Hungry Z’s review of Al Capones Hideaway

by Zoran Sopic

Rewind the clock to 1920’s Chicago, consumption of alcohol was prohibited by law. Thirsty Prohibition Era patrons found solace in a little place along the Fox River. That’s because back in 1927 (until 1938), Gladys Reitmayer and her husband owned the reputed Al Capone’s Hideaway. They made their own beer in a hidden cellar behind the chicken coop and pumped it to their patrons through an intricate copper tubing system that remains underground to this day.

Thankfully the folks at “Al Capone’s Hideaway” no longer depend on copper tubing and gangsters to serve patrons their suds. Although calling this place a “Hideaway” still holds true. In fact, finding this place is half the fun! Poorly lit side streets, hills, and forest preserves are all things you have to drive through to get to this unique dining destination. To help keep you on track, there are small signs placed on trees pointing you toward the hideout. Park your car along the river and stroll up to the first house on your right.

Now that your first leg of the adventure is done, your dining adventure begins. With a hostess dressed like a flapper and servers suited up as “wise guys”, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. What you’ll experience is a lot of food!

Go ahead and start with the wonderful, chilled, jumbo shrimp cocktail. Truth be told, unless you have a large appetite, you may want to skip appetizers. Large cuts of steak are the focus, although unlike many steakhouses, more than the meat is included. To my delight soup (potato or onion), salad, rolls, and potato are included with your meal.

My bottomless stomach yearned for the 32oz porterhouse! A manly cut of tender beef topped with a wonderful herb butter that blanketed my entire plate! Not in the mood for steak? The lightly battered jumbo shrimp basket satisfies and comes with all the fixings.

Basic desserts range from dense white chocolate cheese cake to an insanely rich flourless chocolate cake.

Dinner for two with drinks + tip runs about $115, an overall good value for the amount of food you receive. Blend retro atmosphere, quality food, and a little adventure, and it’s easy to see why Chicago’s best known gangster hid out at this gem along the river. Rating *** out of ****.

Location

35W337 Riverside Drive

St. Charles, Illinois 60174