5 /5 Mischelle Lischewski: Lake County has many upscale restaurants, but for me, the dining experience at Primo is the absolute best. The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated with sparkling light fixtures and rich wood, mixing a vibrant downtown Chicago vibe with a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. Service is warm, knowledgeable, and attentive. The food at Primo is delicious. The owners’ love of great food shows in the menu, going way beyond standard Italian fare, including outstanding steaks and seafood. One of the ways I tend to judge the skill of a restaurant’s kitchen is how they cook steak, and there is none better than Primo. I like my steak cooked rare/med rare, and while most restaurants overcook, Primo nails it perfectly every time. Primo’s menu stays true to their customers’ favorites while always introducing new specials and surprising twists that elevate the food, such as hen-of-the-wood mushrooms (to die for) or a fresh, herbaceous chimichurri. Cocktails are expertly mixed, tasty, and beautiful, with special touches like Luxardo cherries, dehydrated citrus, fresh herbs, and fresh flower garnishes. Primo has an incredible selection of wines. As a wine novice, ordering wine can sometimes be intimidating, but Primo’s extraordinary sommelier, Marko, makes the wine experience approachable and accessible to everyone from beginners to connoisseurs. Above all, what really makes Primo stand out from other restaurants is the people. From the first time my husband and I stepped into Primo, everyone treated us like family. While some restaurants make you feel like an outsider if you are not one of their regulars, Primo understands that if you treat people right, new customers soon become loyal regulars. They have assembled an amazing staff of professionals who genuinely care. Whether you have a special occasion or "just because", make a reservation to sit at one of Marko’s tables or enjoy a fantastic cocktail with Jancy at the bar, and you will become a loyal regular in no time, too!
