Happy Friday!

🥬 It’s May 9. Heinen’s Grocery is headed to Naperville.

🌥️ Today’s weather: Mostly cloudy with a high of 66°F (19°C).

📺 Watch this: My latest video dives into Plainfield, IL, a hidden gem suburb that’s big on charm, space, and value. “Living in Chicago's HIDDEN GEM Suburb NO ONE’s Telling You About” is now live.

🍴 Check out The Foodie’s Guide for this week’s best eats, and scroll down for WHAT'S HAPPENIN' IN THE 'BURBS? — your weekend events roundup. 

Let’s dive in!

 - Brandon Blankenship, Founder of Living Chicago Suburbs / Realtor with Keller Williams Premiere Properties

Events

This Weekend Events…

☀ Solar Saturday: Solar Viewing

📍Location: Dandelion Fountain at Naperville Riverwalk, Naperville
🗓️ Date & Time: May 10 | from 9am to noon
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More Info

🍷 Spring Wine Tasting

📍Location: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
🗓️ Date & Time: May 10 | noon to 3pm
🎟️ Tickets: $18-$20
🔗 More Info

♥️ Mother's Day Craft Show

📍Location: Fox Valley Mall’s Center Park, 195 Fox Valley Center Drive
🗓️ Date & Time: May 10-11 | 10am to 9pm Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday
🎟️ Tickets: $120
🔗 More Info

Nothing in this section is sponsored, I will let you know when it's sponsored

News

Driving the news: Heinen’s, a popular Midwest-based grocery chain, is expanding into Naperville with a 46,000-square-foot store currently under construction at 1244 E. Chicago Ave. The store is expected to open later this year, though an official date has not yet been announced.

Details:

• Fifth Heinen’s location in Illinois and the first in the western suburbs

• Other stores are in Barrington, Glenview, Bannockburn, and Lake Bluff

• Around 70% of in-season produce sourced from Midwest farms

• Store will feature a butcher shop, seafood counter, deli, bakery, specialty cheese shop, and flower market

• Includes a prepared foods section, curbside pickup, and delivery

• Beer, wine, and liquor department with tastings and drinks by the glass

• “Eat at Heinen’s” section serving tacos, burritos, bowls, and quesadillas with indoor and outdoor seating

• Renderings show a self-checkout area and sushi counter

• Hiring for the Naperville location begins in May

Why it matters: This new store brings a trusted, family-run grocery experience to Naperville, offering a broad range of high-quality products and a modern in-store environment.

The big picture: Founded in 1929 by Joe Heinen in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Heinen’s remains family-owned and is known for its community focus and commitment to fresh, locally sourced food.

What’s next: Construction is ongoing, with the store expected to open before the end of the year. Job listings and further details will be released in the coming months.

The bottom line: Heinen’s is set to become a fresh new shopping destination in Naperville, bringing its signature Midwest charm and quality offerings to the western suburbs.

JOIN THE FUN ON INSTAGRAM 🎉

Find us on Instagram @LivingChicagoSuburbs where 70,000+ people love the content! ⤵️

Food

BREAKFAST

☕️ Prairie Cafe

Here at Prairie Café, our daily goal is to create, serve and enjoy delicious food. We love fresh food, flavorful food, food that’s in season, and food that’s distinct. Every morning before opening our kitchen, we stock our shelves with market fresh ingredients, so that the food we serve you is as fresh and flavorful as can be. We welcome you to our restaurant, and wish you a hearty appetite. 

CHECK IT OUT

LUNCH

🌯 Javi's Burritos

Experience the perfect blend of convenience and taste with our Mexican take-out, available in Glen Ellyn and Wheaton, Illinois. Whether you’re craving tacos, burritos, or quesadillas, we bring the zest and spices of Mexico right to your doorstep.

CHECK IT OUT

DINNER

🥩 The White Chocolate Grill

The White Chocolate Grill offers an expansive menu of classic American fare; made from scratch using only the highest quality ingredients. A selection of house-made white chocolate and other desserts complement these offerings and are proudly served in a unique team-service format assuring friendliness and efficiency.

CHECK IT OUT

Watch This

Discover why Plainfield, IL is one of the Chicago suburbs flying under the radar. From charming downtown vibes to spacious homes and top-rated schools, this hidden gem might just be the perfect place to call home.

Market

The real estate market in the Chicago suburbs (especially Naperville, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn) remains active and competitive. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, having the right local expert makes all the difference.

Thinking of selling? I’ll craft a strategic marketing plan and help you price your home to attract serious buyers and get the best return.

Ready to buy? With today’s interest rates and available inventory, now could be the perfect time to make your move. I’ll help you find the right home and navigate every step of the process with confidence.

🗞️ In Other News…

• Naperville artist paints duck sculpture with hopes of making a splash

• 5 spring activities with the Naperville Park District

• Illinois now has an official ‘Bacon Day'. Here's when to celebrate

🏠 Are you thinking of buying, selling, or investing in the Chicago Suburbs? We’d love to be your Real Estate Resource of Choice. Get started here!

Brandon Blankenship Real Estate Broker
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The #1 Solo Agent with Keller Williams Premiere Properties

call or text @ 630.923.9535