Illinois quick hits: Illinois lottery player wins $536 million

March 18, 2026/Newspaper Staff/

By The Center Square
The Center Square

Illinois lottery player wins $536 million

An Illinois lottery player won $536 million in the Mega Millions jackpot.

The winner, who chose to remain anonymous under the nickname “Lucky Lady,” bought her ticket online through the Illinois Lottery’s iLottery platform, the first Mega Millions jackpot to be claimed in 2026 and the second-largest prize ever won by an online player in the U.S.

Chicago restaurants among best after-midnight food spots

Two restaurants in Chicago are getting accolades as the best after-midnight food spot.

ACE.com surveyed more than 3,000 self-identified “night owls” about the best places in the country to eat when everything else is closed.

Griddle 24 in Chicago was the best in the state, ranking No. 23 nationwide. White Palace Grill in Chicago ranked No. 42 nationally.

Manufacturing Excellence Award nominations sought

Nominations for the 2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards are open until April 9.

IMEC in association with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, announced the categories of Economic Development Partner of the Year, Educator of the Year and more. Nominations are accepted online at IMA-net.org.

Finalists will be recognized June 25 in Lombard.

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