Rockford's Newest Restaurant The Raven Opens for Restaurant Week

The chef-owned restaurant is showcasing its bold, globally-inspired menu during the city's annual dining event.

Feb. 2, 2026 at 1:39pm

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Rockford's newest restaurant, The Raven, has opened its doors just in time for the city's annual Restaurant Week celebration. Owned by Head Chef Scott Carlson and business partners Randy and Betsy Baker, The Raven is focused on serving bold, globally-inspired cuisine in a casual yet refined setting. The restaurant is participating in Rockford Restaurant Week, which runs through February 8th and features special menus and experiences at over 80 local eateries.

Why it matters

The opening of The Raven during Rockford Restaurant Week highlights the city's vibrant and growing dining scene. As a new, chef-driven restaurant with a mission to serve creative, community-focused cuisine, The Raven's debut is an exciting addition that gives locals and visitors alike more options to explore Rockford's culinary offerings.

The details

The Raven is located at 6876 Spring Creek Road in Rockford and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 4pm to 9pm. The restaurant's menu features globally-inspired dishes made with care and attention to detail by Head Chef Scott Carlson. Reservations can be made online through The Raven's website.

  • Rockford Restaurant Week 2026 is taking place from January 31 to February 8, 2026.
  • The Raven opened its doors just in time to participate in Rockford Restaurant Week.

The players

The Raven

A new chef-owned restaurant in Rockford, Illinois that is focused on serving bold, globally-inspired cuisine in a casual yet refined setting.

Scott Carlson

The head chef and owner of The Raven restaurant.

Randy and Betsy Baker

The business partners of Scott Carlson who also own Baker Street Burgers at Edgebrook in Rockford.

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What they’re saying

“create food we love to eat – bold, globally inspired, and rooted in community. With chef driven craft, thoughtful wine pairings, and genuine hospitality, every experience is designed to surprise without the pretense.”

— Scott Carlson, Head Chef and Owner, The Raven

What’s next

Reservations for dining at The Raven during Rockford Restaurant Week can be made through the restaurant's website.

The takeaway

The opening of The Raven, a new chef-driven restaurant focused on bold, globally-inspired cuisine, is an exciting addition to Rockford's vibrant dining scene and gives locals and visitors more options to explore during the city's annual Restaurant Week celebration.