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Article updated: 1/9/2013 9:12 AM

Lake County eateries join winter-friendly patio trend

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Lake Zurich village board members this week gave formal approval for Beelow's Steakhouse to have an outdoor patio that can be enjoyed by patrons in the winter and whenever there is nasty weather. Glass panels and a canopy make the patio a nice winter spot.

Photo courtesy Dan Beelow

Casa Bonita Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar in Libertyville recently installed shatterproof glass panels and heaters so its open-air patio doesn't have to close in the winter. Restaurant analyst Donna Hood Crecca says it's part of a national trend.

Photo courtesy Barry Sigale

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At least two Lake County restaurants have become part of what some industry analysts say is a trend to make the most of outdoor patio space in the winter. Beelow's Steakhouse in Lake Zurich and Casa Bonita Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar in downtown Libertyville now have removable glass panels, heating elements and more so the patio tables don't have to go unused in chilly or inclement weather.