Bites Nearby: Tom & Eddie's

This innovative burger joint takes "fast food" to a higher level of sophistication by using hormone-free Angus beef, and super cool technology in getting it to the table.

Overview: When former McDonald's executives Tom Dentice and Ed Rensi opened Tom & Eddie's in December 2010, they quickly became a part of the surrounding community. The restaurant serves up signature burgers, chicken, salads, and sides, while supporting local charities and organizations through philanthropic work and donations.  Decor: The decor is casual, but somewhat sophisticated, with dark wood tables and chairs. There is booth seating that wraps around the dining area and an outdoor space to enjoy meals during warmer months. From the fountain drink machine to the ordering process, Tom & Eddie's utilizes the latest technologies in restaurant operations. Once guests have placed an order at the counter they are given an id tag, which is …

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Bites Nearby: Tribella Bar and Grill

This Batavia gem is a favorite for Italian cuisine with an American bistro feel.

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice: Overview: Tribella Bar and Grill's Italian-American menu keeps repeat customers raving about their food.  Decor: The restaurant carries an Italian bistro theme throughout the dining areas with rich wood flooring and plastered Venetian walls. The tables are covered in white linens, but there is nothing pretentious about the atmosphere.  The Drinks: Tribella has a full bar for cocktails and beer, as well as an impressive wine list. Wines range from $24 for a big name Chardonnay to $150 top brand California …

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Bites Nearby: Hibachi Express

This new St. Charles restaurant serves tasty and convenient food, at a price point for any budget.

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice: Overview: Hibachi Express celebrated their grand opening on March 15. The restaurant has simple menu of quickly-prepared entrees and combination specials, but it is not your average fast food. Hibachi's flavors are full of color, and the portions are generous. The drive0through service gives them a convenience factor that sets them apart from the competition.  Decor: The restaurants seating area is bright and somewhat airy. Walls are painted a festive shade of gold, and there are small Asian style decorations …

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Geneva's Matsuri Restaurant is a Delicious Japanese Dining Experience With Excellent Service to Match

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Overview: Fresh sushi and Japanese specialties have given Matsuri a reputation for great food in Geneva. There is a full menu of sushi rolls and artfully presented sashimi, but the entrees should not be overlooked. The restaurant’s location in the historic downtown shopping district makes it a perfect place to sample delicious food while enjoying an afternoon, or night, out on the town. Decor: Matsuri is designed with contemporary accents in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Tables and booths are arranged comfortably in the dining room with seating at the sushi bar so diners can watch orders being prepared. Hanging pendant lights provide simple, yet elegant illumination, and simplistic artwork is situated on the walls giving patrons a …

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Come for the 'Vu,' Stay for the Food

The RendezVu brings an upscale, but unpretentious menu to a fantastic riverside location.

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice: Overview: The RendezVu, or “The Vu”, as it is known by locals, has been opened since 2006. Their move to the banks of the Fox River in 2008 solidified them as a Batavia staple in good eats and local entertainment. Decor: The decor in the basement dining room is minimal, and has tables and high top’s for seating. The small nook in the rear gives diners a more intimate feeling with exposed brick walls and a wall mounted fish tank. The bar shares the dining room area and features hand made wrought iron shelving to…

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St. Charles Place Offers Fine Dining in Classic Steak House Form

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Overview: St. Charles Place is known for steaks and chops, but their menu features many favorite recipes from the bygone supper club era, and generous seafood selections. The food is topnotch and the service goes hand in hand with their reputation for upscale dining. The new Good Things For Less menu, makes St. Charles place an affordable restaurant option any night of the week. Decor: The restaurant has a dark, romantic atmosphere, created by vaulted ceilings and wooden beams throughout the bar and dining room areas. A deep color palate of red and black is used against the crystal chandeliers and eclectic artwork, making the space warm and inviting. The Drinks: A full bar is available for mixed drinks and cocktails without the frills. The…

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Front Street Cantina Brings a Mix of Food and Culture That Grew Out of a Friendship

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Overview: Front Street Cantina began with a love for salsa and the culture of Mexico and the southwest. The restaurant idea started as two friends paying homage to their favorite condiment, and has grown into five locations serving Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine throughout the western suburbs. Decor: Exposed ceilings and rustic wood paneling give the restaurant a fun and airy feel. The bar area blends a modern look by using exposed brick and rich, wood accents. Corrugated metal around the bar brings back the true “cantina” style that flows through the rest of the restaurant. The Drinks: Margaritas are the house special; there are many varieties available. Using ingredients like Prickly Pear and melon liqueur, Front Street serves up some …

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Bites Nearby: Tusk Thai Restaurant

The home-cooked meals at this Tri-Cities favorite for Thai food is an experience in cultural dining and flavors.

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice: Overview: For more than 25 years, the owners of Tusk have been feeding the Thai cravings of customers throughout the Chicago area. What began as an urban restaurant endeavor has turned into a suburban staple in experiencing the exotic flavors of Thai cooking. Decor:  The 16-table dining room aspires to be nothing more than what it is—a warm environment where you can enjoy homemade Thai food. The decor is minimal,yet cozy, with Thai statues and wall hangings throughout. A deep shade of orange covers the walls …

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Bites Nearby: Wok 'n Fire Offers Unique, Pan-Asian Menu in St. Charles

Experience big-city dining and a feast for the senses near the Fox River.

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice: Wok' n Fire has a unique style that's reflected in delicious Pan Asian dishes and an ambiance created with decorative design elements. Upon entry, customers are greeted by a massive statue of Buddha soaring towards the lofty ceiling space, where color changing light sculptures hang casting a glow over the deep wood tones in the tables and chairs. Specialty cocktails and martinis are served from an internally illuminated bar in the lounge, which gives off a trendy, urban feel. Using abstract artistry and …

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