Oak Park

Oak Park is a village in Cook County, Illinois, United States, adjacent to Chicago. It is the 26th-most populous municipality in Illinois, with a population of 54,318 as of the 2020 census. Oak Park was first settled in 1835 and later incorporated in 1902, when it separated from Cicero. Wikipedia.
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Top places to visit

4.8
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4.7
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Museum
Sights & Landmarks
The Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio in Oak Park, near Chicago, is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. This historic landmark offers guided tours focusing on the early career of the renowned architect. The building, designed by Wright himself in 1889, has been meticulously preserved and restored. Visitors can explore period furniture, fittings, and an extensive archive showcasing his career evolution. The studio showcases his iconic Prairie-style homes and other notable projects like the Guggenheim Museum.
★★★★★ The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Tour in Oak Park, IL, is a phenomenal experience! Walking through the home where Wright lived and worked from 1889 to 1909 is like stepping into the mind of a genius. The guided tour is engaging, with passionate docents sharing fascinating stories about Wright’s life and early Prairie-style designs. The meticulously restored spaces—especially the stunning playroom and octagonal studio—are breathtaking, showcasing his innovative use of light, space, and natural materials. Pair it with the self-guided audio tour of Oak Park’s Wright-designed homes for a full immersion into his legacy. Affordable, well-organized, and inspiring, this is a must-visit for architecture lovers or anyone curious about American design history. Easy to reach via CTA Green Line, too! Highly recommend!
Windy C — Google review
This visit was one of the highlights of my Chicago trip. I'm an architecture nerd more interested in skyscrapers than Prairie style, so I wasn't expecting to be blown away, but the tour completely exceeded my expectations. The staff were wonderful. Lexi was incredibly sweet and even got me into a sold-out tour slot after I was initially turned away. My guide Karl was fantastic, he was knowledgeable, engaging, and made the hour-long tour fly by. The house itself is really beautiful and the whole neighborhood has a special vibe. There were local artists painting watercolor scenes of nearby Wright homes which added to the charm. I highly recommend visiting here!
David K — Google review
The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is an absolute must-see when visiting Chicago. Walking through the house of such an iconic architect was a truly inspiring experience. Every room is filled with fascinating details that showcase Wright’s creativity and unique vision, from the way he used natural light to the thoughtful flow of space. Being inside the environment where he lived and worked gave me a much deeper appreciation for his genius, and it left a lasting impression on me. The guided tour was excellent—very well-organized, engaging, and full of interesting stories that brought both the architecture and Wright’s personal life to life. The staff and guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about sharing his legacy, which made the visit even more enjoyable. This museum is a true cultural gem and a great way to step into history. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a design lover, or simply curious, I highly recommend visiting. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Dmitriy A — Google review
🏛️ Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio: A Prairie Paradise 🏛️ We rolled into Oak Park on a sleepy mid-weekday and snagged our tickets same-day—no fuss, but if you’ve got a schedule tighter than a cantilever beam, grab them online in advance. 🕰️ Tour Tip Plan on an hour for the guided walkthrough plus extra time to wander the restored gardens and stroll the block. Wright’s architectural fingerprints are everywhere—there are several of his houses down the street. If you crave more context, the gift shop sells a neighborhood audio tour (for a few extra bucks), kind of like a podcast with Frank himself. 👩‍🏫 Inside Scoop Our guide was a walking encyclopedia of Prairie School lore. Photos? Snap away! Video? Keep the phone in your pocket. Don't become distracted by making the video and missing the details. ( I got the friendly “no video” nudge mid-tour, and I appreciate it.) It was a great reminder to live in the moment and take in the details. No harm, no foul—just a reminder that some masterpieces deserve to be admired, not filmed. Filming is a distraction that may cause you to stumble into items that can't be replaced. 🌿 Beyond the Home After you soak in the sleek horizontals, peek at the Unity Temple and other FLW gems around town. It’s like a mini architectural scavenger hunt, and each stop proves Wright really did think “outside the box.” ✨ Final Verdict This beautifully restored slice of design history is a must for road-tripping culture vultures. Bonus: You’ll feel smarter just by breathing in that Prairie breeze. #WrightAtHome #PrairieParadise #ArchitectureRoadtrip #TrailheadTreasures #UnityTempleBound #MidweekMarvels
AvgJoe — Google review
