Mystery Diner

Koncz's Bar and Grill on First Street in La Salle is well worth the trip

A hidden gem of a patio is right behind the vintage building in Geneva housing FoxFire, which next year will celebrate its 20th anniversary as a popular purveyor of steaks, chops and seafood.

The menu at Brunch Cafe – with locations in McHenry, Fox River Grove and Huntley – is extensive, offering anything related to breakfast or lunch you could be hankering for.

We chose the Minooka Creamery because it was a favorite childhood spot of one person in our group.

Tucked into a small storefront on Spring Valley’s St. Paul Street, Lucero’s, a supermarket and Mexican restaurant, offers authentic, homestyle Mexican cuisine along with grocery staples.

Mystery Diner: There is something comforting about a neighborhood restaurant, where, even on a first visit, it’s easy to see the clientele is relaxed, bantering with staff, and, well, comfortable in the surroundings.

The Mystery Diner tried a variety of dishes, including a molcajete, carnitas and bola dip on a flavorful trip to Fondita Mexican Grill in Ottawa.

Syrup in Algonquin a treat whether you're in the mood for creamy, zesty biscuits and gravy, chicken-fried chicken with loaded potatoes, or cinnamon roll French toast topped with dreamy icing.

Preservation offers multiple live music performances during the week at this inviting destination that doubles as a mini getaway.

Syrup in Algonquin a treat whether you're in the mood for creamy, zesty biscuits and gravy, chicken-fried chicken with loaded potatoes, or cinnamon roll French toast topped with dreamy icing.

Launch Kitchen puts its own twist on brunch favorites such as biscuits and gravy, omelettes, chicken and waffles, avocado toast and breakfast pizza.

A historic building in downtown St. Charles is home to The Office Dining & Spirits, the pub under new ownership since last year.

For anyone unfamiliar with Joliet, Al’s Steak House has been around since 1959, making it one of the first upscale restaurants in the area. It is known for its steaks, for good reason.

The McHenry County region is awash with small, locally owned pizza places, where unassuming facades belie some of the best cuisine in the area. Among them is Sal’s Pizza Company.

No. 4 Social Garage reopened in May after taking a hiatus to adjust its meal offerings and business plan. The restaurant relaunched with an updated menu featuring appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and pizza, as well as a buffet and salad bar.