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Mediterranean Restaurant In Chicago, IL

Deciding whether to stay in for dinner or go out to eat can be a nightly dilemma for many. Some people firmly believe in preparing home-cooked meals almost every night. Others rarely venture into the kitchen beyond reheating last night's takeout leftovers. Regardless of your cooking philosophy, one thing we can all agree on is that dining at a local Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago, IL, is a fantastic way to treat yourself to a delightful meal and take a break from the cooking. Eating out gives you the chance to unwind and connect with friends over wonderful food, all without the hassle of cooking or dealing with the cleanup afterward.

And when it comes to eating at a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in The Prairie State, Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar is one of the most popular and fun dining experiences you can have.

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Take a Trip to the Mediterranean at Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar

In the past, finding a great Mediterranean restaurant and patio wine bar was like trying to find a needle in the biggest sports arena in Chicago, IL. It seemed impossible. Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar broke that mold, and today, it stands tall as one of the most renowned locations in the world for authentic Mediterranean food and Roman-style pizza.

As soon as you walk through our doors, you'll be greeted by an atmosphere of unmatched warmth and hospitality. Our talented chef takes great care in crafting a delectable menu that reflects a true passion for Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for succulent Branzino or Roman style pizza in Chicago, IL, our food will delight your palate. Nia truly shines as one of the top dining spots in the West Loop, beautifully blending the delicate flavors of seafood with the comforting appeal of pizza.

To enhance your experience, our knowledgeable sommeliers are ready to guide you through our extensive wine list, expertly pairing the finest Mediterranean dishes with the perfect glass of vino. Whether you're enjoying a crisp white with your seafood or a robust red alongside your pizza, our selection is sure to impress. Our steadfast commitment to excellence shines through in every sip, ensuring that each glass of wine elevates your meal to new heights.

What Makes Nia the Top Mediterranean-Inspired Restaurant in Illinois?

If you're new to the Chicago area or you've never dined with us, you're probably wondering what makes Nia such a sought-after place to eat and imbibe. Simply put, we strive to create an unforgettable atmosphere, serve delectable food, and wow you with our 5-star service.

Mediterranean Cuisine Chicago, IL
Flawless Food Service

At Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar, impeccable service is at the heart of what we do. From the moment you sit down, our attentive staff is dedicated to meeting your every need, making us one of the top-rated restaurants in the West Loop. Whether it's recommending a dish, providing insightful explanations, or suggesting the ideal wine pairing, we strive to ensure that your dining experience is truly unforgettable.

 Nia Restaurant Mediterranean Dishes Chicago, IL
Inviting Patio Winebar in Chicago, IL

The best way to celebrate special occasions is at our patio wine bar with friends and family. We pride ourselves on offering outstanding cuisine and an atmosphere that whisks you away to the Mediterranean. Our rich seafood dishes and mouthwatering pizzas provide a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

What are the Most Popular Events at Nia's Patio Wine Bar?

Wondering what kind of events we host at Nia? From birthday parties to corporate team-building exercises and everything in between, our Mediterranean restaurant is perfect. Whether you're looking for a spot to eat after visiting the most popular monument in Chicago, IL, or you want to treat your spouse to a special night out, we can help.

 Fresh Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL
Private Dining

For private dining experiences, our team is dedicated to ensuring your gathering is exceptional, regardless of whether you're hosting an intimate group of ten or looking to impress a larger circle of friends and family.

 Mediterranean Dining Chicago, IL
Corporate Events

Corporate team-building events can do wonders for office morale and productivity. Unfortunately, finding a venue for your corporate event can be challenging. Whether you want to host an intimate gathering for 10 in our main dining room or make a lasting impression on 80 seated guests at your next corporate event in Nia's private dining room, we have the perfect space for you.

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Rehearsal Dinners

Whether you're the beautiful bride or the stunning groom, you can rest easy knowing you've got a reliable, private, flexible space for your rehearsal dinners. While you're practicing your vows and going over your wedding day schedule, we'll prepare an unforgettable meal for you and your guests. That way, you can focus on prepping for your big day while we keep your belly full and your heart happy.

