📲 What is Mayor Johnson texting?

Mayor Brandon Johnson’s Texts Don’t Say Much

The first-term mayor likes to hit alders with a “Yo!” text and then hop on the phone, according to a review of his text messages. That’s in contrast to former Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s lengthy — and often, uh, mean — texts. [Tribune 🎁]

What Exactly Happened at South Side School?

Chaos, fear, and confusion ensued at Hamline Elementary School in Back of the Yards Friday when federal agents showed up. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

School Board Races Cost $13M

More than $13 million was spent in the city’s first school board races this fall, with the Chicago Teachers Union coming in as the biggest spender. [Chalkbeat]

File Your Taxes Now

Illinoisans can start filing their 2024 tax returns this week. Not ready? You have until April 15 to file or request an extension. [NBC Chicago]

Yuengling Beer Now in Illinois

“America’s oldest brewery” is now selling beers on draft throughout Illinois. The beer will also be available in cans and bottles in March. [Patch]

• Chicago sure does love its beer. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

January has been a busy month in dining news between Chicago Restaurant Week beginning and local food awards coming out. But don’t forget about all the new restaurants opening in Chicago.

Recent Openings

Prince Street Pizza in West Loop

See what all the hubbub is about for this New York City–based pizzeria, which just opened on Randolph Street’s Restaurant Row. Grab a Sicilian square or Neapolitan-style pie, even if Chicagoans know tavern-style always remains supreme 💪

Mister Tiger in West Town

I’d never let Hey Chicago readers miss a new Korean restaurant in town, especially a family-owned one that serves braised short rib and spicy cod.

Cumin in Lakeview

From Election Day dinner to sick day grub, the Wicker Park location is my go-to takeout spot. North Siders have to try the Nepalese dumplings and lamb curry at the new two-story restaurant.

Nitro Nostalgia in Bronzeville

The new South Side ice cream parlor is a treat for the whole family: Kids can marvel at the liquid nitrogen used to make the ice cream and play board games while adults can enjoy spiked options. Plus, everything is homemade from the ice cream to the waffle cones.

Anticipated Openings

Diversey House in Logan Square

Black-owned Moor's Brewing Company is joining Steep Ravine — the new name of Ravinia Brewing — to open a new taproom. It’s a homecoming for Steep, which closed its taproom at the spot in the fall. Marc Anthony Bynum, a three-time “Chopped” champion, is in charge of the food.

5 Rabanitos in Hyde Park

Ten years after opening in Pilsen, chef Alfonso Sotelo is bringing his restaurant showcasing different regional Mexican foods to 53rd Street next month.

The Greggory in South Barrington

If you’re in the mood for elevated American fare with Mediterranean influences, keep your eye on this new northwest suburban restaurant set to open next month. It’s the first restaurant from a new hospitality group full of local industry veterans.