A California Sandwich Chain Comes to River North
Mendocino Farms, the California-born sandwich chain, will officially make its Chicago debut later this month. The company's first Midwest location is set to open at 508 N. Clark Street in River North on Tuesday, August 26.
The restaurant will move into a former Potbelly space, entering a city that's not exactly short on sandwich shops. But CEO Kevin Miles says Mendocino Farms stands apart with its commitment to quality, locally sourced ingredients and its ethos of delivering a white-tablecloth dining experience between two slices of bread. Founded in Los Angeles in 2005, the fast-casual chain has locations across California, Texas, Washington, and Colorado. The River North location is part of a wider Midwest expansion; a Willis Tower location is slated for October and additional openings are planned in Fulton Market and the suburbs.
The menu puts creative spins on familiar flavors, from the 'Not So Fried' Chicken Sandwich — a roasted version of the classic crispy chicken sandwich — to the Chicken Parm Dip served with pomodoro sauce, a reimagining of the Italian American dish. Seasonal specials, such as the hot honey peach and prosciutto sandwich and summer Heirloom BLT, will also be offered. Salads play a prominent role as well. Miles says that the avocado and quinoa superfood ensalada is a consistent favorite among customers.
In a nod to its new home, Mendocino Farms will serve beers from a selection of local craft brewers, including Half Acre, Dovetail, Off Color, and Revolution. And in the future, the company plans to collaborate with Chicago chefs to create one-off offerings, though those details are still under wraps.
The space will showcase a modern farmhouse aesthetic, highlighted by exposed brick walls and warm wood accents. There will be artwork from a local artist on display and communal seating, and Miles envisions it as a place where customers can hang out and linger. Alongside traditional counter service, the new restaurant will debut the company's first kiosk ordering system, which will help streamline the process during the busy lunch rush. Midday crowds and the area's high density of businesses and offices were key factors in selecting the River North site, and Mendocino Farms' catering arm will allow it to easily handle large group orders.
Miles says he hopes first-time customers come away feeling satisfied not only by the food, but the kindness and care of the team.
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