Had a decent Old Fashion with ok Pork Belly and Jalapeño grits, but the shrimp were super boring and lacked flavor and seasoning. Bartender was pleasant but Owners/Managers had zero table side manner. Not sure why McHenry county lacks tasty go to dining options. Un fortunately here is another average place read more

Great food and great service. Have sat at the bar a couple of times. The bartender is very attentive and knowledgeable. Will be back again!

So disappointed. Sad to say that nothing has improved here except the name and the look of the menu, and SO overpriced. I had the lobster pop tart which was obviously not hand made but heated up from frozen. The middle was pink mush and it was all topped with an odd sweet sauce from a jar. Pork belly was soft all over and the "jalapeno cheddar grits" were so tasteless with raw jalapeno sprinkled on top, not cooked within. Inedible. My husband had Florida Snapper with citrus fruit salsa and crab-fried rice. The fish's crush was soft and damp, the "salsa" consisted of huge pieces of fruit piled on top and the rice was bland and thick. Also, Inedible. Overall, the food is extremely overpriced for the poor quality and lack of flavor. read more

We love this place! Everytime we dine here it never fails to impress. Creative and delicious appetizers like the lobster poptart and the scallops with blood orange sauce. Fun creative cocktails like the whiskey tango foxtrot and gin and juice are must try cocktails! If you can get the tomahawk Ribeye, melt in your mouth tender and juicy. We drive 45 minutes to go here and constantly recommend to friends, family, and even strangers. read more

If I could give it no stars I would feel better. Went to bold for Sunday afternoon small plates. We tried to order the caprese salad, oops were are out of that today. My wife ordered onion soup, oops we are out of that. Ridiculous to have a menu and not have basic items available. So we ordered the overpriced meatballs, corn something and crab bruschetta. For the price of these low class foods come a high price. Oh forgot they asked if we had a reservation. What a joke no one in the place except servers. Luckily Texan Barbecue was right done the street and saved our dinner. read more

We have been wanting to try Bold for a very long time after hearing nothing but good things. Keep in mind this review is purely based off the food and experience, this has no reflection in regards to covid. We walked up to a guy drinking a beer who turned out to be the host. Seating was only inside or on the lower level on iron wire table and chairs, nothing special for a higher end restaurant but no problem times are different. Service was ok, not great but not poor. Ordered the lobster pop tart which was basically a large crab rangoon. Didn't taste like lobster at all and lots of cream cheese. Dinner was better, the salmon was very good. We may not have had the food that Bold may be known for, but this caliper of restaurant all the food should be good and this just wasn't the case. Little disappointed in our experience, hopefully the next time will be better. read more

I was glad we found this place. By far, one of the greatest meals I had in a while. I had the "tongue twister" I call it because it was such a long name, but in short it was the bbq ribs. My complements to the chef because the food was excellently crafted and the service was great. Very endearing, very intentional. Enjoy. read more

Just stopped in to this place again. Since it was so good the first two times around. Love the old building and the interior decor is nice but forget all that! Let's talk good food and drinks. The chef Matt always changes up the menu to keep things fresh and new so every time I stop in the specials are different.I really enjoyed the chicken an waffles, the mussels are a favorite and honestly the best I've had. I like the fact it comes with a warm loaf of bread to soak up all the juice. Voodoo Fondue is on my list too. I like getting a couple appetizers to try a little of everything. Had the burger this past go around and that was good as well. Had a sip of my buddies drink that he ordered that was a margarita with pineapple juice or something and it was awesome. I drive a full hour to come to this place and it's worth it! read more

This is my favorite restaurant in the area, maybe of all time. The lobster pop tart appetizer is delicious, the drinks are great, and I had the best steak of my life here earlier this year. It is a little pricier than most other places in the area, but is well worth it. We go here for special occasions and I've never been disappointed with anything I've ordered. It's located in a cute spot, and the wait staff is very cordial. We never have to wait long to get our food either. Highly recommended! read more

We are at BOLD last night for just our second experience with restaurant dining since restrictions were lifted. We love their rooftop deck and were happy to be seated there for dinner on such a beautiful evening. Even with restrictions and the new rules, we still had a great time & enjoyed our food & drinks. Service was attentive & timely and the food was delicious as always. Yes, they are pricey, but for inventiveness and quality, I expect to pay more. If I wanted to eat basic food affordably I'd hit up Chili's. ‍ The owner is not openly warm, but he's always there and always genuinely interested in his customer's experiences after dining. He's a very nice guy if you take time to engage him in a conversation. We are supporters & fans & look forward to when they are open for "normal" service! read more

This restaurant has great food; however, it's bartenders like Julie who make you want to stay after dinner for desert and drinks! If Julie is working I'd highly recommend sitting at the bar for apps, dinner, deserts, and drinks! read more

