Bar Turns 100, Brews Brothers Debut, Eateries Close Amid Bankruptcy: IL Business News

ILLINOIS — In local restaurant news, one franchise is cutting prices, while a beloved longtime pizzeria is offering up a new creation.

Meanwhile, a suburban pharmacy is dealing with a suspended license, another area business is wondering if it's served its last scoop, and a brewpub is battling back after a fire.

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

Suburban Bar Celebrates A Century With Block Party

Known for its famous "Drink Blatz beer" sign, the bar was founded in 1924 and is still a local staple. It celebrated with a block party featuring food, live music and giveaways.

Buca di Beppo Files For Bankruptcy; IL Location Part Of Restructuring

Another Illinois location also recently closed, and the Italian chain has announced a bankruptcy filing. Only one Illinois restaurant remains.

Brews Brothers Lager To Debut At Blues Brothers Con

After being canceled last year due to a writer and actors strike, the con will go on this year — and attendees will be the first to sample a new lager made just for the event. Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi will perform at the prison where the iconic "Blues Brothers" was filmed.

McDonald's Sales Slump Means The $5 Meal Deal Is Here To Stay: Drive-Thru Diary

After last week's disappointing earnings report, McDonald's game plan looks like this: The $5 meal deal is here to stay, at least through August at the majority of restaurants, but executives say they're working to extend the promotion even longer. It's also testing a new burger, the Big Arch, which the company calls a "more satiating burger" — take that Chili's.

Amazon Fresh Store Set To Open—Yes, Really

The store's opening will nix doubts that it would happen, after continued delays had people wondering. It's Amazon’s 11th brick-and-mortar storefront in the Chicago area

Iconic Eatery's Famous House Dressing Now Available At Suburban Stores

"We're finally happy people can obtain this easily if they're out of the area," the owner told Patch. "It's a big deal for us. For 91 years, we really have not ventured out of our walls."

BBQ Spot's Smoker Storage Clears Village Board

After some back-and-forth about the aesthetics, trustees unanimously approved the designs for the much anticipated BBQ joint.

Eatery Gets New Owner Who Honors Its Roots

Known for its gyros, burgers and frozen custard, the restaurant had been in business for 47 years before being purchased by the new owner — who is leaving a real estate career to take over.

Brewery Closes 2nd Location For Good

After a previous brewery failed in the same location, the local brewer will focus on its original location in the suburbs.