Iconic Eatery's Last IL Location, Restaurant Wins Award: IL Business News

ILLINOIS — After more than a half-century in business, a local restaurant is the only location left in Illinois — and still thriving.

Plus, a new McDonald's got the green light this week, a shopping center is offering up fresh produce and more with a street market, and another longtime local eatery is getting a rebrand of sorts — but its owner says it still offers the best hot dogs in town.

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

Rax Roast Beef, A Local Tradition Since 1968, Still Thriving At Last IL Location

Once a chain with around 500 restaurants nationwide, the roast beef restaurant now has only a handful of locations left — but the remaining Illinois location has kept its loyal following for more than five decades. "Lots of customers are repeat customers," the owner remarked. "We've been here a long time. Word of mouth ... We have a great, great, staff. Some of the girls have been with me over 30 to 35 years, so the food is very consistent."

Chicago Restaurant Wins James Beard Award

It was the only Chicago eatery to take home a coveted James Beard Award Monday night. Founded in 1999, the café has been featured on "This American Life," praised by The New York Times and honored with Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation

Why Was 'Babe's Jumbo Hot Dogs Sign' Replaced? Owner Reveals Answer

"Don't get me wrong. I still think we have the best hot dogs in town, but we have so much more," the owner told Patch — from sandwiches and wraps to burgers, corned beef and salads. The longtime local restaurant has been around for more than 35 years.

Woman-Owned PureBerry Bowls Offers Soft-Serve Acai

The shop specializes in soft serve acai that's made from berries and not powder, owners told Patch. The result is a creamy, soft texture that's also fast and efficient for customers — "We can get a bowl out to a customer in like 30 seconds."

Street Markets Planned Throughout Summer At The Promenade

There will be over 50 booths offering hand-made items and other goods. The street market runs through Aug. 22.

McDonald's Development Gets Green Light

However, one resident echoed ongoing concerns about flooding and traffic near the development site, imploring trustees, ""I wish that you would listen to us and not think about the pocketbook." The proposal includes the construction of a new outlot with 34 parking spaces, including three for McDonald's customers who are picking up mobile orders and two spots designated for accessible parking.

Auto Parts Store's New Shop Part Of Revitalization Efforts

The shopping plaza has made a dramatic comeback, all thanks to the NAPA auto parts company.