Gibby's serves up much more than just fine wine

It might look like just another wine store from the outside.

But inside, Jan and Randy Gibson have tried to turn Gibby's Wine Den into so much more.

Sure, it's a place to try new wines and get more of your favorites. However, the Randall Road business in Geneva also has become a destination spot for people looking to have a glass of wine and a little food, while also socializing and soaking up some of the local culture.

On Friday nights, regulars and newcomers often gather at Gibby's for its "Fridays at 5" event.

From 6 to 8 p.m. each Friday, local musicians take the floor and play the evening away. While listening to the music, customers grab a glass of wine - or even a bottle to share - from the bar, and socialize with one another.

Gibby's also offers up small plates of appetizer-like food, including quiche, crab cakes and assorted handcrafted cheeses.

"We have a lot of people that didn't know each other that have gotten to know one another here every Friday or every other Friday," Jan Gibson said. "They look forward to seeing their friends they've met here each week.

"We're really much more than a wine store. We have wine, gourmet food, handcrafted cheese and gifts. But it's also a nice little environment where you can come and enjoy good food and friendships," she said.

Many make a point to stop at Gibby's on the second Friday of the month when the business gives back a portion of its sales to the community.

On those nights, Gibby's donates 5 percent of the bar proceeds - whether its wine sold by the bottle or by the glass - to a community organization.

Each quarter they switch their cause, with Mutual Ground in Aurora benefiting this quarter.

"We've had a great response to it," Gibson said. "We have a lot of people that support the organizations we benefit come each month to help."

Some Fridays, Gibby's also holds complimentary tastings along with its Fridays at 5.

Other weeks, the business holds special events, which require a reservation.

For example on Feb. 27, it will host a sip and dip fondue, in which servers will pair up three wines with fondues for everyone to try.

"We have many fun things happening here," Gibson said.

Gibby's is at 1772 S. Randall. For information call (630) 208-6424.

Having an impact: Algonquin recently presented its annual business awards, and gave one to J.C. Penney along Randall Road.

The business received the Community Economic Impact Award.

"The 103,000 square-foot store provided a big boost to the corridor, anchoring the even bigger 300,000 square foot Oakridge Court shopping center," the award said. "The presence of J.C. Penney as the main anchor made the center more attractive to other retailers, providing a large economic boost."

Other reasons the store won the award included the tax revenues it will bring to the community with both local residents and people from nearby communities shopping there, and the 150 jobs it created for area residents.

Continuing deals: Rookies along Randall Road in Elgin has extended its $1 burger offer throughout the month of February. The St. Charles location along West Main Street also is offering the deal.

Usually only offered four-times a year, the restaurant extended its January deal into February. As part of the deal, the burgers are $1, but you must by a drink to go along with it.

&bull Amy Williams' column covers all the news of business along the Randall Road corridor from Batavia to Crystal Lake. Contact her at randallbiz@comcast.net or at (847) 894-5036.