20 Best Restaurants in Palatine, IL

This article was written by local contributor William Johnson & edited by the Travel Lens team.

William Johnson

Jul 9, 2023 • 16 min read

Ah, Palatine, Illinois - my beloved hometown.

Nestled in the heart of the northwest suburbs of Chicago, this charming village has become a food lover's paradise.

From casual food joints to elegant dining experiences, there's something for everyone.

So, if you find yourself in Palatine, Illinois, let me introduce you to some must-try restaurants that I have personally frequented and enjoyed throughout the years.

Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

Chappie's Cafe

I recently discovered Chappie's Cafe while walking around town, and I must say, this lovely little restaurant has quickly become one of my favorite places to enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Their menu offers a great variety of options, and their unique flavor combinations are simply delightful.

One of my favorite experiences was when my partner and I decided to try the Tres Leches Pancakes and the Country Fried Steak.

Both dishes were outstanding, and we couldn't wait to come back for more.

I've also had the chance to bring my kids, who can be quite picky eaters, but they absolutely loved the food.

Finding a place that suits their tastes has always been a challenge, so it was such a relief to find Chappie's Cafe.

Not only is the food top-notch, but the atmosphere is also clean, bright, and welcoming.

Dario's Sandwich Shop

I just recently stumbled upon Dario's sandwich shop.

It's a cozy little spot with a patio offering custom sandwiches, paninis, and homemade soups.

I decided to give it a try and ordered their Cubano sandwich, and let me tell you, it instantly became one of my favorite sandwiches of all time!

Not only is the food at Dario's top-notch, but the atmosphere is also very relaxed and inviting, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.

I've since brought my friends and family to enjoy the delicious creations at Dario's, and they all rave about it.

I've tried their flatbread ricotta and the Southwest Chicken Panini as well, and they were all fantastic.

Chicago Culinary Kitchen

I've always enjoyed barbecue, and Chicago Culinary Kitchen has become one of my go-to spots for some amazing BBQs.

I remember the first time I visited this rustic mall joint, I was blown away by the flavors and the atmosphere.

The place has a rock and roll theme, which I find to be really unique and entertaining.

One of the highlights of my time at the Chicago Culinary Kitchen was attending their BBQ class event – "Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ."

It was such a fun and informative experience, and I took home so much delicious food that lasted me for a week!

When it comes to the menu, I have never been disappointed.

Their BBQ ribs, sausage, brisket, and pulled pork are simply divine.

What's even better is that none of the meats require any additional BBQ sauce – the flavors are just that perfect.

I also love their sides, especially the Mac n' Cheese and Mexican Street Corn.

J & J Pizza

One of the best discoveries I've made is this hidden gem, J & J Pizza.

I've visited this pizza restaurant in the Plaza La Rosita several times, and I can't help but keep coming back for more.

I have to admit, the first time I walked in, what caught my attention was the cleanliness of the place.

It's well-maintained, and you can tell they take pride in it.

The second thing that won me over?

The outstanding customer service!

Every visit is greeted with warm smiles and friendly faces.

It's one of the reasons why I keep coming back.

Now, let me tell you about the food.

I've had my fair share of pizza and wings in the area, but nothing compares to the taste at J & J Pizza.

If you're a fan of wings, you absolutely must try their garlic habanero sauce – it's to die for!

As for the pizza, it's hands down the best I've tasted around here.

And if you're looking for a place to hang out with friends or have a family dinner, they've got you covered with a seating area and TVs.

It's perfect for a date night, too.

Want to grab a quick lunch?

No problem!

They offer a slice to go that you won't regret trying.

Brandt's of Palatine

I recently discovered a hidden gem in the form of Brandt's of Palatine.

A cozy tavern with brick walls and a laid-back vibe, it has quickly become one of my favorite spots for burgers, sandwiches, and cocktails.

A friend1 of mine recommended this place, and it truly lives up to the hype, having the best burgers in the area.

Their beef patty is juicy, and the ribs are cooked to perfection, with the meat falling off the bone as soon as you touch it.

Apart from the flavorful mains, their sides are amazing too, especially the chips and coleslaw.

Even though it can get busy during peak hours, I've been lucky enough to get a table immediately on both occasions I've visited.

The menu at Brandt's is impressive, with a wide variety of options for all tastes.

I particularly loved the cheese curds and firecracker shrimp, and their coleslaw is definitely the best I've ever had.

The service is top-notch, and despite being busy on a Saturday night, it's easy to understand why this place is so popular among locals.

Ramen House Shinchan

I can't help but visit Ramen House Shinchan whenever I get a craving for authentic Japanese cuisine.

From their traditional Japanese noodle soups to Nagoya specialties, Ramen House Shinchan never disappoints.

