At Fairmont Shores they say, “We’ve never met a sunset we didn’t like,” and they sing the song of my people. I grew up on the Chain O’Lakes, and if you’re from around here you know if you’re lucky enough to be on the water when the sun sets, you stop what you’re doing and watch the magic happen. You also know that there is no better place to watch a sunset than the eastern shore of Fox Lake, and that is right where Fairmont Shores is–perfectly perched up on a hill.
Fairmont Shores has been here for what feels like forever. In reality, Fairmont Shores was opened in 1986 and operated under the same ownership until 2000. It then sold, and failed. The original Fairmont Shores owners purchased it again in 2011 and have picked up right where they left off. Like many bars and restaurants on the Chain, it’s hidden away at the back of an old lake neighborhood. Fairmont Shores is a quintessentially timeless, midwestern restaurant. The restaurant and bar is very much a family-friendly establishment during dining hours. The decor and furnishings are simple and nostaligc. It hasn’t changed too much since my grandparents brought my parents there when they were kids, or when my parents brought me.
I recently visited with my parents and kids, and I was pleasantly surprised to see some of the little changes the second generation has made as they’ve taken over the business. They haven’t remodeled, but the whole place feels cleaner and more polished. They’ve updated the menu, while keeping their regulars’ favorites. They still have their homemade chips, Friday Fish Fry, and the burger-and-fries type offerings, but they’ve added some great salads, entrees and sandwiches. They’re really hitting it out of the park with their specials and prices. Who doesn’t love Taco Tuesday? At their prices, I really love Taco Tuesday.
Some of the other weekly specials include:
- Wednesday, All You Can Eat Southern Fried Chicken $12.95;
- Thursday, Lobster Mac & Cheese $13.95;
- Friday, Fish Fry (A.U.C.E, Poor Man’s Lobster, and shrimp); and
- Sunday, Brunch 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fairmont Shores is always offering something interesting, so “like” them on Facebook or check there to plan your visit. Sign up to receive emails from Fairmont and receive 10 percent off of your next visit.
Standard kid’s menu options are offered at a reasonable price, and kids will enjoy eating on the front deck and watching the boats, taking a walk on the docks, or playing on the lawn while you relax for a minute! They have crayons and activity sheets for kids, too. There is something on the menu for everyone. The price is right and the portions are generous.
Whether it’s for a casual meal on the beautiful front deck, a night out with your friends, or brunch on Sunday morning, Fairmont Shores is the place for you. Oh, and did I mention the sunset? Make sure you catch a Fox Lake sunset this summer.
Fairmont Shores
37641 N. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Villa | 847-497-4500
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