We went here for the first time last week. Very small place and very good food equals very limited seating. Very nice atmosphere, food is very good! We had several appetizers as our dinner and everything was spot on! Unfortunately, there isn't anywhere to wait when the bar is full. I suggest the owners join the Nowait app, so people can wait at home or elsewhere until their table is ready. Several restaurants in the area use it and it works great! This is the only reason I can't give 5 stars. I do Love this place! read more

Always love going here, the food is just spectacular, from the appetizers to the main course! I always sit at the bar as dining alone never feels like it because the bar help are super friendly as well as the local crowd! The presentation is wonderful, taste superb, try it snd you will not be disappointed! read more

We came on the soft opening. I really enjoyed everything about our trip here. We brought our two young girls for dinner (five and seven). While there is no kids menu, the adult SpaghettiOs with Wagyu meatballs were perfect to split and still have plenty left for lunch tomorrow. We loved the pork belly and grits! The lobster bisque had the biggest chunks of lobster that I have seen. Everything could use a bit more salt but overall we recommend and will definitely be back. read more

I've been there three times. Each time we arrived we were asked if we had a reservation..I said no... response was let me check. We wanted to sit at table near the front. I was told we are booked and you'll have to sit here.. and how long do plan to sit.. I've never been told that before. We ordered and stayed for about 60 mins.. they never reached even half full.. it's pricey. They lack attitude. Food is good. I'm not a fan. read more

I was in Algonquin to perform with my band, Ear Candy, at the Summer Concerts at Riverfront Plaza and needed somewhere to wait out the rain and get a bite to eat. Wow, my fiance and I were completely blown away. Every second of our experience was enjoyable - pleasant and helpful waiter, tasty drinks and the food was to die for. My fiance got the 16 oz. pork chop and I got the bacon wrapped meatloaf - both were cooked to perfection and absolutely delicious. I hate that we live so far away because I'm sure we would be regular patrons at BOLD. Such an awesome experience. Next time we're in Algonquin, we will definitely be back! read more

Met 3 lady friends of mine on Monday, July 27th, wait went from 40minutes to 1 1/2 hours!! With tables open and appropriate spacing!! Manager would not talk to us, no eye contact, we were told by a bartender all of the party had to be present. Wouldn't put us on list for seating. We thought he was saving the open table for someone. No apologies, hell he didn't even acknowledge customers who had already paid for 2 rounds of drinks at the upstairs bar! He was rude beyond belief! Given the current situation of being closed sue to Covid, one would think he would be more welcoming to paying customers and build relationships with those who live in the community and were trying to support local businesses! Too bad but he burned 4 bridges that night. read more

Friends who knew about this hidden gem took us. From outside I would have never come in but WOW. Unique menu and amazing food and I am picky . It's small and quite loud inside but the food makes up for that. We will be back sooo many things I want to try . read more

The scallops were cooked to perfection, the caramelized Brussels sprouts with pork belly was so good!

Simply great food and service. Always exceeds expectations. Steaks are killer good.....

Went to Bold for lunch today. Fabulous food as usual. Owner Greg was great! They have incredible unique items. It's not an easy time in the restaurant business and we greatly appreciated the hospitality, great food, and great service! read more

I had a cherry royale cocktail. Very good! Small space, but I love supporting local bars/restaurants. Very friendly staff.

First time I have been there since new ownership. Service was excellent. Nice atmosphere. Excellent martinis. Food was exceptionally good. The chef is creative and our appetizers were really well done. The bacon wrapped scallops were huge and fresh and cooked perfectly. We sat at the bar and had a great relaxing time. Algonquin needs a place like this. read more

I was a little stunned by the rudeness of the manager/host or whoever he was ... after we walked up to & told us we couldn't sit here or there and finally said we could sit out in front of the restaurant .... I felt like he totally just didn't want us there... but we decided to give it a try anyway. Before our food was ready it started to rain... so we approached the front door to see if we could get a table inside and the manager told us no....he didn't have any available tables .... There were only two other tables with people sitting at them....the rest of the restaurant was completely open. Thankfully.... Our sweet waitress came up & told him our food was ready and started putting together a table for us! If it wasn't for her we would have walked out.... the food was good but overpriced for sure & that bizarre behavior by the guy in front means we will never be back there. After reading other reviews this seems to be a big problem for this place..... I just don't get it....seems pretty counter productive & it's eventually going to put them out of business. read more

Went to this establishment for New Years Eve, my husband and I had a wonderful experience. The food was phenomenal, service was amazing. The owner/manager even came by to ask us how are meal was. Shannon was a fantastic server. I would highly recommend Bold American Fare. read more

Small, cozy restaurant with delicious food! We enjoyed every bite of the small plates and salads. The mixed drinks were good, as well. It was a great date night spot. read more

Great "rooftop" bar, everything about it. Wonderful view, great drink selection, service, music. Well done keeping the original vibe!!

Superb meal!!! Highly recommend the meatloaf or the short ribs. The carrot cake was amazing!!!

