Soccer, Matcha, and a French Bakery: West Town's Spring 2026 Dining Scene Is Absolutely on Fire

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/West Town · April 24, 2026

West Town's reputation as Chicago's most exciting dining and social destination is getting a major boost this spring, with a wave of fresh openings transforming familiar storefronts into can't-miss neighborhood hangouts.

The biggest buzz right now surrounds Soccer House, the new sports bar that has taken over the legendary Twisted Spoke space. Owned by Garret Drexler — a veteran of the U.S. Soccer Federation and Chicago Fire — Soccer House is perfectly timed for this summer's FIFA World Cup, with multiple viewing areas, a rooftop beer garden coming online for the tournament, and a welcoming, relaxed vibe. "It's a soccer bar. It's a place where you should be able to spill a drink because your team scored a goal," Drexler said. Meanwhile, matcha lovers have a new obsession: MATCH I A opened at 1857 W. Chicago Ave., serving hand-whisked matcha drinks from classic lattes to a sea salt matcha double cream — and it's already selling out on weekends. And for those with a sweet tooth, Guillotine Bakery is set to debut at 1711 W. Chicago Ave., where French baker Vincent Didry and his team are bringing Parisian-style breads, laminated pastries, and imported-butter croissants to the neighborhood this spring.

West Town's Chicago Avenue corridor keeps proving it's in a league of its own. Whether you're planning a World Cup watch party at Soccer House, a morning matcha ritual at MATCH I A, or a weekend pastry run to Guillotine, there's never been a better time to explore your own backyard. Follow each spot on social media for their latest hours and menu updates!

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/04/09/twisted-spoke-is-now-soccer-house-port-union-opens-in-wicker-park-and-more-dining-news/
2. https://www.modernluxury.com/most-anticipated-chicago-restaurant-openings/
3. https://www.theinfatuation.com/chicago/guides/new-chicago-restaurant-openings