We had a great experience here celebrating my friends birthday. We had a table of nine, so we understood the service wouldn't be stellar, but the server was still very kind. Since this is basically a Tapas restaurant we all were able to try a bunch of plates. Our favorites were: Three medallions & the shrimp and crab! I'd definitely come back especially since thr location is right down town. Also the drinks were fantastic!! They sell and use their own gin, which was very good. read more

Jude’s - Three medallions, Ravioli, & Shrimp with crab filling on top - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

See all

Nice place in the heart of Crystal Lake. Make reservations before you go. It's busy. They have vast variety of dishes from over the globe. The portion sizes are small so order more when in group. Service is fast and it's nice place to chill with friends . read more

See all

We stopped in for a drink before a show at the Raue this weekend. Drinks were fine, maybe too sweet. We won't be back. The only happy employee was a bartender. And not ours. The two people at the host stand, our bartender, and I assume a manager walking around were just grumpy and giving off negative vibes. I certainly don't expect everyone to be happy or smiling all the time lol. But a "hello" or "welcome " would have been nice. How about just an acknowledgment? We walked in and asked to sit at the bar and we're just told "sure". We had a drink and left. The bartender asked a question to one of the people at the host stand, a question that needed a prompt response and was totally ignored. I like going to places where people are happy and having a good time, even if they are faking it. This is not the place. Which is unfortunate because it's a great location and could be so nice. read more

Love this place! Service is always good, unique drinks. I wouldn't rave about the food, but they do have interesting choices, I'll stick with the charcuterie board read more

What a disappointing experience! The atmosphere had a super chill vibe when you walk in. We had a reservation for 7pm, and when we walked in we're surprised at how slow it was. We requested a seat at a high top in the bar. At first, the bartender was our server and he was great and very attentive, until they got busy. Then he seemed overwhelmed and took a while before coming back to see if we needed anything. The drinks were pretty good. I tried a couple different of the gin drinks, and my husband had the classic old fashioned. The only criticism is that was brought to the table in this capped bottle which he then poured out himself. It would change up the whole feel if they poured it table-side. The food - let's just say this place is trying really hard to come up with some very unique plates but it seems like a fail to me. It Started out with some cracker like thing brought to the table with 3 dipping sauces, not sure what each of them were. We told the bartender we had never been there before so it would've been great if he shared what they were. Then we had the charcuterie board that comes with a pretzel, meats and cheese. The meats were literally a few slices of pepperoni and salami that seemed like they came from the grocery store, nothing special at all. The cheeses were ok... then we had the ahi tuna tacos, which were completely smothered in the sauce so you could not taste the ahi at all. Followed by the Moroccan beef skewers which I'm pretty sure was just ground beef, made into what seemed like a meatball then flatted up and around the skewer with some weird seasoning, with dried out awful tasting rice - the rice tasted burnt or as if it had been sitting in the pan all day! Then we got a dessert, the deep fried bananas fosters cheesecake in a puff pastry with a rum caramel sauce and vanilla gelato. We thought this was going to be the best part of our meal. Unfortunately it was not! First off, the server brought it to the table and when she placed it down spilt half of the sauce out onto the table - but somehow didnt notice she did that and just walked away. The ice cream (gelato?) was completely melted into the sauce, the "puff pastry" was more like a sad egg roll wrapper, and the cheesecake filling was still cold inside. (Flavor was pretty good - does that count?) After this experience, the only reason we might return is to sit outside in the summer to enjoy a drink, otherwise overall, not impressed which is too bad - I feel like there could be a lot of potential here!!! read more

I would rate it 3.5 but that's not an option so I'll round up. Their small plates for dinner are enjoyable and their drinks are good. Kinda feels like they are doing too much with dishes for all over internationally rather than focusing on what they could be great at. The interior decor is nice too. The breakfast is a no for me. After we ordered the avocado toasts and received our two tiny items on the plastic plates, we learned that tapas also extends to breakfast. They do have a good Bloody Mary but I will avoid breakfast / brunch moving forward. We ended up getting smoothies next door at the Benedict's shop after bc we were still hungry but felt silly ordering more. I will keep returning (for dinner) because it's a good location and easy to meet up here but it won't be my first choice read more

