Frank Thomas to open bar in Berwyn Thursday unbeknownst to the staff

Former White Sox first baseman Frank Thomas announced on Twitter that he was opening up his new sports bar in Berwyn on Thursday.

The only problem? His staff might not be ready.

A male worker answered 35 Sports Bar and Grill’s phone Thursday afternoon and said the bar wasn’t supposed to officially open Thursday. The man said the bar planned to have a “soft open,” which is when a new restaurant eases into business rather than opening its doors to an overwhelming crowd.

When the tweet from Thomas was read to the man on the phone, he laughed hysterically and said he didn’t know Thomas posted that.

About 30 minutes later, the Sun-Times placed another phone call to 35 Sports Bar and Grill. This time it was answered by a female worker. She clarified Thomas’ tweet and explained that the bar did open Thursday, but it only to a select crowd who was personally invited or previously placed reservations.

The bar will officially be open to the public Friday.

Thirty-five Sports Bar and Grill previously opened in 2014 under the name of “Big Hurt Brewhouse.” Last November, the restaurant announced it was closing to restructure. Some critics on the bar’s Facebook page complained about poor service and outdated decor, according to My Suburban Life.

The newly remodeled and renamed 35 Sports Bar and Grill’s Facebook page describes it as “a modern Chicago Sports Bar” and says it has “great food, huge selection of beer, killer sound and TVs from every angle.”

The bar, located in Berwyn’s historic American State Bank building which was built in 1926, has 35 beers on draft, including some local craft brews. Pitchers are as cheap as $14 for some domestic drafts.

For food, the menu has sandwiches and chicken wings and tenders, along with platters to share such as chicken tinga quesadillas and tempura-battered pretzels.

It also has a variety of burgers, including one named after the legend himself. “The Big Hurt” burger is served with bacon, cheddar cheese, fried egg and pickles.

The prices are also reasonable. Entrees range anywhere from $9 to $14.50.

Calls to Thomas were not returned.