Dinner with the girls - we wanted to go someplace we haven't been. The Cottage was our pick. We sat at a high top... I was surprised at how busy it was at dinner time on a Thursday night. I had the Cottage Reuben with fries. I judge most restaurants by their Reuben's and the Cottage had a good one. The meat was not dry and it was saucy, which I love. Service was slow but we didn't mind because it gave us more time to catch up. read more

The Cottage - The Cottage Ruben - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Great food, great atmosphere and great people! We will be back! Everything is very reasonably priced and it's a great place to be.

Visited today for an early St Patrick's celebration! They had a St Patrick's menu with means like banger and mash, corned beef and cabbage etc with desserts and festive drinks as well. Friend had bangers and mash and it was so well presented - he took a picture because it was so well prepared! He said it was delicious and scraped the plate clean! I had a quesadilla meal and the guacamole was extra good! They now put popcorn and shelled peanut on the table which we enjoyed while we chatted. The patio area is covered and they have plenty of seating. I'm sure it will be packed for St Patrick's day!! read more

The Cottage - Bangers and Mash / presentation was awesome and it was delicious! - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Checked out this Crystal Lake bar and grill. It happens to be a bit farther away from the happening downtown but worth venturing out to get here. The Cottage is one of the long time favorites for locals. A lot of great drinks and unexpectedly great food. You can find meaty and vegetarian options including burgers, fish, and pizza. Basically we weren't expecting much from this bar. It's mostly like a sports bar, cluttered inside. The food was to be an afterthought, we thought. Actually looks like a cottage inside. Lots of wood fixtures and paneling. It's about $12 for cocktails. Seasonal ones include margaritas for summer, toddys for winter. It's about $18 for a pizza. We got the Veggie Pizza, which has green peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach, and tomatoes. Also there's Mexican options including burrito bowls and fajitas. There's even vegan chorizo as a topping. Great options in this bar that's better than typical bar food. It's got a rotating menu with lots of things added for the season. This is located on Crystal Lake Avenue at Walkup. read more

The Cottage - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Love their turkey burgers and pulled pork sandwiches with sweet potato fries! I never had a bad meal from them! Whether you ordered to go or dine in the staff is always friendly and accommodating!! A good vibe with plenty of seats available. read more

Love the cottage, great food and even better bar tenders. Russell is the absolute goat, wouldn't be the same without him!

Choked on the chicken .. really tough.. friend had to call 911.. overall food was bad and my meal wasn't taken care of by staff

I have been frequenting this place regularly for the past month. I only come on weekends. The first time I came in I ordered a drink and an appetizer. Everything was great. I ordered the raw oysters on that particular day as well and thought they were ok. I've had better but since its their weekend special I knew they must be moving hundreds of these things! The following weekend i took my husband out and had the same thing. This time the oysters were not looking good. Waitress said they were fresh but it didn't look fresh. We sent it back and a better looking tray came with fresher oysters. I ate them and enjoyed my drink and left. An hour later im in pain. My stomach was about to explode! My friend KAOPECTATE helped and im warning everyone about these foul oysters. 3 stars because the waitress was nice, and the spot is cutesy. But I will NOT be coming back. read more

The Cottage - The nasty oysters that turned my intestines inside out! - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

I wish this place was what it once was... idk if it's new ownership or a complete lack of accountability.. the last two times I went here they can pour a drink but who can't.. first time I got mediocre service with a burger that still had the plastic on the low grade cheese. The second time I decided to give it a shot I received a bun more stale than the Great Depression! The burger patty was burnt and honestly wished I hadn't paid or tipped for the complete lack of service and Quality... this place has lost any and all ability to make any quality food. I'm surprised they can sell oysters or any sea food. I feel if any real chef / restaurant manager with truthful understanding of quality of food and service stepped into this place it would be Game Over. If you have no taste buds and drink till you can't actually taste anything then this place is for you.. once upon a time this place may have been something. These days it's an atrocious restaurant and a mediocre bar at best. I would advise going anywhere else as it's gone down to the gutter and the food quality proves it along side the lack of service and attention to detail. I personally don't like giving reviews or yelpers as they are a special bread of human. This is just a truthful statement warning any and all from being fooled by a nice down town location and false reality of anything good. Staff lacks personality and it's clear that no one cares about anything but being paid for a job. Please understand if you decide to try this place then you have been warned and will absolutely be let down by every aspect of this old dive bar failing to recover from any an all ability to develop and grow in all aspects of running a bar and restaurant. They should stop serving food and just poor drinks at least they can't screw up the liquor and beer that's already been made for them to pour!!!!!! This will be the last time I lose hard earned money to a place that absolutely is terrible! Thank me Later cheers! read more

