Unwrap the Holidays with Highland Park Cuisine

Backyard Grill

The Highland Park Greek-American restaurant. The menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and authentic Mediterranean flavors alongside American comfort food. The menu highlights grilled meats, hearty sandwiches, salads, Greek specialties and so much more.

More info »

Bluegrass Restaurant

Located on the west end of Highland Park, Bluegrass is a true dining destination. Blending Southern hospitality eats, this American restaurant and bar feature seafoods, salads, barbecue eats, an array of delicious libations and more. The south Lake County city's eatery provides carryout, curbside pick up or local delivery. At the eatery, good food and good values go hand in hand — and co-owner Joni Lederer is a big part of why. With her husband Jim, a Highland Park native with more than 30 years of industry experience, she helps run the beloved American-style eatery known for its scratch kitchen, southern-influenced comfort food and commitment to local sourcing. Bluegrass has long been a North Shore staple, but its environmental ethos sets it apart — the restaurant was among the first in Lake County to launch a food waste composting program, a reflection of the values the Lederers have built into the business from the start.

Big Ed's BBQ, 4030 Northpoint Blvd., Waukegan. 
More Info »

Braeside Market

Braeside Market, the latest venture from Infuse Hospitality, is officially open in Highland Park — and co-owner Dana Weiss is bringing both heart and hustle to the neighborhood. Alongside her husband Michael, she's created an inviting mix of coffee, breakfast, lunch, grab-and-go meals, curated retail, snacks, and beverages, all served up in a warm, dynamic setting with a welcoming outdoor space. 

More Info »

Central Cafe

Central Cafe is a casual breakfast, brunch and lunch spot in the heart of downtown Highland Park. The menu includes salads, bowls, crepes, waffles, sandwiches, coffees, lattes and smoothies.

More info »

Indus Progressive Indian

When Sukhu Kalra set out to bring her vision of modern Indian cuisine to Highland Park, she brought serious credentials with her. The Chicago food truck veteran and co-owner of Bhoomi Modern Indian Grill in the city opened Indus Progressive Indian in June 2024 alongside her husband Ajit — and the North Shore took notice fast. Sukhu, who handles the restaurant's striking aesthetic design, describes Indus as a "big city" concept and the menu delivers on that promise — think smoked brisket, wagyu with Indian herbed butter and farm-to-table ingredients woven into elevated, traditional flavors. The recognition followed quickly: Indus was named best suburban restaurant in the 2025 Chicago Tribune Readers Choice Food Awards.

More info »

Jin 28 Express

Visit Highland Park for the delectable eats from Jin 28 Express' traditional Chinese culinary offerings. This delivery only eatery features its General Tso chicken, but the menu features Chinese, Japanese and Thai styled noodles, fried rice bowls, soups, salads and a slew of other splendid cuisines. 

More info »

Lynfred Winery 

llinois' eldest winery is Lynfred, established 42 years ago in 1979. Founded by Fred E. Koehler, whos also known as the father of the Illinois wine industry. From its 100,000-gallon production facility to its luxurious bed-and-breakfast accommodations, Lynfred has become a Chicagoland icon for wine enthusiasts. The Lake County vino tasting room has been earning awards and national recognition since 1985. The winery also was named as a part of the Illinois Made program, by the Illinois Office of Tourism. Lynfred Winery in Highland Park invites visitors to try its cranberry wine, made from 100% Wisconsin-grown cranberries. Bold and bright, the wine balances natural sweetness with refreshing acidity. Flavors of cranberry, wild berries and plum come together in a medium-bodied wine with a crisp, clean finish. This versatile wine is good on its own, as a sparkling spritzer or paired with seasonal desserts, tarts and cheeses. Its lively character and holiday-ready flavor make it a standout choice for winter sipping. 

More info »

Other Highland Park Eateries

There are a ton of other palates to explore around the city including:

• Abigail's American Bistro
• Bella Via Ristorante
• Bright Bowls
• Cafe Dacha
• Curt's Cafe
• Denucci's Highland Park
• La Casa de Isaac and Moishe
• Madam Zuzu's Teahouse and Art Studio
• Michael's Chicago-Style Red Hots
• Norton's Restaurant
• Pixca Seasonal American Bistro
• Ruby of Siam
• Steep Ravine Brewing Co.
• That Little French Guy
• The BBQ Pit
• Viaggio
• Yana's Speakeasy

More info»

For other holiday happenings in Lake County, continue here. For more about Highland Park, click here.