Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Waukegan

Aboyer (previously Restaurant Michael) has been one of our favorite north shore spots to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. My husband and I have been following Chef Michael all around the Chicago area for decades now, and although the amazing food has been the key reason, we have always been impressed by his professionally trained staff, who are friendly, knowledgeable and pay attention to details. On this visit, we were celebrating my birthday (2 months late) since we cancelled the first reservation when Covid hit us, and the aftereffects stayed around far too long. The evening here was well worth the wait! After stopping at the bar for a quick hello to Sergio and a Champagne (for me) and a Chardonnay we settled in to the cozy banquette for dinner. We ordered our standard starter, the delectable Gougères, a mainstay that we hope never goes away. I switched to a rich Aviary Napa Cabernet for the rest of the dinner. We were delighted to have Sergio Junior as our server! He obviously enjoys his job and is a real ambassador for the restaurant. We took his recommendations for our entrees, and both were fantastic! I never order pork, and rarely make it at home, except for a roast. The Peppercorn Crusted Berkshire Pork Rib Chop with Cognac Mushroom Sauce was by far the best pork I have ever had. Happy Birthday to me. My husband’s decadently delicious Aboyer Burger was an unexpected item for him to order here, except for how much he loved it. Thank you from both of us, SJ!!! Last night was well worth waiting for. ♥️♥️

One of Chicago’s best new Italian restaurants! The food was incredible and the service top notch. The entire staff made us feel so welcome and we look forward to returning to our new favorite neighborhood spot.

Carmine’s is always my go to spot when I land at O’Hare. If I’m not sitting at the bar talking to Bobby, one of the hardest working bartenders I’ve met, I have business dinners with customers. They’re always requesting that I take them back for dinner whenever I’m in town. Phil greets everyone with his great smile and makes everyone feel at home. Kevin, the valet, hustles in any kind of weather. Everyone on staff are incredible. Just note - their portions are big and will be leaving with a take-out carton. Can’t wait to be back soon.

Food and service were great; the air conditioning created a draft at our table along the window, but still a wonderful meal.

Great Service! Elizabeth was one of the best servers we have ever had, since we they opened. Food was good as usual, but unfortunately my medallion were a bit past my liking. But they made up for it. Flight of Margaritas always a great choice! Love this place, they have nothing to worry about with Ancho and Agave opening up. Still a Great spot for Birthdays and get togethers . 🥰