Chicago’s food scene has been buzzing with excitement, judging from the number of restaurant openings, re-openings, relocations etc. I thought I should put together a list highlighting the recent changes and additions. Have you checked out any of these places? Let me know in the comments 🙂
- Castaways Beach Club
Castaways Beach Club (1603 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr) was officially back on Memorial Day Weekend, and looking better than ever! I visited this location years ago when it was managed by a different company, and it is easily one of my favorite spots to observe Lake Michigan.
As stated on the Castaways website, “The iconic boat house on North Avenue Beach features the best views in the city – overlooking the lakefront and the Chicago skyline. The newly reimagined Castaways Beach Club is the perfect blend of old and new. The classic charm of Castaways has been preserved while incorporating modern design elements, additional seating, and elevated food & beverage offerings.”
The eclectic menu features a blend of culinary perspectives that must be an absolute delight to experience. I can’t wait to visit!
- Crimson Coward Nashville Hot Chicken
Crimson Coward Nashville Hot Chicken has opened its first location in Chicago (328 N Michigan Ave Unit #1N, Chicago IL 60601) The Grand Opening on August 15 featured free food giveaways for the first 25 guests. The 1,933-square-foot hot chicken joint is located near commercial and residential sites, numerous hotels, and the DuSable Bridge over the Chicago River.
- Guzman Y Gomez
Guzman y Gomez (GYG) has made its name overseas in Australia as one of the top fast food restaurants in the country with its fresh, authentic Mexican favorites using only clean ingredients. Now shaking up the scene in Chicagoland, GYG has opened a new location in Evanston (1710 Sherman Avenue, Evanston IL 60201) At the official opening party, I got the chance to meet Founder and Co-CEO Steven Marks, and to sample some of GYG’s signature dishes.
Guzman Y Gomez Founder and Co-CEO Steven Marks
The loaded tacos…
…and the ice cream with churro were some of my favorites. Yum yum!
- Playa Bowls
Playa Bowls are famous nationwide for their superfruit bowls, smoothies, juices, oatmeal, and cold brew. They recently opened a new location in Chicago’s Lakeview (2949 N Broadway Chicago, IL 60657).
- Luella’s Southern Kitchen
Luella’s Southern Kitchen, the acclaimed Southern-inspired restaurant from Chef/Owner Darnell Reed, has reopened at its new location at 4114 N. Kedzie Avenue, in Albany Park. I had the pleasure of meeting Chef Reed and trying out his delicious food, and I was delighted to learn the news!
Chef Darnell Reed and his team
- Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley has recently celebrated its relocation to 339 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654. The famous restaurant serves elevated Southern comfort food in a spectacular interior, which includes a private dining area.
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