CYOC

Great old school sub shop. Reminded me of the mom and pop sub shops I grew up with in Wisconsin…read more Had the classic sub. It's all about the bread and the bread was fanatics people working there were very friendly. Very tight but I would expect anything else from a place like this.

Best hoagies around. As good as anything from my hometown of Philly. Service is quick and friendly…read more It's my go to anytime I'm in Waukegan.

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How to continue the day

Dockside Deli

4.4(8 reviews)

3.7 mi

Great value for around five bucks it gets you a loaf of really fresh bread and a bunch of lunchmeat…read morestuffed in with some onions, tomatoes, lettuce and some sort of dressing that reminds me of the dressing they use at Leno's on Grand av. Nice guy inside making the sandwich offered to go across the street to Dockside Dogs and get me some giardiniera for my sub which I declined. Nice deck outside with tables, chairs and umbrellas or sit by the boat ramp. Very limited menu offering just a few items. Just like the dog joint across the street the views are what you come here for but the sandwich was very fresh and tasty even without the giardiniera. These two places draw you to the harbor.

While in town to see my sailor graduate from boot camp we stopped here for lunch. The sandwiches…read morewere amazing and the company even better!! Being from out of town you never know what you will find- here we found a new friend! Thank you for the amazing food and making our trip even more memorable!!

Modest signage

Front entrance

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Subs were yum!

Lucky Scottie

3.8(27 reviews)

3.4 mi

The place is clean and very presentable…read more The service was quick. We were in and out in about 45 minutes. We chatted a lot so we could have been out quicker. The food was amazing. I had the salad

First time here. I ordered a Lucky burger and my company ordered the chicken bacon wrap and…read morecalamari. If I would have seen the wrap prior I would have ordered that. Not that my burger was bad, that wrap looked delicious and I was told it is. This wrap was served with fries. My burger was cooked as requested, medium well, tender and juicy. This burger was served with fries as well. The calamari was good as well. Slightly battered. The restaurant is clean and the ambiance is nice. Our server waa nice and very attentive.

The after party begins

Burger with a fried egg

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The Bar front.

The Original Chicago Hoagie Hut

4.0(106 reviews)

1.6 mi

My first time having a Chicago style cheesesteak hoagie and I was very impressed! I've had Chicago…read morestyle hotdogs before (once went on a hunt for "the best") and cheesesteaks, but I've never had the 2 together. My hoagie was full of delicious and perfectly cooked steak, full of seasonings, oil and mayo making it slightly wet like I like (I love my sandwiches saucy). The bread was tender yet sturdy enough to hold all the wet goodness, and to my surprise, the onions weren't overpowering. I was tempted to save half of my sandwich for later that day, but it was so good I ate it all in one setting. Unfortunately my waffle fries were non-edible. They were all fried way too hard and crunchy like rocks which was disappointing. The service was quick and extremely friendly! Since they were out of curly fries they gave me a few extra waffle fries (just wished they weren't cooked extra hard!) and I was offered an iced water cup for the road on a 92 degree day!!! I'll definitely be back next time I'm in the area and maybe even give the fries another try!

For what it looks like inside & out, the sandwiches will surprise you. I got the Chicago steak with…read morecheese & hot sauce, very delicious! The guy working the counter was nice & helpful. Just under $10 nowadays isn't bad. I'd definitely stop back in to try the sandwich I had or something else.

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Cribb Fine Foods

4.8(17 reviews)

2.8 mi

Bought some groceries from this classic store in Waukegan that has old school charm. Cribb Fine…read moreFoods has been a staple in the neighborhood for generations. It may be most notable for the popular butcher section but there's also produce. Has cheap prices on many items. They prefer cash so bring some of that. A small store but it has a lot. It's not as much to choose from as the big chain groceries but there's quite a few finds. The most popular part is the butcher to get fresh meats. Basically that's the area at the entrance. If you prefer things not from animals there's plenty more in the store. Has alcohol. Last time I found a can of Crazy Cowboy for $1.99, and there's other cheap beers too. As for the produce it's not great but it's cheap. It's about $2 to get a few oranges. A few other good things in here. They only have a couple checkout aisles, and they prefer cash but that's not required. For sure it's an important local business. It's a lot better than going to some corporate chain. They're closed Sundays.

