In the early 2000s, Matt Pellouchoud thought Antioch was in need of something. “East County has always been family-friendly area,” said the Chicago native, but he felt that the options for family dining were limited. After some thought and extensive research, the Pellouchoud family decided to open the UNO Chicago Grill in Antioch in November of 2005.

Its all-American food and family-friendly atmosphere has made UNO Chicago Grill a perfect fit for Antioch – as well as Pellouchoud. Seven years later the restaurant is going strong. The reason? “We’ve got great, high-quality food,” Pellouchoud said.

UNO Chicago Grill started out as Pizzeria UNO, the birthplace of the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. In the early 2000s, the chain expanded its menu beyond pizza to include family-friendly offerings such as burgers and a host of delectable items off the grill.

UNO Chicago Grill’s family-friendly focus continues to be a major factor in its success. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, kids eat free with each adult entrée, up to three free children’s meals. The restaurant also celebrates Double Nickel Wednesday, when adults 55 and older can eat for 30-percent off all day. (The discount doesn’t apply to specials or alcoholic beverages.)

For the 30-and-over crowd looking for entertainment on the weekends, UNO Chicago Grill recently began offering Chicago Nights on Friday and Saturday evenings after 10 p.m. “It’s a good time without getting too out of control,” said Pellouchoud. “You can hang out on a date night or just enjoy yourself on a night out with friends.”

Chicago Nights patrons can dance to party favorites from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. The bar offers a special drink menu; drinks start at $2 and the appetizer menu offers such treats as lobster sliders and calamari.

Pellouchoud has been involved in the Antioch community since 1993. And on Sept. 29 and 30, UNO is partnering with the Take Back Antioch organization to raise funds to replace the tot lot that got torched by vandals earlier this month. Mention the Take Back Antioch fundraiser and the restaurant will donate 20 percent of the bill to the rebuilding effort.

In addition to assisting community events by donating food and time, UNO Chicago Grill also supports fundraising efforts by donating money. Deer Valley High School, Holy Rosary, Golden Hills Community Church, and the local chapter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation are some of the recipients of UNO’s generosity.

UNO Chicago Grill is located at 9827 Lone Tree Way in Antioch. The phone number is 925-522-8854; the website, www.unos.com. More information about the Take Back Antioch fundraiser can be found at www.takebackantioch.com/fundraiser-to-benefit-city-park.