neatkitchenandbar.com
246 North Cass Avenue
downtown Westmont
Lifelong friends John Taylor and Matt Verde, owners of Neat Kitchen and Bar in Westmont, met in sixth grade at Immaculate Conception Grade School in Elmhurst. After graduating together from high school, their careers took them separate ways, but both pursued careers in the restaurant industry.
Between John’s experience as an owner/operator of an independent restaurant in Naperville and Matt’s background in the corporate restaurant industry, they have 40+ years in the industry combined.
After a few years of wanting to collaborate, an opportunity finally came to fruition. After learning that the previous owners of Neat Kitchen and Bar had closed the doors, the duo took over the restaurant in 2018 to establish what it is today – a unique and inviting independent restaurant in Westmont focused on great food, craft cocktails and hospitality.
Based on putting guests and staff first before anything else, John and Matt work towards creating a unique and inviting environment. “We offer a diverse menu, and our kitchen goes out of its way to ensure the food is consistent every time,” said Matt. John added, “Our service staff goes out of their way to deliver hospitality better than the rest.”
Guests come back time and time again for the signature Neat Burger. It boasts a tri-blend patty, cheddar cheese, house mayo, crispy shallots, and a fried duck egg on a toasted brioche bun. The dozen or so craft cocktails created by the bar team, including the Neat Old Fashioned and Neat Manhattan, are signature bar staples.
“We rarely say no to a request’” said Matt. “We thrive on the challenge, and if given the opportunity, Neat Kitchen and Bar will meet or exceed your expectations.
Neat Kitchen & Bar proudly supports Westmont and surrounding communities through charitable donations, hosting fundraising events and partnering with local organizations.
Their philosophy of giving back extends to their team, many of which have been with Neat Kitchen and Bar for years. “I’ve seen many of our staff graduate from high school and college to begin a career here or beyond. Knowing that we played a part in that success makes us proud,” said Matt. ■