I was wandering aimlessly through Chicago when I stumbled upon the house Frank Lloyd Wright grew up in along with one of his first workspaces. It is now a museum open to the public. This is a controversial take, but the Fountainhead is my favorite book of all time and Frank Lloyd Wright was a major inspiration for the novel, so I had to pop in. I was SO excited. Sometimes I feel like the universe just throws you treats when you’re living right. I entered and realized you could only see the home and workspace if you booked a guided tour. When I inquired about a tour, they said they had no spots left for the day. It hurt, hurt BAD. I tucked my tail between my legs and scoured the gift shop for a little trinket. As I was trinket shopping, there were 2 girls trying to get in one of the tours for the day. The attendant told them what they told me, but they were not taking no for an answer. “My friend came from Serbia just to see this… is there any way she can go? Please, I’ll just wait. PLEASE. Is there anything you can do?” After going back and forth, the girl begging and pleading for minutes, the attendant said “Fine… we will add 1 spot to the tour for her but it starts right now.” A jolt of pure RAGE shot through my bloodstream. I was about to lose it. I was seeing red. What a slap in the face to me who had just been rejected. As I turned around to unleash my blind fury, I had to check myself. One half of my brain said to the other half “Honestly Johnny, she wanted it more than you did. You know she did. If you wanted it that bad, you would have pressed the attendant like she did. You just saw first hand that a closed mouth does not get fed.” Damn. So true. This was just proof again that you gotta go after what you want in life. Pure passion and grit will win out more often than not. I needed this lesson. RIP FRANK! IG @johnny.novo Tiktok @jnov__ Substack @johnnynovo
Johnny N — Google review
I had the chance to come back to visit this place again after 9 years. The house didn’t age as much as I did. I had fun touring this place again. The interior was beautiful. It’s also interesting to see that between the 2 volunteers that gave my tours, the stories they told were different. Overall good experience. I strongly recommend booking the tour ahead of time. There isn’t always one available when people arrive.
Yuezhe L — Google review
As expected, small spaced in Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs! Tour felt rushed and guide was unfriendly, hence less the one star. Otherwise, the house and studio are amazing! Bonus 7 houses nearby to see also! They are privately owned, but you can see from the outside.
Cin D — Google review
A must see experience in the heart of the city of Chicago. Frank Lloyd is probably the best architect of his time and his house in Oak Park is the one where he lived with his family of 6 for 20 years. This house is the blend of his talent and emotions where he invested them all to show the world what it's like to be a great architect and a good family man. Despite changing owners for 6 times and being a 6 flat apartment for a while the house has been returned to its original form after 1974. He has not only built this house but 37 more in the neighborhood which is now called Frank Lloyd Historic District which surely is worth the visit after seeing his house.
Arif E — Google review
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Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Located in Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a historic botanical garden and conservatory housing over 20,000 plants from various climates. The conservatory features three indoor botanical showrooms showcasing exotic plants and flowers alongside birds, fish, and turtles. Additionally, visitors can explore the Rubinstein Meeting Room & Garden and the Elsie Jacobsen Discovery Garden. This charming location also offers a gift store with unique nature-based children's items and specialty gardening products.
Lovely little place with a variety of plants to see in three main rooms. The tropical room was stunning and felt like a little world apart. I also enjoyed the more arid room with lots of succulents and cacti - amazing how huge some of them are! There are a few places to sit down if you need to. You can see everything pretty quickly, but there's nothing to rush you if you prefer to linger. Will be back again sometime!
M C — Google review
We visited the Observatory on a Saturday, and it looked like they had a couple events going on both inside and outside but it was a separate area from the walk through. It was a bit smaller than I thought it would be based off the photos but even still the plants and layout were beautiful. Its near a residential area and parking was easy, I'd say we parked maybe a black away. We walked up and entered through the main entrance and signed in. They had one of those penny machines that flatten and shape a new design on the penny (it took 2 quarters plus the penny) and its so cute! It took only about 10-15 minutes to walk through but we took our time and enjoyed getting up close to the plants and revisiting some so we spent maybe 30 total minutes in the greenhouses. They had two birds that looked healthy and happy and were responsive when we said their names. I loved them both! Overall I loved being here, seeing the plants, especially the black ZZ which is on my list!
Rose P — Google review
This was a smaller, but sweet, conservatory. It is free to enter but you need to sign in upon entry. They had some nice displays and the building also houses community space. They had a wonderful display of cacti and succulents; we have been to the desert botanical garden in Phoenix and their display here had cacti we had not seen before. Also, they were decorated for Halloween, so great for the kids this time of year.
Beth W — Google review
This is a small exotic plant conservatory located near Rehm Park. It takes about 20 minutes to walk through the tropical area and the desert plant area. The plants are very unusual and interesting. There is also an outodoor area with a fountain for kids to play in warmer weather. Our family lives nearby, so a walk to Rehm Park and visit to the conservatory is always fun for the kids. When I visited this week, there were fun decorations for Halloween. There is no entrance fee, but you can make a donation.
