Ex-Elmhurst Chef Opening La Grange Restaurant

LA GRANGE, IL — A Chicago-area chef plans to open his own restaurant in downtown La Grange, promising to offer upscale dining, cooking classes and scheduled theme dinners. Chef Marco Conte told Patch that Marco's Kitchen is set to open April 1. It will be at 26 S. La Grange Road, Suite 207.

According to his business plan, Conte, who has been a chef in the Chicago suburbs for 15 years, said his cooking style is based on his extensive world travel that includes France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Asia and the Middle East. He estimated his first year's sales at $700,000. He is seeking a liquor license from La Grange and has provided the village his business plan, which Patch obtained through a public records request.

Among the places where Conte has worked as a chef is the now-closed Cafe Amano in Elmhurst, which served French- and Italian-inspired cuisine.

Conte said he wants to "elevate the dining scene in La Grange," noting many downtown Chicago residents are moving to the area and are searching for a variety of restaurants.

According to the business plan, Marco's Kitchen's candle-lit environment will include textured walls, white linen and fresh flowers.

"We strive to bring romance back into the dining experience...," Conte said in the plan. "Our style of service is professional, but not stuffy, informed but not intimidating."

Conte, a Detroit native, has 43 years of experience in the restaurant business.