FANTASTIC LOCAL FLAVORS

LOCAL FLAVORS Fantastic

 CHIME AND STAVE 40W188 Campton Crossings Drive, Campton Hills 630-549-6537 www.chimeandstave.com

CHIME AND STAVE’S NEW MENU EMPHASIZES MEDITERRANEAN FLAVORS WITH HOMEGROWN INGREDIENTS

By Louise Treeny | Photos provided by Chime and Stave

Artisan food at a reasonable price: That’s what you’ll find when you step into Chime and Stave in Campton Hills. The restaurant, which opened in 2019, has gone through a recent transformation, unveiling a brand-new menu and changes to the vibe of the interior. The menu changes were developed under executive chef Francois Sanchez. Born in Spain with work experience in France, he has now lived and cooked in St. Charles for 30 years. He brings Mediterranean influences to the new menu, which features entrees like grilled salmon with baby bok choy, Parmesancrusted chicken and lobster ravioli. Charcuterie boards and a wide variety of flatbreads are available for appetizers, and you’ll always find a rotating special or two. “We try to buy as much as we can from local farmers,” Sanchez says, mentioning Rustic Road Farm and the Batavia Farmers Market as two such sources. The restaurant also has its own herb garden. “No processed foods,” adds Carol Nachreiner, general manager. She says Sanchez runs an “all-scratch kitchen,” meaning sauces, soups — everything — is made in-house. Staying true to its name (chimes and staves are parts of barrels), the restaurant boasts a great selection of bourbon and wine. The wine list is “fresh and affordable,” says Nachreiner. (Pro tip: Happy hour includes wine and runs 4-6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday.) If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, she recommends the pomegranate martini or smoked Manhattan, both of which have proved very popular with guests. Both Sanchez and Nachreiner note how proud they are to work with a strong, dedicated team of employees. “It’s about community and our staff,” Nachreiner says, adding management is “committed to a work environment that’s conducive to growth.” Chime and Stave also offers a 50-person patio with heaters as well as a private dining space for events like birthday parties, bridal showers, retirement parties and more. It’s a quiet, relaxing atmosphere, Sanchez says. Also starting this month is live music every Friday, featuring mostly small bands or duets. In terms of the environment, the space has rebranded to be more like a restaurant venue and less like a bar. Sanchez prioritizes seasonal flavors at an affordable price point, giving everyone a chance to partake in a memorable, delicious meal. Nachreiner hopes local diners “can give us a second look,” noting her team would love “the opportunity to show them a different Chime and Stave.” A Friday night with live music would be a great place to start!