After 31 years, Spavone's still a hit in Bloomingdale

The clientele at Tony Spavone's Ristorante in Bloomingdale is a devoted group.

"We have people who have been coming since I opened up," said Spavone, who unveiled the 260-seat restaurant at 266 W. Lake St. 31 years ago. He said he's seen more than a few customers start out in high chairs, move up to wedding rehearsal dinners and return for baby showers.

The restaurant offers a lunch and dinner menu that puts an Italian accent on fish, steaks, chops and pastas, served with a healthy complement of specials, Spavone said.

A supper club-style Italian restaurant, Spavone's also offers entertainment, at times featuring the restaurant's owner.

Born in Naples, Italy, Spavone came to the U.S. as a young boy. He is a classically trained singer and often serenades diners with a combination of styles, from Sinatra to Italian classics to opera and rock 'n' roll.

"Whenever people want to hear music and they want to have fun, I'm here to entertain them," Spavone said.

There have been times when musicians and singers, in the restaurant for a meal, have joined him, he said.

"I've always loved music," he said, adding that he went on the road as a singer when he was a young man.

Before that, though, he learned to cook while working in his father's Chicago restaurant, Seven Hills.

"I started cooking when I was 13," he said.

These days, he said, he enjoys both cooking and performing as a vocalist.

"I like to do both," he said, adding that he gets help with the culinary duties. "My cooks are great. They've been with the family many years."

Fran Scalafini, of Bloomingdale, said she and her women's club group visit Spavone's frequently.

"The food is fabulous," she said. "They make the best chicken Vesuvio in the world. The desserts are fantastic. They'll make you whatever you like."

Scalafini said Scavone's singing is an equally strong draw.

"He sings beautifully," she said. "He's such a down-to-earth guy. When you talk to him, it's like you've known him for years."

Walls of photos depicting celebrity visits over the years show Spavone with luminaries such as Tommy Lasorda, Joe DiMaggio, Yoko Ono and Mickey Rooney.

Spavone entertains crowds outside the restaurant as well, recently performing at Festa Italiana in Milwaukee. In years past, he's sung at political events, delivered the national anthem for the Chicago Bulls championship 1995 game and performed with Paul Anka, Vicki Carr, Sergio Franchi and Curtis Mayfield, to name but a few.

For more information, visit www.tonyspavonesrestaurant.com or call (630) 529-3154.