Top Lake Forest Cocktail Party Venues

WEDDINGS All of our weddings are completely customized and our five star culinary team will create individualized menus for you and your guest to enjoy. Our venue is exclusive in the way that we only book one event per day so it truly is your special day. The rustic elegance, five star catering, and attention to details makes ThunderHawk a premier wedding destination. GOLF + CHARITY OUTINGS The game of golf strengthens and builds relationships with clients and co-workers. Whether it is a beer-simmered brat at the turn, a boxed lunch on the course, or cocktails and dinner on the patio, Food For Thought provides exemplary service and outstanding cuisine for your outing. We will tailor-make your day an event that will impress clients, enrich employee experience and be uniquely remembered. CORPORATE + SOCIAL EVENTS Whether you are entertaining clients or employees, our delicious food and attentive service contributes to the success of your event. We consider ourselves your partner and always ensure that you receive the best value. We strive to make each corporate event the most impressive your company has ever hosted.

• Spaces for 60 Guests

Family owned and operated since 1995, brothers Bobby and Augie Arifi have created a warm, welcoming neighborhood spot with a contemporary italian flair. Café Lucci fuses inventive cuisine, mindfully-sourced fresh ingredients, an award winning wine program, and impeccable service for a sophisticated, yet comfortable dining experience. Bobby, a wine connoisseur, is in charge of dining room service and the wine program at Café Lucci. His experience in restaurants dates back to 1985 when he worked at Ristorante Agostino. Augie, also known as “The Mad Chef”, is a self-taught chef who joined Bobby at Ristorante Agostino in 1986. His cooking style can be characterized as Italian eclectic, with a wonderful variety of dishes from many regions of Italy. Throughout his travels, he has also infused pan-mediterranean, American, and French influences into his menu. Café Lucci’s beautiful banquet room accommodates groups of 30 to 60, providing an ideal setting for intimate luncheons, elegant evening entertaining or business functions. Adjacent to our private party room, is the “Wine Alcove”, an extraordinary space that seats 12 in luxurious comfort at a spectacular wood banquet table surrounded on either side by beautiful custom built wine storage cabinets featuring enhanced temperature control. Perfect for wine aficionados who would enjoy hosting private wine tastings or intimate dinners, the alcove also boasts a state-of-the-art 50-inch flat screen monitor with internet and laptop hook-up, making it the ideal nook for small lunch and dinner meetings.

• Spaces for 75-130 Guests
• 1 Event Space
• 1 Meeting Space

• Spaces for 70-220 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 3 Bars
• 1 Venue with Activities

Mount Prospect Public House is a versatile private event and rental venue located in the heart of downtown Mount Prospect, directly across from the Metra station and just minutes from O’Hare. With capacity for up to 220 guests, our spacious venue offers a unique alternative to traditional banquet halls and event spaces. Featuring two full bars, a large private event area, billiards, electronic darts, multiple TVs, gaming, and live entertainment capabilities, the space can be adapted for a wide variety of events and productions. We welcome corporate events, private parties, rehearsal dinners, networking events, fundraisers, team outings, brand activations, photo and video shoots, filming, content creation, and other creative productions. Our space offers the character and atmosphere of a neighborhood public house while providing the flexibility needed for both intimate gatherings and larger events. Private and semi-private rental options are available, and our team works directly with organizers to customize the space, food and beverage options, entertainment, and overall experience. For companies, event planners, photographers, filmmakers, production teams, and organizations looking for a distinctive Chicagoland location, Mount Prospect Public House offers convenience, flexibility, personality, and plenty of room to create something memorable. Located at 18 W Busse Ave in downtown Mount Prospect. Your Neighborhood. Your House.

• Spaces for 130-250 Guests
• 1 Event Space
• 1 Meeting Space
• 1 Venue with Activities

The Woman's Club of Wilmette is an inclusive organization that brings women together to provide education, leadership and service to make a lasting impact on our community. Our venue provides a fresh, modern interior inside a newly restored historic building. With our large, professional "caterer's dream" kitchen and contemporary design of the Phoenix Room, our modern space is ideal for hosting board meetings, business luncheons, grad parties, and fundraisers of up to 130 people.

Centered in the heart of downtown Arlington Heights, the Metropolis Ballroom is the sought after venue for today's clientele. With easy access to and from major expressways and one block from the Metra Northwest Train Station, Arlington Heights is conveniently located to O'Hare Airport, downtown Chicago, and surrounding Northwest Suburbs. ​Our space is handicap accessible with an elevator for your convenience, complimentary parking garage next door, surrounding parks and restaurants. It's easy for you to see why the Metropolis Ballroom is the perfect location for hosting and attending weddings and events. ​The Metropolis Ballroom is partnered with Courtyard Marriot South of Arlington Heights. The Marriot offers complimentary shuttles to and from the Ballroom and discounted room rates.

