Beat Kitchen sues Chicago over Riverwalk contract

Ally Marotti | Crain's Chicago Business (December 16, 2025)

Ally Marotti’s report for Crain’s Chicago Business covers the federal lawsuit filed by Beat Kitchen against the City of Chicago, outlining claims that the city bypassed its own procurement rules to award a Riverwalk concession. The article highlights allegations that a late vendor was privately invited to apply and scored favorably over Beat Kitchen, despite its timely and complete proposal. The story frames the case within broader questions about fairness, compliance, and public contract management.

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Beat Kitchen sues Chicago over Riverwalk contract
Chicago restaurant Beat Kitchen is suing the city, alleging it used a discriminatory process to award a Riverwalk concession contract.
Crain's Chicago Business/Ally Marotti/December 16, 2025

 

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Ryan Arnold

Ryan Arnold

Principal, Media Relations, DeSoto & State Communications, Inc.

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About BKBG Management Company

BKBG Management Company is a Chicago-based, independent management company specializing in restaurant, hospitality, and event operations. Our brands include Subterranean and Beat Kitchen, Bar Sol and Beat Kitchen Cantina on Navy Pier, and Beat Kitchen on the Riverwalk. We also manage large-scale festivals such as Wicker Park Fest and Do Division and provide full-service catering solutions focusing on customized event menus, on-site execution, and seamless event logistics.