Lunch or dinner in Dekalb or vicinity?

I am taking a friend out for her birthday tomorrow. She wanted to go to a place called the Hillside, but they're closed! Any ideas for a nice-ish spot? She really has no idea what else is in the area, and neither do I. All I ever seem to see in Dekalb are fast food chains and soybean fields. Thanks!

Natalie

Couple of spots:

1. Fisherman's Inn. Located South of Elburn on IL Route 47, just before you get to I-88 (E-W Tollway), 630-365-9697. Their website is http://fishermens-inn.com/

They have fresh trout, from spring fed trout ponds in the back. They have menus on their website, and it's pretty good food. Last time i was there was about 2.5 years ago. Open Tueday through Sunday. Dinner only, they don't do lunch.

2. Sorrento's Restaurant. Located right on IL Route 64, in Maple Park, IL. (about .5 miles E of the Kane/DeKalb County line). 815-895-5466 Their website is www.sorrentosfinedining.com

Italian food and BEEF! (steaks/prime rib). Open Tuesday through Sunday. Serve both lunch and dinner.

This time of year, both these places are heavily booked with Christmas parties and groups. One thing in common, bring an appetite, otherwise, you get to take food home.

3. There's a fairly decent steakhouse in DeKalb on IL Route 23 heading North toward Sycamore. Trends to the more expensive and elegent, located on the East side of IL Route 23 just South of the new Menards Superstore.

Just an FYI, Fisherman's Inn does not open for lunch but it is a very special place and special setting with excellant food. The steakhouse mentioned is Johnny's Charhouse or close, it's quite nice and the food is good but, yes, a little expensive for DeKalb. In Sycamore there is a restaurant in the old hotel that is right downtown, historic place and kind of old world.