Trademark Tavern tapping a brand in Lombard

New to Lombard is the upscale sports bar and restaurant Trademark Tavern, whose touches include a pale ale specially crafted for the pub by Two Brothers Brewing Company. Adding panache to the tavern's concept is co-owner Mandy (Lane) Lewandowski, a two-time veteran of TV's "Fear Factor," and a former Miss Illinois USA. She and her husband, Matt, are partners in the venture with George Cibula of Oak Brook.

"We're trying to provide a really welcoming atmosphere that caters to area professionals looking for a unique spot to enjoy a business lunch — and after work, sports fans seeking a really good venue for viewing favorite events," she says.

Included in the eatery are the four tapper tables, each sporting a pair of different craft beers, where customers pour their own drafts. In addition, the bar has dozens of specialty beers on tap.

"It's a different type of experience," Mandy Lewandowski says, noting the tavern features an array of fine whiskeys and Scotch, in addition to signature cocktails, wines and more than 60 beers. "We bring a downtown feel to the suburbs."

She calls the menu inventive and affordable, with dishes prepared from scratch in the kitchen — from the popular reuben rolls to beer batter made with Fat Tire beer for the cheese curds.

Matt Lewandowski says the sports bar serves many dishes perfect for sharing from an eclectic menu offering appetizers, sushi rolls, flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts. The culinary team is led by Executive Chef Geoff Silverwood.

Recently enjoying a business lunch was Steve Potts of St. Charles, who praised the mac and cheese, as well as the turkey burger stuffed with brie and apple and topped with baby arugula and roasted tomato.

"The food is wonderful," he says. "I like the environment, and great service. Can't wait to come back."

Entertainment is offered most Fridays, and during Bears games, chicken wings are free with a beverage purchase.

To create Trademark Tavern, the interior of the one-time Magnum's steakhouse was completely redone. A long, sleekly contemporary bar is the focal point of the room with rich stone and wood detail. It's flanked by private dining areas, including one with a table that seats 14 that's ideal for groups.

"We've had everything from business lunches to baby showers, rehearsal dinners and … birthdays there," says Mandy Lewandowski.

The private rooms offer audiovisual amenities, and the two larger spaces seat up to 40 or 100, respectively.

Trademark Tavern brings 100 jobs to the area, and Mandy says she appreciates all the support shown by the community and chamber of commerce.

Trademark Tavern

Address: 777 E. Butterfield Road (has its own curb cut), Lombard

Contact: 630-472-0777, www.trademarktavern.com

WHAT TO TRY

ITEM Turkey burger

PRICE $10

ITEM Beer-battered cheese curds with Cajun aioli
PRICE $8

ITEM Steak salad
PRICE $11

ITEM Warm chocolate chip cookie with caramel and chocolate sauces, whipped cream and vanilla ice cream
PRICE $5