 Healthy Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL
Private Events

Planning your next big event and need a large space for celebrating? Host your private events at Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar, where we offer a remarkable selection of options for private dining and gatherings. Our intimate main dining room beautifully captures the essence of the sunny Mediterranean with its iridescent tiles, elegant stained-glass sconces, and textured walls. The rich burgundy curtains and upholstery, paired with warm wood tones, create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for your private events.

Mediterranean Cuisine Chicago, IL
Bridal Showers

Getting married is one of the most important and happy times in a person's life. If one of your friends or family members is getting hitched, why not celebrate with a bridal shower at our Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago, IL? Our staff helps make your party easy and streamlined, so you can focus on having fun while we serve up tasty food and wine. Whether the wedding bells are ringing for you, a close friend, or a family member, one of the enjoyable events leading up to the wedding is definitely the bridal shower.

Private Event Services from Nia: Making Your Holiday Event More Memorable

As the year begins to wind down, thousands of individuals and families flock to the Chicago area to celebrate the season with family and loved ones. Of all the ways to enjoy this time of year, holiday parties top the list. Organizing a holiday party that truly makes a lasting impression can feel overwhelming, but with Nia's outstanding private event services, you can create an unforgettable celebration effortlessly.

Located in the bustling West Loop, Nia Restaurant & Wine Bar has been a top choice for private dinner parties in Chicago since 2008, combining affordability with sophistication seamlessly. Whether you're looking for an intimate setting with private rooms for small gatherings or need budget-friendly dining options, Nia offers customized packages to suit every budget.

 Nia Restaurant Mediterranean Dishes Chicago, IL
Custom Private Holiday Event Packages Explained

Our Mediterranean-style restaurant offers a variety of customized private event packages designed to suit the distinct needs of each client. Whether you're organizing an intimate gathering or a lavish celebration, we provide flexible options that accommodate different group sizes and budgets. We offer both large rooms for lavish parties and a selection of cozy, private rooms ideal for warm connections and memorable moments.

Like the most popular football team in Chicago, IL, our private events team works together to customize every aspect of your event, from seating arrangements to special dietary requests. This hands-on approach ensures that your holiday party not only meets but surpasses expectations, reinforcing Nia's standing as one of the leading choices for affordable private dining in Chicago.

Top 5 Reasons to Go Out to Eat at Nia Tonight

One of the best things about being an adult is having the financial freedom to go out to eat occasionally. Of course, you've got to keep your budget and priorities in mind, but everyone needs to let loose now and then. Here are some of the top reasons why you should shut off your oven and hop in the car for a night out at Nia.

Once you've been to a real-deal Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago, IL, it's only a matter of time before you go back. The food, wine, and flavors are just too delicious to ignore. Life is too short to spend another evening trying to make do with a makeshift recipe or whatever leftover ingredients you have lying around. The food in your pantry will still be there tomorrow, so why not seize the opportunity tonight to step out and truly satisfy your hunger? How much longer can you resist the allure of fresh, local ingredients transformed into your favorite dishes?

 Fresh Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL

Dining out presents a wonderful chance to engage socially beyond the confines of home and work. This kind of leisure time is vital for nurturing a healthy lifestyle and supporting your mental well-being. It's refreshing to chat, share a laugh, and enjoy the company of others, allowing you to momentarily set aside your worries. Whether you choose to head out solo and meet someone at a wine bar or invite along your favorite person, living socially is a key ingredient in the recipe of life.

 Mediterranean Dining Chicago, IL

Supporting local businesses like Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar is a fantastic reason to dine out more often. When you choose to eat at a nearby restaurant, you're not just enjoying a meal; you're also helping to sustain the livelihood of everyone involved, from the owners to the servers to the sommeliers and everyone in between. Your patronage contributes to the growth and vitality of your community, making a positive impact on the local economy.

 Greek Cuisine Restaurant Chicago, IL

After a long day of hard work, you deserve a well-earned break. Why add to your stress by messing up your kitchen with dinner preparations? Even if you love to cook, everyone needs a chance to relax and let someone else take care of the meal occasionally. It's important to carve out time for yourself. What could be more enjoyable than savoring a delicious dish crafted by an executive chef like Daniel Echevarria? Allow someone to wait on you for a change; you've certainly earned it.

