Hillgrove Tap Now Open In Former 'Tribes' Spot

TINLEY PARK, IL — A restaurateur with a resume two decades deep has sunk new roots, this time in the space vacated by a past local favorite. Chris Elsey has taken over the former Tribes Alehouse spot in Tinley Park and has spun it into his own sports bar and grill, Hillgrove Tap.

Elsey softly debuted the second installment of his restaurant concept, located at 9501 W 171st St. in Tinley Park, earlier this month with limited dinner seatings, and will be open for lunch beginning Thursday, July 21.

"We're ready to roll," Elsey said. He shirked the idea of a "grand opening," saying "I don't like my staff being overwhelmed, my kitchen staff being overwhelmed."

Elsey calls the menu "upscale, way better than any bar food." Chef Mario Lopez comes with an Italian, bar, and Mexican cuisine background, and has partnered in the business with Elsey. Gordon Hallbeck will run the Tinley Park location as Managing Partner, and Elsey has also partnered up with Joe Christiano, owner of Phoenix Kitchen & Cocktails in Homer Glen.

A South Side native who later lived in Homewood and Mt. Greenwood, Elsey said Tinley Park seemed like a no-brainer: positioned among other large suburbs, with entertainment and business districts nearby.

"It was a home run, parking was ideal, big space," Elsey said.

Elsey's Western Springs location of Hillgrove Tap has been around over six years; he brings to Tinley Park a food-centric approach complemented by the right location with finessed decor, craft cocktails, and "then it all goes to the staff.

"I do all the hiring, I take a lot of pride in friendly, upbeat, energy, and very knowledgeable," Elsey said.

Beer choices range from the classic domestic, to Buckle Down Brewery, 3 Floyds, and featured local breweries. Among the favorite craft cocktails, their Old Fashioned, served in a glass that's smoked and made with Bulleit Rye, sits atop fans' favorites, Elsey said.

Most popular entree? A fried chicken thigh sandwich, or the sausage platter, which some have said is so authentic, it takes them to Germany as they eat. They're also known for their wings, poutine, and burgers.

And keep an eye out for a special four items: Catio's Fish Tacos, Cammy's BLT, Caroline's Grilled Cheese, and Johnny's Brunch Burger.

They're all named after his kids: Catie (20), Cameron (23), Caroline (25), and Jon (26).

"Back six years ago, that was the joke," Elsey said. "I gotta sell a lot of these to get these kids through college."

People can expect high energy, overly friendly servers, and great comfort food, Elsey said.

"We've already had people who came Friday or Saturday, come back Sunday," he said. "... It's just a little different than your typical bar."

Elsey comes into this adventure with a bevy of experience. He's been involved with the Francesca chain of restaurants, managing up to 7 or 8 of the locations. Here he'll be hands-on, helping his staff, but eventually will pull back and let his staff shine.

Tribes closed its Tinley Park location in late 2019. They still operate a Mokena brewery and taproom.

Elsey knows Tribes was beloved, but he's excited to see Tinley Park embrace his place.

"You can just tell it's a great town."

Looking for more info before you go? Check out their website and follow them on Facebook.