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Riverwalk eatery gone thanks to murky Chicago rules

Dylan Sharkey | Illinois Policy Institute (November 17, 2025)

Dylan Sharkey's article for the Illinois Policy Institute examines how opaque city procedures and poor communication from Chicago officials cost a Riverwalk restaurateur his lease, despite high financial offers and significant personal investment. The piece highlights broader concerns about transparency, oversight, and lost public revenue.

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Riverwalk eatery gone thanks to murky Chicago rules
Restaurants and bars bid to be along Chicago’s Riverwalk, so why a proven business with a lucrative offer was booted is a mystery wrapped up in a secretive city panel.
Illinois Policy/Dylan Sharkey/November 17, 2025

 

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Ryan Arnold

Ryan Arnold

Principal, DeSoto & State Communications
ryan@desotostate.com312-600-7380

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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.