Introducing Indie Eats! An insider’s guide to the best in Local, Independent, Dining.
Where to go and what to eat in Lake County is the question everyone wants to be answered. With so many towns and so many establishments, there are a lot of choices. Little Lake County has compiled a ‘sampler platter’ of independently owned, family-friendly restaurants in select Lake County towns as suggestions for your own family dining experience to make your dining decisions just a little bit easier. We might even toss in a suggestion for a date night, too. And feel free to recommend additions to our lists–we love reader suggestions.
This week we’re heading to Antioch.
Independent Restaurants in Antioch
In almost any town, one can find a variety of chain or fast-food restaurants. But sometimes, a unique and locally-owned dining experience, especially with the kids, is what’s on the agenda. Antioch has a great variety of eats to both take the family and for a date night.
As an Antioch resident, this is where we eat locally most frequently. We have sampled each of these locales and have also asked for feedback from other frequent diners.
Anastasia’s
950 Hillside Dr, Antioch | (847) 395-3939
Yes, this is the sister restaurant to the Anastasia’s in Waukegan. I don’t think this makes it a “chain,” though. It’s well known for its pizza and banquet facilities, and the menu is huge. Starting with appetizers, you will find more than 27 different options to choose from. It has outdoor and indoor seating and a bar. It’s also a great place to watch a game, with or without kids.
Oliverii North
384 Lake Street, Antioch | (847) 395-9999
This is THE place in Antioch for classic Italian food. They also have great pizza. While it’s wonderful for a date night, I have gone with a group of moms and their littles for the generous and well-priced lunch options.
The Vegas Cafe
914 Main Street, Antioch | (847) 395-6363
“Vegas,” as it’s known to the locals, has recently undergone some renovations, so if you have been there before, it’s worth a new look. It also has new hours. This is your classic family diner. We often bring out-of-town family with kids here. Their salads are large, and their omelets are amazing.
Independent Coffee Shops in Antioch
Little Bean Coffee Co.
395 Lake Street, Antioch | (847) 395-2223
This cafe features coffee, books to browse, a small lunch menu, gelato, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods. I love the little corner nook filled with kids’ toys. My son and I will sit there together while we play Little People and share lunch, and sip our handcrafted drinks. Formerly called Cafe Book it’s under new owners now.
The Latte Cafe & Bakery
1185 Main Street, Antioch | (224) 788-5076
The newest Antioch coffee house offers delicious coffee, bakery goods, soup, and sandwiches. This may become our go-to spot for watching fireworks for the 4th of July. Perched on a grassy hill with a great view, they were open late for the fourth celebration, serving shakes, frappes, chips, sandwiches, and other goodies. Meet the owners and take a look inside in our MADE in Lake County series.
Is your Antioch favorite on the list? Tell us about it in the comments!
By Jenna B.
Antioch
Jenna is an active wife and mom of 2 game-changers. A professional Counselor by trade, Antioch resident, and native Cheesehead, this mindful momma is laid back and up for any mess or adventure, doing her best to live in the moment. When not tuning out or taming tantrums, she’s running, cooking, reading, creating music, or shopping local.
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