Article posted: 9/21/2012 6:00 AM

Long Grove’s popular Village Tavern has real staying power

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Bartender Kristen Borowski pours an appletini at The Village Tavern in Long Grove.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

Waiter Mitch Rafalowitz serves up a broasted chicken dinner at The Village Tavern in Long Grove.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

Bob Rosencrans of Buffalo Grove, left, and Tim Breen of Long Grove enjoy drinks at The Village Tavern.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

Gallery Image

The 35-foot mahogany bar, which survived Chicago's "Great McCormick Place Fire" in the 1960s, is the centerpiece of The Village Tavern in Long Grove.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

The beer list changes frequently at The Village Tavern in Long Grove.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

Broasted chicken is one of the house specialties at The Village Tavern in Long Grove.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

The Village Tavern in Long Grove marks its 50th anniversary this year.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

A board lists the specials as you enter The Village Tavern.

Steve Lundy | Staff Photographer

About this Article

Stepping into the Village Tavern, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, is a bit like traveling back in time. The bar's strong emphasis on tradition has earned it a loyal following of customers who appreciate that the menu and many of the employees haven't changed for decades. Many customers come to The Village Tavern five or six times a week, greeting the owners with hugs as if visiting family.