For years, Wooden Paddle has been a beloved staple in Lemont, known for its inventive wood-fired pizzas and welcoming atmosphere. Now, after overcoming a series of challenges and delays, owners Jonathan and Brianna Cowan have officially opened their second location in La Grange. Their journey to this point has been one of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering passion for bringing people together through exceptional food.
A Labor of Love
When the Cowans set their sights on opening a second location in La Grange, they knew it wouldn’t be an easy task. The historic building they acquired required extensive renovations, and unexpected setbacks delayed their plans. However, their commitment to creating a space that truly reflected the Wooden Paddle experience never wavered. With each obstacle, they found a way to move forward, ensuring that the final result would be worth the wait. Now, their dream has become a reality, offering La Grange a new destination for gourmet pizza, craft cocktails, and an inviting ambiance.
A Family Visit to Remember
I had the pleasure of visiting Wooden Paddle in La Grange on its opening weekend with my wife and kids, eager to experience what the Cowans had brought to our community. From the moment we walked in, the space felt warm and inviting, a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Our meal began with the Really Good Bread & Butter, a house-made focaccia paired with black truffle, pimento, and vanilla-honey butter. It was the perfect way to start our meal, offering a delightful mix of flavors. And, yup, we forgot to take a photo.
For our main courses, my wife and I split both the Gettin’ Figgy Wit It pizza (pictured at the top) and the Ribeye. The pizza, topped with sweet mission fig jam, salty prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and creamy mascarpone, was a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The ribeye was equally impressive, cooked to perfection and full of rich flavor.
Our kids opted for classic cheese pizzas, and we were amazed when our son ate the crust—something he has never done before with any pizza! That alone speaks to the quality of Wooden Paddle’s dough and wood-fired technique.
Of course, we couldn’t resist trying dessert. We indulged in the Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, a rich butter cake with lemon curd, whipped lime mascarpone, and orange confit, as well as the Crème de la Crème Brulee, an airy brown sugar mousse paired with espresso-infused crème brûlée. Both were absolute showstoppers and the perfect way to end our meal.
Craft Cocktails That Impress
Beyond its incredible food, Wooden Paddle also offers an impressive selection of craft cocktails. I enjoyed the Fire & Ice, a bold yet refreshing combination of Banhez Mezcal, passionfruit liqueur, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, habanero bitters, and fresh basil. My wife opted for the CARDI P(EAR), a unique and flavorful mix of Corazon Tequila, spiced pear liqueur, cardamom bitters, cinnamon syrup, Disaronno amaretto, and fresh lime juice. Both drinks were expertly crafted, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to our meal.
More Than Just a Restaurant
Beyond its incredible menu, Wooden Paddle’s La Grange location offers something truly special—a second-floor event space named Remi. Designed to host private gatherings, this venue adds another layer to the Wooden Paddle experience, making it an ideal spot for celebrations, corporate events, and intimate gatherings.
Wooden Paddle’s arrival in La Grange isn’t just about adding another dining option—it’s about bringing a sense of community and a passion for culinary creativity. The Cowans’ journey from a simple idea to two thriving locations is a testament to their hard work and vision.
For those who haven’t yet had the chance to visit, Wooden Paddle in La Grange is a must-try. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for an unforgettable dining experience, you’ll find it here.
Have you visited Wooden Paddle’s new location yet? Share your experience in the comments or tag us on social media with your favorite dish!