No matter which one you choose you’ll notice that they have no windows looking to the outside world. What does that mean for you? It means that this is quite possibly the darkest restaurant you’ll ever encounter. Step outside after you’re done eating and you feel like your eyes are dilated! Nevertheless, the atmosphere is relaxed, comfortable, and family friendly. When you’re ready to order you don’t wait for a server, but instead walk up to the counter and let them know what strikes your fancy. Then park yourself in one of the wooden booths and wait for your number to be called.
Tonight we have a party of four so we need some variety. We decide on the mozzarella sticks and garlic bread to start us off. For our dinner we share the ½ slab of ribs, ½ pound pub burger, and a large pepperoni pizza. The garlic bread and mozzarella sticks are out first, and it’s a mixed bag. The mozzarella sticks are served piping hot and encased in a wonderful crunchy coating that doesn’t fall apart the minute you bite into them. The “garlic” bread on the other hand should be sued for false advertising. Why? Because there was no garlic flavor! A more apt description would be buttered toast. Tasted ok, but was not what we expected.
Our dinner number is called and we can’t wait to dig in. I sample the burger first, and it’s a half pound of juicy beef that is nestled on a warm buttery bun. The toppings were fresh and the bun was soft and warm, but the meat was a little bland. A dash of salt and pepper would have taken this burger from good to very good instantly. Ribs are next and they were a nice surprise. The ribs were fall off the bone tender and slathered in a peppery barbeque sauce. While I prefer my ribs to have a little char on them, these ribs are definitely worth a try. Pizza is the main attraction here and it doesn’t disappoint. When it comes to pizza, deep dish or thin, crust is king. Unlike many thin pizzas where the crust is floppy, this one is sturdy, crunchy, and delicious. The slightly thicker crust is dusted with cornmeal and is the perfect vehicle to hold the high quality toppings.
Want dessert? Well than you can get an ice cream bar from the cooler because they don’t make any. Final bill including pitchers of pop was about $45. That’s a great value for four people. Overall “Barnaby’s” offers good food, relaxed atmosphere, all at a good price. Rating ** and ½ out of ****.
Locations
636 E Touhy Av
Des Plaines, IL 60018 Map
(847) 297-8866
7650 N Caldwell Ave
Niles, IL 60714 Map
(847) 967-8600
933 W Rand Rd
Arlington Heights, IL 60004 Map
(847) 394-5270
134 W Golf Rd
Schaumburg, IL 60195 Map
(847) 882-3220
960 Skokie Blvd
Northbrook, IL 60062 Map
(847) 498-3900
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