Maura — Google review
It's the perfect size for a quick trip that you can enjoy. The room has benches so that if you have kids or people who need a break, they can sit down and enjoy the plant life. The street parking is a bit tricky, but if you go during the middle of the day it's easier to find some free space.
Tim C — Google review
We needed to kill time for an hour while one of our family members had a dr appointment in oak park. So we decided to check this out again. This tine they had it decorated all for Halloween. It was so cute and the entire conservatory takes about 30 min max to explore, maybe less. The outside area is for children and they have a water fountain they can explore and some outdoor activities. There's parking on the side streets. Enterance is free, you just have to sign in. They have a room for parties and also a back patio for events. There was one going on that day actually. Must see if you like conservatories, but just remember, its very small compared to others in the Chicago. Its still definetly worth the visit.
Becky S — Google review
Free entry. Gardens are beautiful and would be great to host an event here. I saw so many different types of plants and flowers! Many that I hadn't seen before. They also have two adorable parrots.
Veronica A — Google review
Beautiful outdoor mini garden, cactus room and exotic room.Events venue with terrace. Located across children park.Street parking.Pock up mums here.
The G — Google review
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Unitarian Universalist Church
Sights & Landmarks
Unity Temple, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built between 1905 and 1908, is a significant Unitarian Universalist church in Oak Park. The recent $25 million restoration has brought new life to this National Historic Landmark. Visitors can join guided walking tours that include the architect's home and studio, as well as explore other architectural wonders in the area such as the Gunderson District and Ridgeland-Oak Park Historic District.
Had an amazing experience at Unity Temple today! I ended up being the only one on the guided tour, and even though my English listening and speaking skills aren’t the best, I really appreciated the guide’s patience. They slowed down their speech and frequently explained terms to make sure I understood. The first half of the tour focused a lot on the design concepts and the details of the building’s restorations over the years. In the second half, the guide delved into Wright’s thoughts on the social role of the church and how these ideas were reflected in the design. One thing that really stuck with me was the idea that a church isn’t just a place for worship, but also a space for serving the community. Wright emphasized the importance of gathering spaces, designing large areas for events, even including a big kitchen so people could come together, share meals, and connect. I found it incredibly moving.
Wei-Chia S — Google review
I visited Unity Temple today and left genuinely inspired. By chance, I ended up on a one-person tour, which turned into a thoughtful, almost conversational walk-through. My English isn’t perfect, but the guide was incredibly considerate,speaking slowly, checking in often, and unpacking unfamiliar terms with real patience. As I left, I realized what moved me most wasn’t just the elegance of the design, but the kindness embedded in it. The tour felt like an invitation, to listen more slowly, to notice what brings people together, and to see architecture as a quiet kind of service.
Oliver M — Google review
Have you ever wanted to walk into a work of art? A must see. Take the tour. Awe inspiring.
Scott P — Google review
Everyone kept telling me I had to check this place out on my Frank Lloyd Wright journey…it was absolutely beautiful. Definitely recommend booking a tour so you can hear the stories and background behind the architecture.
Ashleigh M — Google review
They have guided tour daily $20 at 10AM and 12PM. They also have self guided tours $15. There is an in depth hour and half your on Saturday at 9AM. There are 2 church services on Sunday
Rafael T — Google review
Great FLW site. Would be better if the church kept their politics confined to the sermons.
Phil G — Google review
Seeing this FLW work in person was a magical experience. Since it is still an operating church, you can touch everything amd sit in the pews. It is absolutely stunning and evokes such awe. The tour guides are very friendly and knowledgeable about the building and FLW.
Sara J — Google review
Excellent first public building of Frank Lloyd Wright . Though we were pessimistic when the FLW home and studio tour was filled for hours this turned our to be a worthy alternative. Tour is about 45 minutes and docents are knowledgeable both about the history of the building and recent restorations . Great introduction to Wright for those just getting acquainted and historical and religious context is provided
Daniel D — Google review
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4.2
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Historical place museum
Sights & Landmarks
The Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum, located in Oak Park just west of downtown Chicago, is a small but intimate museum dedicated to capturing the life and work of the celebrated American author. Housed in the Queen Anne home where Hemingway was born, the museum showcases photos, manuscripts, personal belongings, and more related to his life and career. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about this literary icon's fascinating journey and writing process.
This was such a fun and perfect experience. The tour was very informative and engaging and the shop has a great selection of Hemingway books, biographies, and neat items. I’m so glad I visited!
Julian _ — Google review
Open only four days a week - hence only 3 stars for me. I think that for such a great and important American writer the opening hours are just insufficient. Otherwise, there's a bench on the porch you can sit on and relax.
