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Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn Reviews List

Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn

Offering locally grown, seasonal ingredients & precise service, the Waterleaf restaurant offers a contemporary approach to fine dining.

On Select Mondays(International Cuisine) and Tuesdays (Classical French Cuisine)evenings, The Students in the Culinary program at The College of DuPage host their Student Dinners at The Waterleaf Restaurant.
See more Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn details
157 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
(157 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 157 reviews
5 stars
(96)
4 stars
(50)
3 stars
(10)
2 stars
(1)
1 star
(0)
Food 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Service 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Ambiance 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Noise Level
1.3 / 3
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • special occasion(99)
  • fit for foodies(97)
  • neighborhood gem(76)
  • notable wine list(74)
  • romantic(53)
  • good for groups(45)
Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn Reviews List
Review 1 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing suburban find!!! Amazing!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We were so glad we tried this restaurant. The location can throw you...get over it!! The service was outstanding from the moment we walked in the door. The food was one of the best in the suburbs. I had a appetizer of sweetbreads with sweet potato flan and pomegranate sauce that was perhaps the best I've ever had. My husband has a pork shoulder ravioli that was a big delicious pillow. We had entrees of rabbit loin that was tender and perfectly seasoned as well as bouilibasse filled with loser, shrimp, fish and scallops in a delicious saffron broth. Wine list was large and had many great affordable options. Prices were very affordable for food that matched some of the best in the city! We will definitely be back! Go!!!"
Dined on 02/22/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 2 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Classy without pretense

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"They paid attention to us, not overbearing attention, but really paying attention to what we wanted. Classy, unpretentious service.
The food was good. My wife had a stuffed fish that she found outstanding, and I had short ribs, a heavy meat that I am learning I don't like. My bad. It was prepared well.
The understated contemporary decor finishes the experience. Everything is comfortable and plain -- interesting, comfortable contemporary furniture that has no "edge" to it. I suspect that the huge, box light fixtures are what most people find interesting. Again, the light fixtures are unique without screaming at you."
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2011
0points
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Review 3 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Try it!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We go out for so many dinners that are non-memorable. This was the best meal I've had in the western suburbs in our 9 months of living here. The waiter was personable and attentive. I loved my salad and the pork chop. Everything was perfectly seasoned and cooked. We even had 2 surprises...a surprise starter courtesy of the chef and chocolate covered strawberries that came complimentary with our check.
We were curious about the small inn (6 rooms) attached to the restaurant. The waiter arranged a tour for us right after dinner. We were able to check out the boutique style rooms and even got a tour of the culinary school classrooms and restaurants. Such an added treat.
Just try it for yourself!"
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 4 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Mother's Day-- It was a perfect place for a quiet, elegant sit-down dinner with unrushed, uninterrupted fine service, where my older parents could hear the conversation and did not have to wrestle with dishes at a buffet. The windows open onto a view of a small pond/lake with lovely willows and redbuds and other landscaping that was particularly peaceful in the sunshine last Sunday. The maitre 'd was particularly welcoming and remembered my family by name, checking with us a couple times through the meal.
Water service could have been more attentive and that's all I can think of that would have been an improvement on a day considered the busiest of the year...Mother's Day.
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 5 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food is delicious and well prepared. Service is excellent."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: scenic view, special occasion
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Review 6 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great menu; enthusiastic staff but-

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Slow service (20 minutes to bring cocktails) & my entree was cold and missing the stated veggies. My entree was sent back and re-done with no charge (most gracious) but still missing the described veggies. Possibly the staff wasn't used to such a busy day. Also, our server incorrectly identified the ice cream on the dessert contradicting the menu description (which was correct). Companion's dinner was flawless.
Loved Maijean's restaurant in Clarendon Hills where chef Nadia of Waterleaf previously presided, so when the staff becomes a bit more experienced and polished, Waterleaf should be five stars."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 7 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"as this is the restaurant tied in with the culinary school at College of DuPage it has a very sedate atmosphere. Even on a Friday night it was quite. However, the food is excellent and the wine list is one of the best in the western burbs. Young couples who perfer the decible level on par with a space launch would be disappointed. However, the decor is very tasteful and allows one to focus on your dining partner and the food and wine. It will take a good two hours for a four course meal."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 8 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent high end choice

