Introduction to the Closure of Artis Restaurant and Lounge
RIVER NORTH — Weeks after a mass shooting outside its doors left four people dead and 14 injured, Artis Restaurant and Lounge has permanently closed, with its owners citing public pressure and political hostility as reasons for the closure.
Background on the Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred July 2 outside Artis, 311 W. Chicago Ave., during a private mixtape release party for rapper Mello Buckzz. At 11:02 p.m. that night, a dark-colored car drove past the restaurant and someone inside opened fire on a crowd outside, police said. The vehicle then fled the scene.
Immediate Aftermath and Investigation
Police issued a summary closure order to temporarily shut down the restaurant while officials investigated the incident. This was not the first incident of its kind in the location; in 2022, a mass shooting in the same location left a man dead and three people wounded, leading to the city shutting down Hush, the bar that was previously in the location at that time.
The Restaurant and Its Mission
Artis opened in April as a queer- and Black-owned restaurant and lounge. It was operating under a BYOB policy as it awaited final liquor license approvals at the time of the shooting. The owners, Brandi Artis and Brittany Artis, had envisioned the space as more than just a dining area, but as a cultural hub and safe space for self-expression and community gatherings, inspired by Brandi Artis’ Southern roots and family recipes.
Controversy and Political Pressure
Ald. Brendan Reilly (42nd) called for the restaurant to be permanently shut down in the wake of the shooting, accusing the owners of misleading officials during the liquor license application process. Reilly pointed out that the owners had allowed the venue to be used for a rap album release party, which he believed was contrary to their initial assurances of fostering inclusivity and supporting local artisans. The alderman’s comments sparked backlash on social media, with many accusing him of being short-sighted and unfairly targeting the business.
The scene after a shooting following the album release party of artist Mello Buckzz outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge on July 3, 2025. Four were killed and another 14 were injured during a mass shooting outside the venue July 3. Credit: Colin Boyle/Block Club Chicago
Decision to Close and Public Reaction
The owners of Artis announced the closure on social media, stating that the decision was made due to public pressure and a hostile political environment. They expressed that their vision of a space for love, acceptance, and community was threatened by the shooting and the subsequent backlash. Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the mission of the restaurant, acknowledging the importance of such spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and expressing hope that the owners would not give up on their vision for Chicago.
Response from Alderman Reilly
Ald. Brendan Reilly defended his stance, believing the owners made the right decision by closing, citing the preventable nature of the shooting. He maintained that the choice to host the party and allow bottle service despite not having a liquor license was a mistake that had to be accounted for.
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