Jana L — Google review
Wonderful experience, the house is restored with great effort and care. The guide was very knowledgeable, engaging and answered all questions. This is the house where Earnest spent his first 6 years of his life and where he was born. You learn a lot about the family and the values that shaped their life. If you are a history and literature nerd like myself you will absolutely love this. If you are not you will still have a magical time because you will be transported back in time for an hour.
Geto G — Google review
I was here last month with my mother and sister. We love Hemingway, so this was a great opportunity for us to know more about him! The staffs were exceptionally kind and knowledgeable. We really appreciated the detailed explanation of his entire life with his family. I would say if you have ever read Hemingway's work and loved it, you may not want to say you've been to Chicago without visiting here! Already miss that day.
Hojoon C — Google review
Interesting house that was restored, but the stories about Hemingway and his early life make the tour worth the trip. A lot of work was put into bringing the house back to what it would look like when Hemingway lived there, including some original artifacts.
Greg P — Google review
The renovation of the home is remarkable. The level of detail provided by our guide (Sue) could not have been better. This tour was a birthday gift for my daughter (at her request) and we both remarked that the experience was one of the best ever. So many times presentations are factual, but very dry and detached. Sue's lovely speaking voice and pleasant demeanor complimented the wealth of information she shared and gave special insight to family life in the home. Thank you!
Jeanne W — Google review
Have been meaning to check it out for years. So glad that I finally did. VERY Interesting learning about Hemingway's life. I also appreciated the beautiful architecture of the house. Definitely worth checking out!
Daniel H — Google review
The Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum is a historical gem that takes you back in time. The house is beautifully preserved and provides fascinating insight into the writer’s early life. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making the tour even more engaging. Every room is filled with details that reflect the Hemingway family’s lifestyle and history. A must-visit for literature lovers and anyone interested in American heritage.
Harry S — Google review
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4.4
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Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Pleasant Home, also known as the John Farson House, is a revered mansion in Oak Park with Prairie School architecture. Built in 1897 by George W. Maher, it stands out as a National Historic Landmark and a fine example of Maher's work. The house broke the mold in its Victorian and Queen Anne-dominated neighborhood. It offers educational programs, weekly guided tours, and is maintained as a museum showcasing its fantastic architecture and interior.
Had an amazing experience on my wedding day. The atmosphere and attention to detail was incredible. We did the ceremony outside on a beautiful October afternoon, then we had the reception indoors. After dinner provided by Sweet Baby Ray’s Company, the staff was fantastic and moved the tables and seating to make room for the dance floor. We had close to 86 people in attendance. We decided to have a Dry wedding 💒 and no one seemed to mind, and they were notified ahead of time. The DJ was setup in their designated space. The wedding coordinator, Andrew was fantastic. He accommodated all of my guests and made sure everything was perfect. definitely recommend anyone who dreams to have their wedding in a beautiful historic place.
Jessica R — Google review
I was there for a friend's birthday celebration. It was an exquisite event. The space spoke of her impeccable taste, and the food on the menu was scrumptious. Check out the pics and hopefully the video. Please keep registering at our African-American Streaming Platform, where we welcome Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in America.
Windsor S — Google review
There are self guided tours once a week on Thursdays from 11 am to 4 pm. See the first and second floors as well as various sunrooms the house has on both floors. A cash donation is encourage by the historical society and goes to charity.
Rafael T — Google review
We visited here as it was on the Frank Lloyd Wright map, and although he wasn't the architect, we were still interested to see the work of one of his contemporaries. We were greeted by Theresa, who took us on a tour of the whole house which lasted around an hour and a half. Theresa was so lovely and it was an absolute pleasure to meet and be guided by her. She was so knowledgeable about the house and the families who had lived there, and my partner and I walked away feeling like we had learned so much. The house itself is full of surprises and interesting quirks, and Theresa did a brilliant job of bringing it to life for us. We absolutely loved our time there, but also feel sad that a house of such historical importance isn't receiving the funding needed to fully restore it. I really recommend taking this tour, as not only will you enjoy learning about this amazing house, you will also be helping to preserve its place in history.
Emma H — Google review
Pleasant Home is a stunning example of Prairie-style architecture, rich in history and charm. The interiors are beautifully preserved, with intricate woodwork and period furnishings. The guided tours are insightful, making it a great stop for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. A peaceful and inspiring place to visit.
Gibbons S — Google review
It is free enter You can donate All area is nice It is very giod story about ex owners
SO S — Google review
Beautiful space, overall pleased with the helpful staff and organizers for the private event held here.
Alma F — Google review
A gorgeous temple, close to the lakefront. Serene, peaceful, spiritually abounds. Learn about the B'hai faith, meditate and enjoy.
