For those familiar with Chicago’s culinary scene, the name Gale Street Inn evokes a sense of tradition and quality. Growing up in the city, I knew Gale Street Inn as a Milwaukee Avenue institution in Jefferson Park – a cherished family destination. Years later, word spread of a second location in Mundelein, known as “Diamond Lake.” While initial buzz suggested it was a decent spot, it was often compared, sometimes unfavorably, to its city counterpart. However, recent whispers of a revitalized Gale Street Inn in Mundelein, thanks to new ownership and menu enhancements, piqued my interest.
Driven by curiosity and the suggestion of a manager from Lakeside Bowl in Mundelein, where I spend my Sundays, I reached out to my trusted dining companions, Alan and Vicky. Our mission: to rediscover Gale Street Inn – Diamond Lake. Approaching the restaurant, the stand-alone building with its generous grounds and expansive dining area immediately set a different tone. Stepping inside, the ambiance resonated with the classic charm of a supper club, a feeling reinforced by the news that live entertainment would be added on select evenings once things returned to normal.
We were warmly greeted by General Manager Bill Skoufis, who led us into the inviting dining room. My companion, Jane, with the heightened spatial awareness many of us developed during the pandemic, had specific seating preferences. The accommodating staff understood perfectly, guiding us to a comfortable table in the spacious dining area, designed to allow diners to savor their meals in a relaxed setting.
This visit felt like a true escape. The location, slightly removed from the urban hustle, created an immediate sense of tranquility. Across the street, the serene Diamond Lake added to the “rural America” atmosphere. As we settled in with our cocktails, the day’s stresses seemed to melt away. Entering might require a mask, but once immersed in the dining experience, you truly felt transported to a different, more peaceful world.
Our server, Mario, embodied this relaxed yet attentive service. He allowed us ample time to peruse the menu and daily specials, patiently guiding us through the extensive wine list. While I opted for my usual Vodka martini (wine being their specialty, not custom cocktails), the drinks menu was certainly comprehensive.
To begin our culinary journey, we selected three appetizers: Steamed Mussels, described as meaty and exceptional; crispy Fried Calamari; and delightful Meatballs with Polenta. Observing the tempting Lamb Lollipops being served nearby, they were earmarked for our next visit. For soup, we chose the Lobster Bisque over the daily Baked French Onion, swayed by the promise of a fresh, daily soup made with market-fresh ingredients – a Friday indulgence that proved to be an excellent choice.
The menu boasts a wide array of salads, and we opted to share the Roasted Beet Salad. Featuring both red and gold beets, it was dressed with a tangy and delicious house-glazed dressing. As a beet enthusiast, I confess I found it hard to share – it was ample, yet I craved more.
For our main courses, the selections were equally enticing. The Gale Street Prime Rib (queen cut), slow-roasted and served with beef au jus and a baked potato, was a must-try. We also sampled a half slab of their renowned Ribs, a house specialty prepared according to the original 1963 recipe – a testament to tradition even under new ownership. Accompanying the ribs were creamy mashed potatoes.
Our third entree was the Broiled Salmon Piccata with spinach, bathed in a special lemon beurre blanc sauce – simply described as “to die for.”
The list of specialties seemed endless, each more tempting than the last. Beyond seafood and meat dishes (featuring daily fresh catches), Gale Street Inn caters to families with a dedicated Kids Menu. Pasta lovers will find a wide selection, and for the ultimate indulgence, “surf and turf” and Lamb Chops are available, alongside a promising Prime New York Strip, also reserved for a future visit.
To conclude our meal, we shared a slice of Cheesecake and a Creme Brulee, both perfectly satisfying our sweet cravings.
For the health-conscious diner, Gale Street Inn offers an unexpected bonus: approximately 90% of the menu is gluten-free. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, every dish we sampled was undeniably delicious.
Beet Salad at Gale Street Inn Diamond Lake
Mario, server at Gale Street Inn Diamond Lake
Delicious Ribs at Gale Street Inn Diamond Lake
Broiled Salmon Piccata at Gale Street Inn Diamond Lake
Cheesecake dessert at Gale Street Inn Diamond Lake
Gale Street Inn – Diamond Lake is located at 935 Diamond Lake Road in Mundelein.
Reservations can be made by calling 847-566-1090.
To explore their full menu, visit www.eatgalestreet.com.
Ample parking is available.
Currently open from 3 p.m. daily, Gale Street Inn – Diamond Lake is soon expanding its hours to include lunch service with a dedicated luncheon menu.
While summer might be behind us, the inviting and relaxed “lakeside” atmosphere of Gale Street Inn – Diamond Lake endures throughout the year.
