Amid all the food news this year, we’ve also said bye to beloved Chicago restaurants. Here are a few spots that are closed or closing before the year ends.
The restaurant on the 95th and 96th floors of the John Hancock building was a spot for Chicagoans to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and more. But owners abruptly closed the eatery this year, citing pandemic and economic hardship. This week, former workers rallied to get their jobs back from any future tenant.
Many of us have also dined at the Grand Lux down the street, including Cast Chicago staffers who ate at the Magnificent Mile spot on first visits to the city, before prom, and more. The restaurant doesn’t close until Sunday, Christmas Eve.
The popular Pilsen restaurant is closing after a decade at Thalia Hall. Dusek’s became known for its extensive local craft beer and food menu, earning a Michelin star for four years. Its last day is New Year’s Eve.
The boutique Bronzeville bakery closed earlier this month due to rising food costs and declining business. The vegan-friendly pastry shop was known for specialty sweets and spirit-infused treats.
Duk's is closing up shop next week after serving Chicagoans for decades. (John W. Iwanski / Flickr)
After almost 70 years, the West Town hot dog stand will be closing up shop on New Year’s Eve. But hot dogs will still be sold at the Ashland Avenue eatery under a new name and management in the spring.
Chicagoans mourned the loss of the Logan Square restaurant and its signature burger, dubbed one of the best in the city, when it closed this summer.
Regulars and foodies flocked to the Chinatown staple to get one last Cantonese dish before second-generation owner Benjamin Au decided to retire and close the restaurant this summer.
Amid a rent dispute with a landlord, the Avondale taproom shut down last week. As one of the oldest breweries in the city, Metropolitan Brewing was known for its German-style beers.
