Welcome to Lake Villa Restaurant
Lake Villa Restaurant, a cherished family-owned diner since 1981, captures the essence of comfort food. Renowned for its homemade soups, giant cinnamon rolls, and delectable pies, this cozy spot serves the Lake Villa and Lake County community with pride. Open Wednesday through Sunday, it invites guests to enjoy a satisfying breakfast or lunch in a welcoming atmosphere filled with warmth and nostalgia. Recognized by WGN for its cinnamon rolls, this diner has become a top destination for locals and visitors alike. With a menu that caters to all tastes, from hearty skillets to health-conscious options, every meal here tells a story of family tradition and heartfelt cooking.
Popular dishes
Restaurant Gallery
About
Nestled at 147 Cedar Ave in Lake Villa, Illinois, Lake Villa Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it's a beloved community hub. Open since 1981, this family-owned gem has established itself as a mainstay in Lake County. The history here is palpable, with locals gathering for meals that evoke the nostalgia of home cooking.
The diner boasts a casual, cozy atmosphere that's perfect for families, groups, and solo diners. Accessibility is a priority, boasting wheelchair-friendly amenities, ensuring everyone can enjoy their delicious offerings. With the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air and the inviting sound of friendly chatter, any visit to Lake Villa Restaurant feels like stepping into a loved one's kitchen.
The decor harks back to diner classics, amplifying the homey vibe. Guests often chat with staff who remember their orders, echoing the restaurant’s commitment to community and personalized service. Lake Villa is often bustling, especially on weekends, with Sunday brunch drawing crowds eager to indulge in its renowned breakfasts. If you want a taste of local culture mixed with culinary delight, make this spot your next stop.
Working Hours
- SundayOpen
- MondayOpen
- TuesdayOpen
- WednesdayOpen
- ThursdayOpen
- FridayOpen
- SaturdayOpen
What People Say
Most Liked
The cinnamon rolls quickly become a highlight of anyone's visit, often dubbed the best in the Chicagoland area. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor ensure that they are a must-try. Breakfast skillets and omelets make a formidable impression, showcasing fresh ingredients and generous portions that leave guests satisfied. The laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere keeps people coming back, as does the attentive service that feels like home.
Many guests rave about the homemade soups, particularly the French onion, which warms the soul on chilly days. Signature pies, including chocolate cream and seasonal favorites, often steal the show at dessert time. Customers appreciate the excellent coffee, making this diner a go-to for that perfect morning pick-me-up. Pricing remains reasonable, with most meals falling in the $10-$20 range, which adds to its appeal for both families and solo diners.
Most Disliked
Some patrons note that peak dining hours can result in longer wait times, especially during busy Sundays when the restaurant reaches full capacity. While the diner operates efficiently, the weekend rush can prompt delays that some may find frustrating.
A few guests express difficulty in finding parking during these peak times, though free street parking and a dedicated lot are available. Others wish for a broader menu variety that might include more innovative dishes, as Lake Villa Restaurant remains firmly in the comfort food tradition. A couple of reviewers also highlight the cozy crowd levels, suggesting that it may feel cramped during peak hours, especially for larger groups.
Reviews
Romney D.
Now, this is how it's done! Family owned, and you can tell. Fast and friendly service in a welcoming environment. We stopped in for breakfast this morning and found a seat in their second dining area without issue. The place was busy, but we didn't feel rushed. Fantastic menu selection with something for everyone. My feta omelet and my wife's skillet came out hot and were both delicious. We definitely will be back again. Also, the coffee was great 👍
I'mMe 2.
What a great breakfast diner! Great food, great atmosphere, and very nice family. We will definitely be back, and I recommend this place to anyone. All fresh food, and they cooked my eggs and bacon perfectly, which doesn't happen at most places. They are known for their cinnamon rolls, and everything was fantastic. I don't usually write reviews, but this place deserves to know how awesome they are! -Joe
Lori K.
Talk about truly knowing their customers....I changed my usual order. Felicia (who was not our server) quietly walked to our table to be sure our server did indeed hear correctly....which he did! Then up at the register, Mike (owner) asked how I enjoyed my breakfast ,as he specifically recited my usual order! Importantly our food was comforting, fresh and delicious! Remember to take a cinnamon roll home for later.....they are the BEST in the state! Please stay in business another 45 years!!
Tom K.
If I Could give it a 10 I would friendly people fantastic coffee and one of the best omelettes that I’ve had in a long time this is A great family restaurant and I can’t wait to bring my family there to enjoy some of the food in the nicest people I must go.
Cat L.
A Hidden Gem with Incredible Service and Home-Cooked Delights! Nestled in the heart of our community, you will find the iconic Lake Villa Restaurant. LVR is a cozy, welcoming spot that feels more like dining at a beloved family member's home than a typical restaurant. From the moment you walk through the door, the warmth and hospitality of the staff make you feel right at home. Their commitment to excellent customer service is evident in every interaction, whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth. The menu is a celebration of home-cooked meals, crafted with love and care. Every dish is packed with flavor, reminiscent of cherished family recipes passed down through generations. From the classics on the breakfast menu to the savory bites on the lunch menu, each bite transports you to a simpler, more comforting time. Some of my family’s favorites include, the amazing cinnamon rolls, chocolate cream pie, milkshakes, Lake Villa omelette, biscuits & gravy, olive burger, pumpkin pancakes & the world's best chili!!!! What truly sets Lake Villa Restaurant apart is the attention to detail and the genuine care that goes into every aspect of the dining experience. The servers go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels like a VIP, whether by remembering your favorite dish, offering personalized recommendations, or simply checking in with a warm smile. If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy hearty, delicious food in a setting that feels like a second home, Lake Villa Restaurant is the spot. The combination of exceptional service and mouthwatering meals makes it a standout in our community, and one visit will quickly turn you into a regular. Highly recommended for anyone craving a taste of home.
Jenny D.
It was the first time going to this restaurant today with my son. After living near the area for over 20 years, we found it on Google and decided to try. Love the atmosphere and family vibe. We will definitely be back! We also love supporting small business owners !!
Julie W.
Lake Villa Restaurant is the best place to go if you want a homemade meal. They are known for their amazing cinnamon rolls. The chocolate and banana cream pies are my favorite. I love the poached eggs , bacon and croissant sandwich. The family that runs this place are so nice and friendly. Affordable and I highly recommend!