Drinks, dining, dessert – there were fresh options for all this year throughout Naperville, as some sweet new businesses hit the scene.
The changes started in the north end of town, with Fogo de Chao and Uncle Julio’s opening up in Freedom Plaza.
Sweeping to the south, Naperville Crossings got some updates of their own. Painting With A Twist and Ten Friends Blow Dry and Style House moved in, along with their tasty neighbors Elly’s Pancakes and Andy’s Frozen Custard.
But it was downtown Naperville that saw the most action. Terrell Cole, the former Executive Chef of Sullivan’s, moved across the street to open his own shop – Dark Horse Pastries.
Just down the street, Empire burst onto the scene with their signature burgers and a retractable rooftop bar. Nando’s Peri-Peri and Delirio offer up some more exotic tastes, while the Halsted Street Deli covers all your sandwich needs.
The Craftsman tries to cater to all, with a different restaurant on every floor. And when it’s pure comfort food you’re looking for, Everdine’s Handcrafted Grilled Cheese Company serves it up in a “butter” way.
And then there’s Water Street. The project years in the making finally came to light, with an old friend returning to help welcome in the new development. Hotel Indigo, the centerpiece of the district, welcomed their first guests on November 29, and a 520 space parking deck as well as retailer Southern Tide are also now open. There’s more to come in 2017, with a number of new restaurants, a wine bar, custom coffee shop, and a kids drop-off play space in the works.
And if you need a ride to check out the different offerings, just hop a Tuk Tuk, the newest form of transportation to hit downtown.
Finally, we end with Two Fools. The cidery is the first of its kind in northern Illinois, and serves up five ciders perfect for any palate.
So eat it up, drink it in, and watch for even more new businesses as we roll into the New Year.
Naperville News 17’s Evan Summers reports.
