Antioch’s charming streets are packed with such delicious possibilities that a simple stroll might spark a dozen delicious detours: Is that the scent of wood-fired pizza wafting from the corner? Did you just spot a farm-to-table chalkboard? Those homemade pies in the bakery window look incredible—maybe we should duck inside. While half the joy here is following your cravings, if you need a starting point, let’s dive into our top picks.
Szechwan Palace
$ | (847) 838-0808 | WEBSITE
This tucked-away spot in Antioch puts Szechuan flavors—a Chinese specialty—front and center in many of its incredible dishes. If you order just one thing from the takeout counter, make it the spicy, satisfying drunken noodles. But you really shouldn’t order just one thing. Add on the crispy egg roll with that signature hot mustard, or the bold Kung Pao beef with its perfect heat.
Sweet Discoveries
$$ | (262) 914-5058 | WEBSITE
Sweet Discoveries is among our top choices for cake enthusiasts, especially wedding cakes and cupcakes. The former comes with multiple flavors like lemon and blueberry or Oreo, each crafted with care and attention to detail. Order the unique lemon green tea flavor, and add as many $4 cupcakes as your sweet tooth can handle (but skip the banana crème if you prefer something more adventurous).
If you can’t choose between picking up your beautifully decorated cake from the cozy, pastel-colored bakery with its warm lighting and display cases, or having it delivered for your special occasion, just let your schedule decide.
El Sureño
$ | (847) 395-8211 | WEBSITE
This family-run spot has been serving Antioch since the 1990s, and it has all the hallmarks of a classic Mexican joint: employees wearing colorful aprons, ceiling fans with dangling papel picado, and just enough tables to seat a modest family gathering. Their Chalupas are pleasantly crispy (kind of like the ones at authentic taquerias), and the Gorditas get the job done—but what you really want is a ChimiChanga dinner.
The filling is savory and well-spiced with a little bit of heat, the salsa is fresh and not too spicy, and the thick layer of guacamole is bright green with flavor. Get a mango mojito and split some dishes with some friends in the warm, welcoming space, or take your food to go from the small outside seating area.
Sandbar Bar & Grille
$ | (847) 395-8990 | WEBSITE
Sandbar Bar & Grille is a lively, sandy-beach wonderland right on the water. It’s perfect for a casual drink or meal when you want to hang out for a while without spending a ton of money, since most dishes are under $15. The Pot Roast sandwich is our favorite item on the menu, but the tavern-style pizzas are a close second. They also pour the best drinks around. On weekends, expect to wait a while for a table if you don’t get there before the afternoon rush.
Dockers North
$ | (847) 838-8597 | WEBSITE
Dockers North is the theme park of steakhouse dining. The dining room stretches across a surprisingly spacious area, decked out like a cozy lodge with dark wood accents, a massive bar on one side, and plenty of tables for groups. It’s a little predictable, but we’re into it. The eating experience is just as straightforward.
You get to savor their legendary Prime Rib, considered the best around, with options ranging from the Dockers Style Marinated Chicken Plate to the Grecian Salad with Chicken, and then have a ball at the well-stocked bar while you wait for your meal. It’s on the reasonable side for Antioch and you might encounter some service hiccups, but that’s part of the neighborhood joint experience.
Rivalry Alehouse
$$ | (847) 603-1124 | WEBSITE
Settling into a booth with a cold beer and a plate of wings at Rivalry Alehouse is the perfect way to kick off a weekend evening. This lively yet upscale tavern specializes in hearty pub fare with generous portions and standout appetizers like the Bavarian pretzel. You can pair your meal with a wide selection of beers, or enjoy the Irishman and BLT sandwiches, both highly recommended.
The food arrives promptly, and the TVs and live music create a fun atmosphere, so there’s no need to sit quietly here.
Blarney Island
$$ | (847) 395-3804 | WEBSITE
Blarney Island is a boat-access-only spot in Antioch with a limited food menu posted near the bar. That menu has just a few options on it, but the most popular thing by far is the lively atmosphere with live music and DJs. The experience comes with a $15 boat fee, which might seem steep, but it’s worth it for the unique getaway. You can always visit on non-race days if you want a more relaxed time. Many guests recommend coming with a group, as it really enhances the fun.
Ron and Pat’s Pizza Shack
$ | (847) 395-5005 | WEBSITE
Just a short walk from the heart of Antioch, Ron and Pat’s Pizza Shack is a pizza joint, but it’s always our first stop for a casual night out because they serve perfectly crisp and flavorful pizzas. There’s limited indoor seating, but you can take your pizza to their backyard area with picnic tables around the patio. It’s too hard to choose between the stuffed pizza with sausage and mushrooms, and the Sicilian with thin crust extra crispy—so just get both.
They also have other things like cheese, margarita, and combinations with bacon, tomato, onion, and garlic. It’s card-friendly with smooth online ordering, but nothing on the menu costs more than $25, and most pizzas cost less than $20.
