Located about 40 miles north of Chicago, the suburban city of Waukegan is known for its quiet neighborhoods, beautiful beaches, and charming downtown area. Waukegan also has some truly amazing restaurants. Most are family owned and a few have been around for decades! Check out our list of the best restaurants in Waukegan to visit on your trip up north.
Papa Marcos
622 Grand Ave, Waukegan, IL 60085
Got a hankering for Mediterrean? Check out this restaurant in Waukegan run by husband and wife team Mike and Marlene. Since 2012, they’ve been serving up flavorful Middle Eastern favorites including Baba Ghanouj, Falafel Wrap, and Vegetarian Plate. Be sure to save room for the Baklava!
Big Ed’s BBQ
4030 Northpoint Blvd, Waukegan, IL 60085
Big Ed isn’t shy about one thing: he offers some of the best barbeque in Lake County. He’s won awards, been featured on WGN, ABC 7, and was voted BBQ in Chicagoland by 670 The Score. All of his meat is seasoned with a special dry rub and slow smoked with seasoned hickory wood. *chef’s kiss*
CYOC (Create Your Own Cheesecake and Cheesesteak)
2114 N Green Bay Rd, Waukegan, IL 60087
Cheesecake and cheesesteak: two of the greatest inventions on earth. Not accepting opposing views on this. CYOC’s one-of-a-kind cheesesteaks start with the highest quality meat and a super secret special sauce (invented by the founder of CYOC). And their cheesecake is served by the scoop. The best cheesecake flavors at this restaurant in Waukegan, Illinois include Pineapple Upside Down, Cinnamon Roll, and Oreo. Yes please!
Tacos El Durango Mexican Grill
3900 Washington St, Gurnee, IL 60031
This small family owned business dishes up some muy bueno Mexican eats. Prepare yourself for tenderly cooked meat and large portions at reasonable prices. You can’t go wrong with their fresh Tamales, Burrito Suzio, or BBQ Pork Tacos. Slap on some Guacamole and have yourself a lil fiesta.
Anastasia’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge
3880 Northpoint Blvd, Waukegan, IL 60085
Need a place to catch the game with top-notch eats? Stop by this casual eatery with American pub food, sandwiches, and pizza plus a full bar and flatscreen televisions. Anastasia’s also offers upscale catering for weddings, banquets, or any event!
Captain Porky’s
38995 Route 41, Wadsworth, IL 60083
For over 27 years, Captain Porky’s has been offering the highest quality seafood and smoked meats available. This restaurant near Waukegan offers Alligator Tail, Walleye, Beef Brisket and Frog Legs. There’s something for everyone at Porky’s. Stop in to see what all the smoke is about!
Louie’s
1009 North Ave, Waukegan, IL 60085
Step foot in this popular Italian restaurant and it’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Louie’s old school retro bar might catch your eye but it’s their food that’ll catch your attention. From Chicken Parm, to Lasagna, and some serious Pizza, there’s no wrong choice here. Just a heads up, there’s a good chance you’ll leave in a food coma.
BBQ Chicken
554 N Green Bay Rd, Waukegan, IL 60085
If you’re looking for mind blowing chicken, BBQ Chicken will have you scratching your head and wondering, is this magic? Witch craft? How do they get it perfectly crispy!? Must-try flavors include Gang-Jeong, Honey Garlic, and Galbi. Don’t forget the Kimchi Fried Rice…wowza.
