People can’t believe their eyes when they step inside Cafe 59 in Naperville. What was once a local eyesore-a rundown bar and restaurant-has been transformed into a bright and attractive restaurant.
“When customers walk in, they are so surprised. It’s completely different. They like the new atmosphere,” said Connie Charest, who bought the business about a year ago.
The inside now glows with polished wood and light from a faux Tiffany room-size ceiling fixture, rich colors of burgundy and taupe accent the dining room, and the bar area has been transformed into a sports bar, where five televisions entertain fans.
Every night there are free hors d’oeuvres in the bar, and during Bears games the restaurant usually offers a special treat for customers, such as free chili, said Charest, who has been in the restaurant business all of her working life.
Ribs ($9.50 a full slab and $7.50 a half slab) and broasted chicken ($5.50 for a half chicken) are the house specialties on the American-style menu.
“Every time somebody new comes in they say, `We’ve heard about your ribs. Are they really that good?’ We say, `You’ll never be disappointed.’ It’s because of our special sauce that we bake them in,” she said.
Added to the menu this year will be more fajita, pita and stir-fry dishes.
“People are getting more health conscious, so we’ll be coming out with different kinds of stir fries and things like that,” Charest said.
Also new is the banquet room where guests can book weddings and dinners for special events.
“Customers get a free deejay with our wedding packages,” Charest said.
Breakfast has also been added to the lineup at the restaurant, said Charest.
She invites people to visit on Saturday nights when the bar is hopping with customers who like to compete in dart competitions and to sample their special draft beers, $2.50 for a 25-ounce stein.
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Cafe 59, at 4 South 040 Illinois Highway 59 in Naperville, is open 7 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. Call 708-393-9093.
