The suburbs has been upping its restaurant game, making date night more enjoyable closer to home. Here’s a list of my favorite spots to sneak away for dinner & cocktails on the North Shore.

Pomeroy | Winnetka
A sophisticated neighborhood bistro serving french fare and nightly special signature dishes. A lively bar scene and fabulous outdoor patio too!

Le Colonial | Lake Forest
One of my city favorite in the suburbs, how lucky are we? The cuisine is French-Vietnamese and a robust cocktail menu.

Hole in the Wall | Northbrook
A traditional Italian spot in an intimate setting, which sometimes can equate to long wait times.

Aboyer | Winnetka
Aboyer is truly a restaurant driven by the chef’s passion for classic method and technique featuring refined French cooking paired with both classic & mod-fusion craft cocktails, the space offers relaxed but crisp service in a nouveau setting.

House 406 | Northbrook
With a seasonal menu highlighting local and sustainable ingredients with classic dishes and food favorites.

The Bar at Deer Path Inn | Lake Forest
I love all of Deer Path Inn, but my favorite place to dine there is in The Bar downstairs. The menu offers traditional favorites and incredible sushi. I am also a big fan of their cocktails.

EJ’s Place | Skokie
EJ’s menu consists of prime aged steaks and chops, seafood, and traditional Italian specialties with a supper club vibe.

Tocco | Winnetka
Boasting authentic Italian cuisine from the freshest ingredients in sleek interiors. Everything on the menu is *chef’s kiss* especially the pastas!

Miramar | Highwood
A combination of traditional French bistro and the lost in time cuisine of Cuba. Miramar offers classic bistro dishes, Cuban-style cuisine and American staples.

Sophia Steak | Wilmette & Lake Forest
The neighborhood steakhouse with much more than steak, think delicious seafood, salads & sides.

The Barn | Evanston
Housed in an old brick barn built in 1883 that was once a stable housing the horses for their horse and buggy milk delivery service. A steakhouse that serves other classics and comfort dishes too.

Guildhall | Glencoe
An American bistro with European influences featuring a seasonal menu and delicious craft cocktails. Guildhall also houses one of my favorite sushi restaurants, Tori Dasu, so you can order from both menus when you are there!

The Gallery | Lake Forest
Every two months the art exhibits and menu that rotate at The Gallery. P.s. this spot can be byob for parties under 10 people.

Abigail’s | Highland Park
An American bistro with delectable dishes within a neighborhood restaurant vibe.

Spirit Elephant | Winnetka
Elevated plant based fare so tasty you may not notice you’re eating vegetarian. Spirit Elephant also has yummy cocktails.

Mino’s | Winnetka
Authentic Italian antipasti, pasta, pizza & more!

LeTour | Evanston
New to the NS dining scene offering French-Moroccan fare in a dreamy space.