Make sure to check this place out. The food is delicious and served in the small plate style. Three visits and three wonderful experiences, the staff is knowledgeable attentive and friendly. A cozy place with an outdoor eating area, and a Beatles bass guitar. Truly something for everyone to enjoy, small plates allow you to try different items , making it easy to share. I was encouraged to reorder if something needed to be "tried again" read more

I'd like to preface this review by saying this was a takeout experience, we didn't dine in. So food might have been slightly cold (15 minute drive home), don't get the proper presentation, waiter interaction, ect. With that being said, we ordered seven different dishes and most of them were delicious! The Pinchos Ribs were definitely our favorite and then the BBQ Lollipop Chicken and Chilean Seabass were probably our next on the list of favorites. Pho Ga seemed to be lacking some flavor and the Pierogis were a little dry, they could definitely use some sort of sauce to go with them. I thought the caramel coconut shrimp was just okay, probably wouldn't order again being one of the more expensive items on the menu and didn't totally love it. Our last dish was the cheese curds - nothing special, on par with other cheese curds. The dipping sauce though that came with them was great! Only reason we did take out is because my wife is 39 weeks pregnant. We will definitely stop in to dine in person in the coming months as there are still many delicious sounding items on the menu that we'd love to try. read more

This place is fantastic! A local must try and revisit. Very posh but cozy interior like roaring twenties meets upscale modern with great taste. The staff is outstanding; friendly, funny and very knowledgeable about the spirits, drinks and plates they have. The menu is outstanding with around the globe treats served tapas style. Their kitchen staff is awesome as they did each individual style from India to Cajun to American incredibly well. Make yourself a reservation today and check it out. read more

See all

Absolutely loved this place. The staff was super friendly and the tapas style servings allowed you to try multiple items on their menu without getting too full. We tried the Chicken Tikka Masala, Beef Barley soup, Pinchos Ribs and the Charcuterie Board For Two. All were delicious and it was just such an enjoyable experience. We'll definitely be going back. One warning (a positive one): the Charcuterie Board For Two is massive so expect a lot of food with that one; it's more like Charcuterie Board For FOUR. I believe all their signature drinks ar Gin based. Although Gin is not my alcohol of choice, I did enjoy the Rhubarb Ginger and Cranberry Blood Orange. Love this place and highly recommend!!! read more

Super cool place. Staff is friendly and fast. Martinis DELICIOUS!!! I have lived in the area long time and took me awhile to try it but definitely worth it. read more

We went there for my birthday. My husband and mom tried to surprise me with a bottle of Prosecco or champagne at the table and was told no we don't do that. Okay. How about dessert that says happy birthday. Again. No we don't do that. Okay no problem. Noted. We had a reservation at 6:30. Show up and get seated in the back of the house in the corner up against the tile wall next to kitchen. Now we are going to smell like the kitchen. Husband is a bigger guy sits in the chair while I squeeze in next to another couple while the rest of the space has minimal tables being used. Why do we get the worst seat in the whole place. We have a reservation and you know it's my birthday. Okay let's give it a try. Sit down. Get water. Wait 10 for a server. She is sweet bubbly and nice. Doesn't offer if we want a drink asks what we want to eat. We say. Well can we have a cocktail first. Order that. 10 mins. It's not busy yet. Comes back with drinks. Another 10 mins to order. We order our first 2 plates. Crab cakes and crab stuffed shrimp. Food is excellent. Plates stacked on table. Order our next 2 plates satay chicken and pierogis. Get food. Again. Delicious. Plates stacked on table next to us as no one has come by. Seeing tons of staff all about. Finally someone grabs plates from other table but don't ask to grab current ones on table. This point we have been there an hour. Debating having another drink and 1 more plate. No one comes by. Seat a couple next to us. Server comes back. We get check. Paid and left. Walked out to the front. It's open airy and not busy. But we are all packed like sardines in the back. And only 1 bartender to serve the whole place. I won't be back. Incredibly disappointing. I didn't want to complain as I hate doing that. Food was good. That's it. We went to the nice Italian place nearby for some wine and another appetizer. Should have just went there instead. read more

