Iconic Eatery Expands, Fast-Food Chain Shutters, Brewery Earns Awards: IL Business News

ILLINOIS — As new restaurants open in Illinois, a longtime fast-food chain is closing more locations here.

Plus, a beloved pizzeria is expanding after nearly a half-century in business, copper thieves turn up the heat for local businesses but can't dampen their spirits, and a suburban brewery is earning accolades.

Here's a look at some of Illinois Patch's top business stories:

Iconic Pizzeria Expands After 48 Years

In business since 1976, what was once just a small mom-and-pop shop has grown over the decades. Now, they're opening a much-awaited new location.

More Arby's Restaurants Close

Two more suburban locations of the fast-food chain have closed up shop, and one could soon become a cannabis dispensary.

Werk Force Brewing Wins 3 Awards At U.S. Beer Open Championships

Two of their barrel-aged beers and a shandy snagged awards at the recent event. "We look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of craft beer and share our passion for brewing with beer lovers everywhere," one of the owners said.

Copper Thieves Turn Up The Heat On Local Businesses, Owners Fight To Reopen

Thieves have turned two businesses into a sweat box after someone stole the copper tubing from their respective air conditioning units. "I don’t have a thermostat in the store, but I know that touching the cash drawer is warm to the touch," one owner said. "Even with fans going, it’s unbearable."

Long-Vacant TJ's Bar Sells, Tru Country Bar Coming Soon

It's the second location for the area's most patriotic bar, as the owners of several other taverns plan to open soon. "We are proud to be serving up the area's best themed menu and unbeatable drink specials and live music," the owners said.

Another Local Restaurant Shuts Down

Tucked away off I-80, the low visibility may have ultimately doomed the local eatery.