The first time I walked into this low-key, modern restaurant, I was greeted warmly and immediately felt at ease.

Since then, I've tried everything from their Shio Ramen to the Katsu Curry, and I can't get enough of the Mateo Roll.

The food is consistently delicious, and the sushi is always well-made and tasty.

It truly reminds me of the time I spent in Japan years ago.

One Taco Dos Tequilas

I'm always on the hunt for great Mexican food.

After trying out various places, I finally stumbled upon One Taco Dos Tequilas, and I must say, it's now my go-to spot!

The atmosphere and service at this Mexican restaurant are truly amazing.

The restaurant has a unique design, featuring a green wall that makes for a perfect picture background.

I love their tequila choices - so many options to choose from!

I ordered the Steak Tacos, and they were fantastic.

Asahi Japanese Restaurant

I've been to Asahi Japanese Restaurant a few times now, and it has quickly become one of my favorite spots for sushi in the Palatine area.

The first thing you'll notice about Asahi is its cozy, unpretentious atmosphere.

The small sushi bar, a few tables, and booths provide an intimate dining experience, perfect for date nights or catching up with friends.

One of my favorite dishes is the Chicken Katsu, which is a breaded chicken breast deep-fried and served with a delicious tonkatsu sauce.

The portions are generous, and the chicken always comes out crispy and flavorful.

If you're into sushi rolls, you must try the Rainbow Roll and Spider Roll.

The Rainbow Roll consists of a California roll topped with five pieces of fresh fish, including salmon, tuna, white tuna, shrimp, and yellowtail.

The Spider Roll features a whole soft-shell crab, cucumber, avocado, and sweet sauce – it's always a big hit at my table!

Another great option is their bento boxes, which offer a variety of Japanese dishes and can be a tough choice to pass up.

The "Original" JJ Twigs Pizza & Pub

I finally decided to visit The "Original" JJ Twigs Pizza & Pub again after almost 20 years!

I remembered their delicious thin-crust pizza, and I was eager to find out if it was still as tasty as it used to be.

To my delight, the pizza was just as I remembered - super thin crust and packed with flavor.

It was a busy Saturday night, and the place was packed with people waiting for their pizza.

I could tell that it has become a staple in the Chicagoland area with multiple locations.

The pizza was cooked to perfection and enjoyable throughout.

What also impressed me was the attentive service.

It's always a pleasure to support local small businesses, especially when they reward you with such delicious food and outstanding service.

Taqueria Maya

Last weekend, I decided to try a new Mexican restaurant in town, Taqueria Maya.

I ordered their pomegranate margaritas, which were absolutely delicious, and the enchiladas.

The serving sizes were quite generous, and I was able to take some leftovers home for a second meal.

A friend of mine recently attended one there and could not stop raving about the food, drinks, and exceptional customer service provided by Alberto and his team.

They even catered to guests with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free options and non-alcoholic drinks for those who needed them.

Pedro's Pizza

I can't help but rave about Pedro's Pizza, a hidden gem in our neighborhood.

Having lived here for years, I've tried plenty of pizza places, but Pedro's takes the crown for the best pizza spot in town.

Their handmade sausage, homemade sauce, and hand-tossed thin crust are what make their pizzas truly stand out.

And if you're into some heat, don't miss out on their fresh jalapenos!

But it's not just the pizza that keeps me coming back for more.

Their tacos are definitely a must-try!

Simple, tasty, and addicting – I can't help but devour them as soon as they're served.

One thing I really appreciate about Pedro's is how it's a locally-owned and hardworking business.

Plus, their pizzas are always steaming hot and ready on time.

Sukho Thai Cuisine

Whenever I crave authentic Thai food, I head straight to Sukho Thai Cuisine.

They even know my order by heart, so there's often no need for a menu!

I've tried a variety of dishes from their menu, and everything I've had has been excellent.

My personal favorites are the sweet stir fry chicken, Sukho spicy beef, and jasmine rice soup.

I assure you, you won't be disappointed with anything you choose from their menu.

I've mostly had carry-out orders, so I can't really speak on the ambiance of the place itself, but the food is always top-notch.

The spiciness levels are just as I expect them to be, and I'm sure they can adjust the heat according to your preference.

One of my go-to dishes is their pork and broccoli dish.

The broccoli is cooked to perfection—not too soft, but not too crispy, either.

Bread & Butter Cafe

One of my favorite spots to grab breakfast in town is the Bread & Butter Cafe.

Their menu offers a wide variety of pancakes, waffles, french toast, and even gluten-free options.

I usually go for their tasty omelets, and I must say, they always cook them to perfection!

The service is usually fast, and I've never had to wait too long for my meal.

What I really enjoy about this place is their outdoor seating area.

It's such a pleasant way to enjoy my meal while limiting exposure to others, especially during these times.

