Two new businesses focused on health and wellness have opened in Bronzeville, while Aldi is preparing to open a new grocery store in the South Loop, according to a March 16 report. Meanwhile, a popular sushi restaurant in the area has temporarily closed after failing a city inspection.
The arrival of these businesses is expected to provide more options for residents seeking healthy food choices and convenient grocery shopping. The developments also reflect ongoing changes in the local dining and retail landscape.
Lily Pad’s Acai Bar, owned by Erika Ford-Oliver, recently held its grand opening at 4256 S. Cottage Grove Ave. Ford-Oliver said she received strong support from neighbors during the event, where guests sampled acai-based treats. “I have a nonprofit called the Color Me Social Foundation, and at our garden parties I’d always try to have some nice little add-on, like having Ben and Jerry’s. It was like, ‘Oh, that aligns with what I like,’” said Ford-Oliver. The menu features acai bowls priced between $15-$20, overnight oats, smoothies, matcha drinks, and cold-pressed juices from Carver 47 Food and Wellness Market. To celebrate its opening and Women’s History Month, Lily Pad’s is offering $10 Bronzeville Bliss Bowls and will soon introduce reusable bowls for discounts or free toppings.
Sankofa Bonne Sante has also returned to Bronzeville under former operator Eunice Sanders at 4509 S. Indiana Ave., following the closure of its Hyde Park location last year. The shop offers vitamins, supplements, smoothies, and smoothie bowls such as the Vitamin C smoothie with strawberry and pineapple or the Sweet Thai with banana and ginger.
Aldi confirmed plans to open a new store inside Roosevelt Collection Shops at 150 W. Roosevelt Road. Heather McCarthy, Aldi’s regional vice president, said construction is progressing on the market. The company currently operates 33 stores within Chicago city limits and intends to open another location in the West Loop this year.
In other news, Kai Sushi’s South Loop branch at 1255 S. State St. has been temporarily closed after failing a health inspection due to issues including lack of hot water and improper food storage temperatures that led to product disposal. While it remains unclear when repairs will be completed or when operations will resume at this location, customers can visit Kai Sushi’s River North or Lakeview branches.
