2024 Best of the Best Winner: Old Republic
Every year, as part of the Daily Herald Media Group’s Readers’ Choice program, we ask readers to vote for their favorites in more than 200 categories, including the areas of dining, entertainment, business, shopping, places and people.
This year, readers responded with more than 44,000 votes, which we narrowed down to the top vote-getters in each category, and featured in our Top Picks special section.
Readers voted again for their favorites — 88,000 votes! — to narrow it down to the 2024 Readers’ Choice Best of the Best Winners!
We are proud to showcase some of these winners with more information about who they are and what they offer.
OLD REPUBLIC
2024 Readers’ Choice Best of the Best:
• Best Sports Bar & Grill
Old Republic is an indoor/outdoor upbeat hub in Elgin with classic American eats, beer & cocktails, plus live music and TV sports.
What do customers say they like about the way you do business?
We have an unparalleled atmosphere, both inside and outside, combined with great food, great service and legendary experience.
What have you learned over the years that helps make your business a Readers’ Choice Best of the Best pick?
Guests that enjoy visiting a place for drinks, dinner, music or a ballgame are looking for incredible value and consistency. The Old Republic has become the popular hub that it is by listening to feedback and by having a wonderful staff!
What makes your business or service unique?
Old Republic is home to the largest and busiest outdoor patio in Kane County — combined with over 60 televisions both inside and outside along with live music, daily specials and unique events
Why do you think you were voted a Readers’ Choice Best of the Best?
This award is credit to our wonderful staff — many of the 85 employees have been at the OR since the beginning in 2018.
What’s the hottest trend in your industry?
High quality, local Ingredients.
Does your company donate time or money to any philanthropic causes? If so, what causes?
Old Republic donates to several local charities and sports programs.
Old Republic participates in many festival events put on by the City of Elgin in addition to many fundraisers for local schools and community groups.
What community involvement does your business participate in?
We give our employees the tools they need to exceed — fresh ingredients, cleanliness, the best equipment that is maintained combined with honesty, professionalism and honest wages
What is one interesting fact about your company that most people may not know?
Old Republic and Our Bear Emblem come from the state of California, known as the Republic of California. The word “Republic” means a “group of people among equals.”