The Violet Hour, a pioneering Chicago cocktail bar, is closing permanently after 18 years due to unresolved building damage and failed landlord negotiations.

The 4th annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest in Chicago features a diverse range of hot dogs, live entertainment, and a hot dog-eating contest. Attendees can vote for the Top Dog among nine vendors.

A multistate salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers has caused recalls in several brands and stores, with 26 reported cases and at least nine hospitalizations.

Noodles & Company plans to close up to 17 company-owned and 4 franchised locations in 2025, despite a recent sales increase and new menu offerings. The company aims to optimize its portfolio and support impacted staff.

Portillo's fast-food chain is testing a new breakfast menu at select Chicago-area locations starting April 15, offering items like a chocolate cake donut and a breakfast scramble.

Wing Snob is opening a new location in Romeoville, offering a variety of fresh chicken wings, with construction starting on May 1. The opening is planned for mid-July. Mayor Noak welcomes the economic boost and new dining option.

Illinois advances a bill to outlaw unauthorized sales of restaurant reservations, aiming to protect consumers and restaurants from inflated resale prices and lost revenue.

The Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago's River North has closed after 40 years, leaving fans nostalgic. While Hard Rock hasn't specified the cause, they're assisting staff with transitions.

Shaw's Crab House marks its 40th anniversary, renowned for top-quality seafood and classic appeal, with festivities including nostalgic dishes and live blues music.

Chicagoans prepare to celebrate Pączki Day on March 4, involving a rush at local bakeries for the popular, spirit-infused Polish pastries ahead of Lent.

McDonald's will not add an egg surcharge during their promotion of $1 Egg McMuffins to celebrate the sandwich's 50th anniversary, despite high egg prices. They also offer BOGO deals and reintroduce bagel sandwiches nationwide.

National Margarita Day was celebrated with unique twists on the classic cocktail, including RPM Seafood's verdita juice blend and Houston's diverse offerings from matcha margaritas to Italian-inspired versions, with specials and live entertainment.

Tri-Union Seafoods has recalled canned tuna due to potential botulism contamination, affecting multiple retailers including Trader Joe's, Walmart, and Costco. No illnesses reported, but vigilant monitoring of affected lots is advised.