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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Waukegan

American dinner spots

An American dinner that elevates the classics instead of just serving them by default.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Big Ed's BBQ image 1
Big Ed's BBQ image 2
Big Ed's BBQ image 3
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Barbecue restaurant

Huge, clean space with a cafeteria-style dining area creates a spacious, casual vibe. Live jazz and a full bar add to the lively atmosphere, while comfy couches offer spots to relax. Known for top-tier barbecue and a variety of sauces, it blends great food with a fun, family-like energy.

BBQ shines with brisket and rib tips served in a hearty dinner. Baked mac and cheese pairs well with burnt ends, while cornbread muffins offer a sweet, moist center and crunchy crust.

Dinners feature mouth-watering meat like brisket, rib tips, burnt ends, and pulled pork. Meals come with delicious cornbread and two sides that stand out in taste and quality.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's some of the best American food around."

"I loved the key lime pie; it was divine and heavenly."

"The brisket here is pretty solid for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid missing out on menu items as they sell out quickly.

2

Free meals are offered on Thanksgiving Day, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Some menu items are only available on specific days, so check ahead.

02
Waukegan CM chicken Bobadod image 1

Restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with K-pop music creating a lively vibe. Seating includes comfortable bean bags and a free Pac-Man arcade game adds playful energy. A mini grocery store sells Korean snacks, enhancing the unique experience.

Chicken wings fall off the bone, are super crispy, and have a tangy sweet heat flavor. Fried chicken and corn dogs stand out with exceptional crispiness and flavor, while hamburgers are also very tasty.

Dinner here offers a charming atmosphere and a lovely setting that suits small groups well. The food smells fantastic and fits both lunch and dinner occasions.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, hot, and tasty."

"You have to try the crispy, juicy chicken wings here."

"The chicken at these dinner spots is so crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of free parking available.

2

There was no wait when I visited.

3

The restaurant offers good Korean food, snacks, and bubble tea.

03
Lucky Scottie Restaurant image 1

Historic building with speakeasy-style bar and live DJ music creates a warm, lively atmosphere. Crowd enjoys fresh, flavorful food and a variety of cocktails including superb Negronis and Margheritas. Games and entertainment add to the inviting, fun vibe.

Club sandwich features warm bacon and fresh ingredients. Ribeye steak and burgers come cooked just right. Chicken wings and BLT sandwiches add tasty variety.

Offers quick dinners ideal for a night out. Serves well for last minute celebratory meals and pre-show dining near the Genesee Theater.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The Italian food here is so delicious and creamy."

"The American Food, especially the burgers and club sandwiches, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with $5 drinks available.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $2 tacos, making it a popular night.

3

The kitchen closes early on show nights, so arrive in advance.

04
American Place Casino image 1

Spacious and well-organized casino with clean layout and easy parking. Atmosphere ranges from lively energy with DJs and live bands to cozy and welcoming environments. Offers a wide selection of slots and table games alongside multiple dining options and a vibrant bar scene.

Fresh nachos stand out with great attention to detail. The New York Strip steak pairs well with the recommended Josh Wine.

Dinner features special occasions like birthdays and Valentine's Day with complimentary meals and wine dinners. Options include steak houses and spots with karaoke for a lively evening.

People are saying

"The dealers and staff here are so friendly and make it fun."

"The American Food here is amazing and the staff is so friendly."

"The staff here makes dinner spots feel so welcoming and friendly."

Good to know

1

The casino regularly hosts fun activities and promotions throughout the year.

2

Karaoke night occurs every Thursday, starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Friday promotions include games like cornhole with chances to win free play.

05
Family & Crab image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers fresh seafood boils with garlic butter and Cajun seasoning in a family-friendly atmosphere. Decor features beautiful art and perfect lighting, creating a lively yet comfortable vibe. Amenities include shell crackers, gloves, and bibs for a convenient dining experience.

Appetizers include fried dumplings, hush puppies, and lemon pepper wings. Fried chicken comes out perfectly cooked. Small crabs resemble frozen ones used for gumbo or soup. Cajun Rice tastes more like fried rice.

Dinner here features King Crab Special and seafood dishes suitable for family gatherings. Timing can vary, with some orders arriving 20 minutes apart during group meals.

People are saying

"The seafood boils here are perfectly seasoned and flavorful."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and have great variety."

"The seafood boils here are so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

2

Parking is available, but some may find it difficult to access.

3

The prices are very fair and worth every penny.

06
Test Kitchen BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot offers high-quality brisket and ribs with a warm, family-like atmosphere where staff and diners interact openly. Music adds to the fun, welcoming vibe that keeps the place buzzing. Owner presence at the front cutting meat enhances the community-oriented feel.

Brisket stands out with its incredible juiciness, tenderness, and just the right amount of smoke. Cornbread includes real pieces of corn, and rib tips also deliver excellent flavor.

Dinner includes large brisket, collard greens, ribs, and cornbread. Portions vary, with medium brisket seen as a snack. Barbecue can run low by early evening.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very delicious and great."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"The staff here is super friendly, making it a great spot for dinner."

Good to know

1

Only certain meats are available on weekends.

2

They charged $10 for a side of fries with mild sauce.

3

I need to bring cash to avoid the credit card fee.

07
Anastasia's-Waukegan Restaurant & Sports Lounge image 1

Spacious sports bar and lounge with plenty of TVs and ample indoor and outdoor seating, including a quiet patio area. Atmosphere is clean, warm, and cozy, balancing a classy vibe with a lively crowd during games. Shuttle service and live streams add convenience and unique touches.

Fried chicken and chicken wings stand out with solid cooking. The Michael Eggs Benedict plate and patty melt come with tasty sides like French fries and Sedona fries.

Dinner offers a great atmosphere, especially on weekends, with delicious food across all meals. Staff create a friendly vibe, even taking time for group pictures after dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with perfect portions and presentations."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the pizza."

"The American Food here is amazing, and the service is great."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during major sports events.

2

Happy hour features $6 Moscow mules on Mondays.

3

Half-price pizza night occurs every Tuesday.

08
Green Town Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Classic Midwest style sets a warm and inviting tone with an electric vibe from a young owner and a mixed crowd. Music plays loudly, creating a lively atmosphere that suits watching games and enjoying a night out. Clean space offers comfort food and affordable prices in a local joint feel.

Biscuits and gravy stand out with a homemade, rich flavor. Southern-inspired dishes like catfish, mac and cheese, and cornbread bring a comforting touch. Classic American options include hamburgers and cod fish fry served with fries and coleslaw.

Dinner features a delicious menu with options that satisfy after a long day. The spot works well for a meal before heading out to a show nearby.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and prompt."

"The dinner spots here have quality, well-cooked wings at a great price."

"The American Food here, especially the biscuits and gravy, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm.

2

Bingo is hosted every Thursday night at 8pm.

3

Expect a $2 surcharge for credit card payments.

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Waukegan, Illinois

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