must-visit tasting rooms and wine bars to try this fall

from Starved Rock Country Magazine - Fall 2022

Speakeasy cocktail lounge

Garden-style al fresco courtyard Tomahawk ribeye

Huckleberry Hooch

Gaetano’s Vault also features an al fresco courtyard, designed to have a relaxing garden-style atmosphere. The space features two more sprawling themed murals, transporting you back to old-world Italy. In keeping with Gaetano’s commitment to honoring and elevating, this nostalgic atmosphere is perfectly paired with a state-of-the-art 20 tap self-serve craft beer and wine wall. This fun and convenient three season amenity is a great way to enjoy your favorite beverage while soaking in live music on the courtyard. More than just a beautiful atmosphere, Gaetano’s Vault features a modern kitchen lead by Executive Chef Charlie Klinefelter – which is serving up a curated menu featuring only the finest prime cut steaks, burgers, chops, pasta and seafood options. Specializing in aged certified prime Angus beef steaks, alongside a delectable line of signature gourmet burgers, fresh flown-in seafood and authentic Italian fare, this menu is already receiving rave reviews from bon vivant patrons.

Consider the classic Bone-in Ribeye, a generous 20oz. Stockyard hand-cut Angus steak, seasoned with kosher salt, cracked pepper and char crust – grilled to your desired temperature, and served with your choice of two sides. Looking for something a little lighter? Don’t miss a chance to try the legendary ‘Untouchables’ burger, made with 100% ground short rib blend (the preferred burger served at the Masters Tournament in Augusta), maple smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, smoked cheddar and gouda cheese – served on a toasted seeded brioche bun. You’ll also find vegetarian fare like Pad-Thai Pasta, made with imported rice noodles, edamame beans, celery, carrots, red onions, red and yellow bell peppers, asparagus, zucchini and yellow squash tossed in Pad-Thai sauce.

Rick and Stephanie Wilkinson, owners, along with General Manager Duaine Hepner and Chef Klinefelter and his team, have surprised the Starved Rock Country region with one of the best new culinary experiences on offer. Beyond their dedication to fresh and high quality ingredients, beyond the detailed decor and passion for the building’s past, this restaurant serves as a beacon to guests visiting the area’s natural amenities and invites them to dine, imbibe and return to Streator’s historic downtown.

200 East Main Street • Streator, IL 61364 • (815) 822-9000

STEP BACK INTO THE ROARING TWENTIES

Prohibition-themed restaurant, speakeasy bar and event center built inside a 1913 bank

Prime steaks • Burgers • Chops Pasta • Seafood • Specialty drinks

200 East Main Street • Streator, IL 61364 (815) 822-9000

ON THE COVER

Karen Loftus is the creative mind behind the bright sunflower poster featured on the cover� Learn more about the vintage poster contest on P� 38�

Inside

MUST SEE

10 CALENDAR Live music, outdoor festivals and more — here’s what’s happening in September and October

17 7 SMALL BUT MIGHTY NATURE DESTINATIONS Find outdoor recreation beyond the region’s largest state parks

23 IN FALL SWING Discover the colors and activities of autumn at these nearby parks

LODGINGS

26 ‘OUR LITTLE SLICE OF HEAVEN’ Experience nature firsthand at Dana’s Retreat and 2nd Hand Ranch & Rescue

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

32 FEATURED ARTIST Gavin Finefield’s pottery is inspired by his Starved Rock Country home

36 FEATURED ARTIST Susan Burton specializes in community-based mosaics and sculptures

38 VINTAGE TRAVEL POSTERS 18 poster entries from the Starved Rock contest

DINING & DRINKING

41 ‘THE EPITOME OF CUSTOMIZED’ Launch Kitchen has launched onto the foodie scene of Starved Rock Country with seasonal ingredients and outdoor space