Drama Club, from the Scofflaw Group, opened Wednesday at 819 N. California Ave. in Humboldt Park with tequila-forward cocktails, DJs and late hours.

Groundswell Coffee is opening a Loop café at the Fine Arts Building on July 20, 2026, bringing a shop-exclusive roast and quick breakfast items to 410 S. Michigan Ave.

Chicago roaster Color Me Coffee is the Obama Presidential Center’s official coffee supplier, debuting a new 44 Reserve blend that leans on a 40‑year local legacy.

A fire shut Obbie’s Pizza in Garfield Ridge on Friday. Neighbors and nearby pizzerias organized fundraisers to help staff while the family rebuilds.

Fayus Inc., dba Yusol, recalled 64‑oz Ola‑Ola pounded yam after finding milk (sodium caseinate) was not listed on some labels; affected packs expire Nov 2028–May 2029.

A four-block social district in Arlington Heights will let adults carry to-go drinks in the Arlington Alfresco area this summer; wristbands and approved cups are required. The pilot runs July 30–Sept. 26.

John and Jess Feller are opening Home Bar in West Town’s former Rhine Hall space with martinis, $12 cocktails and a martini membership. The room will include a retail nook.

A whiskey bar and permanent food truck have opened at Elgin’s Wing Park, anchored in a new $4.3M clubhouse with simulators, a pro shop and local beverage collaborations.

A mother-and-daughter team has opened Terra Cafe on Belmont, serving Guatemalan beans, empanadas and an expanded menu with a city grant to help the buildout.

National burger champion Chris Allen is returning to Quincy to open Birdies and Brews at 4817 Broadway, pairing golf simulators with a burger-forward menu.

Wahlburgers' Randall Road restaurant closed June 29, saying its lease ended and that a 'new location' is coming soon with no timetable. Local outlets say the chain offered few details.

After 40 years on Route 12, Red Dogs will close Sunday as owner Pat Heuer retires and Culver’s prepares to take over.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe is opening a Logan Square location near the Blue Line, promising a big grand opening with discounts and free smoothies. The 1,800‑sq‑ft shop will hire about 15 people.