John D — Google review

Top places to eat

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affordable
Latin American restaurant
Maya Del Sol is a vibrant Latin American restaurant located in Oak Park, IL. It offers a lively atmosphere, creative cocktails, and patio dining. The village of Oak Park boasts diverse eateries including Latin fusion at Maya Del Sol. Visitors can also enjoy French, Greek, and Italian cuisine as well as burgers, brews, and sushi from other local establishments. During the summer months, downtown Oak Park hosts Thursday Night Out with discounted dining and live entertainment.
First time dining at Maya, and the food was delicious. Our server Josh was attentive and explained the drink and entrée menu very thoroughly. You have the opportunity to ask for more spicy sauces that hit the spot just right. The dishes were succulent and full of flavor. Carlos Lopez, the bar manager, checked in on us throughout the night and ensured that we had a great dining experience. We are definitely coming back!
Jose T — Google review
Beautiful little spot! It did not disappoint. Solo night so I had to treat myself. Food was good the atmosphere was great but the star of the show was my server Emilio. He recommended me dishes that I loved. Always checked up on me making sure I was satisfied and I don’t know how he did this but he convinced me to get dessert. If you go ask for him!
Rodrigo P — Google review
One of my new favorite spots. To start, the ceviche and platanos were out of this world. Definitely try the platanos if they are still on the menu. The Carne Asada entre was 10/10 and the chimichurri made for a great pairing. Armando was the best waiter that thoroughly explained the menu. We will definitely be back!
Kyle W — Google review
The food was great, as well as our server was great. They also allowed us to have a very very small baby shower at our table on the patio. The staff was very nice and accommodating.
Courtney B — Google review
Best salsa I have ever had! My wife even loved it , so it wasn't too spicy. Our waiter was as fantastic as were the margaritas! Beautiful outside area. Go there, you will not be disappointed.
Jim T — Google review
We’ve been going here for girls’ night for years now and always have a blast. The spicy mezcal margarita is phenomenal and I usually order the carne asada or the grilled shrimp with black rice - the shrimp are huge! Great atmosphere to celebrate a special occasion or a fun night out. Service is excellent.
Jennifer L — Google review
Quality food. They accomodate for allergies, too, which is really nice and considerate of them. Their salsa dip for their chips are bomb
CommonDenominator — Google review
We dined in the patio last night. Tuesday nights were buzzing out there. It felt like we were on vacation. Huge thank you to our incredible server, 'Meyah'? I think? Sorry! Food was exceptional. A truly wonderful evening.
Joanna D — Google review
144 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USAhttp://www.mayadelsol.com/(708) 358-9800Tips and more reviews for Maya Del Sol
4.3
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4.2
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affordable
Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Oak Park, The Little Gem Cafe is a popular spot for both locals and travelers. This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with upscale dining options, live music, and a delightful weekend brunch. The tranquil ambiance and attentive service create an exceptional dining experience. Whether you're craving fig and brie crostini or perfectly cooked salmon, the menu offers impressive options.
My husband and I have visited this charming spot twice—once for Valentine’s Day and again for our anniversary—and it’s quickly become one of our favorite restaurants in Oak Park. The orecchiette pasta is a standout favorite, and the braised short rib pasta is absolutely incredible! I also fell head over heels for their cappuccinos; they were so good, I’m now tempted to buy an espresso machine just to recreate them at home!
Sereniti P — Google review
First time viditing this restaurant, Mother's day 2025. The meal was packaged for the ocassion. The egg and steak was my order. The neat was a little tough. The restaurant had only about 10 tables nut was very noisy. The waiter was not very attentive, did not even remembered what each order from which person (Carlos).
L. L — Google review
We went for an early dinner right after 3pm, we told the server we only had 40 minutes before Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio tour nearby. The service was very quick and we got out around 3:45pm without feeling rushed. The food is delicious, the server is very professional. Wish we had more time to get some drink and enjoy more. Cash is preferred for tips.
Mermaid H — Google review
Cute little whole in the wall, the service was impeccable, the food is to die for! Chef's kiss!! I wanted Sangria, but they didn't have it and my server whipped up something that tastes exactly like Sangria and I was surprised! Great suggestion from the server. We had the appetizers Calamari-cooked to perfection, and the crispy Eggplant with tomato, cheese and balsamic glaze that was amazing. The entrees we absolutely loooove were the cheese stuffed pork chop, roasted chicken, and beef braised ribs. It was all cooked to perfection, nothing left on our plates! Would absolutely go again!
