In describing Fahrenheit, one of Fox River Valley’s most highly anticipated openings in ages, chef Pete Balodimas, 27, invokes some heavy hitters. “It’ll be like Avenues meets Blackbird,” he says. “And we’re using a slow-food menu and organic produce like Paul Virant [of Vie].” Will his soaring 72-seat contemporary American spot be that good? It just might. Balodimas cut his teeth at Spiaggia and Tin Fish; he lured former Ambria sommelier Robert Bansberg to mastermind the wine list; he built a temperature-controlled cheese cave on site. And lest you think this guy is too ambitious: Balodimas credits his grandparents’ garden with his love of local produce, and in keeping with the family theme, his dad Chris is the owner and maître d’. 1890 W. Main St., St. Charles; 630-444-1350.

Photograph: Tyllie Barbosa; Food Styling: Christina Zerkis