9 Family-Friendly Northbrook Restaurants

While choosing a dinner destination can be a struggle for families, the North Chicago village of Northbrook is home to an array of tasty restaurants and cafés. While shopping for a Northbrook home for sale, you and your family can enjoy a wide variety of dining within city limits.

From the best tacos to classic pub food, below are the nine best restaurants for families in Northbrook.

Francesco’s Hole in the Wall is a staple for the Northbrook community, having served classic Italian food to Northbrook residents for more than 30 years. Francesco’s was doing fresh and local before it was cool, and their menu changes regularly to accommodate what’s freshest and in season. Among the quirks of Francesco’s is that the servers rewrite the menu on their dry-erase board twice daily (ahead of lunch and dinner). This way, the menu accurately reflects all the ingredients that arrive each morning. Order from the 20ish entrees for delicious Italian dishes with various cheeses, vegetables, and sauces.

They’re open for lunch and dinner with limited hours and are closed each Tuesday. Whatever you’re craving when you stop by, be sure to try the ravioli.

The Claim Company’s two locations are a staple for many residents of Northbrook homes residents. The Claim Company is best known for its build-your-own burger selections, but the menu offers a fun mix of southwest and Cajun favorites, all served in a casual setting. It’s perfect for families of all sizes and the ideal spot when you’re too tired to cook but aren’t looking for fast food. The flexible restaurant caters corporate events and makes room on the menu for vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diners. Main menu highlights include quesadillas, flatbread pizza, and sliders.

Many Northbrook or Chicago natives will tell you that little restaurants — like Charlie Beinlich’s —  often have the best food. Charlie Beinlich’s is a Northbrook gem, and with its pared-down menu and bar, it’s perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. This gastro-pub has a simple, non-rotating menu with a few great selections. Reviewers and locals alike will also tell you that it’s home to one of the best hamburgers in Chicago. If you’re craving something lighter, try their shrimp salad, chicken caesar wrap, or tuna salad.

This upscale restaurant is perfect for anyone shopping for a Northbrook luxury home for sale. Di Pescara focuses on seafood and Italian fare, with an eclectic mix of sushi and Italian classics. The house-made potato gnocchi is a local favorite, but don’t miss the macadamia-crusted flounder only available at lunch. There’s also a three-course “Supper Club” menu, which is an excellent option if you’re looking to sample a few different plates (note that it’s only offered before 5:30 p.m.).

Pinstripes is the best place in Northbrook to take kids and adults for a fun, relaxing dining experience. Pinstripes is a local chain near Northbrook real estate and is expanding quickly due to its popularity. This Northbrook restaurant offers a delightful menu with many handmade options, including wood-fired pizza and fresh, seasonal gelato.

You can also enjoy bowling and bocce ball at their state-of-the-art facilities before or after dinner. You pay a flat rate for shoe rentals and access to games and can even snack on appetizers and sip drinks while you play. Pinstripes has a lot to offer families and fun-loving adults. It provides a high-end spin on casual dine-and-play establishments.

Look no further if you’re searching for your new favorite taco place. EATACO has the best tacos near Northbrook homes for sale. This taco-fusion restaurant features favorites like the coconut shrimp in a pineapple-chili sauce, lamb carnitas, beef barbacoa simmered in an orange-tamarind sauce, and fresh churros for dessert. The restaurant is a stunning piece of Northbrook real estate, with eclectic art and bright, vibrant colors on the walls. Owner Serah Cicek worked at her parents’ restaurant, owned a pizza restaurant during college, and now balancers restaurant ownership with her pursuit of a Ph.D.

Owners of Northbrook real estate will tell you that Georgie V’s has some of the best breakfasts in town. It’s a low-frills diner-style restaurant with outdoor seating and excellent food. The menu has a good mix of breakfast classics, like pancakes, waffles, and crêpes, with fun and new options, like the Tijuana Benedict with house-made chorizo and pico de gallo. Georgie V’s is family-owned and recommends their omelets, Chiro French toast, burgers, salads, and wraps.

Grill House is an oft-overlooked Northbrook classic with a great menu, casual setting, and quality service. This restaurant is the perfect casual Friday night spot for a good meal with the family. The menu offers a vast selection for even the pickiest eater — the baby beet salad is excellent, reviewers say the burgers are great, and there are about a dozen grinders to choose from.

Owners of Northbrook homes enjoy some of the best Italian fare in North Chicago. Trattoria Oliverii is known for its lovely outdoor patio, exceptional seafood, and classic pizzas. The service is always top-notch, and they regularly host events on faux holidays like National Bourbon Day and National Cheese Day. Through their delicious food, Trattoria Oliverii tries to connect the Northbrook community in a fun, social atmosphere.

If you’re interested in buying or selling Northbrook real estate, call Ali Lerner. As a Northbrook native, Ali has deep experience in her market and a long track record of helping buyers find Northbrook homes for sale. Ali works with Compass Real Estate to leverage the best real estate technologies and data available near Chicago. If you’re ready to begin your search for Northbrook real estate, contact Ali and her team today.