 Healthy Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL

Exploring new experiences, flavors, and cultures is one of the best parts of living life. For those who find it hard to avoid a strict menu, hopping on the busiest highway in Chicago, IL and dining out is a wonderful chance to try something different. Over time, restaurant cuisine has evolved to include innovative and distinct dishes that you might not whip up in your own kitchen. With delectable Roman-style pizza and incredible Mediterranean cuisine, Nia fits that bill to a T. So, don't hesitate to head out this evening and sample something entirely new; you just might be pleasantly surprised!

Mediterranean Cuisine Chicago, IL
 Nia Restaurant Mediterranean Dishes Chicago, IL

Looking for a night out in Chicago? It's Time to Try Nia Restaurant & Wine Bar

Our innovative chef and attentive servers are committed to bringing you the freshest ingredients, all skillfully prepared with love. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner, having a fun evening out with friends or family, or treating yourself to a solo date night at Nia, we can't wait to welcome you. Join us for a wonderful evening filled with exceptional food and delightful company. Don't forget to check out our Mediterranean dinner menu and reserve your table today!

Key Ingredients of an Exceptional Patio Winebar in Chicago, IL

Stepping into a wine bar can feel a bit like embarking on a treasure hunt. Sometimes, you might be caught off guard by a bad selection, a misguided theme, or, even worse, uninspiring wine. Add to that the fact that wine bars come in all shapes and sizes these days, from dim, abandoned spaces to bustling venues, and it makes wine bar hunting even more fun. Yet, when you stumble upon a gem like Nia-one that exceeds expectations and shines on multiple levels-it truly transforms your sipping and dining experience.

Here are some of the top qualities of an exceptional wine bar.

 Fresh Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL

The Wine

While it may seem obvious that a great wine list should be a standard feature, you'd be surprised by how many wine bars stumble on this essential element. A top-notch wine list is as carefully curated as an exhibit at the most popular museum in Chicago, IL, state - meticulously chosen and always diverse. It should allow you to explore wines from across the globe, showcase a variety of vintages, and include both well-known labels and hidden gems from afar.

 Mediterranean Dining Chicago, IL

Wine Bar Concept

A wine bar should have a captivating concept that draws people in. It's important to offer enough variety, including seasonal menu updates and special promotions. Whether it's the cozy atmosphere, the overall vibe, or the delicious food and wine pairings, all elements must work harmoniously together to create a memorable experience. At Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar, we're always rotating our wines and looking for the newest and most popular choices.

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Knowledgeable Staff

A well-trained staff is essential for a quality wine bar. They should possess a solid understanding of the wines they serve and beyond. Familiarity with the regions and other similar wines is key. They don't need to be certified sommeliers, but they must be knowledgeable about the menus and wine lists. There's nothing more frustrating than inquiring about a restaurant's wine selection and being met with a vague response like, "We have white and red." Or worse, asking about different varietals and receiving a confused look in return.

 Healthy Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL

Proper Glassware

Here's an instance where size really does matter. Every wine has its own distinct flavor profile that you can experience at different points on your tongue and throat. As a result, the shape of a wine glass influences how each sip of wine interacts with your taste buds.

Mediterranean Cuisine Chicago, IL

Atmosphere

To create an inviting atmosphere in a patio wine bar, the lighting should be understated yet bright enough for patrons to appreciate the colors of each wine. The music needs to be at a volume that's enjoyable and can be heard over chatter but never loud enough to drown out the sounds of glasses clinking in celebration. The overall vibe should make everyone feel relaxed, welcome, and comfortable to minimize any feelings of tension or discomfort.

 Nia Restaurant Mediterranean Dishes Chicago, IL

What Our Clients Are Saying

 Fresh Mediterranean Food Chicago, IL

An Unforgettable Dining Experience Awaits at Nia

Discover why Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar stands out as one of Chicago's premier dining destinations and a favorite for unforgettable meals. Make a reservation today and embark on a delightful culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and create cherished memories. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, crave Roman style pizza in Chicago, IL, or love wine, Nia Restaurant and Wine Bar promises an exceptional dining experience. Don't forget to take advantage of our enticing happy hour specials in the West Loop, adding an extra touch of enjoyment to your outing at one of downtown Chicago's best restaurants.

