Train-themed Restaurant Headed For Stop in Downtown

Glen Ellyn, IL -- MAY 14, 2008 -- A train-themed restaurant based in Downers Grove is looking to grow, with its next stop planned for downtown Glen Ellyn.

2Toots Train Whistle Grill is slated to open early this summer at 450 N. Main St., a spot last inhabited by Cold Stone Creamery.

The location, next to the railroad tracks and a stone’s throw from the Metra station, ties in perfectly with the eatery’s locomotive theme, the owners said.

With tracks running around the American-cuisine restaurant, the food is delivered via toy train.

“It pulls up in front of the booth or in front of the counter stool where the diner is sitting,” said co-owner Kathleen Henson. “Kids love it, and adults do too. It makes for a really fun experience.”

It will be the third 2Toots Train Whistle Grill. The first opened in Downers Grove two years ago next to a Metra line as well, and there is another in Toledo, Ohio.

The idea came from two longtime friends, Dale Eisenberg and Mike Ventre, who grew up part of a generation that played with toy trains.

The restaurant tries to stay faithful to that history by featuring Lionel Model Trains, the classic line that surrounded so many Christmas trees in the 1950s.

“When we were kids we were always around trains,” said Eisenberg, a co-owner as well. “(The restaurant) is almost like a flashback for me. Every day I get to watch a little kid whose eyes are just mesmerized by it.”

Also in line with the baby boomers motif, the restaurant features diner-style food.
“Fantastic hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches,” said Henson, who lives in Wheaton. “Just things that people enjoy. Good comfort food.”

Beyond Glen Ellyn, the owners are looking to expand the chain to Michigan, Indiana and other spots across the country.

“The concept was just too unique not to expand,” Eisenberg said.

An opening date hasn’t been determined for the Glen Ellyn location, but Henson said they are hoping for sometime next month.

“We’re on track — no pun intended — hoping for June if all goes right,” she said.