Ward 42 — which covers the Magnificent Mile, River North, and Streeterville — logged 276 new license filings since March 15, the second-highest total in the city. Two stand out. Apple Inc. (filed as Apple Computer, Inc.) renewed its Limited Business License at 401 N Michigan Ave, the flagship Michigan Avenue store that's been a retail anchor since 2003. The renewal is routine, but it's a reminder that the Mag Mile's most prominent tech tenant isn't going anywhere.

More interesting: RPM Steak at 66 W Kinzie filed for a new Caterer's Liquor License in addition to its existing retail food establishment license. RPM Steak is one of Chicago's higher-profile steakhouses — part of the Lettuce Entertain You empire — and a catering license expansion suggests the restaurant is moving into private events or off-site service in a more formal way.

Ward 42 also saw Zazu Salon open at 64 E Walton St in the Gold Coast, and Pindler & Pindler, a high-end fabric and textile showroom, file at the Merchandise Mart. The ward's license volume reflects its status as Chicago's commercial and hospitality core. Source: Chicago Business Licenses.