13 Best Cocktail Bars near Gurnee

“There is nothing about this place I don't recommend. The meads are amazing, their Cocktail Master is amazing at coming up with unusual combinations, and is great fun to talk to. The music mix is great as well (but possibly because I'm old 😁)! Overall, the place is extremely welcoming, with a selection of games and sofas so you can sit and enjoy your drinks and socialize.“

“Mijo's' service is always friendly and welcoming! Thank you to them for also having roasted chickpeas as a protein option for plant based and vegan eaters! This is difficult to find as most places just remove the meat and then charge $3 for some avocado 🥑 but have no protein replacement. I really enjoyed going here nearly every week while living in the area!“

“First visit tonight and it was a blast! The owners are kind and ran a fun event. The space is an old kitchen furniture showroom if some kind so it has a lot of fun, unique spaces to hang out. I'll be back!Navigation tip: it's attached to the back of the Harley Davidson dealership. The GPS was very confused about where I should turn.“

“Best bowling alley in the area. Had a great time!!! Definitely a hidden jem!“

“I haven't gone to eat in the restaurant yet but we have ordered several times and the food is so good. Definitely would recommend!“

“This was our first visit and won’t be our last. We shared the charcuterie board, bao buns, and the cookie skillet. All were very good. Our server was helpful and appropriately attentive. Bar service was very good. 100% recommend. Would be particularly fun for a group (lots of items for sharing). We will go back and work our way through the menu! We watched a few groups enjoy many items and one looked better than the next.“

“The food was really good i had lamb chops mac cheese greens and catfish and grits amazing the owner was nice and the staff“

“I ordered delivery for my son for his birthday. Although, they don’t have pasta I was able to get him some wings and a pizza. They gave me an estimated time frame but delivered before it. They also gave me a courtesy call before showing up. He said the food was delicious as well. Therefore, they get a five star from us ?“

“This was exactly the vibe that I was looking for for a nice meal before Christmas. I’ve never been to Deer Path but I am so glad I went. The cocktails were great, the service was fantastic and the food was delicious. I loved the fireplace vibes too.“

“We picked Maevery last minute for our son's navy graduation dinner and it didn't dissapoint. They accommodated a last minute reservation and put us in a corner great table for easy catching up. Service was great (which we didn't experience in multiple fine dining restaurants downtown) and food was yummy and a good selection. .. they had awesome recommendations and treated us wonderfully! Didn't rush us and from 5-6pm we nearly had the place to ourselves before the dinner rush! Highly recommended by this out of town visiting family! Thank You (from Southern CA) We will be back if we are in Chicago again!“

“Never judge a book by its cover. When I arrived, the empty parking lot and the restaurant being inside a hotel initially raised red flags. However, with limited options and an open mind, I decided to give it a try—and was blown away. The cuisine and customer service were exceptional! They even fresh squeezed lemonade for me!

Oaken Bar + Bistro: A Taste of Elegance in Every Bite

Beef Tenderloin Empanadas
The empanadas set the tone with their flaky crust and tender, perfectly seasoned beef filling. Accompanied by vibrant chimichurri and a zesty lemon tomato sauce, this starter balances richness and brightness with precision. Each bite feels indulgent yet fresh, leaving you eager for more.

Oaken Salad
This salad takes simplicity to an elevated level. A mix of fresh greens pairs unexpectedly well with juicy orange segments and velvety whipped ricotta. The lavender vanilla vinaigrette adds a subtle floral sweetness, tying the dish together beautifully. A sourdough crostini provides the perfect crunch, making this a standout plate for anyone craving a sophisticated yet light option.

Atlantic Salmon
A dish that seamlessly combines comforting and refined elements. The salmon, cooked to perfection, sits atop a silky potato purée that practically melts on the tongue. Earthy wild mushrooms add depth, while the buerre rouge sauce lends a rich, tangy finish. Every element works in harmony, creating a dish that’s both comforting and memorable.

And of course, my signature cappuccino…

Oaken Bar + Bistro shows its mastery in weaving together thoughtful ingredients with elevated techniques, making each plate a well-orchestrated delight.

Here’s a bit about the venue:
Oaken Bistro + Bar is a modern, upscale American bistro located in Lake Forest, Illinois. It offers all-day dining with a menu that blends elevated American classics, such as burgers and salads, with globally influenced dishes like Beef Tenderloin Empanadas and the Cubano sandwich.

The restaurant features a sleek lounge serving craft cocktails, including signature herbal-infused options, alongside an eclectic wine list and local beers. Guests can enjoy their meals in a contemporary dining room, a 25-seat outdoor patio, or opt for take-out and delivery services.

Executive Chef Christian Alejandro leads the culinary team, offering a diverse American menu with international influences from Latin America, Italy, and Creole cuisines. Chef Alejandro was recently inducted into the Disciples Escoffier organization, highlighting his culinary expertise.“

“The first thing you notice is the farm house decor. The menu is American fare with a hint of some southern dishes. The staff is great considering it can get busy after 8:30 am. There’s plenty of parking and weather permitting. They have outside seating.“

“It's the only restaurant my whole family will agree on! The food and service are consistently fantastic. I appreciate their frequent changing drink menus and food offerings. The bar and windows throughout give it an open, modern feel. Can't wait for summer when they open the large front windows...“