CHICAGO — The NASCAR Chicago Street Race is rolling in with more than just high-speed thrills — it’s serving up a brand-new food experience, courtesy of Chicago-based hospitality group Levy, which is taking over concessions for the 2025 race weekend.
Levy replaces Lettuce Entertain You, the food provider from the past two years, and is set to spotlight a robust list of local restaurants and beloved eateries at the July 5–6 Grant Park event. Alongside Levy’s own Jake Melnick’s Corner Tap and River Roast, the lineup includes:
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Mr. Beef
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Bronzeville Winery
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Lexington Betty Smokehouse
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Robinson’s No. 1 Ribs
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Josephine’s Southern Cooking
Additional restaurants are expected to be announced closer to race weekend.
Levy CEO Says Event ‘Highlights Chicago’s Energy’
“There is no city with more energy than Chicago during the summer,” said Levy CEO Andy Lansing in a statement. “The NASCAR Chicago Street Race highlights our city and the sport in a totally unique way. We’re thrilled to elevate the fan experience with hometown hospitality and outstanding food and beverage.”
Levy is known for its food service at iconic venues like Soldier Field and Wrigley Field, giving fans confidence in the upgraded offerings during this high-profile racing event.
Ticket Prices Lowered, Kids Get In Free
To attract more fans, NASCAR has slashed ticket prices compared to previous years. General admission for one day now starts at $99 (down from $150), and children under 12 can enter for free on both days when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
Reserved seats begin at $200, while Frontstretch Premium Reserved seating is set at $350.
Though ticket prices are more accessible this year, total attendance in 2024 was lower than the inaugural year, partly due to rain-related race delays and cancellations.
Still, the 2024 event brought in $128 million in economic impact, according to a Temple University study commissioned by Choose Chicago.
Street Closures Underway
With the event fast approaching, rolling street closures around Grant Park have already started and will expand leading up to race weekend. Key closures include:
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Columbus Drive, Balbo Drive, Jackson Drive, and Michigan Avenue
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DuSable Lake Shore Drive between Randolph and McFetridge Road
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Full closures on Roosevelt Road, Ida B. Wells Drive, and Congress Plaza Drive
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Multiple entry and exit points to Lower Wacker Drive also closed
Streets will begin reopening July 7, with full demobilization expected to conclude by July 14.
What’s Next for NASCAR in Chicago?
The event is currently in its final year of a three-year contract with the city, with the option for a two-year extension. NASCAR and city officials have not yet confirmed whether they’ll renew the agreement.
Will you be attending this year’s NASCAR Street Race in Grant Park? What do you think about Levy taking over food service from Lettuce Entertain You? Share your thoughts with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
