Outstanding wine house equally attractive to beer lovers

Wine bars intimidate me. My knowledge of wine is limited, and even though I am at a wine bar, I know I will just order a beer. Will they frown on me for this choice? Is it the equivalent of going to a steak house and ordering pasta? Did the newly opened Flight 112 Wine House take pity at my beer choice, or were they more than accommodating? Read on.

Motif: Located in downtown Elmhurst, Flight 112 is part of a variety of businesses encased in the Mecca2 building, resulting in one of the more interesting layouts that I have seen to date. On the right-hand side of the building, there is Flight 112; on the left side, you will find an art gallery, a salon and a wellness center. So let's say your significant other needs a haircut - perfect, go with and partake in a glass of wine at Flight 112!

Flight 112's bar is inside a rectangular-shaped room. The large, black-marble bar itself is the centerpiece of the area and is pleasantly lit. Behind the bar there are many bottles of wine stacked up high. On top of the chairs at the bar, there are various high tables with seats scattered about the room. The black walls are covered with artwork that appears to have spilled over from the gallery situated nearby. Also, do not miss the lounge that is somewhat hidden in the back of Flight 112. It is there that you will find various couches to relax on as you enjoy your drink of choice.

Liquid consumption: I will admit that my knowledge of wine is fairly sparse. In fact, I really did not know much about the beverage until I bartended at a few catered parties. It was only then that I finally had to figure out the difference between a pinot noir, merlot, chardonnay or a pinot grigio. If you do know what I am talking about, rest assured, Flight 112 has what you're looking for. The ever-changing wine list is sure to delight and impress even the most judgmental wine drinkers with choices such as Blackstone Rubric, Veramonte Primus, Terra Barossa, King Estates, Bridlewood Viognier, Gruet Brut, Nachtgold Eiswein and many more.

Myself, I'm a beer guy, and Flight 112 takes its beer list just as seriously as its wine. I can honestly say that I have never been taken aback by a wine bar's beer choices - until now. During my visit, I spotted some of my favorite local breweries: Two Brothers, Three Floyds and Bell's. Other brewers I recognized included Left Hand, New Belgium, Allagash and Dogfish Head. But then I spotted beers I had never heard of before. Buffalo Bill's Oatmeal Stout Blueberry? North Coast Scrimshaw? Southern Tier Old Man Winter Ale? Sign me up.

Food: As is the necessity with wine bars, you will find planks of cheeses and cured meats to choose from. According to Flight 112, its specialties are Cambodian beef/chicken skewers and mushroom bites. Also available on the menu are flatbreads (spinach and goat cheese, ham and apples and smoked salmon), paninis (prosciutto, veggie and grilled cheese), soups and salads.

Crowd: Do look for a crowd of young and old who appreciate their wine. But now that the cat's out of the bag, I would not be surprised if beer lovers began to frequent Flight 112 as well.

Service: The service at Flight 112 was outstanding. The staff was extremely excited about the bar and more than happy to share their insight on alcohol, be it a brew that I had never heard of, the finer points of malt liquor or thoughts about cheap champagne.

Sounds: Music was not very prevalent at Flight 112, but if you perk up your ears, you can hear some tunes. I overheard some Prince, Wham! and Duran Duran playing throughout the bar. Yes, Wham!

Parking: Depending upon the time of day, you might be constricted when it comes to available parking. There are parking spots along the street as well as lots and a garage for the train commuters. Just check the signs, because once nighttime hits, most spots are fair game.

Overall: After my visit to Flight 112, it was readily apparent to me that the staff there is extremely passionate not just about wine, but beer as well. The wine and beer lists are constantly changing, giving one a perfect reason to keep coming back, not to mention that the prices are more than reasonable. The atmosphere is perfect for those who want to relax, have a great drink and enjoy one another's company. And if people start to complain that you're visiting Flight 112 too often, just tell them you're getting a "haircut."

Flight 112 Wine House

• 112 W. Park Ave., Elmhurst; (630) 758-0808; flight112wine.com