21 Best Cocktail Bars near Mundelein

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

“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.“

“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.“

“Do not pass up the chance to stop at this wonderful distillery. Myself and two others on a business trip from Cincinnati when we discovered this place by accident, and we are glad we did. Do not listen to old Reddit or Yelp comments about their spirits, everything we sampled was amazing. I walked out with a bottle of their single barrel bourbon. The bartender/distiller was amazing, when she told me I was drinking a two year, I couldn't believe it. I guessed it was aged at least ten years by the wonderful notes and smoothness. If I get up that way again, I'm definitely grabbing some more, and sampling their other offerings.“

“Super…Great service from Ashley!!“

“One of the best sushi spots in the suburbs 😍“

“Came here for the first time and was surprised with their food and service. Bartenders were attentive and served you with a smile. Their nachos were some of the best I’ve had, and the atmosphere puts you a drinking and dancing mood. Definitely will come back and would recommend to friends.“

“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!“

“Stopped for dinner one night with my father. we had oysters, panini and chopped salad. enjoyable evening sitting outside, friendly staff and good food. will come again soon“

“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!“

“My waiter was good and friendly. I sat in covered patio. I ordered a spring salad with shrimp. blackberries, grapefruit, candied pecans, arugula and berry vinaigrette and a side of Mac n cheese. The salad was missing the pecans but I forgot until I left, I thought something was missing. However, the shrimp was perfectly cooked. The ratio of shrimp to half portion was good. Mac N Cheese was ok. Noodles were undercooked and some still hard/crunchy edges and cheese sauce was just average and a bit gritty/thick. However, I was not expecting my meal to be served with plastic wrapped plastic utensils. a take home box for salad and a take home container for dining in. That was disappointing. the table of eight next to me was a bit shocked too to get their meals in to go cardboard containers.“

“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.“

“I love this restaurant and honestly surprised it's not rated higher. On the weekends this place can get packed. Highly would recommend to anyone that loves authentic mexican food.“

“Absolutely love this place. My buddy showed it to me years ago and I haven’t gone to any other Mexican restaurant since then. The owners of the restaurant are absolutely amazing people and I always have great service whenever I’m there. Food is quick, tastes absolutely fantastic and the people are amazing.“

“I don’t think I could give enough complements about the food and the service. The pork chop and the halibut schnitzel are to die for!!! But the table side caprese with the fresh mozzarella made tableside and heirloom tomatoes grown in their own garden left us speechless. Service was outstanding. I’d travel here again to experience it all 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.“

“Excellent margaritas and enchiladas. The outdoor seating is great. #iraeats“

“excepcional servicio y la comida deliciosa 😋“

“The layout was welcoming. Our server, Marlen, was attentive, there was no nickel and dime on additional chips and salsa (red chile) and the food was nicely displayed and certainly had an expected kick to it based on its name, and a restaurant we will consider going back to.“

“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...“