20 Instagrammable Cuisines from Lake County February Flavor Festival Eateries 2024
By: Stephanie Wylie 02/06/2024
As Lake County February Flavor Fest kicks off, let's embrace the timeless motto "capture the moment." Whether it's a beautifully crafted dish before you or a delightful drink you're eager to share with friends, your #foodgram or #instafood moment is just around the corner.
Lake County February Flavor Fest: From February 1-29, Visit Lake County has combined Lake County Restaurant Weeks and Libation Trail initiatives into one taste-tempting month-long event: Introducing February Flavor Festival. Restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries provide exclusive dining offers, fare and drink pairings, chef demonstrations, innovative libation concoctions, live entertainment and more promotions.
This month-long event only happens once a year, so contact your favorite restaurant, make your reservations early! Plus you could win prizes. CONTINUE HERE to see a full list of the Lake County February Flavor Festival (LCFFF) participants. These tantalizing dishes, comprising a selection of 20 irresistible choices, lay the foundation for Lake County Restaurant Week. Be sure to capture your culinary adventures and share them with us using #LCFlavorFestival #LakeCountyRW, #LCLibationTrail or #LetsGoLakeCounty as you enjoy your meal at one of the participating venues.
Bluegrass, situated in Highland Park, offers a relaxed dining experience. Tucked away on the west side of town, it's a must-visit spot. Featuring a welcoming bar and an American-inspired menu, Bluegrass infuses a hint of Southern charm into its offerings. The beverage selection boasts all-American wines, beers and hand-picked spirits, perfectly complementing the high-quality cuisine. The brainchild of Jim Lederer, with over two decades of industry experience, Bluegrass bridges the gap between fine dining and casual atmosphere. Offering exceptional value, the restaurant prides itself on top-notch food and service without breaking the bank.
The vision behind Broken Tee Brewing Company began in the typical fashion of many small breweries: with a passion for home brewing. Once they brewed and bottled their inaugural batch, they were hooked, setting the stage for their brewing journey. But why the name Broken Tee? It's a subtle homage to their two-decade career in golf, where beer and golf often go hand in hand. After years of searching for the ideal location and opportunity, everything fell into place in the summer of 2021. They found the perfect spot and formed the "perfect foursome" to bring their dream to life. Their location already holds a special place in history, having been the site of Al & Jane Pierantoni's business for 55 years—an achievement they all find truly remarkable! With a focus on quality and flavor, the brewpub offers a diverse selection of balanced and approachable styles, alongside a menu designed to please all palates.
In 2017, Casa Bonita earned the prestigious title of "Best of the Best" for Mexican Restaurants by the Daily Herald. Nestled in the heart of downtown Libertyville, Casa Bonita boasts a wide selection of tequilas on tap and is renowned for its "Perfect Margarita." Guests can enjoy the year-round patio, complete with heat lamps for cozy alfresco dining even during the winter months. Setting itself apart from Mexican restaurant chains, Casa Bonita prides itself on being an independent establishment, offering a unique spin on authentic Mexican cuisine. With a focus on using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients sourced daily from local suppliers, every dish—from appetizers to desserts—is meticulously handcrafted to ensure an unforgettable dining experience with a south-of-the-border flair.
Situated in the heart of downtown Libertyville, Dangela's Dumplings is dedicated to crafting traditional and authentic Northern Chinese-style dumplings. Their skilled chefs meticulously handcraft these delectable dumplings from scratch every day, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful dining experience for their patrons. Beyond dumplings, their menu offers a variety of tantalizing dishes inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Northern China. From savory soups to aromatic stir-fries, each dish is prepared with care and precision to showcase the vibrant flavors of the region. Whether you're a longtime fan of Chinese cuisine or looking to embark on a culinary adventure, Dangela's Dumplings invites you to savor the essence of Northern China right here in downtown Libertyville.
