Ballyhoo Hospitality

Ballyhoo Hospitality was founded by Ryan and Anna O’Donnell with a simple but lasting vision: create restaurants where people feel at home. From the opening of Gemini in 2009 to today, Ballyhoo has grown with intention — one or two restaurants a year — ensuring that each place feels genuine, rooted in its neighborhood, and defined by thoughtful hospitality.

Led by industry veterans Ryan O’Donnell and Jon Farrer, Ballyhoo is redefining neighborhood dining throughout Chicago and the North Shore. Each concept pairs inspired menus with welcoming ambiance, but above all, it’s the people — our teams and our guests — who bring Ballyhoo to life. From supporting communities through initiatives like Dine & Donateto building careers for passionate hospitality professionals, Ballyhoo is committed to care, craft, and connection.

Restaurants include Gemini, Coda di Volpe, Old Pueblo Cantina, Sophia Steak, Pomeroy, Buck Russell’s, Pizza by Sal, DeNucci's, Jackman & Co. and Zenzi Den with more to come. View our restaurants here: ballyhoohospitality.com.