Nadia D — Google review
So we ate here once before, but quite some time ago. We didn’t have a reservation and it a Thursday evening with plenty of seating available. Service was good…nothing exceptional, but good. John was nice and polite…also the bartender. $14 for a sparingly spread of Brie and some figs with some honey on 4 small slices of common bread is pure profit for the restaurant. Skip Plentiful hummus, but the ration of pita was incorrect. Sea bass was average and chopped salad with salmon was slightly above average. Skip the truffle fries…$14 and sitting in a mess of too much oil. I’m going to sit this one out next time.
Mitchell B — Google review
Had brunch after my breast cancer awareness walk on 9/28/24. The little gem omelet and cornbeef hash was a hit with the group. The food was amazing! The atmosphere was spot on! And the service was impeccable! Even got a sweet treat on the house! Thank you so much, The Little Gem,for making this day a bit more special.
CRAFTY G — Google review
**NEIGHBORHOOD GEM ALERT**We a party of 12, the restaurant was ready when we arrived. We did not have to wait for the entire party to arrive, we were seated immediately as we arrived. The staff was very accommodating. The manager came over and introduced herself to us and welcomed us to the restaurant. The restaurant is intimate but festive. They have live entertainment on the weekend so that was nice. I recommend the braised short rib. No one complained about their food, but the prime rib needed to be cooked a bit more before it was enjoyable. All in all, it was a good time and I look forward to returning!
Kisha J — Google review
Loved the food and service. I’m sensitive to sounds so the noise level was too much for me. But otherwise the place really is a gem. We had the seafood risotto and it was delicious.
L D — Google review
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expensive
Mediterranean restaurant
Nestled just a block south of the bustling Lake Street in Oak Park, Citrine Café is a stylish and inviting eatery that beautifully marries Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an American twist. The culinary vision of owner Branko Palikuca draws from his Serbian roots, offering patrons a delightful array of traditional meals featuring braised meats and vegetables prepared in clay pots or brick ovens.
Couldn’t wait to write this review. Literally writing this in the car as we drive away 😆. What a great experience! From the moment we walked in, to the moment we left. It’s rare to have genuine interaction with people, yet alone in a restaurant. Lauren was AMAZING. Hands down. She is sweet, knowledgeable, and I can tell is a great human being. She makes you feel like you are one of her friends, and I love that! Thank you for making my husbands birthday dinner ❤️. We are about making memories, and you helped make a perfect one ☺️. Also - if you are looking for cocktail recommendations definitely take hers!
Hannah D — Google review
Amazing service. Probably the best service I have ever had in Chicago. Our server was very sweet and attentive, always refilling our waters and being so accommodating to any changes or requests we wanted to make to our meals. The food was delicious and flavorful, and reasonable for the price point. I will absolutely be back!
Autumn C — Google review
I wanted to try this place for brunch. It's nicely in the heart of Oak Park. The host and servers we encountered were awesome. I ordered the chicken and beignets. My friend ordered the shrimp and grits. Her meal was great, not so much mine. The chicken looked like tenders, and the beignets weren't cooked all the way and were doughy in the middle. I just didn't mention it because the kitchen was already closed. It looks like their dinner menu is the highlight. So maybe I'd have to come back for that.
Jackie E — Google review
Exquisite dining experience. I wish I could come again. We ordered the shrimp n grits, the beignets with Nutella and the sausage hash. Photos are attached. Parking is free outside for up to 2 hours. The server was ultra friendly and nice. The downside of the service was that we had two requests for our food (cheese on the side for the hash and the eggs to be scrambled and not over easy). Both were ignored. We were hungry so we didn’t want to have the food remade. This kinda was a bummer as my husband did not do well with the cheese. The other two meals, shrimp and grits and the beignets were awesome though. 10/10 on my food.
Joan L — Google review
I’m not one to pull up maps and review, but everything from the service to the atmosphere to the food blew us away. We came for an anniversary dinner and the food for incredibly well seasoned, and perfectly cooked. As someone that doesn’t eat beef, it was a treat to try the lamb bolognese. It was hearty, savory, and the right amount of meaty. The potato gnocchi was melt in your mouth with textures and tastes layered throughout. The apricot pudding was absolutely something to write home about. 10/10.
Rahul Y — Google review
I hadn't been to Citrine since they first opened. I was pleased back then, but WOW, I forgot it was that good. I hosted a party of four, and we received VERY attentive service. Our waiter even walked me outside to make sure my car was parked in an authorized area. We all enjoyed the beet salad tremendously. I had the braised short ribs. I was pleased with the large portion compared to other restaurants. The sauce was fantastic! My guests all enjoyed their meals and commented about how friendly the staff was. We'll be back for more.
