Arena Sports Grille closes after more than 20 years in business

ELMHURST – After more than two decades in Elmhurst, Arena Sports Grille at 630 W. Lake St. closed Feb. 23.

Patrick Pankey, a manager at the venue, said in an interview Feb. 27 that staff learned of the decision to close a couple months ago.

He said some regulars have been reaching out about the closure.

"I feel kinda sad we didn't have a chance to reach out to the community," Pankey said.

He said Arena had many regulars, and it was a spot for business people who would come by for lunch.

Previous establishments at the location had included Hudson's, The Hurricane and Oliver's Pub, Pankey said.

Kassondra Schref, communications manager for the city of Elmhurst, said Feb. 26 the property had been on the market since the fall, and there are no current plans for the location.

Owner Tom Gatziolis could not be reached for comment.