Latest News in Chicago, IL

More than 50 suburban spots are part of 2025 Chicago Restaurant Week. Here's where

The very popular Chicago Restaurant Week kicks off Friday, with more than 500 participating restaurants across dozens of cuisines -- but you don't need to go to the city to experience it....

The very popular Chicago Restaurant Week kicks off Friday, with more than 500 participating restaurants across dozens of cuisines -- but you don't need to go to the city to experience it.

In fact, at least 50 of the featured restaurants are in the suburbs, according to organizers.

The 17-day event offers set menus and fixed pricing brunch, lunch and dinner, Choose Chicago says. The popular event allows diners to visit neighborhoods or restaurants they may not otherwise have considered, or might not be able to get a reservation at.

"Go to a place you've never been before," Isaac Reichman of Choose Chicago said. "Go explore a new cuisine or neighborhood. Go to new restaurants or mainstays. We've got so many different options."

In addition to the city, the restaurants span multiple suburbs, with set menus and pricing of lunch or brunch at $30, and dinner at $45 or $60, depending on the restaurant. The week runs through Feb. 9, and features 500 restaurants in total, spanning 35 Chicago neighborhoods and nearly two dozen suburbs.

"Book now," Reichman said. "They are going fast."

Below is the full list of suburban Chicago restaurants participating in Chicago Restuarant Week for 2025, and where they are located.

Evanston

Double Clutch Brewing Company, 2121 Ashland Ave., $30 brunch, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Oceanique Restaurant, 505 Main St., $60 dinner

Soul & Smoke, 1601 Payne St., $30 lunch, $5 dinner

Glenview

Ema, 1320 Patriot Blvd., $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Wildfire, 1300 Patriot Blvd., $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Highland Park

DeNucci's, 1850 2nd St., Unit 110, $45 dinner, $60 dinner

Hinsdale

Pour Destino, Calle Cantina, $60 dinner

Vistro Prime, 112 S. Washington St., $60 dinner

La Grange

mána, 88 LaGrange Rd., $45 dinner

fourteensixteen, 14 Calendar Ave., $60 dinner

Kama Bistro, 9 LaGrange Rd., $45 dinner

Steak & Vine, 37 LaGrange Rd., $45 dinner

Lincolnshire

Wildfire, 235 Parkway Dr., $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Lincolnwood

L. Woods Tap & Pine Lodge, 7110 Lincoln Ave., $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Mia Francesca, 4436 W. Touhy Ave.

Lombard

Benihana, 747 E. Butterfield Rd., $45 dinner

Greek Islands Restaurant, 300 E. 22nd, $30 lunch, $45 dinner, $60 dinner

The Capital Grille, Yorktown Center, $60 dinner

Naperville

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, 47 E. Chicago Ave., $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Morton's The Steakhouse, 1751 Freedom Dr., $60 dinner

Ramsay's Kitchen, 39 W. Jefferson St., $45 dinner

Northbrook

Di Pescara, Northbrook Court, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Napolita Pizza & Wine Bar, 1349 Shermer Rd., $30 brunch, $30 lunch, $45 dinner, $60 dinner

Morton's The Steakhouse, 699 Skokie Blvd., $60 dinner

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, 933 Skokie Blvd., $60 dinner

Oak Brook

Antico Posto, Oakbrook Center Mall, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Beatrix, Oakbrook Center Mall, $30 brunch, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Coa at the Drake Hotel, $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Devon Seafood & Steak, Oakbrook Terrace, $45 dinner

El Tapeo, Oakbrook Center, $45 dinner

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille, Oakbrook Center Mall, $60 dinner

Roka Akor, Oakbrook Center Mall, $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Season's 52, Oakbrook Center Mall, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Wildfire, Oakbrook Center Mall, $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Violi, Oakbrook Center, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Oak Park

Amerikas Restaurant, 734 Lake St. $60 dinner

Orland Park

Seasons 52, 15610 S. LaGrange Rd., $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Rosemont

McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks, Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Schaumburg

Benihana, 1200 E. Higgins Rd., $45 dinner

Morton's The Steakhouse, 1470 McConnor Pwky, $60 dinner

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille, 1780 E. Golf Rd., $60 dinner

