Helen Floersh | What Now Chicago: The Best Source For Chicago News

New Investors Take a Bite Out of One of Chicago’s Biggest Pizza Chains

In a deal worth more than $500 million, shares of Lou Malnati's were sold to a San Francisco hedge fund.

Second City Meadery is Opening a Taproom in Albany Park

After a long delay, the meadery will finally bring its honey wine to its new taproom on Elston Avenue.

Capri Express is Opening a New Location in Lemont

The Italian eatery has signed a lease for a space in Lemont Village Square.

The Hot Dog Box is Opening a Full Restaurant in Portage Park

With ten times the space and a bigger menu, the beloved hot dog stand looks forward to feeding a new community.

Gordon Ramsay Burger Inches Closer to Late 2021 Opening

The first Chicago eatery for the world-famous chef has filed a liquor license application.

A Caribbean-Inspired Music Lounge is Coming to the West Loop

Brunch, live music and Caribbean cuisine are in the plans for Tribe, a new venue from the owner of Refuge Live.

Color Club is Opening Up to Public Events

The art studio and community center hopes to host retreats, art classes, poetry readings and more at the space.

Stax Cafe’s Popular Cocktails are Coming to Its Little Italy Location

The original outpost of the breakfast spot will soon be serving up bellinis, mimosas, Bloody Marys and more.

Mustard Seed Kitchen Is Opening in the South Loop

The new eatery is a "re-concept" of Chef Luciano Kitchen & Chicken — and boasts a prolific Chicago restaurateur at its helm.

Oooh Wee It Is! Will Bring Soul Food With a Twist to Two New Locations This Fall

The restaurant has big plans for its expansion, with games, live music and lobster and jerk chicken pop tarts served in a toaster oven.

A New Gastropub is Coming to St. Charles

Whiskey Bend will take over the former location of Pub 222.

Burrito Beach is Coming to North & Sheffield Commons

The new location will be the restaurant's seventh outpost.

Joe Donut is Coming to Elk Grove Village, Deerfield and Mount Prospect

The expansion includes the chain's first full standalone restaurant with a drive-thru.

A Work-and-Play Space for Parents and Kids is Coming to Lincoln Square

Itsy Bitsy Play & Cafe will offer room for parents to work and kids to play, plus a neighborhood cafe.

Bae Coffee is Set to Open Its First Brick-and-Mortar Shop in Lakeview East

In another pandemic success story, the coffee company will bring its "Dollywood minimalist" design to a new home on North Broadway.

Sushi Boutique is Opening Next Month in the Gold Coast

The upscale venue will serve sushi and izakaya-inspired plates that are meant to be shared.

Kitchen 17 is Coming to Avondale

The home of the original Chicago vegan deep dish is renting out an even bigger space.

Guinness is Opening a Taproom in Fulton Market District

The taproom will feature Irish pub fare and Chicago-exclusive brews.

BJ’s to Open Next Fall in Orland Park

The location will be the chain's first restaurant in Illinois.

The Owners of Zia’s Trattoria are Bringing Zia’s Social to Norwood Park

The longstanding restaurant concept will keep its Italian roots but will emphasize community dining at its new home.