Foodies in the Chicago area can savor these amazing restaurants in Des Plaines, IL – we’ve rounded up the top five you can’t miss in this vibrant suburb. From fresh seafood to authentic Italian cuisine, Des Plaines offers flavors that locals love and visitors from the city often travel for. Before you hit the road to indulge, drive with peace of mind. Call Insure on the Spot in Chicago at 773-202-5060 for reliable auto insurance coverage, and enjoy your foodie adventure safely.
1. Boston Fish Market
Boston Fish Market in Des Plaines is a seafood lover’s paradise, famous for incredibly fresh catches. This casual eatery serves everything from grilled salmon to the indulgent halibut Oscar topped with crab meat and asparagus. The portions are huge and perfect for sharing, and its no-frills, lively atmosphere lets the quality of the food shine. It’s a favorite across the Chicago suburbs, with many diners saying it’s worth the drive for the best seafood around.
- Cuisine: Fresh seafood with daily catches and seasonal specials
- Signature Dishes: Halibut Oscar, grilled salmon, crispy fish & chips
- Atmosphere: Busy market-style vibe with friendly service
- Why Go: Generous portions of top-quality fish that keep seafood lovers coming back
2. Via Roma
Via Roma is a cozy Italian restaurant that transports you straight to the Old World with its authentic flavors. Tucked in Des Plaines, this family-owned gem is known for homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty classics like lasagna and veal parmigiana. It’s also famously BYOB, so you can bring a favorite bottle of wine with no corkage fee – perfect for an affordable date night. Warm service and a charming dining room (plus a cute patio in summer) make Via Roma feel like a little slice of Italy in Illinois.
- Cuisine: Italian (homemade pastas, brick-oven pizzas, and classic entrées)
- Special Feature: BYOB policy with no corkage fee for wine and beer
- Must-Try: Lasagna Bolognese, veal parmigiana, and daily chef’s specials
- Atmosphere: Intimate and family-friendly, with an inviting neighborhood vibe
3. Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House
Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House brings a taste of Chicago’s steakhouse scene to Des Plaines. Located within Rivers Casino, this upscale restaurant offers the best of surf-and-turf dining. You’ll find premium Gibson’s steaks (like tender filet mignon and juicy ribeyes) alongside fresh seafood such as oysters and Alaskan king crab legs. The setting is elegant yet lively, making it ideal for celebrations or a fancy night out when you’re craving top-notch steak and cocktails in the suburbs.
- Cuisine: Upscale steakhouse fare and high-end seafood
- Highlights: Prime steaks, classic frog legs appetizer, seafood platters
- Ambiance: Sophisticated supper-club setting with attentive service
- Perfect For: Special occasions, business dinners, or anytime you want a luxury dining experience in the suburbs
4. The Foxtail On The Lake
The Foxtail On The Lake stands out among Des Plaines eateries for its unique setting and inventive menu. Housed in a beautifully renovated church overlooking Lake Opeka, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers a dining atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Guests rave about flavorful dishes like brick-pressed chicken with herbs, tender beef shawarma, and saffron-infused paella loaded with seafood. With its artistic décor, stained-glass windows, and creative cocktail list, The Foxtail delivers an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for a romantic evening or an upscale gathering with friends.
- Cuisine: Mediterranean fusion (a mix of Middle Eastern and European flavors)
- Setting: A converted church by Lake Opeka, featuring stunning architecture and decor
- Popular Dishes: Brick chicken, beef shawarma wraps, and seafood paella
- Atmosphere: Trendy yet welcoming, with a full bar and scenic views for a memorable night out
5. Giacomo’s Ristorante
Giacomo’s Ristorante is a family-owned Italian gem that has been delighting Des Plaines diners for years. It specializes in traditional Italian comfort food served in generous portions – think rich pasta dishes, savory chicken Vesuvio, fresh fish, and homemade sausage. The restaurant’s interior exudes old-school charm with white tablecloths and friendly staff who treat you like family. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special celebration, Giacomo’s offers an inviting atmosphere and truly satisfying flavors that keep loyal customers coming back again and again.
- Cuisine: Classic Italian (hearty pastas, seafood, chicken, and veal dishes)
- Menu Favorites: Chicken Vesuvio, fettuccine Alfredo, tiramisu for dessert
- Ambiance: Traditional and comfortable, with a welcoming family-friendly feel
- Why Locals Love It: Authentic flavors, attentive service, and a hometown restaurant vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best seafood restaurant in Des Plaines, IL?
A: Boston Fish Market is widely regarded as the top seafood spot in Des Plaines. It offers an array of fresh fish dishes, including the famous halibut Oscar topped with crab. The portions are generous, and the quality keeps seafood lovers coming back for more.
Q: Are there any BYOB restaurants in Des Plaines?
A: Yes, Via Roma is a popular BYOB restaurant in Des Plaines. Guests can bring their wine or beer with no corkage fee, which makes for a fun and affordable night out. Along with the BYOB perk, Via Roma serves delicious homemade Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
Q: Where can I get a great steak in Des Plaines?
A: Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House is the go-to place for a great steak in Des Plaines. This upscale steakhouse serves premium cuts of beef like filet mignon, cooked to perfection. It also offers a variety of seafood, so you can enjoy a classic surf-and-turf dinner in style.
Q: What is a unique dining experience in Des Plaines?
A: The Foxtail On The Lake offers a dining experience unlike any other in town. It’s set in a converted church by the lake, providing a beautiful atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere. Diners enjoy its Mediterranean-inspired menu and the one-of-a-kind ambiance of this renovated space.
Q: Where can I find classic Italian food in Des Plaines?
A: Check out Giacomo’s Ristorante for authentic Italian food in Des Plaines. It serves traditional favorites like pasta, chicken, and seafood based on family recipes. The welcoming, old-world atmosphere makes it a top choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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