Feather Glass Wine Bar & Eatery offers a distinctive dining ambiance in a sleek, contemporary setting. With meticulous attention, they curate their wine collection, carefully selecting each bottle to complement their high-quality International Fusion Menu. Their wine list features a blend of offerings from local Illinois vineyards and lesser-known wine regions across the globe. Feather Glass' fusion menu showcases an array of unique, top-notch flavors and dishes that are sure to impress. Embark on a culinary journey like no other and indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience at Feather Glass Wine Bar & Eatery!
Johnny's Snack Shop, a quaint family-owned eatery, offers a delectable array of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From mouthwatering baked omelets and fluffy Dutch babies to freshly baked biscuits and succulent honey butter fried chicken, there's something to satisfy every craving. Indulge in their tavern-style thin-crust pizza, savory BBQ baby back ribs and tantalizing Off the Spit Gyros. Don't miss out on their signature Smashburgers, flavorful Souvlaki skewers and a fully stocked bar for your enjoyment. With so many delicious options to choose from, Johnny's Snack Shop promises a dining experience to remember!
With a rich history spanning over 56 years, this Wauconda institution seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering a unique dining experience. Located along the picturesque shores of Bangs Lake, it serves as both a culinary hotspot and a historic landmark. Featuring full-service indoor and outdoor dining options, guests can enjoy the scenic lakefront views from the beach club, beach bar and two dining decks. Indoors, a spacious banquet venue awaits, accommodating up to 150 guests and boasting a private bar. Expect personalized service alongside top-rated culinary offerings and beverage packages, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience for all patrons.
As one of Chicagoland's premier pizza destinations, Lou Malnati's boasts a tradition of crafting handcrafted deep-dish pizza from scratch. Serving the community since 1940, when founder Lou Malnati worked in the city's first deep-dish pizzeria. Lou Malnati's is renowned for its diverse menu, which includes pasta, salads, appetizers, sandwiches and more. Today, Lou Malnati's legacy lives on through his sons Marc and Rick, who continue to uphold the family's commitment to excellence.
Established in Chicago in 1992, Timothy O'Toole's Pub remains a beloved sports bar destination. Home to The Big Timmy Burger Challenge, as featured on Man Vs Food, they're renowned for their 48 beers on tap and award-winning wings. Each location is committed to offering an innovative menu, exceptional service and a welcoming ambiance. Their chef-driven menu showcases burgers, wraps, salads, ribs, seafood and more.
Oaken, a contemporary and upscale Bistro + Bar in Lake Forest, draws inspiration from the area's rich heritage of centuries-old white oak trees. Their menu embodies strength and boldness. They blend worldly flavors with locally sourced ingredients to craft a menu that evolves seasonally, much like the growth rings of a tree. Their sleek lounge showcases a signature herbal cocktail menu, alongside an eclectic wine selection and local brews. Whether you're coming for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Embark on a culinary adventure and discover Oaken—where every meal promises to be an extraordinary experience.
Nestled discreetly in Mundelein, Park Street Craft Kitchen and Bar is hailed as a hidden gem offering refined dining in a relaxed ambiance. Step into our romantic, candlelit dining area, adorned with charming brick walls and an original tin ceiling, for an unforgettable culinary journey. Our upscale menu features a diverse selection of pasta dishes, premium steaks, and daily fish specials, all meticulously crafted from the freshest ingredients available. Conclude your meal with a decadent homemade dessert, such as Creme Brulee, Cheesecake, or Death by Chocolate, adding the perfect finishing touch to your dining experience.
In Punjabi, "Singh" translates to "lion," a name that Singh's Kitchen proudly embraces. Just as lions exhibit strength and intensity, Singh's Kitchen infuses its menu with bold and vibrant flavors. Blending Indian and American influences, Singh’s Kitchen offers a dining experience that celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage behind each dish. Incorporating the essence of tradition and innovation, Singh's Kitchen invites diners to embark on a culinary journey where every bite tells a story of heritage and culinary craftsmanship.