The Club at Wynstone offers a picturesque setting and top-notch amenities that promise to make your event truly memorable. As a private, membership only club, it's an honor for us to host private events sponsored by our membership community. Whether it’s a joyous family gathering, a milestone birthday, or an elegant soirée, our club offers the perfect setting for your special events. From our carefully curated cuisine to our dedication to detail, the possibilities are endless. Our team will work closely with you to ensure every detail is perfect. From initial planning to day-of coordination, we handle all the logistics so you can enjoy a stress-free experience and focus on celebrating with your guests.

• Spaces for 50 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Wandering Tree Estate is a private luxury venue that has been creating lasting memories and fantastic events for over 50 years. Ten acres of gorgeous gardens showcase nature at its glorious best. Everywhere you turn you are surrounded with lush lawns and exquisite landscaping. The famous outdoor Model Railroad Gardens are a fantastic setting for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. There is even a private Model Railroad Museum displaying the City of Chicago that is available for you and your guests. Photo opportunities are everywhere (check out the four acre private lake, the beautiful Japanese gardens with seven waterfalls and a red bridge, and the lush herbacous border gardens with tropical plants and trees). Unlike many venues, Wandering Tree Estate does not offer any price packages. The maximum number of guests at any single event is 50 seated and standing. The total number of guests includes the Bride and Groom / Host(s). The number of guests does not include any vendors (such as catering staff, if any; photographer; videographer; etc.). The rental fee only includes the use of the Estate during the daytime (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. outdoors and/or indoors if necessary). The rental fee is determined by the total number of guests. The number of guests does not include any vendors (such as catering staff, if any; photographer; videographer; etc.). The price is the rental fee for the Estate only and does not include food and drink. The Estate is rented out for only one specific event per day. So you will enjoy the only celebration taking place at Wandering Tree Estate on your preferred date! During the week, Wandering Tree Estate is available for private events. The rental fee varies depending on the time of year and guest count. Please give us a call at 847.381.1907 to determine the best price package available for you and your budget.

• Spaces for 120-150 Guests

A charming and family-owned mini banquet hall situated in the bustling town of Arlington Heights. Our team takes great pride in offering a diverse selection of international cuisine, ensuring that every taste is catered to. For any special event we strive to be the premier destination for a flawless and enchanting experience. Come and visit us at International Banquets, and let us help make your event a truly unforgettable one.

• Spaces for 80-150 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Copper & Caviar is a gorgeous loft event space in the heart of Evanston's Hill Art District. This modern blank canvas is the perfect space to transform into the event of your dreams. From social soirees to business networking events, and baby showers to intimate receptions, Copper & Caviar can transform into whatever you need it to be.

• Spaces for 12-180 Guests
• 6 Restaurants

Terra & Vine features various spaces that can perfectly accommodate your guest for any event. Offering casual and rustic Mediterranean fare, with an Italian emphasis, Terra & Vine is perfect for hosting a rehearsal dinner, birthday, corporate outing, or any other social event for up to 180 people. Private events are available for breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner and cocktail receptions for groups of all sizes. Your meetings and special events will be truly momentous occasions when you reserve one of our beautifully appointed private and semiprivate rooms. Our dedicated Special Events team will gladly assist you with any additional special needs including floral arrangements, entertainment, specialty cakes and more to ensure your event is truly inspired and memorable.

• Spaces for 20-600 Guests
• 2 Event Spaces
• 1 Meeting Space

Welcome to the new Victoria in the Park, a premiere destination for elegant weddings, memorable celebrations, and outstanding corporate events. Victoria in the Park offers guests an exclusive-use venue, ensuring that a single party has the use of the entire building for their event. The main ballroom features dramatic two-story floor-to-ceiling windows with views to an outdoor patio and private pond, with fountains and other water features. An elegant circular staircase leads from the ballroom to an open upper-level suite with dressing room, salon, billiard room, and lounge with a full bar and kitchen. Contact us for the personalized attention you need to create the wedding or event of your dreams.

• Spaces for 350-500 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Meeting Space

The Doubletree Hotel Chicago - Arlington Heights is located in the heart of northwest Chicago's Greater Woodfield area, a perfect location for business and leisure travelers. Our hotel is within a short driving distance to downtown Chicago, so stay and enjoy a show at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, shopping at the Woodfield Mall, watching the horses run at Arlington Park Racetrack, and attending concerts and sports at the Sears Centre. Plus, convenient access to the I-290 makes transportation to surrounding areas a breeze. With over 8,600 square feet of event space and the ability to accommodate groups of up to 500 people, the Doubletree Hotel Chicago Arlington Heights state-of-the-art facilities include 11 function rooms and a seasonal outdoor terrace.

