Dining out: Postino opens in Vernon Hills and Winter Wonderland returns to JoJo’s in Naperville
Postino makes Illinois debut
Postino, an all-day restaurant and wine bar that touts a “come-as-you-are” spirit, opens its first Illinois location Saturday, Nov. 7, in Vernon Hills.
The eatery, at 887 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Mellody Farm, mixes wine, shareable food and “laid-back hospitality” in an eclectic atmosphere that features a seasonal enclosed patio.
The menu is highlighted by the brand’s signature bruschetta boards alongside charcuterie, panini, salads and shareable plates. A “Snacky Things” section features grilled steak and chicken skewers, shrimp scampi, crispy cauliflower and smoked salmon. The beverage program centers on more than 20 artisanal wines available by the glass, complemented by local and regional craft beers, spritzes and cocktails.
Postino will celebrate its grand opening with giveaways, including a complimentary cookie from Lavish Bakehouse and a Postino-branded trucker hat to the first 100 guests. They’ll also donate $1 from every bruschetta board sold on Saturday to support Urban Farm at Mellody Farm.
They’ll open at 11 a.m. daily for lunch and dinner.
Another new spot in Lake County
Mehfil Coffee House, a new South Asian and Middle Eastern-inspired coffee and dessert lounge, has opened at 401 N. Riverside Drive in Gurnee.
Mehfil, which translates to “a gathering” in English, is a family-owned shop featuring Persian- and Moroccan-inspired majlis seating, lanterns and a carpet feature wall.
Specialties include Pakistani karak chai, Aden chai, and lattes such as Ras Malai, Pistachio and Honey Cardamom, alongside crepes and the Gulab Jamun waffle.
Walking Shawarma
Fast-casual brand Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill has introduced its take on the “walking taco” with a new limited-time menu item.
The Walking Shawarma takes Stacy’s Pita Chips and covers it with proteins like chicken shawarma, fresh toppings and housemade sauces.
It’s $8.95 and will be available through early 2027.
Wines of Tuscany
Il Mio in Clarendon Hills will host an exclusive five-course wine dinner in partnership with Tuscany’s Rocca delle Macìe winery on Monday, Nov. 9.
Guests will enjoy a chef-curated menu where each dish is paired with wines from the historic Chianti Classico estate, starting with a first course of oysters Rockefeller and olive caponata paired with a 2024 Moonlite chardonnay.
Herb-crusted pork tenderloin paired with a 2024 Rocca delle Macìe Chianti Classico is next, followed by paired courses that include lobster ravioli, filet mignon with truffled mashed potatoes and chocolate hazelnut gelato.
It’s $120 per person and reservations can be made via Resy.
Tis the season
JoJo’s ShakeBar is bringing it’s annual Winter Wonderland pop-up back to Naperville early this year.
JoJo’s Winter Wonderland will open Saturday, Nov. 7, at 5 Jackson Ave., giving guests more time to soak up the holiday spirit and over-the-top decor, including Christmas trees, 8-foot nutcrackers, giant ornaments and twinkling string lights throughout.
The all-ages holiday menu features the Winter Wonderland Biggie Shake and Peppermint Party hot chocolate, Rudolph’s hot chocolate flight, the Grinch dirty soda and Naughty or Spice dirty soda. Adults can enjoy Santa’s sangria, eggnog espresso martini and more.
Events, including ornament painting, mixology classes, pictures with Santa and more, will take place throughout the rest of the year.
Happy anniversary
Labriola in Oak Brook is celebrating its 18th anniversary on Monday, Nov. 9, by rolling back the price of its famous Richie Burger to $9.99, the same as it was in 2008. The offer is for dine-in only at the restaurant at 3011 Butterfield Road.
Helping hands
Emmett’s Brewing Company is bringing back its “Community Table” initiative for a second year.
Now through Thanksgiving, Emmett’s will provide a free carryout meal to individuals and families who could use a little help. Each meal includes a turkey club sandwich, a choice of side and a cup of soup.
There’s no questions asked or explanation needed, just stop by or call either the West Dundee or Palatine location and let them know you’d like a Community Table meal.
Emmett’s is also helping local food pantries by collecting donations of nonperishable food items, toiletries and everyday essentials at the restaurants at 128 West Main St. in West Dundee and 110 N. Brockway St. in Palatine.
• Send dining events to rwest@dailyherald.com.