Chef Todd Stein Opens Juniper in Downtown Highwood

Chicago Chef Todd Stein announces the grand opening of his latest North Shore concept, Juniper, a modern American restaurant perched within downtown Highwood, on August 25. Located at 200 Green Bay Rd, Juniper blends Stein’s takes on classics with a sushi program, offering the Highwood neighborhood a global dining experience, complemented by an extensive wine list, sake selection and a craft cocktail program.

An industry veteran to his core, Stein brings more than three decades of culinary experience to this new venture. Previously leading the kitchens of Chicago restaurants and hospitality groups including Formento's, The Bristol, Ballyhoo Hospitality, mk the restaurant and more, Stein has garnered experience across a variety of cuisines and cultures throughout his tenure, and is now ready to bring his vision and expertise to his own backyard of Highland Park.

"I've watched the North Shore's dining scene evolve for decades now, and I’m always excited to be able to bring something personal to it," said Stein. "With Juniper, I wanted to create the kind of restaurant I always wished we had in the neighborhood, a place I’d like to hang out in. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, meeting friends for cocktails or stopping in for dinner on a weeknight, we want every guest to feel genuinely welcomed. My hope is that Juniper becomes a place people return to again and again."

Juniper’s menu centers around Stein’s tight lineup of elevated American classics, such as Filet Mignon Sliders, Mini Lobster Rolls, Rotisserie Chicken and Ribeye Steak Frites, which balance nostalgic flavors with thoughtful technique. These dishes are complemented by a dedicated sushi program which serves as the restaurant’s raw bar and offers a more global lens to curious North Shore guests. Led by Executive Sushi Chef Akira Yang, the program delivers a selection of both classic and specialty rolls, as well as premium sashimi and nigiri variations.

The menus are tied together through Juniper’s beverage program, featuring signature cocktails, an extensive wine list and a small, well-chosen selection of sake, drawing from the restaurant’s global palate.

Juniper’s design mirrors the menu, bridging two distinct worlds. Crafted in tandem with Kehoe Designs and HI-FI Branding, the interior boasts deep blue hues and grounding soft green tones, electrified by bright red and wooden accents reminiscent of Japanese art and design. A 35-foot mural stands at the center of the restaurant, depicting a late morning sunrise over Lake Michigan. The restaurant offers a variety of experiences under one roof, from the main dining room to a secluded sushi bar, as well as a private dining space, plus a patio for al fresco dining in the warmer months.

Juniper is located at 200 Green Bay Road, Highwood, IL 60040, and will operate on Tuesday - Thursday from 4:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. and Sunday from 4:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m., beginning August 25. Reservations are now available on OpenTable.