Chicagoans celebrate summer with favorite seasonal foods, from luxury picnics to street fare like the Depression dog, highlighting the city's diverse and traditional culinary scene.

The Naperville Exchange Club has filed for bankruptcy and announced the end of Ribfest due to financial struggles, marking the conclusion of the club's community involvement.

The Illinois State Fair reintroduces its Small Plates, Big Tastes program and Feeding Frenzy event, offering fairgoers affordable sample-sized international cuisines and time-limited discounts on select food items.

Downtown Aurora will soon feature three new eateries, including Leilani Asian Fusion, Giardino Pizzeria, and Touche French Creole, in the historic Hobbs Building.

Marty's Martini Bar in Andersonville has been sold to 2Bears Tavern Group and will move to a new, larger location with plans for a sidewalk café in 2025. Staff will retain their jobs with pay increases.

Smash Jibarito, a pop-up known for combining smash burgers with jibarito sandwiches, is a hit at Desert Hawk Bar in West Town, Chicago, bringing a fresh culinary experience to the local bar scene.

Vajra, a Nepalese-Indian restaurant in Wicker Park, is reopening for in-person dining on August 1, reviving its bar service and offering a menu that has earned it two Michelin Bib Gourmand awards.

Athena Board Game Cafe relocates to the former Heartland Cafe site in Rogers Park, as Nayo African Cuisine launches at Athena's old address, offering authentic Nigerian dishes.

The Illinois State Fair announces new food vendors and the reintroduction of trams for easier navigation, featuring both traditional and innovative culinary options along with discounted admissions and musical acts.

The Glencoe Village Board has extended Guildhall restaurant's outdoor streetery usage until September 30, 2025, and amended zoning codes for greater business oversight downtown.

Chicago's 31st Street Beach sees violence impacting businesses; Pier 31 is affected by a curfew meant to curb the incidents. Alderman Robinson considers stricter measures and enhanced security as shootings persist.

Jim's Original celebrates its 85th anniversary by offering Polish sausages at the original price of $0.85 on July 8th, marking a tribute to their legacy and thanking customers.

Local eateries in Chicago, including Bronzeville Winery, are preparing special menus for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, with offerings like sliders and oxtail marmalade-topped dishes.