Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
Christmas in the Country at the Grand Geneva is a special time. Sundays through December 18 is a Champagne Brunch with Santa at the Geneva ChopHouse. Festival of Trees & Quilts of Christmas Charity Auction Dinner at the Forum Theatre takes place December 29. Plus, ring in the New Year in “Grand” style! Whether you choose to celebrate over a romantic meal, with a gathering of friends or with family, Grand Geneva offers a variety of packages and dining options. Visit http://www.grandgeneva.com/christmas-in-the-country.asp for a complete listing of holiday activities at the resort.
>> 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, Wis., 262-249-4795, www.grandgeneva.com.
The Geneva Inn
The Grandview Restaurant and Lounge at Geneva Inn has a number of special events around the holidays including Holiday Tea, December 21 and 28; Christmas Eve lunch and dinner; and Christmas Day dinner. The New Year’s Eve Dinner Celebration offers two seating. Other New Year’s events include the RingInn the New Year Gala Celebration and New Year’s Day Dinner. Visit http://genevainn.com/events.html for full details!
>> N2009 S. Lake Shore Drive, Lake Geneva, Wis., 262-248-5690, http://genevainn.com.
Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen
Known for comfort foods and craft brews, come in and enjoy Dukes’ 12 Beers of Christmas through January 2. Duke’s will be open until 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve. The bar opens on Christmas night with live entertainment by Dave Sarkis and Owen Too.
>> 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake, 815-356-9980, www.thedukeabides.com.
Chris’ Coach House
Famous for its ribs, Chris’ will be open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve serving the regular menu from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
>> 6414 Hilly Way, Cary, 847-639-9675.
Port Edward Restaurant
Celebrate the holidays at Port Edward, which will be open Christmas Eve 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; and New Year’s Eve 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner, plus a big New Year's Eve party till 1 a.m. Ring in 2012 with a Champagne Brunch on New Year's Day. Looking for unique gift ideas? Don’t forget to browse the Gifts International gift shop for nautical-themed and other great items.
>> 20 W. Algonquin Rd., Algonquin, 847-658-5441, www.portedward.com.
Pablo’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
Pablo’s has been serving up authentic Mexican dishes in Crystal Lake for a quarter of a century. It’s a fun, festive place to grab a sizzling fajita and ice-cold margarita after a long day of shopping!
>> 230 W. Virginia St., Ste. 300, Crystal Lake, 815-455-7398
Doyle’s Pub
Richmond’s restaurant and pub for Irish fare will be “rocking” this holiday season. The kitchen is open on New Year’s Eve from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with a special dinner menu. The bar will stay open till the bartender decides to close. On New Year’s Day, the kitchen and bar will be open from noon to 6 p.m.
>> 5604 Mill St., Richmond, 815-678-3623, http://doylespubrocks.com.
Geneva Ridge Resort and Geneva National Golf Club
Groups can book holiday parties at the clubhouse; the resort is hosting Breakfast with Santa at the Hunt Club Restaurant & Legends Tavern on December 11 and 18; there’s a Holiday Wine Dinner at the Hunt Club on December 15; and the Hunt Club will serve dinner on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. For New Year’s at Geneva Ridge, enjoy a buffet from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. with live music by Mr. Big Stuff (pictured) whose pop, rock, funk, swing, R&B and disco will have guests up and dancing the night away. Special overnight packages are available and include buffets, party bracelets and a midnight champagne toast.
>> 8W4240 State Road 50, Lake Geneva, Wis., 800-225-5558, www.genevaridge.com and www.genevanationalresort.com.
Brunch Café
Warm up with a delicious breakfast or lunch around the holidays. Brunch Café will be open Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
>> 935 Route 22, Fox River Grove, 847-516-0409; 414 S. Route 31, McHenry, 815-344-4055, www.brunchcafe.com.
Pirro’s Restaurante
Pirro’s warm homemade pizza and pasta is in order after shopping on the Woodstock Square this season! Pirro’s-brand pasta sauces featuring the family’s special recipes will soon be available for purchase.
>> 228 Main St. on the Woodstock Square, 815-337-9100, http://pirrosrestaurante.com.
Exclusively Napa
Check out Chef Witt’s new lunch menu that launched December 1. Holiday hour are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; and Sundays noon to 6 p.m.
>> 35 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, 815-479-0770, www.exclusivelynapawine.com.
McHenry County Living’s events calendar at http://mchenrycountyliving.com lists holiday-related gatherings! While you’re there, sign up to receive Thursday’s Weekender eblast spotlighting the weekend’s best bets in the county!
