New Chicago Soul Food Restaurant Burglarized Just 48 Hours After Opening

Surveillance video shows suspect using kitchen knives to damage critical systems and steal cash and liquor from Soul Vibes Signature

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:23pm

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A newly-opened soul food restaurant in Chicago's River North neighborhood, Soul Vibes Signature, was burglarized just two days after its grand opening. Surveillance footage shows a suspect breaking in, using kitchen knives to damage the restaurant's internet, point-of-sale systems, cameras, and computers, and stealing cash and high-end liquor. The owners say the damage will cost thousands to repair, but they are determined to stay open and continue serving their community.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges small businesses can face, especially in the critical early days after opening, when they are vulnerable to crimes that can significantly impact their operations and finances. It also raises concerns about a potential pattern of break-ins targeting restaurants in the River North area.

The details

According to the owners, the suspect forced entry through the front door, breaking locks and deadbolts, and then used kitchen knives to cut wires connected to the restaurant's critical systems. The suspect stole a few hundred dollars in cash as well as high-end liquor, but the real damage was to the technology infrastructure that the owners say is the "lifeline" of their business. They estimate the repairs will cost well over $2,000.

  • The break-in occurred around 4:30 a.m. on February 4, 2026.
  • Soul Vibes Signature had just celebrated its grand opening less than 48 hours earlier.

The players

Soul Vibes Signature

A new soul food restaurant that opened in Chicago's River North neighborhood.

Laricia Baker

The co-owner of Soul Vibes Signature.

Jay

The co-owner of Soul Vibes Signature.

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What they’re saying

“This is our newest location in River North. We literally just had our grand opening two days ago, filled with love, laughter, joy, and good soul food. To walk in and see this… it's almost like a dagger to the chest.”

— Laricia Baker, Co-owner, Soul Vibes Signature (FOX32 Chicago)

“He probably walked out with $300 to $500, but it's going to cost us well over $2,000 to fix everything. That's the part people don't think about.”

— Jay, Co-owner, Soul Vibes Signature (FOX32 Chicago)

What’s next

Chicago police are investigating the incident and reviewing surveillance footage. Officers told the owners the break-in appears to be part of a broader pattern affecting restaurants along the corridor.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the vulnerabilities small businesses face, especially in their critical early days of operation. Despite the setback, the owners of Soul Vibes Signature are determined to push through and continue serving their community, demonstrating the resilience of local entrepreneurs.