As 2019 comes to a close we had to say goodbye to a few of our favorite Chicago restaurants, including the Schaumburg location of Rainforest Cafe. Below are some of the most dreaded 2019 Chicago restaurant closings we’ve seen. It would be an understatement to say we’re sad to see them go.
Rainforest Cafe | D121 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg
This 25-year-old, jungle-themed Woodfield Mall restaurant that includes iconic, tropical animatronics is closing come January 1, 2020. Why is the Rainforest Cafe closing? This restaurant is closing its doors “due to a natural lease expiration.” Chicago’s only location in River North is now an endangered species, and with only 2 years left on that lease, it may only be a matter of time. The Rainforest Cafe has 18 locations nationwide, including another suburban establishment in Gurnee.
DMK Burger Bar | 600 E Grand Ave
Another Chicago restaurant closing announcement came from the owners of DMK Burger Bar in Navy Pier. However, the Lakeview location still remains extremely popular with Chicago residents.
Tavern at the Park | 130 E Randolph St
The Millennium Park location was bought earlier this year by Sterling Bay, the same group behind the Lincoln Yards plan. They were a popular hot-spot for weekly happy hours.
Furious Spoon | 5406 N Clark St
This ramen bar chain restaurant with other locations in Wicker Park, Lakeview, Evanston, and a few others, closed their Andersonville location in June of this year.
Land on Lincoln Tavern & Grill | 3032 North Lincoln Avenue
The Land on Lincoln Tavern & Grill is another Chicago restaurant that closed on November 15th. They were known for their curated beer and wine selection and would have live music, comedy, and game nights.
Devon Seafood Grill | 39 E. Chicago Avenue
Devon began having issues with higher rent and increased operating costs, which ultimately led them to close their doors at their downtown Chicago location. But DON’T WORRY—you can still get a taste, if you’re craving it, at their Oakbrook location.
Mother’s Too | 14 W Division St
The Mother’s Too Chicago restaurant closed its doors on Division Street on October 26th. With 30 years in business Mother’s Too was known for its live music and energetic atmosphere.
Caffe Baci | 225 W Wacker Dr
Closing its Wacker Drive location, this once chain now has only one location left on LaSalle Street. This fast-casual Italian spot serves sandwiches, salads and breakfast items.
Slurping Turtle | 116 W Hubbard St
Another popular ramen Chicago restaurant is closed in River North, Slurping Turtle was one of the first quality ramen shops in the city, opening more than seven years ago.
Stout Barrel House and Pizza | 642 N Clark St
A popular bar and restaurant location, Stout has closed its doors but their management did say they are working on a new concept for the location coming soon.
Andy’s Thai Kitchen | 6230 N Broadway St
The Andy’s Thai Kitchen Chicago restaurant in Edgewater has closed, leaving the original Lakeview location still open. This restaurant is known for serving traditional Thai food and beyond.
Any other 2019 Chicago restaurant closings you’re sad about? Let us know in the comments below.
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Featured Image Credit: Rainforest Cafe