50 Best American Restaurants near Mundelein

“Visited again in march 2022 again perfect service perfect meal the atmosphere the food the service is a 5 star you need to go it will be a perfect meal !!“

“Love Culver's every time I get it!

But, I wanted to shout out... I just used the recipe off of their website for their fish fry batter.

We have religious restrictions and don't eat red meat on Xmas Eve. So we do a fish fry instead.

Culver's is just a really great company, because they publish the recipe for their really great fish fry! The family was super pleased with how everything turned out.

Vegetarian options: Fried fish of several types. Fried onions. Fried cheese curds.

Dietary restrictions: Great options for pescatarian/vegetarian/folks observing Lent.“

“Always a fun time at Oak Trail.“

“very good skillets for a great price. High recommend if you are in the Mundelein area“

“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 old time tavern to have a drink and some eats. Friendly folks and good service“

“Everything is amazing, and we love the outdoor seating.“

“Super…Great service from Ashley!!“

“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!“

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

“The service and food were awesome! I'd definitely recommend to friends and family!“

“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.“

“Amazing breakfast, nice people , reasonable prices , fits nicely the mold for "small town breakfast place" Next time I'm in town , I'll be back“

“Exceptionally excellent food and peeps!!!“

“The staff is very friendly. The food was good. The atmosphere was wonderful. I recommend you guys to get the hamburger there they have different ones.“

“Wow best Chicago hot dog I have ever had, service was great. My new go to place.“

“I love Culver's. Their food is top tier quality. The customer service is always great & my order is always correct. They even give you coupons in your bag from time to time. I'll always visit them, especially if I've had a rough day. They also have a veggie burger for non meat options. Enjoy!! 💕“

“We were at the Gurnee location for dinner tonight. Gabby (Gabriell) was our waitress and she was amazing! She greeted us quickly, gave great recommendations, and she smiled the whole time. We will be requesting her every time we dine there!“

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

“Great service, dinner choices and the wine is amazing! Will definitely be back!“

“great service!!! the hostess was very polite and professional 👍“

“We enjoyed another great evening at Coopers Hawk Kildeer. We choose Coopers Hawk not only for their great drinks, food preparation and portions, but also because they have substantial Gluten-Free options and dedicated fryers so everyone can enjoy. They take allergy consciousness seriously. While Kyle our server was prompt, courteous, and engaging I have to say the entire staff gave us a feeling they truly appreciated our choice dining with them. Everyone we spoke with or even passed in the hallway smiled and made eye contact. The Pretzel bread (including Gluten-Free bread) along with appetizers (Calamari & Brussel Sprouts) were the perfect size for our party of five(5) to share. We enjoyed a variety of dishes (Chicken, Pretzel-Crusted Pork Chops, Spaghetti w/Meatballs, Gnocchi Alla Vodka, and Salad w/Chicken & Avocado), all delicious. Flourless cake and two other desserts were shared and delicious. Overall highly recommended as we have had consistent high quality food and service at this location.“

“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.“

“Their chicken tortilla soup is amazing and the bartender was very nice. 🙂“

“Went with family for the Friday night fish special. Was pretty good, but the gem was the variety of sizes that came with the platter. Everything could have used a bit more seasoning, except the veggies provided with it were done well. Typical decor for this type of establishment.“

“Awesome experience, love that they support local youth sports organizations. Culver’s is awesome“

“Food is always good as usual“

“Absolutely delicious. Great staff. Great cocktails“

“Delicious burgers, fried chicken, ice cream, etc.“

“Still the best burger around“

“People were just as amazing as the food!“

“A must try. Many options. Affordable. Great comfortable seating. Nice decor. Full bar.“

“If you want the best homemade from scratch food the Hungry Mule is the top of the top in Lake County. New specials Maria’s Meatball sandwich and filet dip are to die for!!! The sparerib ravioli seen below is so yummy too!“

“First time at Firkins and we will definitely be back. I hardly drink beer with my meal but Duvel on tap was hard to pass up. My wife and I were in agreement that our burger was one of the best in recent memory. Friendly service and fun ambience.the other couple we were with were equally happy.“

“Best people work here Food is great Pride in ownership Known Peter for years“

“I'm amazed that we have any Burger Kings around here when Culver's is so much better of a fast food experience. We come here a lot after football games and other after school activities, and the food always delivers. Always good, consistent, dependable service. You just can't beat it for fast food.“

“GREAT SERVICE!! our waiter, June, was the best! he was very nice and so funny, good vibes the whole time! The food was so yummy and our waiters recommendations were very helpful!! thx!!!!“

“Great staff and delicious reasonably priced menu. If you are looking to support a small local business, start here. You will not be sorry. Oh, did I say they have the BEST tuna salad in town? SnarfOn!“

“Service was fine, portions a little smaller,but good. And STILL NO DIET ROOT BEER, which prevents my friends and I from coming more often!“

“Reasonable prices, Good food“

“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.“

“Loved my meal here. Had a girls’ night dinner gathering. Food was excellent! Prime rib was so tasty…. And appetizers rocked. Bartender made a specialty cocktail that our friend loved! Can’t wait to come back to this place.“

“You can’t beat the ambiance of Lake County’s oldest, continuously running bar and restaurant! A Midwest classic and the menu has something for everyone. Surround yourself with antiques and wonderful staff and patrons and leave with a full belly and a smile on your face.“

“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 🥰“

“I ordered a small request of chicken tenders and cheese curds (that's it!!) And it took almost 30 minutes for them to get it to me. So much for fast food. The worst part was I ordered takeout, so by the time I got home, both the chicken and the curds were cold. But every other time has been no problem, with really good food.

Parking: Lots of spots

Kid-friendliness: Really nice to children- they have special bags that kids meals come in, and prizes behind the counter for frequent visitors, not to mention the number of booths which we all know kids love for some reason...“

“This was by far a great experience amazing food friendly staff and not to mention even winning a few times on the machines . I mean who don’t like to like to win money 💰. A group of us visited this fine establishment and from beginnng to end a great experience I will definitely be returning again and have put out the word for people to try this place .“

“Amazing establishment. The workers were kind, talkative and friendly. They made great recommendations and everything I tried was amazing. I did enjoy the aesthetic and the stained glass, but the food was amazing. I would recommend the Braised Lamb, French onion soup, and sorbet. Can't wait to return. Wonderful wine/bourbon selection as well.“

“Best hotdog and fries in town!! Fast service, friendly staff.“

“Double Butterburgers!!👍👍👍👍👍“

“I was pleasantly suprised. The Fillet was fantastic . Served medium rare the way I like it. I could almoat cut it with a fork. The baked potatoe was asume as well. My server Holly was exceptional! She was pleasant, funny, and very helpful! Thank you Holly.“