Len Defranco News Today

Restaurant owners and business and community leaders told Mayor Brandon Johnson they want the TIF system to be reformed and for key West Side CTA projects to get the green light.

The Chicago Restaurants Coalition says that only 36 percent of restaurants that applied for COVID grants received money last summer.

Some Chicago restaurant owners are asking for more time before the city’s proof of vaccine requirement takes effect at local restaurants, bars, gyms and entertainment venues Jan. 3. A coalition of about 30 restaurants is saying there hasn’t been enough time to adjust operations amid the holidays.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made employee wellness a priority, with even small businesses — often unaccustomed to structured wellness programs — looking to revamp their approach.

Sun-Times file Noise. Trays full of drinks skillfully navigating crowded rooms. Live music. Bar and restaurant owners took a few minutes Thursday to express their joy that the sounds and sights they took for granted prior to the coronavirus pandemic will be returning, beginning Friday, as the state lifts social distancing and capacity mandates. “It’s extremely exciting,” said Jodi Agee, owner of the Jefferson Tap in the West Loop. “I’m actually near tears. It was really hard for every...

Chicago restaurants ask city leaders to expand dining capacity ahead of Valentines Day weekend Chicago restaurants ask city leaders to expand dining capacity ahead of Valentine’s Day weekend With Valentine’s Day this weekend, restaurants struggling to keep their doors open are hoping the city will have a change of heart and increase indoor dining capacity. CHICAGO - Chicago restaurants limping along over the past year are hoping to put some spring in their step. But the timing has to be rig...