John M — Google review
Octopus app was as good as advertised. Food overall was delicious and well made. The gnocchi was pillowy and flavorful. Also had the risotto special which had short rib and rock shrimp. Delightful. Loved the cocktails and wine selection also. Service was prompt and attentive. Vibe was lively but not loud. Had a great time!
Chai A — Google review
We had an absolutely wonderful dinner experience. The food was incredible, the drinks were actually perfect, and the ambience was just the right mix of casual and cozy with an upscale vibe. Our waiter was very knowledgeable and on top of everything.
Bill A — Google review
100 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USAhttp://citrinecafe.com/(708) 948-7328Tips and more reviews for Citrine Café

4Rustico

4.5
(879)
4.4
(44)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Mediterranean restaurant
Rustico is a Mediterranean establishment that offers a wide selection of tapas, entrees, and pizzas in a charming rustic-chic ambiance alongside a full bar. The cuisine is exceptionally delicious, often described as being of the highest quality possible. Although the eatery tends to be bustling, it maintains an enjoyable and lively atmosphere. The service provided is warm and welcoming. Despite making last-minute reservations, patrons managed to secure the only available table at that time.
The seafood pasta I had here is BY FAR the best seafood pasta I have ever had! It was seasoned to perfection and large in portion. I had leftovers the next day and the flavors had marinated even more. It felt like authentic Italian cuisine. It has a warm atmosphere and top tier service. I will be frequenting Rustico again! I absolutely loved it!
Cicely F — Google review
We had an nice time at Rustico. My friend and I did happy hour and some light food. Service was very friendly. Very welcoming ambiance. The cocktails and food we ordered was excellent. I got the "Alexander" and it was amazing. Looking forward to my next visit!
Anand R — Google review
First time here, and it was an amazing experience! They offer outdoor seating, but we chose to sit inside since it was less crowded. We visited during lunch, and the place wasn’t busy, so we were greeted and seated right away. The service was outstanding — attentive and friendly from start to finish. The food was just as impressive! The salmon salad and steak salad were both fresh and flavorful, and if you come here, the pistachio cheesecake is an absolute must-try. Highly recommend this spot for a delicious meal and great atmosphere. I’ll definitely be back!
Damir — Google review
The beer prices should be a little cheaper since they only pour 8 ounces. The picture in the review is a fresh to the table pour. Two of these were poured to the same level. Regardless, we're here for the food review and unfortunately the pasta was overcooked and the sauce lacks the flavor to make up for that. The service was phenomenal here, which is really upsetting because the quality of food and drinks didn't live up to the same high standards.
Eric — Google review
Absolutely phenomenal & orgasmic food!!! My partner and I split the 16 oz NY strip. The short rib crustini tapas was sensational. Highly recommend! Service was average. Loved the music, design & ambience.
Kai E — Google review
Ate here for lunch while in Oak Park on vacation. The food was phenomenal! We were there as a large group and service was excellent- staff was fast, efficient, and attentive. I had the house salad to start. It was very good and I especially liked the house vinaigrette. For the main I had Penne Salsiccia - penne with Italian sausage, sweet peas, parmesan in a tomato cream sauce with chili flakes. It was delicious! We were served ice cream for dessert, which was perfect as it was a tasty and light treat after a large meal.
Marla S — Google review
THIS PLACE....excellent service, the food was divine! I had a party of 14 people for my daughter's birthday and Rustico delivered! Fun, vibrant, great food! I'm coming back.
D V — Google review
Tapas was tasty and came fast from the kitchen. Attentive service and thoughtfully(in kitchen) shared main dishes for us. We really enjoyed the (short ribs) costillo and rigatoni . Brussel sprouts were quartered and fried just right. We went back again and the short ribs were delicious as were the brussel sprouts. 8/12/2025 the restaurant moved to this new location. Very open ceiling and interesting space. Menu still is large in scope and full of interesting choices. Tapas, pizza, and oven fire. The ravioli I had with seafood was delicious.
Joseph U — Google review
155 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USAhttp://www.rusticooakpark.com/(708) 948-7855Tips and more reviews for Rustico
4.5
(388)
4.5
(4)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Italian restaurant
Victory Italian in Oak Park is a top choice for fine dining, offering a blend of minimalist and rustic decor indoors and a charming outdoor patio. The menu features carefully crafted Italian dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. From the milky burrata cheese appetizer to classic lasagna and mouthwatering pizzas with seasonal toppings, there's something for every palate.
My husband and I had dinner here, and it was absolutely amazing, just as we expected. Karen, our waitress, was incredibly kind and attentive, making our experience even better. She recommended the spaghetti, and I have to say—it’s probably the best I’ve ever had! We also shared the Caesar salad, which was both delicious and generously sized. My husband ordered the ravioli, which unfortunately wasn’t his favorite, but overall, everything else was wonderful and made for a perfect evening!
