ILLINOIS — This week in Illinois business news, a bar owner bites back at protestors opposing a controversial performer; Chicago is one of America’s food capitals; and how the cost of eggs is impacting paczki prices.
Additionally, a beloved local eatery was awarded a 2025 America’s Classics Award for its timeless appeal, quality food and strong community.
Check out this week’s top headlines for Illinois business news on Patch:
Find out what’s happening in Chicagofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Quote Of The Week
“It’s crazy because they go up every week, the price is higher and higher and higher, and we think even after the Fat Tuesday, the price will go up.” – Chicago-area bakery manager Slawa Dudek
The Bottom Line
Find out what’s happening in Chicagofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Freebie of the Week
The much-anticipated celebration of National Pancake Day at IHOP has come around again. On March 4, customers can enjoy a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes.
More Restaurant News
Tap House Grill In Oswego Is Permanently Closed
Tap House Grill continues to operate four other locations in the Chicagoland area, including in Lemont.
La Grange Bakery Wants Expanded Liquor License
Such a move would add to La Grange’s “cultural richness,” the owner said.
Drive-Thru Addition Proposed For Former Chipotle Spot On Butterfield
Wheaton’s planning and zoning board will consider the proposal to add a drive-thru to the 811 Butterfield spot that once housed Chipotle.
The Village said the Bolingbrook location will offer sit-down and carry-out.
Village Board To Consider Liquor License For Crazy Tortas
The Ogden Avenue Eatery is seeking a Class 2 liquor license to permit beer, wine and cocktail sales.
When 2nd Yorky’s Plans To Open
The new restaurant features a bigger dining room and kitchen.
Tequila Limon Seeks Liquor License For Restaurant On Front Street
The “upscale Mexican steak and seafood restaurant” will occupy the former Sushi Mono space, according to city documents.
For Rent Sign Appears After Tony’s Place Closes Joliet Restaurant
Joliet’s West Jefferson Street remains in a state of transition. New businesses are coming, but other places are closing up.
Naperville’s first Chick-fil-A restaurant is located at 1159 E. Ogden Ave.
Lockport Restaurant Week Runs Through March 9
Patrons must mention “Lockport Restaurant Week” to receive the deals and discounts at participating restaurants.
More Business News
2 New Lemont Businesses Help Create Wellness Community
Lemont resident Danyelle Andrews has started both Bee Well Collective and Hive Fusion Fitness.
Musk-Trump Protest At Tesla Dealership In Libertyville
More than 550 people joined the protest at the Tesla dealership in Libertyville Saturday.
Local Business Owner Dies After Being Hit By 3 Cars: Authorities
Thomas Yucuis, 69, of the 600 block of Wilmette in East Dundee, died after being hit by three vehicles early Monday.
Fender Road Townhome Development Moves To Next Step In Lisle
The development’s zoning requests got a nod from the planning and zoning committee and will move to the next step in approval.
Store Opens In Former BuyBuy Baby Site; Another Coming Soon
Michaels has opened and Daiso is set to open in March.
3 Aurora Shops Didn’t Card Underage Buyers In Undercover Sting: PD
Of the nine businesses evaluated, six successfully carded the undercover cadets, officials said.
Late Worker Lies To Elmhurst Cops About Robbery: Authorities
The man made up the story to his boss and then told the police, according to a report. He now faces a felony charge.
Eden’s Bar Shooting Solved By Joliet Police, Arrest Made: English
After the March 11, 2023, shooting in the 900 block of Gardner Street, Joliet Police detectives identified Barber as a suspect.
Commercial Space, Townhomes Planned For Former Ace Hardware Site
Oak Forest officials approved the plan this week. A tenant for the commercial space is not yet locked in.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.