Orchards Restaurant Reveals a Fresh Face

By Pat Szpekowski

Orchard Valley Golf Course in Aurora, which turns 30 this year, has long been recognized as one of Chicagoland’s top championship golf courses. The experience is rising to new levels as the Orchards Restaurant has recently re-opened with a new, fresh look and menu overseen by Executive Chef Robert Sajdak.

The excitement began in January when the Fox Valley Park District entered into a five-year agreement with Troon Inc., the world’s largest golf course management and hospitality company, to oversee operations at Orchard Valley.

Frank DiBrizzi, Orchard Valley’s new food and beverage director, brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm. The graduate of Marmion Academy in Aurora has a family background in the industry and has honed his skills at wellknown restaurants.

He describes the warm, familyfriendly atmosphere at Orchards Restaurant as something akin to a country club where everyone belongs.

“We attract two different types of clientele: golf dining patrons and local families,” DiBrizzi says. “And we are pleased that both have really embraced the changes here and are enjoying our carefully crafted menu and expert wine selections.”

The restaurant’s lunch menu features tasty sandwiches like the lobster roll, rib-eye steak, reuben, loaded brat and Chicago-style hot dog, plus generous half-pound burgers – to name a few highlights.

Fresh, mouthwatering choices continue into the evening with eclectic dinner entrees such as seafood risotto, Cajun shrimp and grits, and classic comfortfood meatloaf.

Unique shareables are also prominently featured. Lighter fare satisfies appetites for lunch and dinner, with options like special salads and a variety of sizzling flatbreads.

Guests can enjoy lunch in the Bar & Grill or outdoors on the patio. Dinner is served daily in the main dining room. ❚

Orchards Restaurant is located at Orchard Valley Golf Course, 2411 W. Illinois Ave., in Aurora, (630) 907-0600.