When it comes to good food, great service and a fun atmosphere, Chelios Pub and Grill earns a hat trick. Since 2009, the neighborhood sports bar has been delivering all three at its “Madhouse on Ogden” location on the Aurora’s far East Side.
“We offer a huge menu, so there is really something for everyone that comes in,” said Georgia Chelios-Letcher, who runs the place along with her dad and siblings. “Come join us, and we will make you feel like family.”
While the family members are admittedly huge Chicago Blackhawks hockey fans, they equally embrace any sporting event. The dozens of televisions that line the walls are a testament to that, as are the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls and other sports fans who frequent the spot on game days.
Every Blackhawks game is an event at Chelios, whether it’s the preseason or the playoffs. And as the countdown for the Stanley Cup gets closer, even more fans find their way to the Aurora pub. For that reason, Chelios-Letcher said, they take a limited amount of reservations, and parties are required to arrive one hour prior to their reservation time to guarantee their spot. The remaining tables are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and it’s not unusual for Hawks fans to get there hours before game time.
It’s worth it.
“There is such an energy here; the place is unbelievable with everyone cheering for the Blackhawks,” Chelios-Letcher said. “And when they score, we have the sirens, horns and lights that go off and we play the music they play at the stadium. It is just really fun.”
And for those who are simply interested in lunch, dinner or a cold one, they can score a meal at Chelios.
Here’s the dish on this local favorite.
What’s on the menu? From a wide assortment of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and salads to ribs, pizza, tacos and homemade soups, Chelios has something for sports fans and food fans alike.
About the owners: It’s a family affair, said Chelios-Letcher, who works there along with her husband, dad and siblings. In addition to being hockey fans, Chelios-Letcher said she and her brothers have all played the sport, and their kids do as well. They opened a second location in Geneva in 2011. Chelios-Letcher’s cousin is Hockey Hall of Famer and former Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Chris Chelios, although he is not affiliated with the restaurant.
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A mission statement or philosophy: It’s all about family at Chelios Pub and Grill. “Our mission is to create an environment where the food is delicious and affordable, the service is impeccable and the atmosphere is one that can be enjoyed by family and friends of all ages.”
What’s the decor? Blackhawks’ colors set the tone for this sports bar, and memorabilia and jerseys adorn the walls. There are more than 20 televisions to make sure every sports fan has a vantage point to watch their favorite team, and there’s plenty of seating at the large bar that anchors the pub or at surrounding tables that can accommodate big or small groups.
Food specialties: It’s hard to pick a specialty when they’ve got so many on the vast menu. Customers laud the burgers and wings, and the freshly made mozzarella sticks, homemade soups and specialty wraps and salads. For those who want to spice it up, Cajun Sunrise burger fits the bill, a half-pound patty seasoned with Cajun spices, chargrilled and topped with pepper jack cheese, a fried egg, jalapeno peppers and Cajun mayonnaise.
We’re different because: The Chelios family lives, works and plays in the community, and takes pride in that. With a focus on treating customers like they are part of the family, they offer food made to order, with the freshest ingredients, at a reasonable price.
Extras: Chelios can accommodate private parties up to about 60 guests, and also takes a limited amount of reservations. Want to enjoy the game at home? They offer carry out and can also cater your event. When weather permits, outdoor patio seating is available. Guests enjoy their daily drink specials and special pub events like karaoke and trivia games. Future sports stars (under 12) eat free on Sunday with a paying adult.
Price range: Appetizers like wings and breaded mushrooms are $8.95, as are the Caesar salad and the classic half- pound chargrilled burger that comes with fries, coleslaw and a cup of homemade soup. A personal pan pizza is under $8, and entrees like a half of a broasted chicken or a steak ranchero plate are $9.95. Kids can choose from items like burgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese, pasta or chicken.
Logistics: Chelios Pub and Grill is located at 2150 Ogden Avenue in Aurora, west of Route 59. They are open every day from 10:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Call 630-585-7650 or go to cheliospubandgrill.com
Jane Donahue is a freelance writer.