Mystery diner: No craving left unsatisfied at Mickey Finn’s

Mickey Finn’s in Libertyville is not only Lake County’s first brewpub, but is also a popular lunchtime bistro. Located downtown across from Cook Park, the building’s brick front speaks of its heritage.

On a recent visit, after a short wait, my lunch companion and I were seated in a bustling side room. A quick glance at the menu told me I could get away to Mexico, Morocco, Thailand, Greece or Germany.

In the end, I decided on Ireland, ordering Blarney Balls and Irish Eggrolls.

Three sliced Irish Eggrolls arrived showing corned beef and sauerkraut steaming within. Served with spicy mustard and Thousand Island sauce for dipping, we were only able to finish half.

My mind kept telling me the deep-fried Blarney Balls would be firm, but just as described, they burst in my mouth into garlic and bacon mashed potatoes.

For my main course, I decided to head for Cuba, ordering a Cubano sandwich. My companion went with the special, the all-you-can-eat fish and chips.

Battered with Finn’s own 847 Wheat Ale, the cod was wonderful. With only a hint of crispy brown coating, the fish was fresh, moist and steaming hot. The French fries, or “chips” as they were referred to, were also hot and crisp.

My Cubano arrived with the Swiss cheese slowly melting down the layers of shaved pork and ham. Wrapped around a dill pickle, I again found I could only eat half.

I didn’t finish the Cubano because of its side dish, sweet potato fries. Good? Exquisite might be a better word. The thinly sliced strips of sweet potato were only lightly fried. They were hot and crisp on the outside, and warm and creamy inside. They tasted as if they hadn’t had a bit of seasoning, and didn’t need any.

As the meal progressed, my friend and I tasted small samples of the eight draft beers. The stout, Imperial Delusion, seemed light and creamy, and the McFinn’s Wee Heavy ale held a “heavy smoke” character just as described. I ultimately went with the seasonal offering, Santa’s Magic, a Belgian strong ale. I found it light and refreshing, scented with spices and fruits which seemed familiar but beyond my ability to name.

For a quick getaway, or just a regular lunch out on the town, Mickey Finn’s variety of beers and pub food should be able to satisfy any craving.

Mickey Finn's Brewery & Pub Food

412 N. Milwaukee Ave., in Libertyville
www.mickeyfinnsbrewery.com
847-362-6688
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday

• Mystery Diner  is a newsroom employee of the Lake County Journal. To recommend your favorite restaurant for a Mystery Diner  visit, email lcjedit@lakecountyjournal.com.