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Rates with the best restaurants in the area, which is very competitive for high end establishments. Very good selection of meat and fish entrees, plus an extensive wine selection. Service was excellent and very attentive. We wanted to talk for awhile, and they picked up on this very quickly. Restaurant is light woods, accented by stone sculpture, and lightened by white draperies. We shared a baked Alaska for dessert. They have been opened for about 18 months, and are a real find. Right in the middle of the College of DuPage, it is part of the culinary school on campus. You park right in the middle of the student parking lot, but in a separate area reserved for the restaurant patrons. Outside seating is available, if you want."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 9 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Outstanding food in a wonderful set

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our second visit to Waterleaf match the outstanding nature of our first. The food is creative, delicious, and beautifully presented. The service matches the food and made our dining experience superb. If you have the opportunity to dine at Waterleaf, don't pass it up."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 10 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Outstanding

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The Waterleaf is a great restaurant because of the elegant atmosphere, fabulous service and outstanding dinners! I had the delicious grilled salmon, a wonderful salad and fabulous sorbet trio. The service was attentive without excess. The tables were elegant and the view of the lake was spectacular."
Dined on 4/26/2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 11 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Neighborhood Gem

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We have been to Waterleaf several times, this was our first time for Sunday Brunch. Everything was outstanding, as usual. We never go for brunch because we don't like Buffet style. But here one can order from the menu, that makes all the difference. We selected The Soup of day - Creamy Ramp Soup, as Entree we had the Buttsteak and as Desert Mango Mousse; all three were very tasty and perfect. Service was friendly and timely. This is one of the finest Restaurants, conveniently located close by, no traffic to fight to go to Downtown Chicago, no Parking Fees to pay, and yet the food and service are as good or better than in any Downtown Establishment. We can highly recommend Waterleaf and look forward to our next visit."
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2002
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 12 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Students at COD Rock!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have had lunch at this restaurant a few times and was unimpressed. However, the French Dinner, prepared and served by the students was outstanding. It was a delicious meal, beautifully presented, elegantly served and paired with notable wines. Can't wait to try some of the International menu items next year."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
0points
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Review 13 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Celebration

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We celebrated a quiet birthday and it was the perfect place."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic
0points
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Review 14 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Beautiful but food was inconsistent

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We recently tried Waterleaf at the recommendation of a friend. Upon arriving, we found the decor of the restaurant to be very comfortable and sophisticated. The restaurant was extremely quiet.
Since this restaurant was new to us, we decided to order several courses. We ordered the ahi tuna appetizer, which was good but missing crunch. We also tried the candy stripped beet salad, the rabbit entree (which came highly recommended), and the halibut. All were average at best. The highlights of the meal were the soup (cream of ramps) and dessert (rhubarb parfait and pave). Overall, I have to say the food for us was hit or miss. We felt the price point was high for the quality of food we received."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2008
Special Features: romantic
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Review 15 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This is the best meal I've

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This is the best meal I've had since Maijean in Clarendon Hills closed. I can't wait to return!"
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 16 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lovely setting and beautifully

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Lovely setting and beautifully appointed restaurant. The menu had SO many wonderful choices that it was hard to make our selections. Our server was very helpful, however, and the service was very good (but not overly fussy). The food was excellent-- beautiful presentation and interesting combinations. All in all, a great experience!"
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 17 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We have been to Waterleaf

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We have been to Waterleaf several times. It has always been wonderful. The price is reasonable for the quality and presentation of the food. It is a hidden gem in the western suburbs. I hope more people give it a try, since I'd hate for it to close."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 18 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We celebrated our 25th wedding

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
"We celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary at Waterleaf. It is a beautiful restaurant with excellent food and service. I would highly recommend Waterleaf! We will definetely go back."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 19 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This was our first time at

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was our first time at Waterleaf. We loved it. The food an service was fantastic. We ewach had a different meal...duck...rabbit...filet...scallops..and each of us raved about the food. It is a bit more on the high end price, so for us more of a special occassion for dinner. But from the appetizers to after dinner coffee it was great. Highly recommend."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 20 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

