Neat Kitchen + Bar
246 North Cass Avenue
Downtown Westmont
NeatKitchenandBar.com
Matt Verde and John Taylor met in the sixth grade at Immaculate Conception Grade School in Elmhurst. These lifelong friends grew up to pursue restaurant careers that led them down different paths, but they ultimately reunited in 2018 to open Neat Kitchen + Bar.
After hearing the previous owners had closed the doors, Matt and John knew this was their chance to collaborate and bring Westmont a welcoming restaurant atmosphere based on fantastic food and excellent service.
Neat specializes in craft cocktails and beer, as well as unique burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Their signature items are the Neat Burger, made with their tri-blend patty, cheddar cheese, crispy fried shallots, house mayo, and a fried duck egg on a buttery toasted brioche bun.
Pair it with their popular Neat Old Fashioned, created with muddled Luxardo cherries and orange, 100-proof bourbon, and the perfect balance of sweetness, and you’re guaranteed to come back for more.
“Our approach to food and beverage is to take what is considered familiar and approachable and make it “NEAT,” Matt said. “Add a unique twist, spice, or splash to make it better than the rest, make it NEAT!”
In addition to neat takes on fan-favorite dishes, their atmosphere is inviting thanks to a dedicated staff focused on providing an impressive experience. Like many others, the Neat team was hit hard by the pandemic restaurant closures. Although it was difficult, they pulled together and navigated through, learning many valuable lessons about themselves and the community that helped them through it.
“We came out of the pandemic with a different appreciation for the community we are in and have committed to showing that appreciation by being involved, giving back and being a service and hospitality leader in the community,” Matt said.
Community is what their restaurant is all about. With daily specials, live music, trivia, and happy hour discounts, it’s the perfect spot for family dinners, date nights, work parties, and – of course – catching up with old friends. ■
