Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code at 1776 Restaurant?

There isn't one. Come as you are — genuinely. We mean that. Whether you're dressed up for a big celebration or you came straight from the school pickup line, you belong here. 1776 is fine dining that doesn't take itself too seriously. The food is exceptional and the atmosphere is elevated, but the welcome is the same for everyone. Bring your appetite and good company. That's all we ask.

Is 1776 Restaurant gluten-free?

Completely. Every single thing that comes out of our kitchen is gluten-free — not as an afterthought or a modification, but by design. This one is personal. Our owner Rhienna has Celiac Disease herself, along with other food allergies, and she built this kitchen knowing exactly what it feels like to need a place you can actually trust. You can eat here without the mental gymnastics. We get it, and we've got you.

That said — our kitchen does work with other common allergens including tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, fish, dairy, eggs, soy, and sesame. Please always let your server know about any allergies when you arrive. We want your evening to be worry-free, and that starts with an honest conversation.

Does 1776 Restaurant take reservations?

Yes, and we genuinely recommend them — especially on weekends. You can book online through OpenTable at 1776restaurant.com/reservations or give us a call at 815.356.1776 during business hours. Walk-ins are always welcome on a first-come, first-served basis.

Planning something for a larger group? For parties of five or more, please reach out to us directly at rhienna@1776restaurant.com or call us. We want to make sure we're ready for you.

What are the hours at 1776 Restaurant?

We're open Wednesday and Thursday from 4:00 to 10:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 4:00 to 10:30 PM. Closed Sunday through Tuesday.

Betsy's Garden and our Outdoor Dining Patio are both open daily, weather permitting — because some evenings just call for being outside. Hours may vary seasonally, so check our website or social media for the latest.

How much does dinner cost at 1776 Restaurant?

Most guests spend somewhere in the $50–$100 per person range including food and drinks. Nosh and starters typically run $12–$18, entrées $28–$48, and desserts around $10–$14. Our wine list covers a wide range — from approachable everyday bottles to something really special for the occasion.

And if you're joining us on a Wednesday — every bottle under $76 on our list is half price through our Winesday program. It's one of our favorite things we do, and it makes a Wednesday feel like a Saturday.

Where is 1776 Restaurant located and is there parking?

We're at 397 West Virginia Street in downtown Crystal Lake, right on Route 14. Parking is easy — there's a lot directly in front of the restaurant and an additional lot just across Washington Street. If you're coming by train, we're a short walk from the Crystal Lake Metra station, which we love.

Is 1776 Restaurant good for a special occasion or date night?

It really is — and we take that seriously. There is nothing better than being the place where someone's anniversary is celebrated, where a birthday dinner becomes a memory, where a first date turns into a story worth telling. If you're celebrating something, mention it in your reservation notes and we'll do everything we can to make the evening feel like it. We love a reason to celebrate, and honestly, you don't even need one.

Does 1776 Restaurant have outdoor seating?

Yes — and we're pretty proud of our outdoor options. We have two distinct experiences, both open daily weather permitting.

Betsy's Garden is our casual outdoor escape featuring the Airstream bar. No reservations, no formality — just cozy cocktails, delicious nosh, and desserts in a space that feels like a little world of its own. Come as you are, stay as long as you like. First-come, first-served.

Our Outdoor Dining Patio is a covered, full-service experience with the complete 1776 menu and reservations recommended. Same great food and hospitality, open air.

Two very different vibes. Both very us.

Is 1776 Restaurant kid-friendly?

Absolutely — kids are always welcome at 1776. We have a dedicated kids' menu, and our 100% gluten-free kitchen means little ones with dietary restrictions are in good hands too. We believe everyone deserves good food, and that includes the youngest guests at the table.

Can I buy gift cards for 1776 Restaurant?

You can, and they make genuinely good gifts — the kind people actually get excited about. Gift cards start at $25 and can be purchased online or in person during business hours. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, Mother's Day, Father's Day, or any moment when you want to give someone an evening they'll actually look forward to.

Does 1776 Restaurant have A GOOD WINE SELECTION?

We do — and we're pretty proud of it. 1776 has earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence three years running — 2023, 2024, and 2025 — which makes us the only restaurant in McHenry County to hold that distinction. Our list features over 400 selections, curated by our Wine & Spirits Director Erik Nordstrom, who genuinely loves helping guests find something they'll love.

Whether you know exactly what you want or you're open to something new, we'll find the right bottle. That's what we're here for.

What is Winesday at 1776 Restaurant?

Winesday is exactly what it sounds like — our way of turning Wednesday into something to look forward to. Every bottle on our wine list priced under $76 is available at half price, every single Wednesday. No hoops, no gimmicks. Just great wine at a price that lets you be a little more adventurous.

It's become one of our favorite nights of the week, and honestly? Wednesday has never been better. Reservations recommended because people have figured out how good it is.

Is 1776 Restaurant kid-friendly?

Absolutely — bring the whole family. Kids are always welcome here, and we have a dedicated kids' menu so the little ones have something to be excited about too. Our 100% gluten-free kitchen means families dealing with food allergies or Celiac Disease can breathe easy — everyone gets to eat well. We believe good food is for everyone, and we mean everyone.

Does 1776 Restaurant offer carryout or delivery?

Carryout — yes. Delivery — no. We made the decision not to participate in third-party delivery services, and we stand by it. When you get 1776 food, we want it to be exactly as it was intended. For carryout, call 815.356.1776 and dial #5 during regular business hours. Everything on our menu is available to go, made fresh from scratch, 100% gluten-free, the same as if you were sitting right here with us.

What is the cancellation policy for reservations at 1776 Restaurant?

Stuff happens — we get it, truly. Life is unpredictable and we are understanding people. All we ask is a 24-hour heads-up if you need to cancel or make changes to your reservation. You can call us at 815.356.1776, use the link in your confirmation email, or text us through the OpenTable app. Easy.

Out of respect for our team and the other guests who wanted your table, any no-shows or cancellations after noon on the day of your reservation are subject to a $25 per person fee through our third-party reservation system. We really don't want to charge it — a quick call or text is all it takes.

Does 1776 Restaurant have a wine locker program?

We do. Our wine locker program is one of those little things that makes dining at 1776 feel a bit more like home. Members keep a personal selection stored right here at the restaurant, ready and waiting at the table whenever they come in. It's a lovely way to make 1776 part of your regular life — and to always have exactly the bottle you love.

For details on availability and how to join, reach out to us at erik@1776restaurant.com or ask your server on your next visit. We'd love to have you as part of the locker family.

Who owns 1776 Restaurant?

1776 is locally owned and operated by Rhienna McClain, a Crystal Lake native who spent years working in the local nonprofit world before opening the restaurant. She built 1776 around a belief that has never wavered — that fine dining belongs to everyone, that good food is a right and not a privilege, and that a restaurant can be a genuine force for good in the community it calls home.

Her own experience with Celiac Disease and multiple food allergies shaped the kitchen from day one. She knows what it feels like to walk into a restaurant and not be sure if you can eat safely. That's never how you'll feel at 1776.

She's here most nights. Feel free to say hello.