Seasons 52, 1770 E. Higgins, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Shaw's Crab House, Streets of Woodfield, $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Tokio Pub, Streets of Woodfield, $30 lunch

The Capital Grille, 2000 E. Golf, $60 dinner

Wildfire, 1250 E. Higgins Rd., $30 lunch, $60 dinner

Skokie

Bar Siena, Westfield Old Orchard Mall, $30 brunch, $30 lunch, $45 dinner

Roka Akor, Westfield Old Orchard Mall, $30 lunch, $60 dinner

The Capital Grille, Westfield Old Orchard Mall, $60 dinner

South Barrington

Ruth's Chris Steak House, Arboretum Shopping Center, $60 dinner

Vernon Hills

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille, 1050 N. Milwaukee, Ave., $60 dinner

Western Springs

Petite Vie, 909 Burlington Ave., $60 dinner

Wheeling

Benihana, 150 N. Milwaukee, $45 dinner

Wilmette

Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar, 1126 Central Ave., $30 lunch, $45 dinner, $60 dinner

Pescadero Seafood & Oyster Bar, 1167 Wilmette Ave., $30 brunch, $45 dinner, $60 dinner

Winnetka

Aboyer, 64 Green Bay Rd., $60 dinner

A full list of participating restaurants can be found here, and can be filtered by cuisine, neighborhood or more. Reservations are recommended, organizers said.

More information about Chicago Restaurant Week can be found here.

Office building along Chicago River becomes largest to trade hands in city since 2018

The real estate investment firm of former NBA team owner Robert Sarver has completed a nearly $89 million purchase of a sprawling structure along the Chicago River that's the largest office property on record to trade hands in the city since 2018.Sarver’s Arizona-based 3Edgewood earlier this month bought the approximately 1.6 million-square-foot building at 600 W. Chicago. The sale price was just under $88.7 million, according to online property records, which is a small fraction of its last sale price about seven years ago....

The real estate investment firm of former NBA team owner Robert Sarver has completed a nearly $89 million purchase of a sprawling structure along the Chicago River that's the largest office property on record to trade hands in the city since 2018.

Sarver’s Arizona-based 3Edgewood earlier this month bought the approximately 1.6 million-square-foot building at 600 W. Chicago. The sale price was just under $88.7 million, according to online property records, which is a small fraction of its last sale price about seven years ago.

The former Phoenix Suns team owner launched his real estate firm in 2023 and previously bought office properties in the Los Angeles, Dallas and Houston markets.

Flurry of Chicago deals underscores office challenges across the United States

No larger office building than the ultrawide former Montgomery Ward warehouse has sold in Chicago since 2018, according to CoStar data. That year, ventures including Sterling Bay bought 600 W. Chicago and the two-tower, approximately 2.3 million-square-foot Prudential Plaza complex just a few months apart.

The 600 W. Chicago sale comes at a huge loss to Sterling Bay and its investment partner, J.P. Morgan Asset Management, as well as to lender Morgan Stanley, which still was owed about $374 million.

It continues a trend of office owners and their lenders suffering large losses on office buildings bought during better times ahead of the pandemic.

Recent examples of lost values included three deals at the end of 2024 — the largest of which was for the 57-story, more than 1.4 million-square-foot tower at 70 W. Madison St. — at a combined loss of about a half-billion dollars from those properties’ previous sale values.

Earlier this month, the longtime owner of the historic Inland Steel Building handed that 19-story tower back to its lender.

Dropping values

Values have plunged because of persisting remote work trends, higher borrowing costs and other challenges that have emerged since the onset of COVID-19 nearly five years ago.

Former NBA Owner’s Firm Eyes Purchase of Sprawling Office Building Along Chicago River

Despite struggles of many office landlords throughout the country, 3Edgewood sees 600 W. Chicago as a one-of-a-kind property that will be coveted by companies looking to bring employees back to the office, said Jordan Mellovitz, the firm's head of real estate, a native of suburban Deerfield, Illinois.

"We think it's a differentiating offering, and Sterling Bay did a great job renovating it," Mellovitz said. "The amenity package is one of the best we've seen across the country. The parking situation is really unique, with the ability to pull up to your floor and walk to your suite. For a building with large floor plates, it's got great windows, much larger than you'd typically see for a building of this vintage."

