Work resumes to turn tavern in downtown Libertyville into O'Toole's Pub

Work has resumed on what was touted last spring as a major addition to Libertyville's downtown restaurant scene.

"In the next two weeks, you'll see 20 or 30 people working here and working quickly," said Humberto Martinez Jr., who with his wife, Sara McKinnon, has been pursuing a $1.5 million conversion of the former Mickey Finn's Brewery, 412 N. Milwaukee Ave.

The space became vacant this past April when Mickey Finn's moved less than a block away to a much larger space. McKinnon is a Libertyville native and the couple considered several locations in town for what will be the third restaurant in the O'Toole's Pub Group. O'Toole's opened in Chicago in 1992 and in Gurnee in 2009.

A late summer opening in Libertyville had been planned, but legal issues regarding the partnership stalled the project and put a lid on general discussion. Even village officials said they were uncertain what was happening.

"We've received numerous emails, phone calls and inquires about what was going on," Martinez said.

"We are the sole owners (of the business) now," he added. "We had a partnership. That partnership has been dissolved." The space is being leased, he said.

The interior had been gutted before work stopped. Plumbers and electricians are scheduled to be on site next week, kitchen equipment has been ordered and a custom-made, handcrafted bar is in progress, Martinez said. Changes from the original plan call for the beer cooler to be moved to the basement, and the installation of a 26-foot tall gas fireplace that was to have dominated the outdoor patio area, has been delayed.

Otherwise, the concept remains the same: a sports-oriented theme with lots of craft beer, although none will be brewed on site. Forty-eight varieties of beer will be available on tap as will prosecco, a sparking white wine. The couple has said they want to feature locally produced foods and healthy choices for kids as part of the menu.

"We're very excited about being in the building. It's been Libertyville's bar for so many years, we love the character and exposed brick. The waiting and ups and downs have been worth it," Martinez said.

The building has operated as a tavern since 1936. Mickey Finn's was established in 1980.

Several restaurants have opened this year in Libertyville, which has become a dining destination. That also has created some issues with parking, and the village is pursuing plans for a second parking deck on the west side of Milwaukee Avenue just south of Church Street.

Martinez said he is seeking zoning for valet parking and is working on other parking options. An opening is planned for March or early April.