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One of my favorites is Cerare's in Monmouth. A little pricey but food and atmosphere is great.

There's a place called China Palace in a little nook by Springhill Mall called Springhill Fashion corner. It's decorated cutely and has awesome food at moderate prices. Sometimes they have Sushi and a bar. You should call ahead to see if they still have sushi and if the bar is open instead of just counting on it.
Then there's The Village Squire in Dundee. They have some crazy rooms that feel like you're in a Medieval pirate ship/dungeon with stained glass windows and a fireplace. It's right on the river so you can get there early, feed the ducks some popcorn from a nearby store and go for a walk down the cute manicured shore of the river with your friend. They have strong drinks and live musicians on Fridays and Saturdays. I recommend ordering the Rum Barrel and some Saganaki flaming cheese before dinner and don't let them stiff you on the free popcorn. You should order a light dinner such as a salad or share a pizza. the dinners are huge.
El Molino is a very high class mexican food place on Route 25 near Lake Cook Road. They have gnarly drinks, the best Mexican food you can imagine and loads of atmosphere. Warning: The owner WILL eject rowdies. I recommend the pitcher of margaritas and any food at all.
Village Pub pizza place in Carpentersville Rt 25 has the best pizza in the world and a bar. The only thing is that the boss has a unique sense of decorating. You'll see what I mean.
Baba Lucci on Golf Road and 72. This place has a bar and a goat cheese appetizer that's to die for. It's cutely decorated, normal prices. Their pasta is really good and served in an unpretentious atmosphere. It's a small place full of nice people.