Hillgrove Tap is a new, casual sports-bar like restaurant opening up in downtown Western Springs. Chris Elsey, Managing Partner of the Mia Francesca franchise is the owner of the new restaurant which is expected to open mid-November.

“I think people are very excited for more of a casual place in town,” Elsey said. “Many regulars have already been asking about it. There isn’t any place like it unless you go to La Grange or Hinsdale.”

The aim for the restaurant is for people to be able to gather and watch sports events. High quality bar food such as wings, salad, sandwiches and burgers will be on the menu along with craft beers for adults. Although the focus of the restaurant is on its specialty beers, Elsey expects many families and older people to attend as well. A kids menu will also be available.

Phil Luwoksi, Executive Vice President of Waterton Residential and resident of Western Springs, buys and manages retail space that he frequently rents out to restaurants. He believes that the Hillgrove Tap will be a good addition to the Western Springs community.

“It is important for new owners to have a successful operating track record and understanding of its business,” Lukowski said. “With [Elsey] behind the idea, he is already familiar with the clientele and what Western Springs is all about. His current restaurant [Davanti Enoteca] should complement well with a nice more laidback place.”

The restaurant will have more of an industrial look with a brick bar, Elsey said. Hillgrove Tap will share the same address of Davanti at 800 Hillgrove Avenue, Western Springs.

“The key to the restaurant will be great food, great service and a great atmosphere,” Elsey said.