DINING OUT ON THE TOWN

Whether you’re looking for breakfast all day or authentic Italian dishes, the region’s got you covered

By Chris Walker • Photos by Shaw Media and provided by The Lake House on Pistakee

Aday on the water may have you feeling hungrier than ever. If that alarms you, don’t worry: There are so many wonderful places nearby to reminisce about the fun you’ve just had while filling your belly. Check out these great joints and bring a healthy appetite along for the ride.

BILLY’S BEEF & CATERING 2020 Route 12, Spring Grove www.billysspringgrove.com Far more than just a hot dog stand, this convenient stop offers a huge menu with big items, including burgers, chicken, gyros, Italian beef and sausage, milkshakes, pastas, salads and soups and much more. BOBBY’S BARREL 35009 N. Gilmer Road, Volo Facebook: Bobby’s Barrel When you’re looking for a homey, welcoming atmosphere offering homemade country cookin’, you don’t need to look any further than Bobby’s. Be sure to check out the specials!

EL PUERTO 200 N. Forest Ave., Fox Lake www.elpuertorestaurant.net For over 20 years now on the shores of Nippersink Lake, this family-friendly, casual dining gem has specialized in bringing authentic Mexican dishes to customers who return again and again. Dishes featuring local ingredients are prepared according to deep-rooted family recipes.

FAIRMONT SHORES 37641 N. Lake Shore Drive, Lake Villa www.fairmontshores.com Food is passion at this restaurant on Fox Lake. In addition to seafood, you will find gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, burgers, specialty dishes and more. And if you’re looking to stretch your luck in addition to your waistline, the venue offers Vegas-style gaming that goes best with great cuisine. MILLER’S DOG N SUDS

GRANNY’S DINER OF JOHNSBURG 3312 N. Chapel Hill Road, Johnsburg www.grannyslakesidediner.com At Granny’s, the waitstaff is friendly and the cooks take great pride in serving fresh meals by using old-fashioned, homestyle ingredients to make awesome food just like Granny did. Offers casual dining while specializing in breakfast food as well as lunch. 517 Washington St., Ingleside www.dognsudsdrivein.com Take a trip back in time without a flux capacitor by cruising into this old school drive-in. If creamy root beer in a frosted glass mug, golden sweet onion rings, chili, Texas burgers and homemade coleslaw has you and your passengers salivating, the decision where to dine has already been made.

PAISANO’S ON BROADWAY

THE LAKE HOUSE ON PISTAKEE 614 W. Bald Knob Point, Johnsburg www.thelakehouseonpistakee.com This boat-friendly restaurant features over 400 feet of water frontage and lots of outdoor seating for lake views. Don’t miss the $14 all-you-can-eat fish fry on Fridays, although with plenty of options for hot and cold sandwiches, build-your-own burgers, salads, entrees and more, there’s a lot you won’t want to miss when visiting The Lake House.

MARIA’S MEXICAN GRILL 2207 N. US Highway 12, Spring Grove www.mariasmexicangrill.com When you’re craving delicious Mexican food, even early in the morning, you really can do no wrong by finding this popular grill. The menu is seemingly never-ending, loaded with burritos, campechanas, enchiladas, fajitas, gorditas, nachos, quesadillas, stuffed peppers, tacos, taquitos, tortas, tostadas as well as soups and salads and delectable specialties.

Paisano’s on Broadway 5614 Broadway Road, Richmond www.paisanosonbroadway.com This casual fine dining Italian spot also offers outdoor dining on its garden patio while sourcing only Certified Prime Black Angus steaks and the finest quality ingredients in its authentic Italian dishes. Situated in historic Richmond.

STUDIO HOTRODS ROADHOUSE 44 US Highway 12, Fox Lake www.studiohotrodsroadhouse.com Hey, it takes guts to say you have “the best darn BBQ north of Austin, Texas,” but with a name like Studio Hotrods Roadhouse, either take their word or sample for yourself. Order smokehouse meats like brisket, sausage or bacon straight up, or get a platter with sides. Good luck saving room for banana pudding for dessert, but you’ll be happy that you did.

WHISTLE STOP CAFE 15 E. Grand Ave., Fox Lake www.whistlestopfoxlake.com They serve breakfast anytime at this trainthemed joint, but a word of advice: Don’t ask for pancakes in the Age of Enlightenment. All kidding aside, with 10 skillets alone to choose from, along with a massive lunch menu of sandwiches, wraps and much more, good luck moving your caboose out the door when you’re done eating.