay.

Gaiser's recalls over 140,000 pounds of lunch meat due to undeclared meat types, affecting products like “Family Tree Bologna Veal.” No adverse reactions reported, but consumers advised to discard or return the products.