Former Bears Star Israel Idonije Expands South Loop Dining Scene with New Buttercup Café and Amaro Bar
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/South Loop ·
South Loop residents have a stylish new gathering spot to enjoy from sunrise to well after sunset as Buttercup, a café by day and amaro bar by night, opens its doors at 75 E. 16th Street. The establishment marks the latest South Loop venture from former Chicago Bears defensive end Israel Idonije, who has been steadily building a hospitality presence in the neighborhood where he lives.
"It's the city's best neighborhood," Idonije told Chicago Magazine about his decision to focus on South Loop ventures. "It feels like a little suburb where you can go to Indiana Avenue and you're in this cove of trees and brownstones or jump on Lake Shore Drive and get to a Cubs game in 15 minutes." The 40-seat destination draws inspiration from Northern Italy's café culture, offering curated espresso and matcha during daylight hours before transforming into an intimate cocktail destination featuring one of the country's largest amaro collections. Beverage director Luke DeYoung (formerly of Scofflaw) leads the drink program while chef Alex Carnovale (previously at The French Laundry) delivers elevated Italian fare.
Residents looking to experience South Loop's newest hotspot can visit for morning coffee or evening cocktails as Buttercup joins the neighborhood's growing reputation as a dining destination. The new establishment's blend of all-day appeal makes it perfect for South Loop neighbors seeking both casual daytime meetups and sophisticated evening gatherings in their own backyard.
Sources:
1. https://www.chicagomag.com/chicago-magazine/january-2026/how-an-ex-bear-is-growing-his-south-loop-eatery-empire/
2. https://www.modernluxury.com/new-best-restaurants-in-chicago/