From start to finish, the experience was less than what we'd hoped for:…read more We arrived around 4:30, hoping to beat the rush, but between it being a Friday and the restaurant being new, the parking lot was already quite full. We walked in expecting a wait and weren't surprised to see several parties ahead of us, all crammed into a very small, awkward front hallway. There were multiple parties of three and four; we were just two. What happened next is hard to describe--it was a gradual shift from excitement, to observation, to confusion, and ultimately disheartenment. There were several tables and booths clearly cleaned and available, yet people were being quoted 10-15 minute waits. The man seating guests seemed visibly annoyed that people were waiting at all. At one point, he told the entire group, "I'll be back in a few minutes," with no apology or sense of professionalism. Initially, I brushed it off--but as we continued observing, it became clear that the front-of-house staff was disorganized and confused. When we were finally taken to our table, I politely said, "Thanks so much." The look I received in return--pure disdain, with no response--was a pretty awful way to start the meal. Our waiter, on the other hand, was a genuinely friendly young man, which gave us some hope. He took our drink order (two horchatas), which arrived within about five minutes. The horchata itself was really good--made in-house--but the glass was roughly 70% ice and 30% drink. Which is also fine assuming they provide free refills, which I am guessing they do not. (Only guessing never found out). About ten minutes later, we were served a tiny bowl of salsa with a modest basket of chips. My husband and I tried the salsa at the same time and immediately looked at each other like... seriously? It tasted like watered-down spaghetti sauce--barely seasoned and with zero spiciness. It's complimentary, so I won't complain too much, but it wasn't enjoyable. The chips were fine--basic, unsalted, nothing special. For context, we're from the Oak Park/Berwyn area, where some of the best Mexican food around can be found. We aren't food critics by any means--we just love Mexican food and know what we enjoy. Given the menu prices here, expectations were naturally higher. We ordered fairly standard items: a burrito, tacos, sides, and guacamole. Here's how it landed: Rice and refried beans: Extremely bland, about half the portion size you'd expect elsewhere, and wildly overpriced for both quantity and flavor. Tacos: The soft shells seemed soaked in grease, causing them to fall apart within minutes. The beef itself was actually very good--well seasoned and flavorful--but there were no toppings at all. I had requested onions and cilantro so this may have been a miscommunication to replace other toppings, so not a huge issue. Guacamole: Very good flavor, but charging $2 for roughly two tablespoons is excessive. Their "mini guac" may sound cute, but it's comically small. We ordered a large guacamole afterward, but it was never made or brought out, so we canceled it when we paid the check. Other things we noticed: there were no extra napkins--just the two tissue-thin ones wrapped around the silverware. No salt, pepper, or additional salsas were on the table, leaving no way to adjust seasoning or spice levels. I know I could have asked, but these basics should already be provided as a courtesy... it's annoying for everyone when guests have to ask for little things every time their server checks on them. The check was incorrect--twice. First, it was an overcharge. After it was corrected, it became an undercharge, and we added the difference to the tip. Definitely check your receipt closely. They also charge a credit/debit card fee and list a suggested 22% tip instead of 20%, which feels a bit manipulative. We always tip generously for good service, but this was off-putting. We don't drink alcohol or order dessert, and we split meals to avoid waste. Had we ordered cocktails, appetizers, and dessert, this easily could have been $50-$60 per person before tip and fees. In the end, if this were a low-key spot with smaller portions and modest pricing, I'd be far less critical. But the menu includes $18 burritos, $14 "Pick Two" plates (one taco and a small burrito with underwhelming sides), and $4.50 mostly-ice drinks. Those prices aren't unreasonable if the food, service, atmosphere, and extras match--but they didn't. This felt like 6/10 food trying to pass as 9/10 based on presentation, in an establishment that assumed its corner-cutting and nickle & diming wouldn't be noticed. They did a few things well, but overall, what should have been an 8 or 9 experience landed closer to a 4 or 5. Maybe we'll try again after they've been open longer, but I don't see much changing. I still recommend others try it--everyone has different tastes and expectations.

Wait was a little longer, food was still amazing and got to take rest home. Margarita flight was…read moregood, but needed a little more flavoring personally.

We were in the area and wanted to eat breakfast. The restaurant had a lot of people. We had a very…read morefriendly waitress . I ordered the 3 meat omelette with cheesy grits,pancake , and a cup of coffee. They have Farmer's Brothers Coffee, my favorite. My sister had eggs with turkey bacon , potatoes and a pancake. We both loved our meals. The grits were the best I've had. The omelette had the right amount of meat and cheese . The pancake was delicious. It reminded me of the black bear diner's pancakes , if you know you know.

When visiting for breakfast, I had the BEST pancakes I have ever encountered. The scent of vanilla…read moreentices you before you even take your first bite. The syrup is served warm, which is the best way to have it. Alongside my pancakes, I got an orange juice. Fresh squeezed and absolutely delicious. I don't typically like orange juice, but Mom's orange juice change the whole game. The wait staff is incredibly friendly and has eagerness to deliver exactly what you're craving.

Evan was a fantastic server! So kind and attentive…read more We appreciated being able to sample the Chicken George and were so thrilled with how much that we enjoyed it that we chose to order it, despite coming in with steaks in mind. Our chicken was delicious!! We also enjoyed the nice view and the fact that outdoor seating was an option. Overall a great experience! Even the bus boy was super sweet. I highly recommend coming here!

