An exciting new restaurant concept is coming to St. Charles this winter — and it’s from a local, family-owned restaurant group that you’re likely familiar with.

The Aréchiga Restaurant Group, known for spots like Salsa Verde, Hacienda Real, and Tía Carmen, is preparing to open Playa, a coastal-inspired Mexican restaurant and lounge that will feel like an “escape close to home.”

Unlike a traditional sit-down restaurant, they’re aiming for flexibility, comfort, and an atmosphere where people can linger, move around, and get lost in the experience for a few hours. They plan to offer frequent live entertainment, private event spaces, and an an opportunity for folks to enjoy a unique, spontaneous night out that you can’t find anywhere else near the Tri-Cities.

I chatted with Carlos Aréchiga about the family’s story, how they built their growing restaurant group, and what to expect from this bold new concept. Click the button below to keep reading.

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Looking forward to Geneva Christmas Walk weekend? As you’re enjoying the festivities, make sure to stop by St. Mark’s Episcopal Church just off 3rd Street for at least one of the two free holiday events they’re hosting:

Both events are open to everyone! See you this weekend.

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☑️ For the birds: Geneva officials will consider a resolution to apply for Bird City Illinois certification, a move that comes after completing sustainability and habitat projects that meet the program’s requirements.

☑️ Chiropractor fallout: A Batavia chiropractor facing felony charges for secretly recording patients is now the subject of a new lawsuit filed by four family members alleging privacy violations, negligence, and other claims.

☑️ Chicken attack: Two dogs escaped from a Campton Township property and killed more than 30 chickens at a Geneva Township farm, leading county officials to cite the owner for allowing the animals to run loose.

🔒 Potential referendums: Geneva officials will soon consider whether to place two major questions on future ballots — one for a new police station in March 2026 and another for home rule authority in 2027.

☑️ Talking transit: Local leaders, including Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns and state Rep. Matt Hanson, voiced support for Illinois’ new $1.5B mass-transit funding bill and its promise of simpler fares, more frequent service, and better transit-oriented local development.

☑️ Burglar caught: A St. Charles man has been charged after Elburn police linked him to multiple spring break-ins at a Dempsey Street storage facility where units were damaged and items were reported stolen.