Forge Club - Vernon Hills, IL

If you live in the area and you are not a member, you are really missing out. We received a membership at the club for as a wedding gift and we have been going ever since.

The club has been around since 1969 and is known for elegant dining in a very rustic atmosphere. You are greeted at the door where you check in, then you are not presented with a bill till the end of the evening. The big thing about this restaurant is the fantastic food, but what we like most is the atmosphere. The service is never rushed, we have been the only people in the restaurant and we could have stayed all night. Nobody is ever trying to turn tables.

We usually start the evening with a drink (or two) in the bar. Once we make it to the dining area you can relax as long as you wish, or you can jump right in. When the menus come, only the host is given prices. This is nice when you are entertaining, your guests will not freak out about the prices and ordered the grilled cheese.

The menu changes frequently, but some of our favorite staples are Steak Diane, Dover Sole, Veal Chop and the Rack of Lamb. Last night the specials were Sea Bass, which one of our guests had and she loved it. Another, which a second guest had, was a 22oz Kansas City Bone-in Rib eye. I was lucky enough to get a taste of each and I have to tell you it was impressive. I was surprised when my guest ate all 22oz.

The meal is somewhat expensive, but if you really want to have a special night out this is the place to go.

Just so you know, not all the meals are expensive. Lunch is a great bargain and very creative, Sunday dinner, which they are now calling "Dinner with Grandma" is quite reasonable and there is something for everyone's taste.

If you want to go somewhere where you feel like family and are treated with the respect you so deserve, then join the club and start enjoying something very special.

http://www.forgeclub.com/