I paid $5.50 for extra Jan's sauce (12 ounces) and have always received a full container on prior…read moreorders. Not today. I paid $5.50 for 5-6 ounces at best. That is a big rip-off and ridiculous as well. Candlelight Inn prices are steep enough. I am not ordering from or going to Candlelight ever again due to things like this! It is always something. I have heard from a few people that Stout's in Clinton has just as good, if not better, Chicken George. That's where I will be going from now on!

First off, I heard about a joint serving up upscale dishes in the small town of Walnut. I grew up…read morenear this area and it has always only ever been a drive through town, with not much reason to stop. This restaurant "The Shed" will give many a strong reason to stop and eat like a king. The establishment seems newly built or renovated. This place is NOT a hole in the wall but something the owners should take great pride in creating. The location is easy to find. And once you are inside, it only gets better. The bar itself is huge and showcases a vast array of many drinks to choose from. The food options within the menu seem to reflect a wide variety of food options for all. The downfall of this restaurant is maybe they have TOO many good options to choose from. What a great problem to have. I opted for the Mac N Cheese infused with Pot Roast. This dish when it arrived, was piping hot. I was taken back by the crackers that came crumbled on top of it. It's the small things that can make or break a dish. I don't recall being asked if I wanted that on my dish, but glad I wasn't because it only added to the perfect way it was crafted. (So if crackers aint your thing, like tell your server). The whole dish was a win. So much flavor packed into such a simple dish, that by the time I was done - I realized this dish was anything BUT simple. It was enough for two people to split. The garlic bread that came with, was mind numbingly great. The side of chili I got, was full of flavor but for me, was a bit watery/tomatoey for my tastes ... but I wouldn't say it was bad. The only real downside to this restaurant is volume/noise that never really gets absorbed by anything. It was hard for my brother, my mom and I to have a conversation or to hear each other. I don't know how management can change this. And I hate dinging a restaurant for this... but it is, what it is. I applaud the owners here for the uniqueness of their menu and for giving those in this area such an upscale variety of food options to choose from. I can see this restaurant really being a greater success as more and more people find out about it. This restaurant was clean, well organized, had great flow to it and the server we had... I believe she said her name was Cody - did an amazing job. 9.2 out of 10.

Three out of my party were sick after eating gravy here. When I gave them a courtesy call to let…read morethem know they need to check it out, they were rude and said it wasn't because of their food. He proceeded to ask me if I went to the Doctor and got a diagnosis. Per the Illinois Department of Public Health website, symptoms can occur within 20 minutes. Three out of four of us were sick by the time we got to our homes. The only one who wasn't sick didn't have any gravy. Thank goodness none of us had compromised immune systems. I would not recommend this restaurant. Buyer Beware...they don't care.

Food was tasty, I had the mole poblano with rice and beans, came out hot! My waitress Jackie was…read morepolite and efficient.

I've been here a few time but now that I tried the FISH tacos no turning back. Delicious delicious…read morefish tacos. And I order saute onions and yummy!!!!

Stopped in today for lunch. My parents have fond memories here with friends on taco night and…read moreother times as well. I understand they are under new ownership. Clean small town bar and restaurant. Very friendly staff and great food. My Philly was tasty and was super impressed with the size of mom's fish sandwich. Better value than other similar places. Only one suggestion and that's me just being picky. I wish the deep fried green pepper rings were cut a little thicker. will 100% go back again!

I'd been wanting to try this place, but it is well-off the beaten path in Nelson, Illinois…read more How far you ask? Around 10 minutes from Dixon proper, with lots of small roads to get there. But I went just the same. This is decor wise, a simple bar. Tables are available, and a separate room is to what I think was the south (left side as you enter). There were slot machines along the wall and the the room to the south. The mens room was nice and clean, and had good water pressure. No bad smells! I ordered lunch. After asking what was good - the menu was pretty extensive and had a bunch of options, I kept remembering the chicken reviews, so I went with the chicken fingers and fries. The Root Beer soft drink server was down for maintenance, so I ended up with a lemonade. The chicken fingers didn't disappoint. They were served fresh from the fryer, and somehow held the heat quite well - better than the usual fast food fare. I agree, the breading was out of this world in terms of lightness - it was very good, and the chicken tasted fresh and good. I found the fries to be good as well. The Cole slaw could have used something more - it was a bit on the bland side. Give yourself some time, take the drive, and try the place out. The server was quite pleasant. Keep in mind, there is a 3% upcharge if you use a credit card, which isn't unusual.

Love this place. Did the haunted tour and it was very informative and the food was good. Love the…read morelittle slot room. Service was excellent.

There is no food at this place and website says so. waste of time to even venture to this place…read more There is no ghost just a clown show

Amazing chefs that provide great food! Definitely recommend their services for those busy days…read more They take the guess work out of "what's for dinner?"

While traveling this week stopped at the Family Chef. Had a French Dip sandwich with fries and a…read moreside of homemade chili. French dip was wonderful. Fries were great crispy outside and nice mouth feel. Chili was packed with meat and wonderfully tasty. Also had chicken soup which was really a homemade treat. Would eat here again if passing through. Wonderful friendly service too. Don't pass this quaint restraunt. Stop in and have a wonderful lunch.