Located in the heart of Elmhurst, IL, Aunt Tina's Kitchen is a beloved family-owned restaurant that’s been serving up Southern comfort food since 2024. While the restaurant is still fresh, its roots go back a bit further, starting as a seasoning company called That Rub in 2020. The journey from spices to a food truck, and eventually to a brick-and-mortar establishment, is a testament to the passion and perseverance of the team behind Aunt Tina's Kitchen.
The story of Aunt Tina's Kitchen is more than just about food—it’s a heartfelt tribute to a beloved family member who shaped the trajectory of the business. Tony, the owner and chef, was introduced to the restaurant industry at just 14 years old by his Aunt Tina. Over the years, Tony worked alongside her for 17 years, learning the ins and outs of the industry. From there, he pursued culinary school, armed with the knowledge and skill to bring Aunt Tina’s legacy to life.
Sadly, during the planning stages for their food truck, Aunt Tina passed away suddenly. Rather than seeing this as a setback, Tony and his team decided to dedicate the business to her memory, ensuring that her spirit would continue to inspire their work. "Aunt Tina’s Kitchen" was born as a tribute to her, keeping her influence and love for good food at the forefront.
The transformation from That Rub to Aunt Tina's Kitchen has been a remarkable journey. Starting as a seasoning company, the team quickly gained popularity with their unique blends, leading to the opening of a food truck in 2022. It wasn’t long before they were able to open their own brick-and-mortar location in 2024, bringing their vibrant, flavor-packed menu to the Elmhurst community.
The menu is a delicious mix of classic Southern comfort food, with dishes like Fried Catfish, Ribeye Steak Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich, and the ever-popular Mac n Cheese leading the way. Each dish is infused with the love and tradition of Aunt Tina’s kitchen, with seasoning from their own That Rub products making every bite burst with flavor.
Aunt Tina's Kitchen is more than just a place to grab a meal—it’s a community hub. The team behind the restaurant is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. "Our mission is to unite the community through good food and an inclusive atmosphere," says Tony.
As Aunt Tina's Kitchen continues to grow, the team plans to expand their offerings and keep building upon the legacy of their namesake. Every meal is a tribute to Aunt Tina, and with a strong foundation in family, tradition, and community, the future looks bright. With the love of food and community at its core, Aunt Tina's Kitchen is set to become a beloved staple in Elmhurst and beyond.