Original Rainbow Cone Sweetens South Loop with New Michigan Avenue Location
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/South Loop ·
South Loop residents have a new reason to celebrate their sweet tooth as The Original Rainbow Cone, a beloved third-generation family ice cream business, has recently opened its doors at 163 N. Michigan Avenue. The historic Chicago brand, known for its distinctive five-flavor rainbow cone, launched in late September and has already become a neighborhood hit.
"We're thrilled with what we've seen so far," shared John Buonavolanto of Original Rainbow Cone, which operates several dozen stores across the metro area. "Having a Michigan Avenue location really solidifies ourselves as a Chicago institution and a historic brand." The new shop joins over 30 new restaurants and eateries that have recently opened downtown, part of a growing trend of entrepreneurial ventures revitalizing the South Loop district. The timing coincides with record-breaking tourism numbers that saw downtown hotels book nearly 3.6 million room nights this past summer.
Residents looking for both a sweet treat and a community gathering space can visit the new Rainbow Cone location, or head to Overflow Coffee at 14th and Michigan Avenue, which was recently featured on ABC7 Chicago. The minority-owned business has gained attention as a vibrant community hub where South Loop neighbors can connect while enjoying quality beverages. As downtown continues rebuilding its ecosystem of unique shops and restaurants, these locally-owned establishments are creating what commercial real estate experts call "stickiness" - making the South Loop increasingly attractive to both residents and visitors alike.
Sources:
1. https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/11/10/chicago-loop-entrepreneurs-real-estate/
2. https://abc7chicago.com/post/south-loops-game-changer-inside-78-chicago-fire-stadium-abc7-tanja-babich-visits-overflow-coffee-14th-michigan/18144180/
3. https://hoodline.com/2025/11/south-loop-shake-up-fire-stadium-to-ignite-the-78/