
Creating your own appetizer crawl is often one of the best ways to explore a new destination or even reintroduce yourself to the community you live in. We recommend visiting three to four different local spots that are within walking distance of each other. Order one or two appetizers at each spot and grab your drink of choice. Anything goes for this night-out activity because it is your night! Enjoy it.
Below you will find some options in a couple of our historic downtowns but just remember any bar or restaurant you pass while you are going to the next location could have a hidden gem! Our team marked some of their appetizer recommendations for each stop but do not be afraid to try something new!
Downtown Elgin
BeaUnique Latin Kitchen – mouth-watering Latin favorites (Staff Recommendation – Caribbean Sampler)
El Patio of Elgin – amazing authentic food with al fresco dining in the summer (Staff Recommendation – Queso Fundido)
Elgin Public House – a local establishment that offers refreshments and food to the weary traveler (Staff Recommendation – Fried Pickles)
Kubo Sushi & Sake Lounge – traditional Japanese culture and food, with a slight Cali twist (Staff Recommendation – Tar Tar Pyramid)
Shawarma Stop in Elgin (Staff Recommendation -Grape Leaves)
Udon Momi – serving up favorites such as udon and gyoza (Staff Recommendation – Edamame)
West Dundee
Emmett’s Brewing Co. – a great local spot for lunch, dinner or just stopping in for a beer or two (Staff Recommendation – Soft Pretzels)
El Pato Loco – a new Mexican cocktail bar (Staff Recommendation – Carnitas de Pato Tacos)
Bleuroot – a Farm to Table Restaurant that is located right along the Fox River (Staff Recommendation – Rosemary Portabella Fries)
Bamboozels – a local bar and diner (Staff Recommendation – Westside Loaded Nachos)
Woodfire Pizza – authentic Italian food in the heart of downtown West Dundee (Staff Recommendation – Honey Ricotta Toast)
Village Squire – West Dundee – pub-style casual dining with live music and a cozy atmosphere (Staff Recommendation – Saganaki)
East Dundee
River Street Tavern – an elevated American pub grub, craft beer & taco nights (Staff Recommendation – Disco Fries)
DC Cobb – award-winning burgers and made-from-scratch kitchen (Staff Recommendation – Mozzarella Wedges)
Diamond Jim’s Tavern and Gas Grill – a place to relax with family & friends, enjoy the company of others, eat great food…and choose from a variety of beverages (Staff Recommendation – Italian Beef Egg Rolls)
Rosie O’Hares Public House – quench your thirst with our vast selection of beers and spirits, or dine on our authentic pub grub (Staff Recommendation – Knotty Delight)
Tequila Val’s Mexican Grill and Cantina – authentic Mexican cuisine (Staff Recommendation – Queso Fundido)
Mockingbird Bar + Garden – Healthy food with a stylish flair (Staff Recommendation – Roasted Artichoke Hearts)
Hampshire
Hampshire Social – treats with Colombian and Ethiopian coffee, craft beer and featured wine (Staff Recommendation -Charcuterie Board)
Copper Barrel on State – American cuisine with a spotlight on some smokehouse selections (Staff Recommendation –Fried Deviled Eggs)
Bartlett
Le P’tit Resto Bar Tapas – tapas – small bites – located in a refurbished barn
O’Hare’s Pub – a sports bar with famous pub burgers, wings, a cold beer, and Irish Fare
More Brewing Co.
For a full list of area restaurants check out the dining section of our website.
Any restaurant located in the 11 communities served by the Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau can submit their business to be listed on the website at no charge. Email Mary at Mary@ExploreElginArea.com for more information.