Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
National Guard deployment in Chicago is unlikely to reduce crime, according to local leaders and violence intervention experts. They argue that such an action could worsen tensions, especially given Chicago's history with the National Guard, which includes violent clashes in the past. Recent crime statistics indicate a decline in violence, suggesting that federal intervention is unnecessary.
Chicago's dining scene features several tiny restaurants with impressive culinary offerings. Block Club highlights seven full-service eateries with limited seating, including Tom Yum Cafe and EL Ideas, which provide unique dining experiences despite their small size. New openings like the eight-seat Atsumeru promise to add to this vibrant food landscape.
Tenants from five Rogers Park apartment buildings formed a union after facing rent increases of up to $500 following their acquisition by developer Imran Khan. Activists warn that evictions could begin as soon as September 1, amid complaints of declining building services. The newly formed union, Fuerzas Activas De La Damen, seeks to negotiate lower rents and improved conditions.
Chicago Avenue in West Humboldt Park will undergo significant street improvements next year, including bike lanes and raised crosswalks, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety. The Chicago Department of Transportation will implement a "road diet" along a one-mile stretch from Pulaski Road to Kedzie Avenue, addressing speeding and traffic accidents. Construction is set to begin in spring 2026 and will take approximately two years to complete.
Zaza’s Pizzeria will open a new location in Lincoln Park, taking over the former Pizzeria Bebu space. This expansion follows the success of their original Lakeview restaurant, known for its East Coast-style pizza and crispy crust. The new venue will feature many signature pizzas along with unique offerings specific to its location.
Chicago's Polar Express train rides have been canceled for the 2025 holiday season due to ongoing city street construction. This marks the second consecutive year the event has been called off, with organizers expressing hope for a future return. While the rides will not occur in Chicago, similar events will still take place in other locations across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
TNT Ramen opened as South Chicago's first ramen shop on August 1, replacing a former Mexican restaurant. Co-owners Antonio and Maricruz Macias aim to provide an affordable, authentic ramen experience with a limited menu featuring tonkatsu, chicken paitan, and vegetable ramen. The restaurant's gradual customer flow is expected to improve as temperatures drop.
Chicago puzzle maker Sandy Weisz launched his latest word game, Raddle, in March, inspired by popular games like Wordle. Raddle requires players to transform words step-by-step on a ladder, with daily puzzles and various themes drawing a growing audience. The game now attracts around 7,500 daily visitors, boosted by exposure from a popular YouTube streamer.
A group of 10 burglars stole over $130,000 in designer merchandise from a Nordstrom store in River North on Sunday evening. The thieves, dressed in black and wearing face coverings, forced entry into the store, causing $5,000 in damages. No injuries were reported, and police are investigating the incident.
A train derailed Monday morning between the Kimball and Southport stations on Chicago's Brown Line, disrupting service. No injuries were reported, and shuttle buses replaced rail service while crews worked to restore normal operations. Commuters were advised to consider alternative transportation and allow for extra travel time.