Jude’s - Menu and Aperol spritz - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Drinks and food were ok. Server and hostess were unfortunately annoyed we were in a hurry to see a movie. The outdoor patio is nice, inside is a little tight. I will try again at some point and see if they deserve a better rating. read more

Jude's is an exceptional dining experience. There's a very tasty food and everything is delicious on the menu. This place is perfect for a casual meal, with an ambiance that's both warm and inviting. The service is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who make sure you have everything you need. The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated, creating a comfortable and elegant atmosphere. I was particularly impressed with the attention to detail in the food presentation and the overall dining experience. For anyone craving a fantastic meal in the great outdoors, Jude's is the place to go. read more

Jude's in Crystal Lake, Illinois was a very pleasant surprise! My daughter lives in Crystal Lake and I live 2 1/2 hours south. We decided to treat ourselves on Saturday of Mother's Day weekend. We were there for lunch. We ordered a variety of small plates and a couple of different cocktails. It was all so delicious and in perfect portions to share and try everything! I couldn't pick a favorite as it was all wonderful! The service was fast and friendly! I loved the atmosphere and the fact that they had indoor and outdoor dining, as well as party accommodations. We will definitely be going back! I recommend this wonderful experience for everyone! read more

Excellent small plates from different regions of the world. Crayfish etouffee was spicy and very good. Vegan tacos also tasty

Was an ok brunch spot. Probably wouldn't go back - wasn't really into a lot of what we got, but the "Donkey Balls" (LOL) were the best thing on the menu. Sausage gravy stuffed flaky biscuit pastry. SO GOOD. read more

Very cool atmosphere and unique vibe for the area. Feels like you're at a Chicago cocktail bar, but just in the heart of Crystal Lake. They have a great cocktail and tapas menu where the food comes out as it's ready. I'd recommend 1.5 items per person. I've been here for lunch and for dinner so far and had great experiences both times. Staff was knowledgeable and accommodating to my gluten restriction. We will be back! read more

We've eaten here a few times in the last year or so. The portions seem much smaller than u remembered them, we ordered crab cakes and there were 2 pretty measly sized cakes. Also ordered scallops. I wasn't expecting 3 small bay scallops. The flatbread was the best of the small plates. Over all was disappointed in the portion sizes. $75 before tip for some small plates and one drink each seems high. read more

We were so impressed with their eclectic menu. There is something for everyone presented in an international gourmet way.

Amazing restaurant. Small pot where you can try a little of everything. This place never disappoints

Absolutely great atmosphere. The variety of the small plates is fantastic. Dishes from all over the world. My wife and I live to share smaller plates when we go out. Quality and flavors were fantastic. Really made the evening fun to samples some many different flavors. We had the filet sliders, vegan chorizo, ahi tuna, and chicken curry. Service was prompt and attentive and had very sound knowledge of the menu to provide recommendations. Can't wait to come back!! read more

I felt like I was eating at a little tapas restaurant in Chicago, but was only minutes from home in Crystal Lake! Excellent variety of choices on the menu, so we had a hard time narrowing down our choices. As other reviews mentioned, we were given a complimentary appetizer with three different dipping sauces. We ordered the charcuterie board pretzel and it was very filling! It had salami, pepperoni, a few cheese, grapes, cranberries, candied almonds and a honey mustard dipping sauce. We only ordered two other plates, but they were delicious. The ahi tuna tacos were fresh and the filet mignon sliders were perfectly cooked, melt in your mouth style steak. Jude's also offers outdoor seating (it was a questionable night so we sat inside) and the ambiance is just great both indoor and outdoor. The staff was attentive and all helped each other out with cleaning up plates as guests finished rather quickly given the small plate style. We highly recommend this place! read more

See all

The food, service, drinks... everything was so delicious. We can't wait to go back and check out the spring menu. read more

Jude’s - Omg! Yum! Everything was sooo delicious..the food, the drinks...the service! I can't wait to go back and try the spring menu!! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Lots of variety with the small plates. Additionally, if you are a gin lover they specialize in this as they make their own.

