‘Opportunity for everyone’: Plans for former La Salle grocery store move forward

Plans to turn the shuttered Illinois Valley Food & Deli into another venue moved forward on Monday night, as the La Salle City Council discussed ways to make the proposed sports bar and grill family-friendly.

At its meeting on Monday, the council discussed potential regulations to keep children and adults separated.

Amber French bought the establishment and has been making renovations, complete with a full bar and a working kitchen.

The main attraction of the new establishment is an abundance of pool tables, adding a billiards bar to the community. Containing around thirty pool tables, the hall could be a home for tournaments and casual playing alike.

Along with the adult bar and billiard balls, French plans to include air hockey tables and a children’s lounge to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. She also hopes it will be a positive addition to the community’s slower sports seasons.

“When sports are a little bit slower, it gives everyone an opportunity to do something else…I think this is a great option for everybody,” French said.

The end goal of the new Sports Bar and Grill is to add a source of entertainment to the community through all seasons and for all people.

“We’re a small town, and everybody knows everybody. So, it’s great to have somewhere to gather and have some fun,” French said.