Chicago's rooftop season kicks off at IO Godfrey
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One Chicago hotel is kicking off its rooftop season in the coming weeks, the Godfrey Hotel's IO Godfrey.

These states are drinking less alcohol as habits shift, analysis finds

Habits around drinking alcohol are changing as more Americans are beginning to drink less. Here’s which states have seen the biggest shift, according to a recent data analysis.

Five Guys tops list of America’s best fast-food burgers. Do you agree? | ChicagoNOW
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A new YouGov survey reveals where Americans go for their favorite fast-food burger, and the top spot may surprise you. Five Guys takes the lead, even as it ranks among the most expensive fast-food chains in the U.S. We break down the top five burger spots and what you can expect to pay at each.

Not an athlete? PepsiCo says you need Gatorade anyway

Doctors caution that while electrolyte and sports drinks have their place, the average non-athlete shouldn’t reach for one just because they’re thirsty.

U.S. FDA Commissioner tours Chicago school
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A southwest side school got a visit today from a Food and Drug Administration Commissioner. The kids there are eating healthier and it's thanks for a new FDA program. 

Starbucks, ChatGPT want AI to help pick your next drink

The scene plays out every day in coffeehouses everywhere. A customer reaches the front of the line and immediately cannot decide what to order. There are so many options: maybe just get the usual, maybe a tea, maybe coffee, maybe a Frappuccino, iced or hot… What is that, something new?

‘Miracle fruit’ may help cancer patients fight chemo-related weight loss

A small West African berry known as “miracle fruit” is gaining attention for its potential to help chemotherapy patients manage “chemo mouth,” a side effect that alters taste and can lead to poor nutrition and weight loss.

7-Eleven plans to close 645 stores during 2026 fiscal year

The parent company of 7-Eleven intends to shut down hundreds of its North American locations over the coming months.

Home distilling ban struck down after 158 years

A U.S. Appellate Court ended a federal prohibition on distilling hard liquor that stretched all the way back to the Reconstruction era. 

Tax Day 2026 freebies and deals

April 15 is tax day and there are several restaurants offering free food deals to help make paying taxes a bit easier.

A Chicago shop is turning craft soda into an unforgettable experience
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Pop Culture Soda Gallery in Chicago is redefining soda with wildly unique flavors—from bubblegum to matcha white strawberry—all under one roof.

Health alert issued for mislabeled beef and pork products

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Services (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for several raw beef and pork products after inspectors discovered they contained sesame that was not listed on the label. Sesame is a federally recognized allergen.

New SNAP rules in Illinois could leave thousands of immigrants without food assistance
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Peter Zigterman of World Relief Chicagoland explains how new federal SNAP eligibility changes are impacting immigrants and refugees in Illinois—and what it means for food access across the region.

Chicago named home of the Candy Hall of Fame
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Chicago has been selected for the permanent home of the Candy Hall of Fame Experience.

The Peninsula Chicago offers tasty Easter brunch
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It's Easter Sunday, which means plenty of great brunch options around the city, including at The Peninsula Chicago.

Red Lobster eyes revival of 'Endless Shrimp' after costly menu misstep

Red Lobster's all-you-can-eat deal – which previously contributed to millions in losses – could come back as a limited-time offer very soon.

Ham and food box giveaway to be held for Easter in East Chatham
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Sandra Torres with the Witherite Law Group and 1-800-Truckwreck joins Good Day Chicago to talk about an upcoming ham and food box giveaway in time for Easter.

McDonald's launching new value menu items | ChicagoNOW
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McDonald's is launching new value deals, including items under $3, a $4 breakfast meal, and $5–$6 lunch/dinner meals starting later in April. These offers expand the McValue Menu introduced in early 2025, alongside existing Extra Value Meals. The updated value menu launches nationwide at participating locations on April 21, with rotating discounts like $1.50 Sausage McMuffins and $2.50 McDoubles.