Five stars for the subs and the bratwurst. This grocery store and butcher shop buried in a Waukegan…read moreneighboorhood, have some of the best brats I've ever had. I brought some to a family vacation in Michigan and everyone said they were outstanding! Forget the Big Brand name brats and support the local mom and pop joints. My freezer was packed with them all summer. The sub sandwich was also one of the best, with fresh sliced meats and cheeses and veggies. It never made it out of the parking lot. All I wanted to do was try half of it but I couldn't stop eating it until there was no more. I also tried the stuffed pork chops that are huge and tasty.

Nice deli section.

Order a super sub for $5.60

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Potbelly

3.0(53 reviews)

3.2 mi

Stopped in for dinner while out and about. We stopped in the pouring rain…read more Maria was very nice! We asked what they offer and she provided some options. She suggested the A Wreck and the Mama's Meatball, both of which were ordered. Both were the "Big" size that was enough to eat half right away and save the other half for lunch the next day. The food was served fast and both were very flavorful. Her meatball sub was hot (in temperature) and fresh and mine was hot (in spices) and fresh. Wow, that had quite the kick.

I'll start with this, in a complete rain storm / windy while trying to place an order at the drive…read morethru I was getting drenched and asked the lady if I could pull forward to the window. When I arrived at the window we were met by Maria who was absolutely nice and helpful, not to mention, patient. We asked what they offer and she provided some options. She suggested the A Wreck (didn't even listen to what she said after the meat) and the Mama's Meatball, both of which were ordered. Both were the "Big" size that was enough to eat half right away and save the other half for lunch the next day. The food was served fast and both were very flavorful. Served with a smile. We will certainly be returning. We did sit in the car, in the rain and enjoy our sandwiches. My meatball sub was hot (in temperature) and fresh and his was hot (in spices) and fresh. My goodness that kind of spicy hot is hard for me to handle. WOW! Great experience all around!

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Burt's Deli

4.7(299 reviews)

9.4 mi

Love this Deli ! The sandwiches and salads potato are delicious . Lots of great tasting pickles !…read moreThe servers are so friendly . The owner likes to have good humor. A lot of people get take out ! There are a few booths to sit in. There are cookies and chips options. The bread is fresh! The corned beef is the best ever. My daughter liked her liverwurst sandwich. I would try it . It's only open until 2:00PM opens at 9:00AM so it's hard to get there on work days ! So summer or break it is !

Delicious deli. Love it every time we come in. Today I went with liverwurst and potato salad…read more The service is prompt and helpful The ambiance is casual deli with a handful of tables.

The Rachel - A Reuben with turkey.

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Louie's

4.1(154 reviews)

2.8 mi

Wow, what a step back in time and what fantastic food. The restaurant opened in 1941 and it…read moreprobably looks the same, which is a GOOD thing. The Thousand Island salad dressing is well known and the old school cracker thin pizza was wonderful. And who puts chopped beets in the salad nowadays? Served with warm, buttery dinner rolls. The people at the next table were eating fried chicken and I wanted that, too. Try Louie's!

Been going to Louies for pasta for 4 decades. And it's always just amazing as I remember. The…read moreservice is always great. The cocktails were fresh and unique. And the food. It delicious and just tastes like home. Not much has changed inside in all those years, but I wouldnt want it any other way. It's cozy and comforting Only note, which I understand but think is important for people who, like me, are obsessed with the bread sticks...they are no longer unlimited. But will cost $8 for any additional baskets after the first

Pick up side

Cheese pizza

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Louie's Pizza

Up North Axe & Tap

4.4(23 reviews)

7.9 mi

Went on a Saturday night with my best friend and it was surprisingly not too busy. Service was…read moregreat and the food did not disappoint. Axe throwing with more restaurant seating in the back with a bar cute aesthetic. They don't have steak sauce for the steak, but the garlic butter makes up for it. We also tried a couple of their Old Fashioneds, solid variety and really good. Definitely a good experience overall!