This is one of the better bar/restaurants in the area. we have tried numerous items but everything is good including the pizza. The outside area is nice and even in the winter stays fairly comfortable. Inside is a little small and more bar then restaurant. They have a half price pizza night and other specials every day. Good friendly service but they do get really busy at times which obviously makes things a little slower but they definetly try their best. read more

A lot went well and We continue to dine here, Food is great but we do get turned off by an occasional gut wrenching sewer like stench that comes and goes, and the men's bathroom needs a over haul. Its a place We love but these two things have us in limbo when choosing where to eat. read more

The Cottage - Menu - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

I've been going The Cottage for years, I felt compelled to write this review after a recent experience. I was impressed that they were able to accommodate our large group on the Patio (day of). Our server, Justice was an absolute rock star! not only did we have a large group, we had multiple checks and she never missed a beat, keeping up with our orders, drinks, special requests not to mention having a great attitude. Huge menu, great service and good prices, will definitely be back! read more

We loved this place!! The outside large patio was perfect for a Friday evening. The tables were far enough apart that you were not listening to other people's conversations. Our server, Justice did a great job and was very friendly and attentive. We ordered the Friday lake perch special and it was delicious. There are several options for the fish, all you can eat cod, the lake perch (7 pieces) and a haddock option. The food and value were a perfect combination. We will be back to try the other specials and enjoy the patio again soon. read more

The Cottage never disappoints! Such a varied menu, a great place to go where everyone will be happy with what they order. A staple of Crystal Lake, I always bring friends when they are visiting. read more

The Cottage is a local fave. I love the atmosphere of the inside. Feels like you're in a pub overseas. It is important to understand that this is a no fuss kind of place. With that said, they have always been very accommodate if my husband asks them to put a certain game on one of the tvs and the service is always good. Just a cozy local spot with decent food and good drinks. read more

The Cottage - Quesadilla - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

Best food in downtown Crystal lake. Not pricey. Great service. And a fun environment and ambiance. Always go there

I loved the entryway, conveniently located! Impressive selections, and all the finest midwest service, one may expect from a Cottage, with an empty parking lot. Upon arrival, I was kindly greeted by the hostess, read more

The Cottage was exceptional! I had their prime rib sandwich on Texas toast with mozzarella, no horse radish sauce but a side of their creamy ranch, and they're seasoned fries. Meat was tender and juicy. Sandwich was delicious, fries were crispy. All the food I ordered was made to perfection, served on time, and has a unique deliciousness. The place is big and has a parking lot too. Very easy to find and one of the popular spot. Their staff contributes to an awesome experience. They treat me like a friend and even answered all the questions from their customers. They are professional and decent. This place never disappoints! Can't wait to pay a visit again soon when I'm near the area. Thank you guys for amazing service. read more

Great place and friendly staff. Reason I only have 3 stars is because our waitress was running back and fourth, place was busy on a Saturday during lunch hours. she needed help with tables, our food came super cold as we waited awhile. We got out appetizer soup and food at the same time. Cute young bus boy delivered our food. We are not people who complain and still ate our food. It was good. Had the steak tacos and hubby got a burger and son got a hotdog . We will be back but hopefully a full on staff who can manage tables more quick. read more

