Valentine’s Day 2026 in Illinois is shaping up to be a celebration like no other, with restaurants and food chains rolling out an array of inventive deals, new openings, and even a few bittersweet farewells. From heart-shaped pizzas that give back to charity, to the unlikely pairing of McNuggets and caviar, the state’s food scene is buzzing with energy, creativity, and a dash of nostalgia.
Perhaps the most headline-grabbing offer this year comes from McDonald’s, which is launching its first-ever McNugget Caviar kits. According to Patch and the Chicago Tribune, the fast-food giant will offer these exclusive kits online starting at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026—just in time for Valentine’s Day. The kit includes a one-ounce tin of premium Baerii Sturgeon caviar, a $25 McDonald’s gift card, crème fraîche, and a Mother of Pearl caviar spoon. The promotion, described as “a perfect match” by McDonald’s, is available for free while supplies last, and is already generating plenty of buzz among foodies and curious couples alike.
This surprising culinary combination isn’t just a quirky publicity stunt—it’s emblematic of a broader trend in Illinois’ food industry this February: the blending of luxury and comfort, tradition and innovation. As Undercurrent News noted in a recent segment, caviar-topped McNuggets are part of a wave of current food trends that are capturing the public’s imagination and challenging expectations.
But McDonald’s isn’t the only chain thinking outside the box. Lou Malnati’s, a beloved Chicago-based pizzeria, is offering its famous heart-shaped deep dish pizzas throughout the entire month of February. The pizzas come in a variety of flavors—sausage, cheese, or pepperoni—and can be ordered for carryout, delivery, or enjoyed in-restaurant. For every heart-shaped pizza sold, Lou Malnati’s will donate $1 to Make-A-Wish chapters, continuing a tradition of community support that resonates deeply with local families. Customers can also bundle their pizza with a Raspberry Swirl Heart-Shaped Cheesecake or heart-shaped chocolate chip cookies for an extra-sweet celebration.
Portillo’s is also getting in on the Valentine’s Day action, offering its classic homemade chocolate cake in a special heart shape. Pre-orders are open through February 11, with pick-up or delivery available from February 11 to 15. For every order placed, Portillo’s will donate between $5 and $25,000 to No Kid Hungry, underscoring the company’s commitment to fighting childhood hunger. Couples can also take advantage of the Red Hot Meal Deal, which includes eight chicken tenders, two small fries served in a heart-shaped tin, a large chocolate-covered strawberry shake with two straws, a limited-edition sauce flight, and a free heart-shaped keychain—available in-store or online from February 12 to 15.
Other chains are offering their own twists on the holiday. Applebee’s is serving up $6 Smoocho Sips cocktails, including the Tipsy Cupid and Prickly Ever After Rita, both garnished with red gummy lips. Dairy Queen is tempting sweethearts with two cupcakes for $6, while Nothing Bundt Cakes has introduced a Chocolate Raspberry Heart Bundtlet topped with a Dove chocolate heart for $6.75. Starbucks, not to be left behind, has rolled out new Valentine’s Day drinks like the White Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cold Brew and the Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino, which joined the menu on February 3. Ziggi’s Coffee has launched a new Shaken Espresso lineup and a Season of Love promotion, rewarding loyal customers with bonus points, surprise treats, and exclusive stickers.
For those seeking a more experiential celebration, White Castle will transform select locations into “Love Castles” on February 14, offering hostess seating, tableside service, and festive Valentine’s décor. This marks the 35th year of the fast-food chain’s beloved annual tradition. Meanwhile, Emagine Theatres is offering a Valentine’s concession special from February 13 to 15, including a free medium soda with combo orders, and free Polaroid keepsakes at select Michigan locations.
While the state’s restaurant scene is bustling with new ideas and promotions, it’s also a time of transition for some longtime favorites. In early February, a beloved family restaurant in Illinois is closing its doors after 40 years of serving the community. As the owner shared with Patch, “Closing Jedi’s was a hard decision,” reflecting the bittersweet reality facing many independent businesses in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Amid the excitement, there are also stories of resilience and community support. A popular taco catering business is rallying public help as the wife of “The Taco Man” battles a rare and aggressive infection. The local response has been swift, with customers and neighbors coming together to offer encouragement and assistance during a difficult time. “She’s not giving up,” supporters say, highlighting the strong bonds that tie Illinois communities together, especially in moments of crisis.
Elsewhere, the business landscape continues to evolve. Coffee chains are multiplying around Chicagoland, with brands like 7 Brew eyeing new suburban locations. On February 10, the village will consider a special use permit and zoning map amendment for a proposed coffee shop at 1434 Butterfield, signaling ongoing growth in the local café scene. Jitters Coffeehouse, a downtown Joliet staple for over two decades, is opening a second location in February, while Liquid Therapy Bar and Restaurant is awaiting city council approval for a new spot along Route 6.
Nationally recognized chains are also making waves, with Chick-fil-A offering complimentary heart-shaped trays with select menu items through Valentine’s Day. Francesca’s on 95th is running a three-course, prix fixe dinner for $45 during Chicago Restaurant Week, which ends February 8. Meanwhile, Slyce of NY is bringing New York-style pizza and inventive street food to Naperville, and Frankfort Chophouse is opening its doors to much anticipation.
The business news isn’t all about food, either. A nearly century-old iconic Chicago candy company has filed for bankruptcy, and a well-known national restaurant chain with many Illinois locations is closing hundreds of outlets in the coming months. On the flip side, Nick Lynch, inspired by the joy candy brought him during a childhood spent in hospitals, is opening MeMe’s Candy & Cards in Downers Grove, turning personal hardship into a new community hub.
Even as Illinois’ food scene embraces innovation and change, the spirit of giving and togetherness remains at its heart. Whether it’s sharing a quirky McNugget Caviar kit, supporting a local restaurant, or enjoying a heart-shaped pizza that helps grant wishes, this Valentine’s season is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and compassion that define the state’s culinary and business communities.
In a year marked by both exciting debuts and poignant farewells, Illinoisans have more ways than ever to celebrate love, support their neighbors, and savor the flavors of the season—one heart-shaped bite at a time.