According to a press release sent to What Now Chicago, DeNucci’s will be expanding its concept to the North Shore at 1850 2nd St., Unit 110.
The second location of DeNucci’s is slated to open in the fall. “In the first partnership of the City of Highland Park’s (the City) new boutique incentive program designed to attract well-established, successful restaurant groups to Highland Park, the City and Ballyhoo Hospitality (Ballyhoo) have entered into an agreement that will see Ballyhoo’s DeNucci’s concept open a new restaurant in Downtown Highland Park.”
“The restaurant concept promises an inviting ambiance with old-school Italian charm and a fresh appeal. Guests who dine at DeNucci’s will be able to experience an authentic, approachable, warm, and welcoming environment while enjoying classics like Artichoke Vesuvio, Mozzarella al Forno, and Veal Marsala. The menu also features NY-influenced pies using the beloved recipe by Salvatore “Sal” Lo Cascio (Ballyhoo’s Pizzaiolo overseeing Coda di Volpe, Pizza by Sal and DeNucci’s).”
“We are thrilled that Ballyhoo Hospitality has chosen Highland Park as the next location for one of their many outstanding restaurant concepts,” said Mayor Nancy Rotering in the press release. “In August of 2023, the City Council took the proactive approach of designating funds for boutique incentive packages to attract well-established and highly desirable restaurants and kickstart Highland Park into a new trajectory of growth.”
“The incentive for Ballyhoo Hospitality demonstrates the City’s commitment to Economic Development by partnering with owners and operators to bring successful concepts to Highland Park.”
“The agreement entails a $1.5M lump sum payment to Ballyhoo, to be used for eligible renovation expenses, including remodeling of the existing interior restaurant space, enclosed patio, and kitchen on the property. Ballyhoo will take responsibility for the remaining renovation costs.”
“The Tabani Group, which owns the Renaissance Place property, has met the tenets of the boutique incentive program and is acting as a partner in this project through their lease obligations and terms with Ballyhoo.”
“To protect the City’s financial investment, the agreement provides for a percentage of funds to be returned to the City on a sliding scale if the restaurant ceases operations in Highland Park within the first five years.”
“We are very excited to be a part of the community in Highland Park,” said Ryan O’Donnell, Founder and CEO of Ballyhoo Hospitality. “Since opening our first restaurant on the North Shore in 2020, we have always felt Highland Park would be a neighborhood we would expand into. We look forward to sharing DeNucci’s with you soon.”