Sereniti P — Google review
We had a great experience dining at Victory Italian Oak Park. The food tasted great, the service was attentive and we look forward to going back. Pictured are the NY Strip Gambino style, Nanna's Gravy pasta dish and the Rigatoni Alla Vodka pasta dish. The outdoor dining are would be more inviting with plants dressing up the area. We chose to dine inside. If you have a party of 4, I recommend against a high top table, because the space is limited.
Brent W — Google review
Last December, just before the holidays, I had the pleasure of dining at Italian Victory in Oak Park, Chicago. The festive atmosphere was immediately inviting, with the glow of Christmas lights outside setting the perfect mood for a cozy evening. We started with complimentary garlic bread topped with grated cheese and served alongside marinara sauce. As someone who adores garlic, I found it absolutely irresistible--crispy, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgence to kick off the meal. My advice: savor it, but don't overdo it, as it's easy to fill up before the main course. Next, I tried their Caesar salad. While the salad itself was fresh and crisp, with crunchy croutons that I thoroughly enjoyed, the dressing wasn't quite what I was expecting. It was lighter and more liquidy compared to the thicker, creamier Caesar dressings I'm used to. I didn't love it, but I think it was more a matter of personal preference than anything else. For my main entrée, I ordered the lamb chops oreganato, cooked medium well. The chops were good but could have used a touch more seasoning. They were served with potatoes, which were fantastic on their own, but the sauce that accompanied the lamb felt a bit too acidic for my liking. While it worked well with the potatoes, it didn't complement the lamb as much as I'd hoped. What really stood out, though, was the atmosphere and service. The staff was attentive and welcoming, and the energy in the restaurant was warm and inviting. My favorite part was the view--sitting by the window, I could see the trees outside wrapped in Christmas lights, adding a magical touch to the evening. It was a lovely experience overall, even if a few dishes weren't entirely to my taste.
Vanessa S — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Victory Italian in Oak Park is our go-to spot—for family, for friends, for the moments that matter. It’s got that cool city vibe, tucked right into the heart of the neighborhood. Whether it’s a birthday, a business lunch, or just a Tuesday night craving, this place hits every time. The team—from wait staff to management—makes you feel like family. The food? Unforgettable. The brick chicken is legendary. Joe’s Mama’s Meatball Salad is a must. Chilean sea bass with spinach? Left me lip-smackin’ happy. And don’t sleep on the Oak Park salad or that bangin’ calamari. Work or play, solo or celebration—Victory lives up to its name.
Anthony A — Google review
Really nice meal tonight. Wasn’t our original destination, but it was a refreshing surprise. My chicken Marsala was very tasty, even more so because our server, Dave, steered me to forgo the side of pasta w red sauce and instead put it on a bed of angel hair pasta. Hubby’s whitefish was also nice—good portion, nicely prepared, with spinach not overcooked. Cocktail was good, gelato, too. Best of all was our tell-it-like it is server, Dave. Great menu tips, great attitude, great instincts for coming—and NOT COMING—to the table. (Geezus, haven’t we all had that server that just won’t leave you alone?!) Recommend you go see Dave.
Seed M — Google review
We are visiting the area, and tried Victory because it's across from our hotel, and I'm so glad we did! The food and service were excellent. Dave, our waiter, was phenomenal. He was very attentive, and had great suggestions for both food and drink. He was also very good with my son and all of his million questions. Would definitely recommend!
Jeannette S — Google review
Great neighborhood Italian restaurant in Oak Park. Wide selection of apps, pastas, entrees plus daily specials. Our waiter, Dave, knew the menu and wines well. He recommended the Thursday special (Nanna’s platter) which was cavatelli with 1 meatball, 1 Italian sausage, & 1 veal braciola (rolled cutlet stuffed with cheese & spinach). I also had a glass of an Italian red he recommended and finished with a scoop of gelato. We were a party of 3 & we all took enough of the entree with us to make 1-2 more meals each. Most of the other customers seemed to be local regulars - mix of families, couples and solos. Quiet, relaxed atmosphere with great food and friendly, attentive staff. We got there just as they were opening for dinner but it was filling up by the time we left so I would suggest you shoot for a reservation if you are going on a weekend or during more normal dinner hours.
Gordon S — Google review
Very nice decor, The waiter was nice. The the portion sizes were generous everyone took home left overs. Calamari was tasty Steak was over seasoned and the risotto a bit bland. The lamb chops were delicious. Lasagna was a bit salty. Drinks were on point! We arrived at 2pm on a Friday no wait. It was a bit on the pricier side but overall a good time.
Diana C — Google review

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