• Its over and out for Brixx Pizza in Champaign. The pizza chain confirmed its closing in a News-Gazette article. Franchise owner Thomas Scaggs says that the volume of customers was too low to continue to support the chain. The restaurant opened almost exactly two years ago in the Carriage Center development. Closing is scheduled for December 9th in order to let the staff find jobs and allow customers to use gift cards. Ownership says that the store could close earlier if staffing becomes too scarce. Another wood fired pizza place, Blaze Pizza has been issued construction permits for a location on North Prospect.
• Champaign’s Black Dog Smoke & Ale House has commenced work on an expansion of its Downtown location. The expansion on the East side of the train depot is described as a “four season outdoor seating area.” Diners who are more than willing to brave the long lines for some of the best BBQ around can rejoice!

• Another BBQ joint is opening up in Ogden. The team behind V. Picasso and Willow Creek Farms plan to open The Pink Pig in the former Pink House bar. The restaurant will feature locally grown produce. The restaurant is aiming for an early 2018 Debut.