Now that things are opening up again, we had to pass out some more great restaurant and cocktail hot spots. This time we’re headed north to Cook County, about 15 miles up from the Loop. Yes, we speak of Skokie.

First up is Libertad, the great ‘New Latino’ kitchen run by Marcos Riviera. The best part about this place is that all of the food comes in small, shareable portions. In other words, you get to try a lot of different stuff! One of the best restaurants in the ‘burbs.

Alexander’s Breakfast + Lunch is right in the center of Skokie, and they might have the best French toast in the area. You have to love a brunch spot that has variety! While a lot of people recommend the eggs’n’hash, pork belly tacos and sandwiches are also on the menu.

If you’re into steaks, you gotta head over to EJ’s. The owner’s real name is E.J. Lenzi, and the spot has a classic Midwestern supper club vibe. Wood-paneled interiors, uniformed waitstaff, and in the winter they get a fire going in the fireplace. Gotta love it.

Dengeos is the place for Gyros and Pork Kebabs. They also do a strong salad, and you can even get a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. Is it possible to eat feta cheese and not love it? We say no. If you agree, you’d like it here.

Soho House? Nah. Let’s go to Skokie House. I mean, think about it; does Soho House sell 24ounce Pabst Blue Ribbon bottles for $3.50 on Tuesdays? No. But Skokie House does. Seriously, if you like dive bars, head over for good service and a relaxed atmosphere.

There’s a Nando’s in Skokie. Just speaking this sentence out loud will get a fair amount of British people excited! The South-African-born peri-peri chicken shack is huge in the UK, but in the USA you can only find them in the D.C. and Chicago areas. One is in Skokie, over in Old Orchard Center. If you’ve never had it, give it a try!

Of course, we can’t talk about Old Orchard Center without mentioning the Hampton Social. Photo-worthy beach decor, decent food, and of course the rooftop patio. A good place to hang all year, but especially when the weather’s nice.

Finally, we have to end it with a hot dog spot; I mean, this is Chicagoland! In Skokie it’s either Poochie’s or Herm’s. We say Herm’s because any restaurant that has Frank Thomas and Mike Ditka painted on the wall is a restaurant worth patronizing.

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