What a joy it is when a community’s hope is fulfilled and a dream is realized with a great new business!
Such is the case with TasteFULL, owned and operated by Damien McIntosh, located at 1929 S. Mannheim Road. TasteFULL is not your average local bar – it’s a welcoming dining experience paired with a lively bar atmosphere.
The inspiration for TasteFULL began with Damien’s wife, Michelle. Michelle’s cooking was always abundant and delicious, so much so that when friends and family would visit, they would leave calling the food simply “tasteful.” That nickname became the seed of a dream to open a restaurant and bar. Damien previously operated a restaurant/bar in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago. It was primarily a carry out business that began at the onset of the COVID pandemic. Unfortunately, as with many new businesses established at that time, it did not survive the pandemic.
Looking closer to home, Damien found an opportunity in Westchester to truly make the dream of TasteFULL a reality. Damien and Michelle are from the area and currently live in Westchester. Damien grew up in Bellwood and attended MacArthur Middle School before briefly studying at Culver Military Academy. Missing home, he returned to graduate from St. Joseph High School, where he was part of the legendary 1998–1999 AA Illinois State Championship basketball team, with a record of 32-1, under Coach Gene Pingatore. Damien loves to discuss his time at St. Joe’s, which is evident when you see a gigantic picture of the entire State Championship team right inside the front door of TasteFULL. Damien and Michelle’s daughters attended Westchester Primary, Intermediate, and Junior High, one daughter also graduating from St. Joe’s. Damien and his family truly love being a part of the Westchester community.
This love for the community is one of the reasons TasteFULL is so special. Damien was driving down Mannheim Road one day and noticed that the old Christopher’s Speakeasy was a great future location for TasteFULL. In a twist of fate, the owner’s son was also a St. Joe’s graduate, and together they worked out a lease-to-purchase agreement. From there, the vision came to life.
Step inside and you’ll find an inviting, versatile space. Not only is it a bar and restaurant, but it can also be reconfigured for parties, dances, meetings, and special events. The Westchester Chamber of Commerce recently held a gathering there and raved about the excellent service, food, and drinks. Popular menu items include $1 dine-in wings, the TasteFULL Tea specialty cocktail, filleted catfish, turkey burgers, taco Tuesday favorites, baked macaroni, collard greens, and sweet potato cornbread.
TasteFULL already employs ten people, with hopes to continue growing with great support from the community. Damien invites everyone to stop in, try the food and drinks, and experience the warm, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying music, catching a sports game, or celebrating with friends, TasteFULL is more than a bar – it’s a true community gathering place.
TasteFULL, 1929 S. Mannheim Rd. Westchester (Parking in the back and at the south end of the complex)
Phone: 708/240-9771
Website: MyTasteFULL.com
Email: TastefullLTD@gmail.com