Sweet Berry Café: A South Elgin Success Story

How owner Dan Mataragas turned $3,000 and a leap of faith into one of the Fox Valley's most beloved brunch destinations

South Elgin, IL | Fox Valley

Dan Mataragas, owner of Sweet Berry Café in South Elgin, has a story that embodies resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit. Growing up in the restaurant industry, Dan learned the ins and outs of the business from his family. In 2013, after being deemed "overqualified" for restaurant management positions, Dan decided to carve his own path. With just $3,000 to his name and a 16-year-old pickup truck held together with zip ties, he took a leap of faith.

Dan found a shuttered restaurant space with most of the equipment intact, signed a lease with a supportive landlord, and funded his dream by maxing out credit cards. It wasn't easy—Dan worked tirelessly, taking no days off for years, and hired trusted colleagues from his past jobs to get the café up and running. Twelve years later, Sweet Berry Café is thriving, a testament to Dan's vision and perseverance.

Sweet Berry Café is not your average breakfast and brunch spot. Known for its chef-driven, rotating specials, the café offers unique, flavorful creations that push the boundaries of traditional breakfast fare. Their menu features a full plant-based section made with real, wholesome ingredients—no fake meats here—and gluten-free options that have been available since day one. For meat lovers, the café serves high-quality offerings, including extra-thick maple bacon, jumbo maple sausage links, savory pot roast, and more, sourced through exclusive vendor relationships. A standout favorite is their homemade salsas for the chilaquiles, crafted by Chef Jesus, who has been part of Dan's team since they were teenagers.

Surviving the pandemic was no small feat for Sweet Berry Café. Unlike some competitors, they adhered to state mandates, earning respect and loyalty from their customers. Despite rising costs, Dan refused to compromise on portion sizes or product quality. This dedication has solidified the café's reputation for exceptional food and service.

Recently, Sweet Berry Café underwent a complete remodel, transforming the dining space into a modern, luxurious environment. They also launched a direct ordering app, bypassing third-party delivery fees, and introduced a new beverage program featuring "Brunchtails" to elevate the dining experience. In 2023, Sweet Berry Cafe was voted "Best Brunch" in the NW Suburbs by the Daily Herald. In December 2024, Sweet Berry Cafe was voted "Best Breakfast Restaurant" by Elgin Community Votes.

Sweet Berry Café, located at 720 N McLean Blvd. in South Elgin, continues to be a cornerstone of the community, supporting local charities and schools. As Dan says, "If you want to have your own business, don't let anyone tell you that you can't do it. Stay focused, work hard, and success will follow."

Visit Sweet Berry Café in South Elgin and experience the dedication, innovation, and heart that define #OnlyAtTheBerry. For more information, call (224) 238-3057 or visit sweetberrycafe.net. Follow Sweet Berry Cafe on social media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok @sweetberrycafe.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is Sweet Berry Café known for?

Sweet Berry Café in South Elgin is known for chef-driven, rotating breakfast and brunch specials, a full plant-based menu made with real ingredients, gluten-free options available since opening day, and premium meat offerings like extra-thick maple bacon and jumbo maple sausage links.

Where is Sweet Berry Café located?

Sweet Berry Café is located at 720 N McLean Blvd. in South Elgin, Illinois, serving the greater Fox Valley community.

Does Sweet Berry Café have vegan or gluten-free options?

Yes. Sweet Berry Café offers a full plant-based section made with real, wholesome ingredients rather than processed meat substitutes, along with gluten-free options that have been on the menu since the café opened in 2013.

What awards has Sweet Berry Café won?

Sweet Berry Café was voted "Best Brunch" in the NW Suburbs by the Daily Herald in 2023, and "Best Breakfast Restaurant" by Elgin Community Votes in December 2024.

Can I order directly from Sweet Berry Café online?

Yes. Sweet Berry Café launched its own direct ordering app so guests can order without paying third-party delivery fees.

Who founded Sweet Berry Café?

Dan Mataragas founded Sweet Berry Café in 2013 after growing up in the restaurant industry, starting the business with just $3,000 and an old pickup truck.

Written by Jennifer for livingwellwithjennifer.com — spotlighting local Fox Valley businesses and the people behind them. Know a business with a story worth telling? Contact Jennifer at Jennifer.Abbatacola@N2co.com