Chef prefers home style
Lifelong Long Grove resident Tim Almy thought his hometown was in need of a restaurant offering a quick, quality meal.
He recently opened an eatery at 132 Old McHenry Road that provides just that. "It's quick service without the fast-food taste or feel," said Almy of his business, Timmy's Sandwiches & Ice Cream.
"It's always been my dream to open a restaurant in Long Grove," said Almy, who operates the business with his wife, Christie.
The shop, operating in a renovated farmhouse that was built in the 1860s, specializes in deli-style sandwiches, homemade soups and salads.
Tim, 30, is a culinary graduate of Kendall College and most recently served as an executive chef at the Marriott Corp.
A popular pick his eatery, which seats 32, is the classic turkey sandwich featuring thinly slicked turkey, Dijon mustard, red onion, lettuce, cucumbers, tomato and sprouts. Served on fresh-baked bread from Turano bakery, it sells for $5.49.
The chicken noodle soup with tri-color rotini pasta is another highlight, along with grilled panini-style sandwiches.
Half-sandwich and soup selections are an option as well. The business also includes an ice cream bar and fresh baked desserts.
A children's menu features peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or a hot dog.
Almy has early memories of helping his mother in the kitchen or playing restaurant. while growing up in town. The Almys are now raising three children of their own in Long Grove: Joey, 5, Nicky, 2, and Samantha, 1.
The shop features a fireplace and maple hardwood floors. "It's a very clean, classic look," Tim said.
The farmhouse was originally built by the Ritzenthaler family, early settlers in the Long Grove area. It was later purchased by William Umbdenstock in 1928 and moved a half-mile to its location in the historic downtown.
"We provide an enjoyable place to come and enjoy a meal," Tim said.
The sandwich shop is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Hours will be expanded in the summer. Catering and delivery services are available.
For more, call (847) 883-8930.
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