J.P. Morgan Asset Management and Morgan Stanley declined to comment to CoStar News. Sterling Bay did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

3Edgewood said Sterling Bay will remain as the leasing agency and property manager.

Morgan Stanley provided a "moderate level" of new debt as part of the deal, Mellovitz said. He declined to say how much the loan is for, and information on the debt could not yet be found in online property records.

Sterling Bay made upgrades to the building including improved fiber connectivity, adding amenities such as a conference facility and fitness center overlooking the river, new food-and-beverage options in the lobby and a rooftop terrace.

The new owner said it plans to add covered outdoor terraces for individual tenant suites, move-in-ready spec suites and other upgrades including bringing back a ground-floor bar and gathering place for employees similar to the once-popular Motel Bar in the building.

"We're going to spend money to enhance what we think is already a vibrant environment," Mellovitz said. "Employers are doing all they can to get workers to come back to the office. We're trying to create spaces where people want to be."

CoStar News first reported that 600 W. Chicago was hitting the market in early 2024, and later that year Crain’s Chicago Business first reported Sarver’s firm was in talks to buy it at a steep discount. The sale price was unknown at the time.

Catalog warehouse

Department-store giant Montgomery Ward opened the building in 1908 as the Catalog House, from which mailed-in orders were shipped to customers’ homes.

After being converted into offices, it previously was the headquarters of Groupon as that Chicago company rapidly grew into more than 290,000 square feet in the building.

But after a series of setbacks to the business, Groupon issued a “going concern” warning and disclosed plans to pay a $9.6 million termination fee to leave its huge space in 600 W. Chicago. Later that year, Groupon signed a short-term sublease deal for a much smaller office space in the Loop business district.

The building is now just 62.5% leased, according to CoStar data. Tenants include Echo Global Logistics, Tempus, Jump Trading and the Big Ten Network.

The 600 W. Chicago deal continues a sell-off of J.P. Morgan Asset Management’s properties in the city as the firm backs away from its investment with Sterling Bay in the stalled, 55-acre Lincoln Yards project on the North Side.

J.P. Morgan Asset Management is looking to sell land it bought with Sterling Bay near Lincoln Yards and in Fulton Market, while also selling off investments with other partners including the 227-unit Parker Fulton Market apartment tower.

For the record

The sellers were represented by Eastdil Secured brokers Bryan Rosenberg and David Caprile.

Hundreds of South, West Side Properties For Sale Amid Legal Fight Against City’s ‘Worst Landowner’

By the time the city sued her, absentee owner Suzie B. Wilson had let hundreds of properties on Chicago’s South and West sides become so infested with rats and filled with trash and weeds that she owed more than $15 million in fines.Now, as a result of that case, a Chicago real estate company is selling off more than 800 properties in the South and West side neighborhoods, the largest mass land sale in the city in years.The sale is tied to a high-profile bankruptcy case against Wilson and her sister, Swedlana Dass —...

By the time the city sued her, absentee owner Suzie B. Wilson had let hundreds of properties on Chicago’s South and West sides become so infested with rats and filled with trash and weeds that she owed more than $15 million in fines.

Now, as a result of that case, a Chicago real estate company is selling off more than 800 properties in the South and West side neighborhoods, the largest mass land sale in the city in years.

The sale is tied to a high-profile bankruptcy case against Wilson and her sister, Swedlana Dass — legal action that came out of a joint investigation by the Illinois Answers Project and Block Club Chicago.

The city is accusing the suburban property owners of fraud for building an “empire of neglected and hazardous vacant lots,” then filing for bankruptcy while skipping out on millions of dollars in unpaid tickets and legal judgments.

The city took sweeping legal action against the property owners after the 2023 investigation by Illinois Answers and Block Club found companies tied to Wilson had racked up more than $15 million in fines for rat-related code violations. Wilson was one of the most egregious examples of how poor city enforcement allowed scofflaw property owners to duck accountability while their properties became neighborhood blights.

Hilco Real Estate is now auctioning off 812 lots owned by Wilson and Dass. The two property owners are legally required to sell the parcels after filing for bankruptcy.