Up North Axe & Tap occupies the former Chili U location. There are entrances from Milwaukee Avenue…read moreand the parking in the back. If you're interested in the axe throwing, enter on Milwaukee Avenue as the restaurant is in back and easier to get to from the rear. You can enter either way. I didn't get a chance to check out the axe throwing part during this visit so I won't discuss it. We met another couple and entered from the parking lot at the rear. When you walk in the vestibule, you can only enter or exit on the left as the right side corner of the restaurant is used for live music. On this occasion there was a singer/guitarist playing when we arrived. The other party was seated already so we made our way to the table. There are a bunch of tables and seats at the bar. And the place was packed. Clearly people knew the singer and were there in support. The speakers were turned up and it was hard to hear the conversation at the table. It's a nice menu and has a lot of options. This would be a good spot for our Burger Club, as there were a few options to choose between. In addition to the burgers, there were other handhelds, some nice looking entrees, salads, and nice starters. I opted for one of their burgers and asked for it medium rare. It was perfectly prepared and was quite delicious. My wife got a salad and added chicken. There was a ton of chicken in it. It looked nice and she said it was good. Our two companions ordered burgers and a chicken sandwich respectively and also commented on how good the food was. Our server was very attentive and was constantly refilling drinks before being asked, asked how we were doing, if the food was to our liking, and cleared up finished plates. By the way, their ranch is a dill ranch and is quite tasty. I'd give five stars, except it was extremely loud and hard to hear.

Smoked Brisket Sandwich 10/5 that good!!!!

Cheese Curd Burger 4/5

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Mystic pink drink

Jersey Mike's Subs

2.8(23 reviews)

3.5 mi

The subs here are made consistently well and it's always fresh. The manager is friendly and all…read moreemployees have the same inviting personality. They accept coupons and it's the best sub shop around! If you are looking for a sub to try... #9

Love Jesey Mike's subs. Wish the prices weren't so high. I would go regularly if price was right…read more Don't see any coupons or sales from time to time. However, the subs are all delicious. If you haven't tried. It is a must.

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Rachel M.

12 years ago

my family had the great please to attend my grandson boot camp graduation at great lakes naval base. after he was released, he was asked what he had a taste for and the choice after pizza was cheesecake . we are visitors and had to google and was populated by a name c.y.o.c. the seven decided why not, when we entered the restaurant we were greeted by the best customer service employees. the young lady allowed us a sample prior to ordering. we all came up with the same words (delicious and the best). the owner treated my family with value, making us a part of his family which as a mother with buying power goes very far. c.y.o.c. have great customer care, pricing and atmosphere. this was the most discussed restaurant during our visit. c.y.o.c made our stay perfect. thanks to owner and staff, rachel mccauley north carolina and georgia read more

Stephanie J.

9 years ago

My Sister and I traveled from Chicago today after seeing CYOC featured on "Chicago's Best". My daughter who lives nearby joined us. They did not disappoint!!! In a day and age when customer service has been tossed away, the mgmt., and staff take a great deal of pride in ensuring their customers are satisfied. The Cheesecake was smooth, oh and the flavor variety!!!!! I could only eat half of my Cheesesteak, I was busy sampling fried macaroni w jalapeno (you have to get this), oh, and the sweet potato tater tots. My daughter loved her Chicken Cheesesteak. This was well worth the trip. We'll be back with more friends and family! Thanks to all the staff at CYOC for making our lunch memorable. read more

Mike S.