The Cottage - Receipt - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

A decent neighborhood bar. Food is good... Pizza average. Prices are average for a place like this. Old school peanuts n popcorn on the bar.

one of the bartenders, Russel, refused to serve one of my friends for wearing a certain hat. he voiced to him that "I hate your hat, fuck you, I'm not serving you". I think thats very immature and Inappropriate, and I know if i said that at my job, I'd no longer have a job. read more

Ordered the chicken fingers and fries to go. I should have check on the order, because once I got on my train I realized I didn't not get my fries, beyond pissed. Ordered them, payed for em, didn't get em. I guess just go ahead and steal my money. And to top it off, no napkins or utensils. Better find away to make this up for me. read more

Went for lunch with the wife. She had a salad and I had the patty melt. Both dishes were good, and the fried cauliflower app was fresh, hot, and crispy. The server was nice and attentive. They were busy when we went and she was juggling large tables like a pro. It's a shame that I don't live closer... This is a neat neighborhood bar that I wouldn't mind drinking at. The only gripe I had was the beer was kind of warm and the 20 oz glasses weren't really 20 oz. Not a deal breaker and we'll be back. read more

Have been here for drinks and food a few times over the past few years. Love the interior and the vibe this place has. Think.. cottage.. ;) The outdoor seating area is neat. Servers have always been nice and attentive. Recently tried their mega bloody that is only $13 and available Saturday's and Sundays until 5pm... it was delicious !!! Had enough toppings to make a meal out of. Mix was great too. Drinks are always great, not weak. Also tried the oysters Rockefeller , awesome and fresh tasting. They have oyster specials on Sundays which I will definitely go back for. Highly recommend for a drinks spot, lunch, or dinner. read more

The Cottage - Mega Bloody Mary - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

See all

The place is unique, the burgers were the only thing that were good. The staff was friendly but sadly to say we won't be going back to this place. read more

First time in 20 years - probably will wait another 20 and still won't return. Wait staff helpful and friendly - and deep fried cheese curds we're tasty. Food came fast. The only reason for stars at all. But, the food, over 7 different "entres" ordered - maybe one (pulled pork sandwich) had any credibility. The remainder could have been 50 times better if they had been made to be or at least look like the pics. A patty melt that had been shot and died a week ago: dry and not worth eating. Reubens without sauerkraut or coleslaw ain't a Reuben. Corned beef was not hot and semi-mealy. A Reuben that isn't grilled ain't a Reuben. A Reuben without Russian (or 1000) ain't a Reuben. You get the point. Shepherds pie that the goats would yawn at - no flavor at all. The place - ok, eclectic and slightly cool weird except hunting for the washrooms sucked. And the single washroom reeked of urine after being found tucked in between some dinner tables. If you're interested in finding exits, don't look for signs. And electrical work stapled to the walls, hmmm, where's the fire Marshall? Oh and to top it off, the roof drain dumps INSIDE the front door, yes inside the front door so you have to navigate a flowing puddle upon entry. I'm sure there are those that would call it a great neighborhood bar - their choice, not mine. If you have any physical limitations, this place is as unsafe as playing with matches in a fireworks store. Just a matter of time before a bad injury somewhere within. Suggest one of the local Village Squire restaurants. Similar quaintness but clean, safe, and truly good food. Sorry Cottage, your people are the only thing keeping that place alive. read more

The Cottage - Entry - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

See all

The Cottage is one of those places most people would describe as a "neighborhood bar" and it fills that role nicely, perched on the edge of downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, within walking distance of a number of residential neighborhoods. Although a "bar," it serves as a full restaurant as well, with a very lengthy menu and nightly specials. The specials are value priced. What brought me in is the fact that any night of the week in this area, you can find a hamburger special, and it's Wednesdays at the Cottage. Burger and a side, $5. You pay a little bit more for add-ons like bacon and fancy cheeses, but it's still a deal. The sandwich is advertised as a half-pound, hand-pattied, char-grilled burger, and it lives up to the promo. It's very flavorful meat, on a bakery roll that is soft enough to be enjoyable but substantial enough to hold any toppings you desire. Unusual for me, I ate the burger absolutely plain, I enjoyed the beef and bun so much. I upgraded to rings for the side, and they don't do justice as a side equal to the entree. They are a beer battered ring, which I doubt are made in-house. With so many interesting food items on the menu, the Cottage could easily do better on the rings. Complimentary peanuts in the shell (yes, toss 'em on the floor) and tasty popcorn for every table. Don't see peanuts much anymore, of course. I was personally delighted. Large outdoor seating area can be covered during inclement weather. The Cottage is also known for having some large music events on-site, generally with rather proficient tribute bands. Server Ravan was spectacular. read more

