Sprinkles Cupcakes closing all locations, founder and former owner confirms
founder and former owner of Sprinkles Cupcakes confirmed in an Instagram post Wednesday that the company is closing all its locations across the country.
New Year’s Eve party options abound across Chicago
Chicagoans are getting ready to ring in the New Year with celebrations, partying and much more at the stroke of midnight.
SNAP junk-food purchase restrictions take effect Jan. 1 in five states, others to follow in 2026 — see where
The new year brings new restrictions on food purchases by SNAP recipients. On Jan. 1, five states are banning SNAP recipients from using their taxpayer-funded food assistance benefit to purchase junk food.
Dry January offers a fresh start for healthier habits in the new year
Chris Reed of the Northern Illinois Recovery Center explains why taking a 30-day break from alcohol can improve health, shift habits, and help some people decide whether they want longer-term change.
Outback Steakhouse sued after toilet shatters, injures man
A Florida man has filed a lawsuit against Outback Steakhouse, alleging he suffered severe injuries after a handicapped toilet seat suddenly shattered and collapsed beneath him.
Do detox diets really work? Expert weighs in
A registered dietitian from Rush University Medical Center explains whether popular detox diets actually improve health, what science says about “gut health,” and smarter ways to reset habits after the holidays.
Why cheaper beef prices are still a long way off
It's going to be a while before consumers see any relief when it comes to beef prices.
Shoppers who purchased beef in certain years may be eligible for cash payment: See eligibility and how to file
Shoppers in several states may be eligible for part of an $87.5 million antitrust class action lawsuit settlement with several beef processors.
Celebrate National Bacon Day with Chicago's Culinary Kitchen
We found a bacon master from Chicago Culinary Kitchen to celebrate National Bacon Day.
Jack in the Box shut down more than 70 stores with more expected by year's end
Jack in the Box has shuttered 72 locations so far as part of a cost-cutting turnaround plan.
Portillo’s partners with Bears wide receiver DJ Moore on limited-time meal
Chicago-based restaurant chain Portillo’s is partnering with Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore on a new limited-time meal celebrating one of the team’s most memorable moments of the season.
Sausage recall: 2,000 pounds pulled after metal strip discovery
The Department of Agriculture has announced a recall of nearly one ton of Olympia Provisions’ holiday kielbasa after a consumer reported finding metal in the product.
A Wrigleyville bar turns into a festive Santa Baby Christmas pop-up
Stolen Saddle, a country-themed bar in Chicago’s Wrigleyville neighborhood, has transformed into a festive “Santa Baby” Christmas pop-up. The space is filled with floor-to-ceiling Christmas decorations, immersive photo ops and holiday drinks. Staff say it takes about three weeks to set everything up, with months of planning going into the pop-up each year.
Jim Beam shutting down production at Kentucky distillery for a year
Jim Beam is shutting down production temporarily at one of its Kentucky distilleries as the whiskey industry faces tariffs and declining demand.
Instacart ending price test program after backlash
Instacart is ending a program where customers saw different prices for the same product ordered at the same time from the same store. Here’s what they’re saying about the price testing strategy.
What's open and closed in Chicago on Christmas Day
If you’re in need of some last-minute groceries or gifts on Christmas Day, your options will be limited.
Frozen shrimp sold in multiple states recalled due to possible radioactive contamination, FDA says
The recalled shrimp products were sold in multiple states, including New York, Illinois, Nevada, and Oregon.
DoorDash brings grocery ordering to ChatGPT
DoorDash announced it is launching a new grocery shopping app within OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
Marina's Bistro in Chicago serves flavors of Puerto Rico
Marina's Bistro in Uptown is serving up some great traditional Puerto Rican flavors for the holidays.
Which restaurants are open for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day 2025
If you’re planning to dine out this year, these restaurants are opening their doors during the holidays.



















