Emmett's gets approval to open brewery, restaurant at The Bank storefront

WHEATON – A well-known downtown Wheaton restaurant may be undergoing some big changes, with the city potentially getting another brewery in the coming months.

On Tuesday, the Wheaton City Council unanimously approved liquor licensing for Emmett's Brewing Company to open a restaurant and brew and sell beer on-site at The Bank Restaurant's space at 121 W. Front St.

City Director of Planning Jim Kozik said the owners of The Bank would become minority owners in Emmett's and the restaurant would operate under the new name after a brief April remodel. Emmett's will use the restaurant's basement party space to manufacture beer and sell it on the premises, pending federal licensing approval.

There has long been talk among local officials that The Bank was looking to make a change, though exactly what that would be was unclear.

Owners of Emmett's and The Bank did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Mayor Mike Gresk said the two sides had been in talks for some time and that he was glad to see the venue evolve.

"I think that this is a good thing for our downtown – businesses have a progression, a lifespan," he said. "It's good to see the people at The Bank – very nice and respected members of the business community – are able to transition it into something with Emmett's and make another destination downtown."

Emmett's has three other area locations in West Dundee, Palatine and Downers Grove, according to its website.

It would be the second brewery to come to Wheaton after years of the city operating under a restrictive liquor code. Dry City Brew Works opened in November 2014, helmed by locals Jessica and Ben Sampson, and Lori and Dave Carr of Glen Ellyn.

Gresk said the new addition would be a positive one and add to downtown's diversity.

"It's another destination for people that have ... interests in visiting pubs and trying different styles of brewing and beer," he said. "I'm excited about it, it's a great addition to the downtown."