Southbridge Welcomes Batter & Berries and 24Life as South Loop's Mixed-Use Community Hub Takes Shape

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/South Loop · March 3, 2026

South Loop residents have fresh reasons to celebrate as the Southbridge development reaches a landmark retail milestone. Mayor Brandon Johnson and community leaders recently gathered for a ribbon-cutting at 23rd Place at Southbridge — a 15-acre mixed-use development that serves as a connector between Chinatown, Bronzeville, and the South Loop. The event marked the arrival of the development's first two retail anchors: beloved Chicago brunch institution Batter & Berries and fitness studio 24Life Training & Fitness, with the city also recently approving tax-increment financing to fuel the next phase of construction that will eventually bring more than 850 homes and hundreds of public-housing units to the site.

Batter & Berries — famous for its over-the-top French toast flights and spirited brunch crowds — brings a serious culinary draw to a neighborhood that's been hungry for more dining options south of the Loop. Paired with 24Life's fitness-forward energy, the two anchors signal exactly the kind of walkable, everyday-amenity mix that South Loop residents have long hoped to see in this stretch of the city.

And if you're craving more local flavor this weekend, don't miss the South Loop Farmers Market, running Saturdays from noon to 4 PM at Roosevelt Collection through March 30th — now also popping up Sundays at Water Tower Place. Validated parking is available at both locations. Have you visited Southbridge or the farmers market yet? Share your experience with the Socialhood community!

Sources:
1. http://www.sloopin.com/
2. https://www.choosechicago.com/events/