Here Are The Plans For Old Fitz's Spare Keys

ELMHURST, IL — In the new few months, the space formerly occupied by Fitz's Spare Keys in Elmhurst is expected to be the site of a new establishment — actually, three. A lot of changes are in the works.

In an interview Friday, longtime Elmhurst resident Tom Trenta said he is planning three businesses in the space at 119 N. York St. in City Centre — Kindred restaurant, Ever Onward bar, and Elmhurst Hall, a concert hall and event space.

The targeted opening date is Feb. 1. Trenta plans to hire up to 80 employees.

The entire 24,000-square-foot property will undergo a remodeling, including a new ventilation system with the pandemic in mind, Trenta said. Among the planned changes is the elimination of the 14-lane bowling alley.

Ever Onward bar is one of the three businesses planned by Elmhurst resident Tom Trenta for 119 N. York St., which was once occupied by Fitz's Spare Keys. (Courtesy of Tom Trenta)

For the past 15 years, Trenta has led branding strategy agencies that partner with the top food, beverage and entertainment brands in the country. He said he is using that experience to develop three of his own brands for his hometown.

In choosing downtown Elmhurst, Trenta cited all the nearby condo and apartment development as playing into the decision. That's a market within walking distance. At the same time, he said, the three businesses will have much to offer longtime residents as well.

"We're building a modern, new place," Trenta said.

He said the new concert hall would have a capacity of 500 for a show and more than 200 for a banquet. It will be used for live entertainment most nights and, at times, special events such as weddings, he said.

"For anyone locally, when they go back into the building, my goal is that they won't recognize the place. It'll be a different experience," Trenta said.

A grand entry will be in the back of the building for Elmhurst Hall, Trenta said. When free live entertainment is available in the hall, a door will be opened so that bar patrons have access, he said.

As for the name of the bar, Ever Onward, Trenta said it reflects his positive, optimistic and hard-charging approach.

"'Ever Onward' is a motto of mine," he said. "In a post-pandemic world, where so much stuff has changed, there is this feeling that we keep moving ahead. Tomorrow is better than yesterday."

Fitz's Spare Keys closed in June, with the owner citing the effects of the pandemic shutdowns.

Here's how Trenta describes his planned businesses:

• Elmhurst Hall: "Introducing the premier space and stage of Chicago’s western suburbs, featuring live music, weddings, celebrations and community events. We aim to host bigger Elmhurst moments."
• Kindred restaurant: "Featuring 'Curious Creations from the Modern Midwest,' Kindred will be a buzzy, upscale restaurant bringing the diversity of flavors from the Midwest to the table."
• Ever Onward bar: "Our fresh take on a modern bar, Ever Onward will be an energizing new space featuring custom-made hard seltzers, local craft beers, fun wine and craveable indulgences."