Max & Boyd’s Hideout, Inc
$ | (847) 838-9121 | WEBSITE
Honestly, multiple speakeasy parties could unfold simultaneously in the various corners of this prohibition-era tavern. That is to say, there’s a lot of character here. Max & Boyd’s Hideout is usually pretty lively on weekend evenings, but even then, you’ll probably only have to wait 15 or 20 minutes to enjoy their grilled chicken sandwich, ribs, and prime rib.
You can also stop by for lunch to try some fantastic steak, like a perfectly cooked salmon and shrimp combo with a side of crispy fish fry.
Oliverii North
$$ | (847) 395-9999 | WEBSITE
Like the other top spots in Antioch, this bustling Italian eatery delivers quality, straightforward classics. But Oliverii North is particularly great when you’re exploring this charming town and want a proper sit-down meal. You’ll find a beautiful setting with warm lighting and comfortable seating where you can settle in for some impeccably crispy calamari and immediately savor tender chicken parm layered with rich marinara and melted cheese.
The stuffed manicotti arrives piping hot with creamy ricotta filling, and the attentive staff ensures your wine glass stays full throughout the delightful experience.
Bobby’s Lakeside Restaurant
$ | (847) 395-1303 | WEBSITE
Pork tenderloin. Hearty brown sauce. A mid-century modern interior, and plates of carrots and mashed potatoes that feel like home. Bobby’s Lakeside Restaurant has a lot going for it, which makes it the perfect place for a relaxed breakfast. The restaurant feels like a cozy time capsule, with friendly service and tables where customers chat over steaming meals. It’s pretty much a community hub with great food.
The diverse and satisfying menu features burgers, fries, and standouts like that breaded pork tenderloin that arrives with all the comforting sides.
Starbucks
$ | (847) 395-7363 | WEBSITE
This Starbucks is located inside a Jewel Food Store, providing a convenient option for customers to grab a coffee, tea, or snack while shopping. The space is compact but functional, with the kind of straightforward but still efficient setup you’d expect from a grocery store café. Classic coffee drinks like caramel macchiatos and pumpkin spice lattes are reliable choices, while breakfast sandwiches and bakery items like the spinach feta wrap and chocolate croissant are solid picks.
Go when you’re already running errands so you can multitask, and don’t forget to take advantage of the plentiful parking in the Jewel-Osco lot on your way in.
Culver’s
$ | (847) 395-4949 | WEBSITE
Culver’s is a family-friendly spot with plenty of space for wheelchairs and strollers. There’s no fancy menu, but you’re basically here for the Concrete Mixer and the Buffalo Chicken Tenders with Ranch Dressing. Their version of the chicken tenders is heavy on crunch, and has a creamy ranch dressing on the side that adds a satisfying layer of flavor. The salads are also solid, but you’ll need to come hungry if you want to score the kid meals, since they almost always please the little ones.
Bring the family, and plan to enjoy your food in the car or inside.
Lovin Oven Cakery
$ | (224) 788-9558 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for some of Antioch’s best baked goods, make sure to stop by Lovin Oven Cakery. You can choose between various flavors and options, all crafted with care so you’ll be able to taste the quality from the first, tender bite. Our favorites are the popular Apple coffee cake (the flavor feels noticeably fruitier and more comforting than most other versions), and a rich Black Forest slice.
Grab a few of these, chat with the helpful staff, and then proceed to savor the delicious treats with a contented smile.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (224) 788-2747 | WEBSITE
Subs are the main attraction at this popular sandwich shop in Antioch. Their version of the classic Italian—piled high with meats and cheese, topped with oil and vinegar—has a dedicated following, and we’re proud members of the club. Jersey Mike’s also makes satisfying mini sandwiches and offers a rewards system. We like to grab our favorites during a busy lunch break, then enjoy them in the nice surrounding area when the weather is pleasant.
Cuda’s Restaurant, Bar and Pizza
$ | (224) 788-9144 | WEBSITE
Cuda’s Restaurant, Bar and Pizza technically serves the best pizza in Antioch, but only by a slice. Other local spots are right up there with it, and they offer a more straightforward, no-frills experience. Located in an unassuming building, the place has a back section with live music that feels clean and surprisingly enjoyable despite initial doubts from the outside. Be sure to try their cheese double sausage pizza when you visit, even if it might not meet every expectation.
Rosati’s Pizza
$ | (847) 395-5500 | WEBSITE
Head to Rosati’s Pizza for their famous Monster Pizza, crispy pan pizza, and perfectly seasoned hot wings. At this welcoming spot, service is consistently attentive and warm, you rarely have to wait more than a few minutes for a table, and it’s an excellent pick for a spontaneous family meal. You’ll likely notice many customers smiling as staff bring out complimentary items for the kids.
Believe us when we say that this thoughtful touch isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s part of what makes the experience here so genuinely pleasant.