The portfolio includes mostly vacant lots spread out across the South and West sides, some along commercial corridors on Lake, State and LaSalle streets, Ashland Avenue and Pulaski Road. The largest site includes five parcels on the 5600 block of South State Street, according to a Hilco news release.

In the release, the brokerage said the sale is a “once-in-a-lifetime acquisition opportunity” for investors and neighboring property owners looking to help revitalize South and West side neighborhoods.

As selling points, the brokerage highlighted the parcels’ proximity to the United Center, future Obama Presidential Library, Garfield Park Conservatory and planned CTA Red Line extension.

Hilco is accepting offers for individual sites or multiple sites at once. Buyers can also purchase the whole portfolio. The deadline for bidding is March 7.

The mass land sale is the latest development in the city’s legal proceedings against Wilson, which stretch back years.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Wilson and her late husband, tax attorney Michael Wilson, bought hundreds of lots through Cook County’s tax and scavenger sales — a system that allows buyers to take control of properties after previous owners fall behind on property taxes.

But over the years, the Wilsons and Dass — through myriad companies with names such as Dagny, Daisyland, Darcy, Darden and Debrox — neglected the parcels. They allowed weeds to grow and garbage to accumulate, creating a breeding ground for rats and spreading blight and disinvestment in impoverished communities.

The city has taken actions against the property owners for what it calls “public safety violations” and won judgments against them at city hearings.

Yet as of summer 2023, the entities controlled by Wilson and Dass had paid less than one-half of 1% of what they owed to the city, the investigation found.

Last year, after Illinois Answers Project and Block Club Chicago highlighted the negligence, city attorneys went after Wilson with multiple lawsuits.

In April, the city sued Wilson for $10 million over a West Englewood lot she owns that for years has been a dumpsite for hundreds of decomposing rubber tires that “piled multiple feet in the air.” In that suit, the city claimed Wilson is a “scourge on the city and its residents” and “the city’s worst landowner.”

City attorneys then went after Wilson and Dass, alleging in federal court that their attempts to wipe away debt by transferring their properties “like candy” to businesses based in South Dakota was a clear case of fraud.

The city alleges Wilson and Dass wrote checks to themselves out of shell companies as “fake loans,” took out huge loans “without any legitimate reason” and “failed to produce even the most basic documents regarding” their financial affairs, according to previous Illinois Answers reporting.

Mary Richardson-Lowry, Chicago’s corporation counsel, previously told Illinois Answers the city is cracking down on its largest debtors. City attorneys are going after 10 other significant debtors who collectively owe the city $26.3 million in unpaid fines, Richardson-Lowry said.

Contributing: Casey Toner, Illinois Answers Project

Yuengling beer officially arrives in Illinois after years-long wait

For the first time, Yuengling’s iconic Traditional Lager will be able for purchase at Illinois bars and restaurants this week.The brewery, founded in Pennsylvania in 1829, had made its beers available in more than two dozen states across the country, but fans based in Illinois ...

For the first time, Yuengling’s iconic Traditional Lager will be able for purchase at Illinois bars and restaurants this week.

The brewery, founded in Pennsylvania in 1829, had made its beers available in more than two dozen states across the country, but fans based in Illinois had to wait many years before it finally came to the Land of Lincoln.

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That day has officially come this week, as Yuengling is now available on draft at bars and restaurants around the state.

“As we look to further Yuengling’s presence in the Midwest, we are excited to officially begin pouring our iconic beers in Illinois as our next expansion state,” said Wendy Yuengling, Chief Administrative Officer of the company, said in a statement. “On behalf of our entire Yuengling family, we are humbled by the devotion we’ve received from dedicated fans in Illinois that have been eagerly awaiting for Yuengling beers to be available in their favorite bars and restaurants

According to a press release, the brewery’s flagship beer, known as its Traditional Lager, will be available at bars and restaurants this week. Another light beer known as “Flight” will also be served.

It is expected that the beer will be available in cans and bottles at retailers beginning in March, according to the company.

The company has a “Find our Beer” tool that fans can use to find it, though many restaurants have already begun advertising that they have the iconic beverage.

A variety of tasting events will take place at bars and restaurants around the state, according to the company. Fans of the beer are encouraged to keep an eye on their social media channels for more information.

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