The Cottage - Build your own burger and side of rings. - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

TLDR: Been here twice,and the experiences varied greatly. Both times no reservation, but decently large group. 1st time was good had friendly service and staff. 2nd time was alright, great bartenders but the waitress in the section had attitude. Food is decent for the price, portions are nice, drink prices aren't too bad compared to the area. Will I be back? Probably, it's not a bad place and friendly staff makes better experiences. I've only been here twice both for a work social event, In hindsight my experience has been 50/50 good/bad. The first time was alright not too bad decent service and food, very friendly waiter who was helpful (we were on the patio as it was still semi nice out. Thst night it was a wing special and frankly they were nice and crispy with lots of meat and not mostly breading/bone like some place are. Would happily be back to enjoy more. The 2nd time was not the best experience, we bought tons of booze and apps/food. Yes, we were your worst nightmare an impromptu non-reservation of about 30 people. Huddled around the bar in one area we were told to stay and we weren't allowed to get tables to sit at, drink socialize, because "That's for customers who are buying dinners" ok that's fine, after all we are adults we can stand talk and have a good time. Now I do feel bad for the waitress of the section as you have 30 people (non reservation) in a room standing around a bar talking, it does get loud and she did have a few tables request to sit elsewhere in the place (I don't blame the tables as it was early evening older folks just want an early quiet dinner) When a few people happened to be in her way after about the 4th table being moved (keep in mind this is a bar, it is before 6pm when this occured) she told us with lots of attitude to 'shove' over more to the bar as we were 'disrupting' her section and she was losing customers. She could have said it nicely, she could have not been giving our group dirty looks everytime she walked by, I know its annoying and frustrating (but its still early in the evening), what she could have also done was seat some of us (some did order meals, and she was seating people) and she would still get her 'customers' and tips/wages for the night (as I'm sure what was on her mind was she was losing $). It is the holiday season so I sympathize with her a bit as I too waitress, but you can't let problems show on your face just got to grin and bare it as I've learned through the years of serving. At least the bartender was attentive to us when we flagged him for more drinks and he kept the taps flowing. Besides the initial annoyance of us showing up, he didn't show it and served us with a smile. They did an awesome job! In retrospect for a business yes, it sucks to have that many people walk in at once, but its adults buying drinks and food, profit margins are usually pretty high for that. read more

Food was average, but good. service was excellent very friendly. Loved the outdoor patio!

Have been here several times. The fish fry is good and there are a lot of other choices. Food is good and the outdoor deck is always packed during the summer. read more

I pass by this place all the time, and I'm glad I finally decided to give it a try. Made reservations as their website suggested and got seated right away outside. Had the pretzel bites as an appetizer with honey mustard and nacho cheese. It was pretty good and the serving was perfect for 2. My friend got the turkey bacon wrap and he said it was okay. I ordered the chicken burrito bowl and was really surprised by how flavorful it was. The fresh avocados and the dressing took the bowl over the top and I'd totally get that again. The menu is kinda limited, but the atmosphere is fantastic and my waitress was extremely helpful with her recommendations and checking in regularly. read more

Typical low end bar food, place itself suffers from being just a bit of a clique. Not my favourite in town

