A California-based eatery is branching out to Chicago.
Mendocino Farms is planned for a space in River North at 508 N Clark Street. This will be the company’s first location in the Midwest.
The brand was founded by husband-and-wife team Mario Del Pero and Ellen Chen. The menu features refreshing salads and sandwiches, like the Not So Fried Chicken, the Happy Hippie, the Vegan Banh Mi and more, along with deli sides and soups.
“We first opened our doors in 2005 as a family business with a vision to offer much more than great food — 20 years, 75+ locations and a few million awesome meals later, we’re bringing our EAT HAPPY vibes to Chicago,” according to the company website.
The River North location of the fast-casual concept will be in a 4,384-square-foot space, offering a “bright and inviting atmosphere,” according to a news release. The eatery will offer dine-in and carry-out, outdoor dining and catering services.
“For 20 years, Mendocino Farms has been a place where great food and genuine hospitality come together, and along the way, we’ve become known for our chef-crafted sandwiches and salads made with high-quality ingredients,” Mendocino Farms CEO Kevin Miles said in a statement. “Now, with our very first Chicago location in the vibrant River North neighborhood, we can’t wait to welcome new fans into our herd, and to share the craveable flavors and atmosphere that make Mendo special.”
Mendocino Farms is expected to open in Chicago this summer.