Stolp Island’s new anchor

By Naperville Magazine
Appears in the January 2020 issue.

Amy Morton, daughter of Chicago restaurateur Arnie Morton, knows a thing or two (now, three) about the restaurant business. With Stolp Island Social (5 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, 630.340.4980), she brings her expertise and her famed take on steak to historic downtown Aurora, next door to the Paramount Theatre.

Stolp Island is a long drive from Morton’s two other restaurants—the Barn Steakhouse and Found Kitchen, both in Evanston—but geography might work out in her favor. A seasonal kitchen and steakhouse, Stolp Island will source much of its offerings from surrounding farms, breweries, and distilleries in the western suburbs.

A 1920s art deco flair is found throughout the space, laid out across multiple rooms. Features include an updated take on Pullman booths, a wood-paneled lounge, and period fixtures, which all make for a more intimate experience.

“The vibe is 1920s Aurora meets Coco Chanel today,” says Morton.

Chef Steve O’Neill (Found Kitchen & Social House) will lead the kitchen. Menu items include roasted tomato hummus with smoked carrots, radishes, and baby gem; burrata and eggplant ragout; chicken three ways (braised, confit, and pan-seared with fregola and leek purée); and farm steak frites, a classic prep using cuts from Slagel Family Farm in central Illinois.
Guests heading to Paramount Theatre will be treated to prix fixe menu options for a quality in-and-out pretheater dining experience.—KA

Photo Courtesy Stolp Island Social