• Spaces for 325-550 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

Located just 30 minutes from the heart of Chicago, there are many activities to do in Evanston and in the neighboring areas of the North Shore area. The full service hotel offers many amenities, including free WiFi, dining options, and comfortable rooms. With stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, the Hilton Orrington/Evanston Hotel is a desirable location for a wedding, corporate dinner, or fundraiser. If you are interested in planning an event here, they offer many packages that can be customized or adjusted to meet your requests. They have over 70 years of experience hosting and planning events and weddings.

• Spaces for 150-200 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Thanks for "finding" us! Found is a kitchen, a social house and a restaurant with a mission. Its rustic new American dishes change with the market and season and are served in a relaxed, creative atmosphere inspired by 1920’s Bohemian Paris and icons of the Beat Generation. Here at found we offer a variety of event spaces perfect for your next gathering! Our “Salon Prive” is a private space inspired by the great salons of yester-year; featuring vintage doors for complete privacy and a state of the art audio visual system. “The Library” is a warm, intimate space filled with vintage “finds” and books, custom sliding doors and dark wood features. Our “Lounge” is at the heart of Found and perfectly embodies the vibe of “Gertrude Stein’s salon of 1920 Paris meets Jack Kerouac in owner Amy Morton’s living room’. Our lounge is smart, relaxed and enhanced with a flood of candlelight during evening events. If you are interested in more space we do offer the option of a full venue buy out as well so please just ask. Since its inception in November 2012, Found has flourished as a gathering place for the community to eat, drink, and think in a welcoming and genuine environment. At the Evanston eatery, Amy's vision of a kitchen and social house comes to life in a relaxed, creative atmosphere inspired by 1920's Bohemian Paris and icons of the Beat Generation. Just as wonderful as the vibe is the food, created by Chef Nicole Pederson. Her "flexitarian menu" highlights simple, striking dishes with fresh, local ingredients and changes often to reflect what is in season. Made up mostly of shared plates, Found's menu offers a taste for everyone, including the ever-popular lamb meatballs, seasonal flatbreads, knife-and-fork sandwiches, and much more. Even in the cocktails, Found takes the phrase "locally-found" quite literally, with recipes featuring neighboring labels such as North Shore Distillery and F.E.W. Spirits, whose distillery is less than a mile down the road!

Experience the personalized approach from our event specialists to the beautifully curated spaces of Chez Hotel! Our idyllic setting on our private Rooftop makes the perfect backdrop for that magical and unforgettable moment when you say your vows! An exceptionally well prepared on-site event team will help you realize your vision and ensure your big day experience is a memorable one. Let us be the place to celebrate your love and happiest moment!

• Spaces for 150-350 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 2 Landmarks
• 2 Total Spaces

Host your special event at The Woman’s Club of Evanston! The stately, historic Clubhouse, built in 1912, exudes warmth and timeless elegance. With two levels, there are lovely spaces for each part of your event. Easy parking and hotels are a few minutes walk away. Select a caterer from our list, and customize your event. You may purchase your own alcoholic beverages with no corkage fees. All beverages must be served by licensed bartenders. The Clubhouse provides: dinnerware, tables & chairs, audiovisual equipment, and pianos.

• Spaces for 30-350 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 3 Event Spaces

The Crystal Ballroom & Lounge boasts over 6,000 sq. ft. in event space in the elegant setting of the North Shore's newest and most luxurious building. Completely restored in 2014 to its original glory from the roaring 1920's, the venue offers an opulent two-story ballroom, an adjoining lounge, and ample pre-function cocktail space. The Crystal Ballroom & Lounge is the perfect place for those seeking that extravagant city feel for their event without the extravagant cost. We are located in the heart of vibrant downtown Evanston and have our own luxury mini coach with a private driver for those who would like to tour the area or choose a special lakefront spot for their event photo’s. You can also take comfort in knowing that your special day is in the hands of the most professional, creative, and experienced catering and event coordination staff available. We pride ourselves on our extraordinary cuisine, personalized service, and our exceptional attention to detail.

• Spaces for 200 Guests

Built in 1894, The Dawes House is a stunning historical mansion perfect for hosting guests for any event. Events held here becomes a truly memorable and unique experience. The house makes a wonderful venue for holiday parties, intimate gatherings, weddings, non-profit events, and more. The three-and-a- half story mansion has twenty-five rooms, six bedrooms, seven bathrooms and eleven fireplaces. With so many different spaces with their own unique style, there is no limit to the type of atmosphere you're looking to create for your special event.