I've been going here for years and always liked it. Today I went there for lunch and sat down at the bar. I was minding my own business and playing a game on my phone. I ordered drink and was waiting to place my lunch order and the guy next to me suddenly stars calling me a douschbag and threatens to kick my ass. At first I was polite, being in a family atmosphere and asked him what was his problem and he continued to repeatedly call me a douschebag. I never met this person and never said a word to him , but he was obviously over served at 1:00 in the afternoon . The staff may need some retraining as the bartender referred to this person by name and was the one that served him. I paid my bill for the Bloody Mary that was one of the worst I have ever had. I would not recommend this place to anybody!!! And by the way the service was so bad I waited almost 20 minutes for that Bloody Mary and was there for close to a half hour and still had not been asked by staff for my food order. read more

One star by default but more of an incomplete. My wife & I moved to Crystal Lake last week. We heard/read good things about The Cottage & wanted to check it out for ourselves. We walked up & were promptly seated by the hostess. We sat there for nearly 20 minutes without a single visit from a server. It was not busy (only a handful of tables were occupied) & saw other servers, bartenders, & even a manager walking around. We finally got up & went to another establishment in town. I'm willing to go back at some point since there were a lot of good items to choose from on the menu. However, since they were in no rush to serve us, we will not be in a rush to give them our business. read more

we made open table reservations at 630 at the cottage. When we arrived I overheard the people in front of us come up with no reservations. Then when I walked up with an open table reservation they put us behind the people who had no reservations. Typically an open table reserves a table and would put us infront of walk ins. However, they ignored this and had us waiting outside after many people who just walked in. I would recommend not making a reservation as you would just wait with the walk ins. I also would allow 30 plus minutes of time for waiting as they made us wait 30 min! read more

The Cottage - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

The Cottage has some pretty neat, rustic decor inside and a nice outdoor deck with TVs located off the back patio. Other than that, I'm not sure why you'd come here because it certainly isn't for the quality of the food or the price of drinks. For Crystal Lake, the drinks are overpriced and the food just isn't very good. Essentially, the Cottage has nice atmosphere but it doesn't make up for the quality of anything you're actually paying for. Three stars given for the service and friendliness of the staff, who were accommodating and even gave us some free margaritas that had been made incorrectly for another table. read more

My wife and I had dinner on Saturday, March 23 at The Cottage in Crystal Lake before a show at the Raue Center. It's a pub atmosphere. Very nice. They brought us popcorn and peanuts while we viewed the menu. Had the Saturday special, 6 oz. filet with a baked potato, mushrooms, broccoli, bread roll. Steak was perfectly cooked and tender. Potato was best I've had in a long time. My wife had the steak salad. Steak was thinly cut and tender. All in all, meal was delicious and perfectly portioned. read more

Stopped in with a few friends to try the Tuesday half price pizza. The crust was crispy and tasted great, the toppings we ordered were flavorful and although the sauce was a bit sweeter than I prefer pizza sauce, it hit the spot. Good selection of macro and micro brew beers as well as a full bar. There is a "back room" area that can be reserved if you call ahead for large groups. Service seemed understaffed but the waitresses did a very good job of coping- there's not much more that you can ask for in a situation like that. If the "designated" parking is full, there is a shopping center parking lot less than a block away that seems always to have at least a few spaces available. I felt that overall The Cottage is a solid selection for lunch or dinner. read more

The Cottage - Sign - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

See all

Came here to watch the game on Sunday. Food, service, and drinks were adequate but what really ruined it is the disgusting tables. There are multiple layers of grime. There are crumbs stuck to the table. It makes me nervous to eat at a place that can't clean the tables. What other areas are they not cleaning properly? read more

The Cottage - Black sticky tables - Bars Near Me - Crystal Lake, Illinois

See all

Decided to try a new place for fish fry. Hard to beat Tracks but always worth a try. Took a while for server to stop by. Ordered water & an ice tea. Server dropped off our drinks and we ordered AYCE also asked Xtra lemon. Food came out. No xtra lemon so we asked again. Never received it Server not attentive never came back for a fill up on drinks or anything . Fish was oily and more batter than fish. Oh well on to the next read more