10 years ago

We came to the north Chicago location for something different after our son's Navy graduation. We weren't disappointed! There were 6 of us and everyone loved the food. Serving size is more than enough, fries are great, cheesecake is well.... Phenomenal! Staff was super nice and very personable. I asked if they catered and they said "absolutely", but then I asked if they would cater to Tennessee because that's where we were visiting from...lol....we all laughed but then Don said no..... Bahahaha. Definitely give the place a try, don't think you'll be disappointed at all. Oh, and they'll let you sign the walls if you want to! Don and crew, thanks for a great meal and a great time! read more

Bobby B.

14 years ago

Saw a flyer for cyoc on my car and it sounded fun for desert so we went and picked up some food for dinner then headed to CYOC for desert........... THEY RUINED MY DINNER IN THE BEST WAY! as i type this the food i bought from another place is on the table getting cold... and i dont care! I went in for 1 scoop of cheesecake and left with 4 scoops and a Philly cheese steak and egg sandwich..... this sandwich blew my mind! so tender and juicy that i just want to go back and get another on right now! Not only is the food amazing but the people that work there talk to you and make your visit fun. Glad i stopped by. will be going back soon! read more

Nycole A.

14 years ago

Now I was never one to like cheesecake but one of my friends insisted on trying out this new place, so i said I'd try it. When we got there the service was amazing! The staff was very welcoming, and took care of us right away. the food was great, kinda salty but other than that the cheesecake selection made me feel like i was in an ice cream shop. I tried some of their cheesecake an i have to say that the Pineapple Upside down cheesecake was my favorite! Over all, my experience was great! read more

Regina L.

14 years ago

My name is Gina and I work at Abbott Im so happy a CYOC came to this end of Greenbay it makes my choice of where to go for lunch so much more easier, the foods always great and the Customer Service matches. I normally get the Chicken Works sandwich. Im so afraid to try something different but they have given me the confidence to try a Variety of Sandwiches now!!!!! So today I think I will try the Philly Cheese Steak!!!!! Wish me luck!!!!!!!!!!!!! read more

Skeeter R.

10 years ago

This place is AMAZING. If you are anywhere near the Chicago or Milwaukee area it is a must stop. Ordered the buffalo cheesesteak and buffalo chicken fries, and that was just the main meal. They had 18 different flavors of cheesecake, every flavor was so good I couldn't pick only one, so I got three. If you just driving by at least stop by and try a free sample of cheesecake, I promise you won't regret it. Owner and all the staff are very friendly! read more

Miguel R.

6 years ago

Wow I always buy in door dash I'm a regular go to buy food for my kids and wife first thing I notice the oil for the fries is old haven't been change in a wild and right about when my food is finish the gentle men right pedir rapping my food grabs his mask and then touches my food like really I miss when this play stated I get there's no room for standards and qualities last time I come in oh and I'm still waiting for my cheesecake read more

Veronica R.

10 years ago

Best place ever!!! Staff is Super friendly, they make me feel welcomed every time I walk in the door. I love that I can try as many flavors of cheesecake as I want. The fact that you can watch them cook your food fresh before your eyes is wonderful!! This place is amazing in every way possible. Can't forget the seasoning!! Oh the seasoning is incredible on EVERYTHING!! I bought some and used it on crab legs and OMG!!!!! read more

Nate T.

12 years ago

The best philly so far I've found since moving here. The staff is extremely nice and the cheesecake is really awesome. It's a nice little place and it's unique to have your cheesecake served this way. They have a lot of toppings to add which is good for picky people. And if you're ordering a cheesesteak then go with the works! More toppings and more messy, just like a Philly should be! read more

Melissa S.

111

11 years ago

The service and food here is amazing. I haven't had one thing that I didn't absolutely love. Best cheesesteaks, macaroni bites and cheesesteak. Everything is cooked fresh and the workers are very friendly. Don't let the name Create Your Own Cheesecake fool you...they now have breakfast in North Chicago that is fantastic. We had chicken and waffles. I'm hooked!!! read more

Domonique R.

