According to a recent job post, The Drake Oak Brook will open a new restaurant called Coa, located at 2301 York Road.
“Inspired by the respective cultures of the hotel’s beloved owner Tely Nagle and Executive Chef Ezequiel Dominguez, the hotel will be the first to bring a fresh culinary fusion of Spain’s Galicia community and Mexico’s agave history to the Chicago suburb of Oak Brook. The new-build space is set to debut in December 2023 with its name paying homage to the specialized tool that harvests agave,” a press release sent to What Now Chicago states.
“With the addition of an entirely new dining experience that’s so close to our hearts, we are thrilled to continue the hotel’s long history as a beacon of fine dining and close gatherings for guests and locals,” shares Tely Nagle, The Drake Oak Brook owner. “Every element has been made to feel like an extension of my family dining room from the warmth, traditions, and flavors of my culture.”
“Guests will embark on an authentic journey through agave-infused cuisine and tequila-based spirits that blend both Mexican and Spanish influences. Using the finest seasonal ingredients, menu highlights include an extensive selection of hot and cold tapas, a variety of paellas celebrating the rice harvest along Spain’s Mediterranean Coast, bright seafood dishes, and more.”
“Some of the earliest dishes I remember making with my mother at six years old were tapas,” shares Chef Ezequiel Dominguez. “I’ve thoughtfully merged my formal culinary background with these family traditions that have been passed down in order to create the recipes that will now become a special part of The Drake Oak Brook’s history through Coa.”
“Traditional tapas-style dining and bold flavors will be juxtaposed with warm hospitality set within a vibrant oasis honoring Mexico’s soulful roots and renowned design mastery. Amidst hand-carved wood finishes, custom furnishings from Mexico include handcrafted furniture and hand-sculpted chandeliers. Contemporary touches will be woven throughout with interactive digital displays for high-definition musical screenings and visual storytelling.”
“Coa marks the property’s first full restaurant addition in over five decades. Serving as a secluded hideaway in the 1960s for legends from Frank Sinatra to King Charles, Chicago locals Jim and Tely Nagle brought the property back to life in 2014 and has continued to transcend the brand through generations and international waters. This announcement comes one year after the opening of the hotel’s Aroma de Café coffee lounge and evening wine bar, and one month following the brand’s addition of the licensing agreement with Otaduy Yachts in Cabo San Lucas.”
“Fusing his Spanish heritage with the estate’s century-long tradition in fine dining, Chef Dominguez oversees all culinary aspects of the estate in addition to Coa, including the historic Colonial Room serving classic British High Tea, Aroma de Café, and old-school lobby bar.”
“Coa will be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner with an early dining experience Sunday through Thursday. Diners can enjoy weekly Happy Hour and late-night dining from Thursday through Sunday. Coa will debut Sunday brunch in early 2024,” the press release additionally states.
