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 Grayslake!
Where to Eat in Grayslake
Grayslake is one of my favorite local towns. Located right in the heart of Lake County, it’s where I chose to start my own business, and so I am often looking for places to grab a quick meal for myself, take my children or have a date night. Grayslake has great offerings for all.
Somethings Brewing
1126 E. Washington Street, Grayslake (across from CLC), (847) 543-1600
82 E. Center Street, Grayslake (Downtown), (847) 543-8600
With two locations to serve all of Grayslake, Somethings Brewing has become my local favorite. Its menu is diverse with a wide array of sandwiches, soups, salads, hearty breakfast items, and sweets, oh, the sweets. My son loves the hand-decorated sugar cookies, and I devour the artisan muffins. Something’s Brewing’s coffee is phenomenal, with several options and ground in the store (they will also grind some for you to take home.) They are open all day long for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Everything is made to order, and they have several gluten-free and vegetarian options. And a biggie for me, a changing table in the bathroom. Read Natalie’s review of Somethings Brewing.
Twisted Burger
217 Center Street, Grayslake, (847) 223-2388
Formerly Bulldogs of Grayslake, this local burger joint has an extensive menu and new specials every day. Unique burger toppings such as fried egg, pineapple, fried onion rings, or a fried banana (and many more). Traditional burger choices are also available. Much of the menu is the same as Bulldogs. Anyone of their burgers can be replaced with a veggie burger, turkey burger, or chicken breast (although it currently does not say so on the menu). They also offer salads, wraps, french fries (including Parmesan fries or buffalo fries), and shakes. Parents, take note: no changing tables in the bathroom.
The Vine Martini & Wine Bar
101 Center Street, Grayslake | (847) 543-0900
Perfect for your girls’ night out, date night, or special occasion, The Vine has a modern and upbeat atmosphere. Known for its wine and martini list, the restaurant also features a unique selection of appetizers to share and delicious main courses. When the weather cooperates, there is outside patio seating and often offers live music playing during weekends. On a girls’ night out, I recently sampled the crab cakes, and they were phenomenal; the rest of my group was also extremely satisfied. The Vine was featured among our Fan Favorites for Most Romantic Dining Spots in Lake County.
Wayne’s Pizza
34197 Route 45, Grayslake, (847) 223-2441
While technically Third Lake, this is my favorite pizza place in the area. I started going there several years ago out of necessity when teaching music lessons at the guitar shop that used to be in the same strip mall. You can grab a two-slice meal with a drink for less than$5 or take an entire thick or thin crust home (Need delivery? You’re in luck! Wayne’s Pizza delivers to Grayslake and parts of Gurnee).
Did we miss your favorite? … Tell us 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.
Leave a Reply