4 years ago

This place is very unprofessional, the bartenders are not licensed and the security likes to put their hands on females. I would not recommend this ghetto establishment. Never have I've been treated so badly, customer service was horrible and I would give 0 stars if I could. I will never go back and spend my hard working money at the cyoc in Waukegan. read more

Fernando G.

11 years ago

I really like the food here. I come almost once a week because its so good. I always get cheesestek and cheesecake for dessert. It is a nice inside and has good service. I reccomend this to my friends in waukegan. I like that you can make anykind of cheesecake you want. I never have seen that before. Get Cheesestek fries and cheescake! read more

Emma D.

10 years ago

I love this place. Their cheesesteak is delicious and fresh. The cheesecake is amazing!! They will do special orders (no bun, extra mushrooms, etc), and the staff is friendly and personable. I always get the cheesecake with no graham cracker crumbs (personal preference) and I don't get any extra toppings and it's delicious just like that. read more

Phillip S.

11 years ago

What makes this place so different is when i walked in the door. I was greeted by a very nice man named Josh. And the conversation was really nice. Then the food came out and that blew my soxs off. It has so much flavor that my taste buds were having a party in my mouth. Get #6 it was amazing. read more

Shay D.

6 years ago

I love their philly cheesesteaks. It's always seasoned just right, they aren't stingy with the meat and they aren't expensive! I usually always order extra everything anyway. Sometimes the order gets messed up so you may want to check your food before leaving the place! read more

Anonymous U.

7 years ago

Best cheesesteaks I've ever had! Must go if you're in the area. They cook everything fresh in front of you + the homemade cheesecake in a cup is out of this world! No other place like this. Thank you CYOC! read more

James H.

9 years ago

This is the first time I ate here. They were open on the 4th of July which I was surprised. Not many places are. Best Philly cheese steak sandwich I've ever had! I would recommend this place to anyone! read more

Kris C.

8 years ago

Visited from Colorado and the customer service was excellent. They were extremely busy but asked us if we wanted a sample of their delicious cheesecake. Definitely coming back next time I'm in ChiTown read more

Tom Y.

11 years ago

This place is the BEST. The employees are very friendly and knowledgeable. The cheese steak and cake are the best I've ever had. Would definitely recommend to anyone in the area. read more

CYOC - cheesesteaks - Updated September 2026

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Not sure what happen here. The chicken sandwiches use to be thicker. Not so much anymore. That's…read morenot what the issue is though. I asked for extra mayo and lettuce and barely got any and the lettuce wasn't appealing. The sandwich and fries were good, just not correct. Do love the sweet treats there. Not another that I know of has a twist cone quite like it.

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The fries were cold, which I am willing to attribute to the UberEats driver canceling at the last…read moreminute, even though a replacement was assigned quickly. However, the fries tasted like they were cooked in old fish grease and have the consistency like they'd been sitting at room temperature before they were salted and sent. The mint malt was missing the extra malt on top THAT I WAS CHARGED FOR, but was tasty and satisfying despite being somewhat melted. Interesting bit of carelessness on their part: someone's two-day-old Old National bank receipt was in the bag as well. The malt warrants 4 stars, but the issues (fries in particular) knock this down to two. It's on me for not reading Yelp reviews before ordering. Won't happen again.

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AMAZING food and service and super affordable!!! The ambiance was nice, nothing fancy but…read morecomfortable and relaxed. We were in town for my son's Navy graduation and were determined to find a place that serves Chicago style hotdogs and boy were we thankful to have found Luke's!!! We normally don't eat hotdogs but we had to try it to see what all they hype is about these famous hot dogs. Luke's has totally given me a new outlook on hotdogs! If you want a FANTASTIC experience, you need to pay a visit to Luke's!!!! I highly recommend this place. If I ever end up in that area again. I will definitely be back!!

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