Run, Shop & Slurp: A Race, a Trader Joe's & a Chef's Grand Return Are Putting West Loop in the Spotlight

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/West Loop · May 7, 2026

West Loop neighbors, this week is stacking up to be one of the most exciting of the spring — with a beloved chef making his long-awaited comeback, a grocery game-changer on the horizon, and a fun run coming to your doorstep this weekend.

First, the culinary news foodies have been buzzing about: Chef Bill Kim's iconic Asian fusion restaurant Urbanbelly is officially set to open this month at Fulton Market, returning to the neighborhood where Kim built his reputation. The new spot on Fulton Street will bring back crowd favorites like spicy katsu ramen and yuzu margaritas — plus a full patio and bar to soak in those warm spring evenings. It's a full homecoming for one of Chicago's most celebrated chefs, and the timing couldn't be better. Meanwhile, Fulton Market's retail scene is leveling up in a big way: Trader Joe's has been confirmed to open a store at the base of the new 27-story tower at 170 N. May Street, giving West Loopers the neighborhood grocery anchor they've long deserved.

And if you're lacing up your sneakers this weekend, don't miss the Cinco de Miler on Saturday, May 9 — a festive 5-mile run kicking off at 8:30 AM from Union Park at 1555 W. Randolph Street. It's the perfect way to earn your weekend brunch. West Loop is absolutely firing on all cylinders — will you be racing Saturday or toasting Chef Kim's return? Share your plans with neighbors right here on Socialhood!

Sources:
1. https://wgnradio.com/bob-sirott/extremely-local-news-urbanbelly-to-open-in-may-at-fulton-market/
2. https://chicago.urbanize.city/neighborhood/fulton-market
3. https://allevents.in/chicago/west%20loop