Owner, staff amazing! I felt I was in great little Lincoln Park restaurant! Delicious, fresh, fast! Highly recommend! read more

Jude’s - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Best Mexican food in lake zurich and all of barrington. Fast and fresh plus clean tables

This was our first time trying Jude's and definitely will not be our last. It was surprisingly busy for a Wednesday night but it was almost comforting that there were so many people around us. Tonight was my birthday and I had a great time trying many of their dishes. The alligator bites and chicken tikka masala outdid our other dishes (although the others were also very good). The service was super fast, we had our food in less than 10 minutes of ordering. Also - drinks are strong lol. Thanks for a great night. read more

See all

We've been a couple times now and each time has been great. I tired brunch with the girls today and it was amazing. From the loaded mimosa to the eggs Benedict Jude's was on point. I can't wait to come back and sit outside on a warmer day. read more

Jude’s - Loaded mimosa; fruit, bacon, waffle and a vodka side car - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!! i'm not usually one to ever leave reviews but i just couldn't help myself with this!!! eric was AWESOME!! the service was great and the environment is very laid back and all the staff was extremely friendly. the food and the gin was outstanding!!! will definitely be back regularly!!! read more

In Crystal Lake visiting relatives. We went downtown in the late afternoon to explore. At the shoe store asked where we might get an appetizer and drink. Was pointed to Jude's. Sat at a table that opened to the sidewalk, where we could people watch. Naomi waited on us and did a great job with service and recommendations. I had a Paloma and had them spice it up. we got a crisp naan bread, which was different and good. We then tried the Thai Pineapple lettuce wraps. Never considered doing a lettuce wrap with this type of filling and it was fantastic. It came with three sauces. read more

Disappointed with the menu in ways. They have very good food but a lot of this is not what you expect. Example, the sushi is frozen sushi from the store. I've had it. The descriptions could be way more detailed or tell you if something is spicy or very spiced for its nature. There is a lot of mint and union happening in everything. I really enjoy the drinks. Very creative approach but this place definitely needs some restructuring. read more

Excellent food and service. The pierogi was wonderful. The crab stuffed shrimp were amazing and so was the Chicago flatbread. Great place. We went early but they still had lots of people. So very cute inside. Upscale. read more

Great date night restaurant with custom cocktails and delicious tapas! Highly recommended.

Food is good. Service above average and awesome cocktails! It's our go to place before we see a show at the Raue Center! A bit noisy but it's not a big place. read more

The waitress let me order a drink then asked for my ID again after seeing it. ID was not expired and I clearly showed them 3 accounts of me being over 21 however they decided they could not serve me. read more

Really good food , service and atmosphere with great live music The Filet Mignon sliders were excellent read more

Great new restaurant in Crystal Lake serving International small plates. These might be small, however, they are delicious. Their array of choices is a little overwhelming at first, but once you get a handle on it, you'll want to try them all! The drink menu is impressive, highly recommended the Queens Gimlet if you're looking for a tasty gin drink. Will definitely be coming back! read more

See all

Service has always been great and most of the small plates have also been very good. They have a lot of cocktail options, but they seem to have very little liquor in them. On the more expensive side for the amount given, but definitely an experience that you're paying for. read more

Great drink menu! They have some unexpected (and delicious) cocktails - many made with local infused gins. Drinks were 10/10 in flavor and presentation. Food is a very wide menu of small plates. Food was just ok, definitely in need of more flavor/seasoning. I would come back and try more. read more