New & Exciting Restaurants Coming to Downtown Downers Grove
Downtown Downers Grove is on the verge of a culinary transformation. Several new restaurants in Downers Grove are preparing to open their doors, each offering unique flavors, vibrant atmospheres, and unforgettable dining experiences. Here’s a closer look at the highly anticipated eateries coming to our neighborhood:
1. Ranalli's – 5200 Main St (Corner of Main & Grove)
What’s happening:
Ranalli's is bringing its renowned Chicago restaurant concept to Downtown Downers Grove, taking over the space formerly home to Emmett’s Ale House. Already a favorite in the West Loop and Lincoln Park, Ranallis is known for Italian classics, pizza, and shareable plates in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
About the concept & its group:
Ranalli's is part of the Four Corners Restaurant Group, a leader in Chicago hospitality known for community-focused restaurants and bars. Four Corners is behind popular destinations including Federales, Benchmark, Brickhouse, and Gaslight, each celebrated for their lively ambiance and thoughtfully curated menus. Bringing Ranalli's to Downtown Downers Grove is a chance to experience big-city dining in a suburban setting.
The buildout & design:
The 7,300-square-foot space will feature a major renovation with outdoor dining enhancements, creating an inviting spot for gatherings year-round. The design is led by Studio K, a premier hospitality design firm founded by Karen Herold. Studio K has crafted iconic spaces such as Maple & Ash, Hotel Zachary, Nobu, Boka, Sunda, BLVD, Foxtrot, Sterling Bay, and Victory Ranch. Their team of visionary brand strategists, aesthetic masters, and technical designers ensures every element, from layout to lighting, reflects creativity, functionality, and a welcoming vibe.
Why it’s special:
Ranalli's will become a destination restaurant in Downtown Downers Grove, perfect for families, friends, cocktails, and special events, all anchored by Four Corners’ signature hospitality and Studio K’s world class design.
2. The Rec League – 844 Warren Ave
Overview:
The team behind The Foxtail and Cadence Kitchen is bringing a new restaurant and entertainment venue to Downtown Downers Grove. The Rec League promises to blend dining and fun in a vibrant two-story 20,312 sq ft with an outdoor patio and fire pit.
First floor: Dining area that opens directly onto the patio.
Second floor: Entertainment-focused golf bays with billiards, darts, and games.
Design style: Exterior features wood timbers and stone accents, reflecting a California mountain vernacular.
3. Fonda de Paula – 1012 Curtiss St (Formerly Bar Chido)
Concept & Cuisine:
Fonda de Paula aims to bring the authentic Mexican fonda experience to Downtown Downers Grove. Fondas are intimate, family-owned restaurants serving meals crafted with heart, and Fonda de Paula’s menu reflects this tradition. Diners can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes such as chilaquiles, rajas and queso omelets, pescado Veracruz, carne asada, tacos, enchiladas, and burrito bowls.
Beverage offerings:
The restaurant will feature a robust drinks menu with beer, wine, margaritas, spritzes, sangria, and signature cocktails, complementing its rich culinary offerings.
Atmosphere & hours:
Al fresco sidewalk seating during warmer months, continuing the tradition of Bar Chido.
Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–10 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 8 a.m.–midnight.
Ownership:
The group behind Mago Grill and Cantina in Arlington Heights, South Barrington, and Bolingbrook. Fonda de Paula promises to be a community-focused destination for Mexican cuisine in Downtown Downers Grove.
Culinary Transformation:
Downtown Downers Grove is becoming a destination for food lovers. From the stylish, community-focused Ranalli's, to the fun-filled Rec League, and the heartfelt, authentic Fonda de Paula, there’s something new and exciting for everyone.
Whether you’re searching for new restaurants in Downers Grove, looking for family friendly dining, or hoping to explore Downtown Downers Grove’s food scene, these upcoming openings are sure to delight.
Which of these new spots are you most excited to try first?
