Sky-High Ambitions & Tacos al Pastor: A New Tower Gets the Green Light & Mercadito Brings Its Famous Bottomless Brunch to Lincoln Park

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Lincoln Park · May 13, 2026

Big things are happening in Lincoln Park this week — from a landmark zoning win to a long-awaited culinary arrival that's already turning heads on N. Lincoln Ave.

First, the skyline news: a bold new residential high-rise is officially moving forward at 1415 N. Dayton Street. Plans for a new 28-story tower recently cleared the Committee on Zoning — and the project had already sailed through Plan Commission approval back in March. Led by Honore Properties and Peerless Development, with Chicago's own bKL Architecture on design, the 311-foot building will rise on a corner site at West Evergreen Avenue, anchored by a five-story podium clad in gray brick with gold-colored accents. A large ground-floor lobby will activate the streetfront, with a 160-vehicle parking garage tucked inside. It's one of the most significant new residential investments Lincoln Park has seen in years.

Meanwhile, Lincoln Park's dining scene just got a major flavor boost. River North staple Mercadito — beloved for 17 years for its tacos, tequila cocktails, and $35 bottomless brunch — has officially expanded to 2423 N. Lincoln Ave. The new location is helmed by Executive Chef Alexander Quintero and will carry on Mercadito's community-minded "Tacos 4 Strength" program, with proceeds supporting the International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago. Head to 2423 N. Lincoln Ave. for your first taste, and watch 1415 N. Dayton for the construction crews — Lincoln Park's future is looking very bright!

Sources:
1. https://chicagoyimby.com/2026/05/zoning-approved-for-lincoln-park-high-rise.html
2. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/04/06/mercadito-expanding-to-lincoln-park-with-tacos-tequila-and-35-bottomless-brunch/
3. https://www.chicagofoodmagazine.com/news/mercadito-to-open-second-location-this-spring-in-lincoln-park