Lake County isn't quite Chicago and isn't quite Wisconsin cheese curd nation. However, it lies somewhere in between (literally). As someone who grew up in the area, I am knowledgeable about the food scene. Turns out that you don't need to drive to the city to grab an irresistible, unforgettable bite. Check out this list to learn what's good for brunch, lunch, dinner, and more in Lake County!
Disclaimer: This list is not comprehensive in any way. It simply includes 16 favorite eats of a Lake County local!Biryani Pointe: Gurnee
Biryani Pointe serves up traditional Indian and Pakistani dishes, including many variations of biryani, a traditional mixed rice dish. Biryani Pointe is a hidden gem for lunch and dinner. Along with all types of biryani you can think of, they have sandwiches, warm and spicy meat dishes, and a large selection of vegetarian options. I especially love a hot plate of house-made chicken biryani in the cold winter months.
Blufish Sushi Robata: Vernon Hills
Blufish is a trendy restaurant in Vernon Hills that's well-known for its sushi. They have countless hot and cold appetizers, specialty rolls, nigiri & sashimi, and plenty of vegetarian options. Personally, I am a fan of the udon and Green Turtle Rolls with black rice.
Bob Chinn's: Wheeling
If you're a seafood fan, Bob Chinn's is the place for you. Bob Chinn's is a bustling neighborhood crab house with the freshest catches from around the globe. If you're not into seafood, Bob Chinn's also has a full salad bar, pasta dishes, and fresh desserts. My favorite eats include the Crab Cake Nuggets, Hot & Spicy Shrimp, and of course a fresh slice of Key Lime Pie for dessert.
Ristorante Bottaio: Libertyville
Ristorante Bottaio is one of my favorite restaurants of all time. It’s a place to celebrate any occasion or even just have a comforting meal once in a while. Some of my favorite dishes here include the Capricciosa Pizza and the Penne Pecorino. The Penne Pecorino is especially satisfying; the creamy tomato sauce and tangy goat cheese with a salty bite of Italian sausage is unforgettable. And don't forget to finish off your meal with a sweet bite of tiramisu or gelato!
City Works: Multiple Locations
City Works is a new and hot eatery and pour house that has a few locations in Lake County and surrounding suburbs. They offer an all-day brunch menu and modern twists on classic American favorites. For those of you who are 21+, City Works is known for their wide selection of draft beers, all of which you can sample before ordering. Some of my loves are the cheese curds (when I don't feel like driving to Wisconsin), shakshuka (poached eggs with hot tomato sauce), buffalo cauliflower, fish tacos, and an ice-cold glass of the seasonal hard cider.
Francesca's North: Northbrook
Francesca's is a Chicagoland restaurant group, and you can find restaurants all over the area. One branch is called Francesca's North, located in Northbrook, and it's one of my favorite spots for Italian. It's a hot place for a weekend dinner, special occasion or not. I love to indulge in fried calamari, Pizza Napoletana, and the flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
Mambo Italiano: Mundelein
I recently discovered this hidden gem and now crave their food on a weekly basis. Mambo Italiano offers a large selection of Italian favorites for lunch and dinner. Every bite of spinach lasagna or rigatoni is flavorful and feels like a warm hug. Trust me, you can’t leave until you’ve had a bite of the light and fluffy tiramisu.
Mesa Urbana: Northbrook
Mesa Urbana is a fusion restaurant that serves up Modern Mexican-inspired dishes with French, Mediterranean, and Asian influence. All food is made from scratch and is served with love. The flavorful guacamole is served up with fresh crunchy vegetables. My other faves include teriyaki chicken tacos and watermelon beet salad.
Milwalky Taco: Libertyville
Milwalky Taco is a popular bar and taco joint. I often go to catch up with friends, especially in the warmer months. They offer a variety of appetizers and small tacos so that you can try them all. My favorite tacos are the Pescado and Hongos with a side of Queso Fundido and Esquites (grilled corn). And if you're 21+, don't forget to sip on a margarita during your taco feast.
The Picnic Basket: Libertyville
The Picnic Basket is an inviting neighborhood restaurant in Downtown Libertyville. They have irresistible gourmet wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts, and more. It is the perfect place to sit and catch up with friends. My favorite dishes are the turkey croissant sandwich and egg salad wrap, but I am always down to try one of their daily specials.
Pita Inn: Mundelein (And Other Locations)
Pita Inn is a popular Chicagoland Mediterranean restaurant with a tons of filling and flavorful eats. There is a good selection of vegan and vegetarian options as well. My order is often a fatoush salad with chicken or falafel on top served with hot pita bread on the side. It’s a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner that you can even order online!
The Port of Peri Peri: Libertyville (And Other Locations)
The Port of Peri Peri serves up mouthwatering healthy dishes with roots from a small town in Portugal. Their Peri Peri Chicken is cooked to perfection on an open-flame grill and doused in signature Peri Peri sauce according to your preferred spice level. Vegetarians can enjoy other favorites such as falafel and paneer dishes. I usually order a wrap with Peri Paneer or chicken with a side of Peri Fries or spicy, creamy corn.
The Silo: Lake Bluff
The Silo is an iconic Lake County favorite and offers many exciting Chicago eats. You can order ahead or sit down and enjoy a super casual lunch or dinner. This is my go-to pizza place with friends. I’m a veggie pizza kinda girl, so my personal favorite is the Frisco pan pizza. And don't forget the wings and/or garlic bread on the side!
Tokyo@siam: North Chicago
Don’t let the small restaurant near the gas station fool you. Tokyo@siam in North Chicago offers a variety of hot and fresh Japanese, Chinese, and Thai dishes. My friends and I are big fans of their Drunken Noodles and curry selection. The food is perfectly spicy and satisfying for those long nights of work.
#SpoonTip: Be sure to come here hungry because portions are generous!
Wildberry: Libertyville (And Other Locations)
Wildberry is the best brunch place in Chicago, and nobody can tell me otherwise. They have a few locations in the city of Chicago and suburbs. I grew up eating at this insanely popular restaurant with consistent, quality service. My favorite breakfast dishes are the veggie omelet and the mixed berry waffles (with a cup of coffee of course!). For lunch I like to enjoy a southwest chicken wrap.
#SpoonTip: Wildberry chefs are always cooking up seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice lattes and raspberry white chocolate pancakes so be sure to check out the specials menu!
Wildfire: Lincolnshire, IL (And Other Locations)
Here’s a childhood favorite. Brunch, Lunch, or dinner at Wildfire is the way to celebrate a special occasion or go out for a nice meal once in a while. They serve up tons of steaks, chops, and other American classics. My favorite dish is the Wildfire chopped salad (which will make you like salad if you don’t already). I also enjoy roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and the apple crisp.
Chicago is a top restaurant hub in the nation. However, there's lots to explore beyond the city. Lake County, along with many other Chicago 'burbs, offer a taste of home that you truly won't find anywhere else.