'Elegant' Western Springs Restaurant To Open Later This Year

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – An Italian restaurant is set to open this fall in Western Springs in a spot that went vacant earlier this year.

Alano Ristorante is planned for the space at 821 Burlington Ave., where Salerno's Pizzeria closed in early January.

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Alano owner Chris Elsey said he hopes to open the restaurant in late October. He owns the Hillgrove Tap locations in Western Springs and Tinley Park.

Elsey was formerly the managing partner of Francesca's restaurants, which is a chain with locations in Elmhurst, Naperville and other suburbs.

Elsey is seeking a liquor license for Alano in Western Springs.

In his application, he described Alano as an "elegant Italian restaurant." The estimated price per person would be $30 to $45, based on alcoholic beverages, he said.

The restaurant will offer appetizers, salads, pastas, pizza, fish, chicken and steaks, Elsey said. And along with dining options, the bar menu will include specialized spirits, classic cocktails, wine and beer.

"Minor remodeling of the existing space is proposed," Elsey said in the application. "The existing special event space is proposed to be upgraded and remain. I look forward to presenting this new concept to the Village Officials."