At Tony Cannoli Specialty Pastries in Mundelein, this confectionery mastermind whips up both classic and innovative cannolis to satisfy any sweet craving. Tony also offers classes where visitors can learn the art of making these delightful Italian treats themselves. But that's not all—Tony's talents extend beyond cannolis, as he also creates delectable cakes, donuts, cookies and more. With his recognition as an Illinois Made artisan, Tony's sweet creations are a gift that everyone's longing for.
The Board Room in Libertyville offers an irresistible dining adventure, showcasing shared plates, artisanal cocktails, and a renowned wine selection in an elegantly sophisticated setting. With its chic ambiance and a menu curated for communal dining, The Board Room sets the stage for an exceptional culinary journey. Whether you're seeking a romantic date night or a memorable celebration with friends, The Board Room promises a top-tier experience with its stellar food, drinks and ambiance.
With a century-long legacy, The Shanty Restaurant has served as a cherished gathering spot for locals in Wadsworth to dine, unwind and connect. In 2018, the addition of Shanty Towne expanded its offerings to accommodate groups and events. Recognized with the Enjoy Illinois Delicious Destination Award and named among Illinois' Top Restaurants, The Shanty has garnered national acclaim, including features on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives." Offering call-ahead carry-out, mystery dinners, catering and retail sales, The Shanty continues to delight patrons with its signature dishes and a curated selection of goods.
As a chef-driven establishment, Three Embers offers contemporary American cuisine with a seasonal twist, spotlighting locally sourced ingredients. Their dishes are infused with a rich, smoky flavor from our open-flame, wood-fired grill, creating a truly unique culinary experience. Situated on two acres of lush land, our property cultivates farm-fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, enhancing the flavors of our chef-inspired dishes served throughout the restaurant.
Light the Lamp Brewery in Grayslake offers a unique blend of innovative brews, modern American fare and locally-sourced craft spirits, all meticulously crafted in-house. Light the Lamp boasts an impressive lineup of 14 craft draft beers, including their signature Red Line Ale and Sin Bout Stout, alongside tap wines for non-beer enthusiasts. With a hockey-themed ambiance, the seven-year-old brewpub also serves up delectable meals ranging from burgers and sandwiches to flatbreads and shared plates. Whether you're dining in, ordering takeout, or opting for delivery, their outdoor patio service ensures a relaxing experience while enjoying their brews and eats.
El Puerto Mexican Restaurant is a genuine Mexican eatery offers breathtaking views of the Chain O'Lakes. Savor the finest Margarita in Lake County as you admire the stunning sunset over the water. Our diverse menu features a delectable array of Enchiladas, Chimichangas, sizzling fajitas, tacos, steak, seafood, burritos, and combination platters, along with an assortment of refreshing drinks and indulgent desserts. With three indoor dining areas, a seasonal outdoor patio, and a well-stocked bar boasting homemade concoctions, there's no shortage of options for an unforgettable dining experience.
Discover the authentic flavors of Honduras at Catrachos Restaurant in Waukegan. Savor traditional Honduran cuisine crafted from scratch using the freshest ingredients. From hearty baleadas to savory baleadas and delectable seafood dishes, every bite promises to transport you to the heart of Honduras. Experience the warmth of Central American hospitality and indulge in a culinary journey like no other at Catrachos Restaurant.
Unwind with loved ones at Wild Onion Brewery, an ideal destination for relaxation and camaraderie. Delight in a selection of fresh handcrafted brews from the onsite Wild Onion Brewery paired with hearty comfort fare. The inviting timber-framed bar and dining area, accentuated by a majestic stone fireplace, exude a cozy ambiance that has captivated locals since 2003. Additionally, brewery tours and live entertainment add to the allure of this beloved establishment.
For more instagrammable cuisines in Lake County February Flavor Festival continue here. To learn about all of the participating restaurants in the foodie festival, click here. Shareyour 20 instagrammable cuisines using #LCFlavorFestival.
