3 Chicago Restaurants Served Their Final Meals in August 2026

Chicago said its final goodbye to several food establishments this month, ranging from delis to beloved brunch favorites.

Whatnow News Team News Writer
Outside image of Dao Thai Restaurant, which closed in August 2026 (Image credit: Yelp @Lucy L.)

Chicago diners stopped by for final meals at their beloved restaurants across the city in August. The closures included a longtime Thai restaurant, a Southern-inspired brunch spot, and a Jewish deli.

August Restaurant Closures in Chicago

A variety of established spots across the city served their last meals this month, ending years of memories for loyal customers. Here’s a look at the locations that closed in August.

Zeitlin’s Delicatessen

This image shows an outside view of Zeitlin's Delicatessen
Outside view of Zeitlin’s Delicatessen (Image Credit: Yelp @Zeitlin's Delicatessen)

Zeitlin’s Delicatessen announced its closure after six years on Clybourn Avenue in Chicago. The deli spot served a range of Jewish specialties, including bagels and sandwiches.

Owner Sam Zeitlin announced the decision to close in an Instagram post. He said that the high cost of opening and operating the flagship restaurant made it difficult to last long. The owner also thanked diners, saying, “To everyone that has supported, shopped, and cheered from afar, your love is felt.”

Zeitlin’s Delicatessen began serving its Jewish dishes in the city in 2020. Menu highlights included Bagel with Cream Cheese, Challah French Toast Sticks, the Uncle Michael sandwich, and Matzo Ball Soup.

Closing Date: August 7

Dao Thai Restaurant and Noodle Palace

Dao Thai Restaurant and Noodle Palace closed its Ohio Street location after nearly 37 years. The restaurant did not list out a particular reason for the decision in its closure notice posted on its door. Its sister location at Clark Street called Tiparos Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar continues services amid the development.

The team behind the recently closed Thai restaurant thanked customers, the community, and friends for sticking with them for almost four decades.

Dao Thai Restaurant and Noodle Palace served a range of Thai dishes, including curries, soups, and noodle bowls. More information can be found here.

Closing Date: August 24

Wishbone

This image shows an outside view of Wishbone
Outside view of Wishbone (Image Credit: Yelp @Renee W.)

Wishbone announced on August 3 that it would end its Chicago operations at the end of the month. The restaurant did not initially provide a specific closing date.

Owners and chefs of the Southern-inspired place, Joel Nickson and Julie Nickson, posted regarding their permanent closure on social media. They also thanked generations of diners for their support.

The 36-year-old restaurant offered Southern-style offerings at its colorful eating space. Learn more about the restaurant’s closure.


The closures mark the end of long-running chapters for several Chicago restaurants, with each having served its surrounding community for years.

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