I've also brought along my family and friends here, and they all love it!

The portion sizes are huge, and the prices are quite reasonable for the quality of food they serve.

Whenever I'm in the mood for a delicious breakfast or brunch, Bread & Butter Cafe is always at the top of my list.

Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill

I must say that discovering Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill has been a game-changer for me.

Not only is the food delicious, but the service is exceptional, and I believe it's the best Mediterranean restaurant in the area.

Their falafel is hands down the best I've ever had – perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

One of the things I truly appreciate about this place is the variety of dishes they offer.

They have something for everyone, whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to try something new.

I often find myself torn between their shawarma sandwiches and kebab plates – both are so flavorful and satisfying.

I also love their loaded fries, which are a fun and tasty addition to their menu, and their soup is simply divine.

Bendita Cocina

Last weekend, I decided to visit Bendita Cocina with my partner for a special date night.

We had heard great things about this Argentinian restaurant, so we were looking forward to trying it out.

We didn't have a reservation, but luckily, they were able to accommodate us outside even though they weren't technically seating people out there.

The atmosphere was vibrant and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a romantic outing.

The menu offered a nice variety of dishes, and we were excited to try their famous pizzas.

For our meal, I ordered the Vacío Sandwich, and my partner chose one of their pizzas.

We also tried the Quilmes beer, which was a nice complement to our dishes.

Everything was absolutely delicious, and we couldn't have asked for a better dining experience.

Schnell's Brauhaus

I've always been a fan of German cuisine, so when I discovered Schnell's Brauhaus in my neighborhood, I knew I had to pay a visit.

This cozy, wood-heavy pub offers a fantastic selection of German beers, hearty Bavarian-American fare, and friendly service that make the experience truly memorable.

One of my favorite dishes at Schnell's Brauhaus is the sausage plate.

Although I can't recall its exact name on the menu, it's an entree that comes with four different sausages and is absolutely mouthwatering!

On my last visit, I also had the chance to try their schnitzel, which was seasoned to perfection and easily some of the best I've ever had.

The ambiance at Schnell's Brauhaus is reminiscent of a lodge you might find in Düsseldorf, Germany, with its hand-carved wooden bar, seating, and décor.

The family-owned establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and I've found that there's always ample parking available nearby.

Other Restaurants Nearby

Poke Burrito Deer Park

I have always been a fan of poke bowls, so when I discovered Poke Burrito Deer Park, I just had to try it.

Every time I visit, I am never disappointed.

My go-to order is the "Jimmy's Creation," and it never fails to satisfy my cravings.

The atmosphere is really cute, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family.

One time, I decided to try their ramen, and it was simply delicious.

The taste was mesmerizing and made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

Big Ange's Eatery

As someone who's always on the lookout for great barbecue spots, I have to say that Big Ange's Eatery has quickly become one of my favorites in town.

Their website doesn't do justice to the amazing food and atmosphere you'll find when you step inside.

This laid-back, quick-serve restaurant has a range of delicious burgers, smoked BBQ sandwiches, and platters that will leave you craving more.

What really sets Big Ange's apart is the tenderness and flavor of their meats.

The brisket, in particular, is out of this world.

They also have custom BBQ sauces available at the counter, which let you tailor your meal to your liking.

And if you're in the mood for something other than BBQ, their chicken tenders are some of the best I've had – so fresh and juicy.

Plus, their lemonade and milkshakes are the perfect refreshing accompaniments to your meal.

KBBQ

When I'm craving some delicious Korean BBQ, there's no better place for me to go than KBBQ.

I've been coming here for years, and it never disappoints.

The marinated spicy chicken and marinated ribeye steak are to die for - the seasonings and flavors just burst in your mouth.

I usually pair them with some fried rice and cold sides, which are very good too.

The service at KBBQ is always attentive and friendly, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.

Osaku Sushi & Ramen

Let me tell you about one of my favorite spots in town: Osaku Sushi & Ramen.

At first glance, the small space with only two tables might make you hesitate, but don't let that discourage you!

The food here is absolutely delicious, with generous portions that are perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers.

The other day, I ordered pork belly ramen, and it was incredible.

The broth and noodles were spot on, and the dish wasn't overcooked at all.

My friends and I also tried the chicken teriyaki, which came with a ginger dressing salad and miso soup that even the kids loved.

We couldn't resist the sushi rolls either – they were simple yet satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I have been fortunate enough to indulge in the diverse and delicious food scene that Palatine has to offer.

From mouthwatering BBQ at Chicago Culinary Kitchen to the heavenly ramen at Ramen House Shinchan, there is definitely something for everyone in this town.

I am grateful to call Palatine my home, not only for the warm and welcoming residents but also for the amazing dining experiences that have made my time here truly unforgettable.

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