05/06/2026
It’s a big day for Chicago restaurants, hospitality, and The Loop!
Today marks the opening of Mariela inside the historic Reliance Building, home to Staypineapple ChiStaypineapple Chicago, An Iconic Hotel, The Loopcago, An Iconic Hotel, The Loophicago — another strong signal of the continued energy, investment, and evolution happening across Chicago’s hospitality scene.
Recent coverage from Crain's Chicago Business further highlights the momentum surrounding both the project and the continued resurgence of hospitality investment and restaurant activity in downtown Chicago.
As members of the Illinois Restaurant Association and Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, we care deeply about the continued growth and long-term success of Chicago’s restaurant and hospitality industries — and the role thoughtful real estate strategy plays in supporting that momentum.
At ROAM Real Estate Inc. this is exactly the kind of work we’re passionate about being part of: helping hospitality brands, restaurants, and experience-driven concepts align with the right space, in the right location, at the right moment.
I was proud to represent Staypineapple in the lease of the former Atwood Café space, which will now become home to Mariela from the acclaimed team behind Mirra, led by Chef Zubair Mohajir and Chef Rishi Kumar.
Hospitality real estate is different. The best deals are not just about filling space — they are about understanding brand identity, guest experience, neighborhood dynamics, operations, timing, and long-term vision.
That intersection of hospitality, creativity, and real estate strategy is where Chicago continues to stand apart.
The Loop is evolving. Chicago’s restaurant industry continues to push forward. And projects like this are a reminder of what can happen when thoughtful operators and meaningful spaces come together.
Grateful to be part of work that sits at the intersection of restaurants, hospitality, and real estate — and to help bring meaningful hospitality concepts into spaces that shape the city.
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/restaurants/ccb-mirra-team-opening-mariela-20260402/