I went there 3 years ago, pre pandemic times. Good food. Good service. Even recommended to friends. Went back a second time during pandemic. Turned away because our party wasn't complete. And no, despite it being cold we were not allowed in to wait at bar. Ok chalk it up to pandemic protocols. Went again last night. Again turned away again due to our party of 4 not being complete (note a party of 4 is typically two couples coming from separate locations and arriving at different times). Reservations not taken but at 5:00 on a weekend it shouldn't be a problem. There was seating available from out streetside view. And again, no can't come in and sit at bar. It was 18 degrees out. This from a maskless individual so I'm guessing the pandemic protocols have been eased. And noting its McHenry County where masks mandates are largely ignored. A ruined night out was thankfully saved as Black Bear Bistro, which is across the street, let us in to dine. We were graciously welcomed and introduced to the restaurant and menu by the Chef's wife. What a fine meal it was and well worth the money which was not spent at Bold American Fare. Making favorable impressions is hard. Bold American failed spectacularly. They are independently owned and can handle business how they want, I respect that, Noting that there are several dining choices in old Algonquin not called Bold American. There are 4 of us who will never dine at or recommend Bold American Fare. Best of luck with your guest policies. read more

This place is legit...downstairs. I has several small plates and they were all great, but the lobster pop tart was crazy good. Only four stars because the bartender upstairs was super slow and appeared to be intoxicated with something. Had to tell her several times which beer I wanted, and wait was intolerable. Several of us ran downstairs to get beers and drinks and got back up before she filed one drink order. Oh well. Put one server and a better bartender upstairs and you'll be a five star for sure. read more

By far one of the best restaurants I have ever been in... the food was absolutely amazing, service was great ( Jessica ) the owner Gregg went over and above to make our visit memorable. Thank you for a wonderful experience! We will be back... read more

It's all about the details! This is by far my favorite restaurant...they don't miss a thing. We spent NYE here. We were a table of 5...it was busy...and the service was great! The food is rich and delicious. We had the lollipop lamb chops, a lobster tart and the meatballs for apps. Everyone was very impressed with their entrees and of course the giant carrot cake. The drinks are amazing. Normally you have to go to the city and pay the price of city drinks and city food to get this quality. I can't say enough about Bold. Friends who hadn't been there were surprised about how quaint it is inside and LOVED the atmosphere read more

This restaurant is in a great location In downtown Algonquin. The food was fantastic! My husband had the Red Neck Surf and Turf, that was pork belly, blackened shrimp, grits and corn salsa. I had the Beef Smokinoff which was their version of beef stroganoff loaded with beef brisket. Both entries were fantastic and were generous portions. read more

I enjoy making this trip as often as possible and this is one of those places that would be a weekly must visit if it was a bit closer to home. Yet to have a bad meal here but my current favorites are turning the small plates of Crispy Duck Wings and Diver Scallops into a meal. The one caution is that as the name suggests it could be a bit "Bold" for the casual diner that may be more comfortable at one of those frozen food national chains. If you like quality food and a bold choice or two I would highly recommend. read more

This resultant provides an atmosphere that is perfect for a date and equal as a meet up for old friends and family. The menu brings you back for a second try. The whiskey menu brings an old school class to the menu. And speaking of the menu, it has options that make you come back. This restaurant is fueled by a chef that brings a drive to your taste buds. And to describe the steaks this man grills.... sex in your mouth.. two thumbs read more

Eleven of us dined here on a Wednesday. The menu is great with many choices that are not at a standard restaurant. It is a small restaurant but it worked for us. Six ladies at one table and five guys at the other. The waiter was so patient with all of us ordering He was able to give us one check per couple even though we were at separate tables. We all enjoyed the food. We definitely will be back. read more

Always love the variety and different good selection. You go here wanting something different and they deliver with fantastic flavor, and so much food. Love getting to know the owners and staff as it's so comfortable to go in and be recognized. One of my favorite places to go. Great drinks too! Cheers read more

Overall just OK, however entrees and drinks were way overpriced. The NY strip was not prime at all, full of chewy gristle, for $30. very disappointed. The fried alligator was good as an appetizer, the BBQ salmon and quinoa was prepared well. and the Nutella nuggets were outstanding. The halibut was not seasoned, very bland but mushroom risotto was good. They are trying hard and service was good but not a fine dining experience. For Algonquin it's worth a try, for me I can say I gave it a try to support my local restaurants but probably won't be back. read more

Best dining in Algonquin.The food was great we had the scallops for an appetizer. I had a New York Strip my wife had the pork chop. Service good we will be back for sure read more

Made a reservation for Friday night without an issue. We were seated immediately upon our arrival. The staff were all very kind and helpful. I had the pork chop with forest mushrooms and maple walnut sweet potatoes while my wife had the meatloaf. It was all delicious. I can't recommend this place enough, it's not cheap but it's well worth the cost. read more