33 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants Gurnee

“Visited for breakfast a few days ago and had the best French toast I've ever had; they do their Cinnamon Roll French Toast right. Our server was super friendly, the kitchen was backed up a little but she made sure to check in frequently and keep us updated. Super cute inside too, definitely recommend for easy breakfast!“

“Great experience; with no reservation, on a busy Saturday night, we were able to sit at the bar and had a wonderful time. The bartender was a pleasure, and so was his friend lol. Great steaks, drinks and atmosphere!! Seriously, his friend was dreamy!! Thank you Stevens for a wonderful evening, one my new sailor will forever remember! Love from Texas!!“

“Clean and courteous, excellent soups and sandwiches“

“This place is so awesome! The food is incredible, the staff is so nice and the wine is outstanding too. I will definitely be back and spread the word! ❤️“

“Amazing service ! Bar tender Jimmy was absolutely great. My boyfriend and I stopped by for a quick drink and soup before the movies and had a Good time thanks to him!“

“After my doctor visits, my husband treats me to lunch at the restaurant of my choice. We just passed Eggspress in Lindenhurst. I suggested we try the restaurant. We were so pleased with the food, atmosphere and service. David, our server, was very attentive and pleasant“

“i live within walking distance of this place and finally went to check it out the other day and was not disappointed! super tasty drinks and delicious food! all the staff was very friendly and attentive as well! i’ll definitely be back!“

“Food was very good. Server was pleasant and available whenever we needed. Very nice atmosphere. Beer selection is fantastic.“

“Best coffee is Waukegan, HANDS DOWN!“

“The Greatest Custard In The World in texture, taste and freshness! Greg is a genius of a restauranteur and the nicest guy you're ever going to meet!“

“Corey was our fabulous server on this busy Saturday night. He was Extraordinary!! Attentive, helpful, so kind and thoughtful. Best dinner I’ve had in a long time with a fabulous server experience!“

“Hell yes! It’s absolutely delicious!“

“I’m so glad I found this place! great fresh food and good service. A great addition to the neighborhood.“

“Tighthead has some of the best craft beer in Lake County, IL. They are a big supporter of live music, have indoor/outdoor seating & a variety of food trucks on select days. Friendly staff who make you feel right at home.“

“Drinks and dinner was spot on! Joy, Colton and team nailed it. Never a disappointment.“

“The blts are amazing here! I mean so much is amazing here! Thank you for always providing such amazing food and treats!“

“Love this place. Great vibe.“

“We have visited at least 10 times before since moving back to the area, but tonight we sat outside in the heated patio area. Our service from start to finish was amazing, the food was absolutely fantastic. We usually sit inside by the bar but I cannot wait for summer to enjoy more of this patio! The staff, drinks, apps, food, and atmosphere could not be more enjoyable.“

“Stopped by with my daughter for lunch. The bartender Ashley was prompt in coming to the table and starting us with some drinks. The attentive service continued throughout the meal. Cheese fries were hot, crispy, and well seasoned. Smash Burger was juicy and prepared correctly. Chicago Dog on point, and the Italian Beef’s beef to bread ratio was perfect. Get it with cheese and giardiniera.“

“Food is always good as usual“

“Great place for groups and our server, Zaire, was simply excellent! A large menu with large portions. We had a wide variety of dietary preferences in our group - basically a bunch of picky eaters in different ways - and everyone found something they were happy with. Good find for Navy folks and their families/friends!“

“Great place to hang out in the summer. Outdoor bar, pool, volleyball. It’s a good time. Their chicken tenders appetizer is the best and no one can top their biscuits and gravy. I’m craving it just typing this. Servers are so friendly and nice.“

“Great place for sand volleyball tournaments! We enjoyed watching all the games take place and wish we had enough people interested in making a team. The food was good and the atmosphere was fun!

Parking: During busy volleyball nights, it was crowded and little parking available.“

“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.“

“We went to their location in Libertyville all the time. Heartbroken when it closed. So glad they have this location. Best chimichanga ever. No on come close.“

“Reasonable prices, Good food“

“La limpieza y el serbisio del personal es excelente todo es perfecto 🤩🥰🥰🥰 tiendas de comida y Walmart están a unos pasos todo muy Serca ☺️☺️my familia estuvo encantada con todo volvería otra vez a este hermoso lugar espero que existan más lugares como este en otras siudades 🥰“

“Our server, Chris, was very helpful in suggesting meal options, and making sure we had everything we wanted. Our food was delivered quickly, and it was all delicious! We will definitely be back!“

“Everyone is so knowledgeable and helpful. Its my 1 stop for supplements“

“Another amazing experience at Le Colonial. The best food, great service and the ambiance is the best in town. Can’t wait until our next visit.“

“Everybody is on believable food that’s good.“

“As we all should've learned by now, at the first time of hunger you should go seek food. Popular places take time to ensure a good meal. However, I made the mistake of ordering XL tips, with sauce on the side and didn't even get the second sauce I paid for. Never should I do this again, the meat was so dry and some had a crunchy texture. As a reminder ordering two smaller orders soaked in two different sauces. Just a helpful reminder besides pans, your choices are: 2XL, XL, L, S.
Standing room only, orders filled quickly, and take out only.

Vegetarian options: Not that I know of.

Dietary restrictions: Not that I know of, southern food.

Parking: Parking south of the building is limited, but a stroll on the North side of the building.
A walkway from the Northside I'm not sure, and there is only one door.

Kid-friendliness: No

Wheelchair accessibility: No, automatic doors.“

“First time here & oh my goodness!!! I am raving about this place. My hunny & I came on a Saturday around noon & it was fairly empty, so no wait to be seated. They have a great menu with lots of smoothie options ? & great food to choose from. Their prices are pretty good too. I got pho with beef slices & added shrimp. My hunny got pho as well. We got crab rangoon as an appetizer. The crab rangoon was hot & tasted good. We both got smoothies, mine was the piña colada & it was very yummy (: Our pho was amazing!! Oh my gosh the broth was seasoned so well, it had sooo much flavor I couldn't stop drinking it even after feeling full lol. This place def has the best pho to date that I've ever had. I WILL be coming back!!“