31 Best Bars near Lake Forest

““The Gallery made my wife’s surprise 75th birthday celebration absolutely unforgettable. Cecilia handled every detail with warmth and professionalism—helping me find a photographer, musician, flowers, and balloons that made the evening shine. Guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres followed by a beautifully paced five-course dinner, complete with honey-inspired cocktails (using our own honey!) and a honey mustard salad dressing the chef created just for us. The food, wine pairings, and service were all outstanding—friendly, polished, and perfectly timed. The room’s unpretentious elegance and local artwork created the ideal setting for a night full of laughter, connection, and joy. Mission accomplished!”“

“The atmosphere at the English Room in Lake Forest is very nice calm, classic, and a beautiful setting. The drink presentation was gorgeous. But the food itself was just okay, nothing special. I went to see what the hype was about, but overall I wasn’t very impressed.“

“Very good fresh Mexican food. The usual menu choices were offered along with a few specials. My drink was strong, friends margaritas were pricey for the size but ok. Their chips and salsa were nothing special. We enjoyed the fried calamari but the sauce was a bit odd and we would’ve enjoyed a cocktail sauce more. The empanadas were tasty but I wasn’t sure there was actually any beef inside. \n\nMy chicken fajitas were very good but could’ve used a bit more flavor. The chicken, peppers and onions were grilled just right. The beef tacos were a hit as well as the taco special. Beef fajitas were so so. \n\nService was excellent but the room was very loud and made it hard to converse. Eating outside might be nicer! I’d return.“

“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.“

“Great place. Very friendly staff.“

“I went to Lucky Scottie for the first time. I've been invited by a friend who sings but never made it. I was impressed with the place in Waukegan. I'll be back soon. Keep up the good work!“

“We got here for the post Polar Plunge free drink promotion. My friend and I received our free drink, and because the bartender, Bonnie, was attentive and sweet, we stayed for a couple more drinks and ordered some food. Would totally return when next in the area. . . With any luck Bonnie will be working.“

“Love this place!! It’s very relaxed and friendly, and it’s a great place to grab a beer or have a shot. 10/10“

“A great spot to hangout and grab a drink.“

“Great service! Fun atmosphere!!“

“We have discovered this place 3 years ago when we are searching for an outdoor casual dining. What we found was a great place that had outdoor seating on a deck patio with umbrellas and a TV set to watch sporting events. The service was friendly, and the food was great. The drinks were very reasonable. The menu was large having everything from sandwiches to dinners. We never had a bad experience there and brought family and friends to enjoy the evening sitting outside. We always come back.“

“Great people to be with inviting atmosphere friendly place“

“They support live music entertainment!“

“The food is fire with an extensive eastern euro & Asian fusion menu. Def need to come back to try more of the items. But the Balkan salad, Phili roll and lamb chop mangal was delish. Loved the eye for interior detail. I think they throw parties here and def need to check that out next time“

“Great food and atmosphere“

“Try their chili! It is the best. Great atmosphere.“

“The Cheeseburger on a Pretzel bun was very good and I would recommend it. I like their selection of German & Craft beers. I will be back at the Old Munich Tavern next Friday.“

“Great place to hangout with friends and family“

“Absolutely love this place especially when Rosario is working, she is very friendly and very helpful. She is always making sure you have a drink or need anything. I really enjoy my time being there when she is there . She makes this place feel so much fun!“

“Good drinks & great bartenders.“

“We rented the sun room for a team party. It was a great space, nicely decorated, good food, helpful service - already talking about coming back for our next team meal!“

“Dancing is the best. Best djs in the house live music“

“Very cozy atmosphere. The bartenders are GREAT! My favorite is Ginny, great Customer Service, always a welcoming smile. The patrons while many are regulars, they too are very kind and always make me feel welcome. On the rare occasion I do go out, this is where I am going!!“

“A spot found randomly while looking for lunch on a long bike ride from Chicago. Nashville hot chicken is VERY tasty, and the seasoned fries are excellent. Great spot for food and beer. Incredible bartending service by Tanya. Was a Saturday afternoon experience. Recommended!“

“Came in from out of town to visit some child hood friends and it was a blast. The bartenders not only served great drinks but where quick with making them. Also got to see local celebrity Karina Borelli ( IG:borelli.karina) but couldn't get close enough to get an autograph. Next time I back in town I will definitely stop bye.“

“Atmosphere was fun and festive, but with only two bartenders, it took forever to get drinks. I stood at the bar with money waving in my hand for over fifteen minutes. Staff was friendly and the fish looked clean. Typical noise level for a bar on a Saturday night with live music.
Thankfully, our friends got here early and held a table for us, otherwise it was standing room only.“

“I went there with a 20$ match and play coupon and they did not honor the coupon at all they told me NO NO“

“Friendly crowd, great service, & great prices. Outdoor Beer Garden a huge plus. Dog friendly, too.“

“It's where everyone knows your name. .. Especially mine because I go in there SO much! Love it. The new menu is great!“

“Come here every so often and the food is always amazing and the service is always on point.“

“Nice beer garden, good bands but I wish the tables were upfront. It's cheaper to stand than buy seats but if you do, you can't see the stage. Weird setup but good place.“