Trader Joe's Is Coming to Uptown — and a Green New Building Just Opened Its Doors
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Uptown ·
Uptown just scored a double win that has neighbors buzzing heading into the weekend. After years of Far North Siders dreaming about it, Trader Joe's has officially pulled a buildout permit for a new store at 804 W. Montrose Ave. — making the long-sought grocery arrival all but a done deal. The storefront sits at the base of the Eight Eleven Uptown apartment tower and has wrestled with vacancy for years, so landing one of America's most beloved grocery brands is a genuine neighborhood milestone. Uptown's new Trader Joe's will be the third Chicago location announced by the grocer since October alone, as the California-based chain accelerates its expansion across the city.
Meanwhile, a striking new address just welcomed its first residents this week. The Carmen, a brand-new eight-story building from DLG Management at 952 W. Carmen Ave., opened to tenants on April 1st. Designed by Jonathan Splitt Architects, the building stands out for more than just its good looks: it runs on a full geothermal system, with 34 boreholes drilled 500 feet deep that are expected to cut the building's heating and cooling load by roughly 50% — a rare sustainability feat for a Chicago apartment tower. Studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms are available from
From grocery wins to green living, Uptown's momentum is undeniable. Stay in the loop on every new opening and community milestone at exploreuptown.org — and don't miss Toast of Uptown on April 26!
Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/03/30/trader-joes-planning-new-store-in-uptown/
2. https://chicagoyimby.com/2026/03/the-carmen-nears-completion-for-its-april-1-debut-in-uptown.html