ENJOY, Dine At Waterleaf

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"If you expect good food, ambience and excellent informed service from a dining experience than Waterleaf is a restaurant you must
visit. The experience starts when you enter the naturally lit foyer and walk through the open glass dining area with glorious views.
You almost taste the food as the wait staff describes the menus specials. The food is as delectable as it is beautiful on your plate.
Weither dining at lunch or the height of Saturday night date night one never feels rushed.
Romantic, fun for a group of friends or family whatever the occasion you will be glad you made Waterleaf your restaurant of choice."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 21 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lovely dining

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Overall it was very good, but a little pricey. It's a beautiful setting and the service was wonderful."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 22 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Predident and CEO

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The service is lovely. Kevin is a wonderful ambassador and waiter. I come in monthly on my visits to Chicago."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 23 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice table and room. Reasonable

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Nice table and room.
Reasonable price.
Nice taste.
"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 24 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The waitstaff was very attentive.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The waitstaff was very attentive. Our meals were not only tasty, they were artistic!"
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2005
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch
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Review 25 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Thanks for a great night.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Thanks for a great night. You made my Wife's birthday dinner what she and I hoped for."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 26 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

ML of GE

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our first visit was on a Friday for lunch and was very pleased by the warm and friendly greeting extended by the manager at the front entrance. Seated promptly the restaurant was very quiet and we were greeted quickly by our waiter. A wonderful window seat made the setting enjoyable as we enjoyed the beautiful spring day over a glass of wine and a cheese-plate apetizer. We were however disappointed in the quality and presentation of the dishes as my wife enjoyed a salmon filet and I a pasta dish. We ended our meal with a shared desert and coffee which were delicious! Once again disappointed in the taste/quality for the price and may make another attempt for a dinner."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2006
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Review 27 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Give it a try!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"What a wonderful "hidden gem" at COD! My husband and I read the reviews for Waterleaf for several months and finally decided to give it a try for Easter Brunch. We were so pleasantly surprised! Waterleaf's new executive chef, Nadia, is truly talented! We will be back for dinner in the very near future. Kudos to all the staff for the entire experience!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2008
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, scenic view
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Review 28 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We arrived for the 1:30 PM

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We arrived for the 1:30 PM seating on a Saturday, and therefore the restaurant was definitely not in full attendance. We appreciated the decor, since it was set for fine dining with tablecloths and a nice lake view. We ordered everything from appetizers to dessert, and nothing disappointed. My entree, which was salmon, was cooked to perfection, and I would definitely order that again! Very nice experience."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 29 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

And once again, I love this

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"And once again, I love this experience. Same review as the previous. The menu items change, but the experience continues to be wonderful. An elegant 7 course meal prepared and served by the culinary arts students at COD under expert supervision... very inspiring to witness the growth of these fine adults, while enjoying a delicious well-prepared and well synchronized meal. The courses never seem to stop coming. The courses are complemented with offerings of paired champagne, white wine and red wine to complete the meal presentation. The servers are well versed on the dishes being served, as well as, the wines being offered. Hats off to the efforts of the entire class! We will definitely be back."
Dined on 03/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 30 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Worth the visit!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Greeting was exceptional, food and drink outstanding. Service was very attentive without being obtrusive. It was an extremely pleasant dinig experience and a good value. We will return, probably often."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, romantic, special occasion
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Review 31 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Disappointed

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Spending nearly $90 for LUNCH (no wine!) should have resulted in fabulous food. It did not. Though the presentations were lovely, the taste of the food was less than spectacular. Lyonnaise salad was greasy and bland; sauces on chicken horridly salty; desserts: blah
In retrospect, should have taken that money to Morton's -- now that would have been wonderful. It always is."
Dined on 03/28/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
-1point
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Review 32 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Really great 3 for $30 tasting

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Really great 3 for $30 tasting menu! My dinner was delicious! Walking up you think you are going to a campus dining hall, walking in you think a pretentious restaurant but the food & bottom line were excellent!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 33 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good restaurant. You

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Very good restaurant. You would never know that you are in a community college. Enjoyed our evening."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view
0points
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Review 34 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

On our "A" List

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went with a group of friends to celebrate birthdays - we had such a lovely evening. Service was attentive but not overbearing - and just the right pacing to allow for a leisurely dinner with our friends. There were 6 of us in all - we all had appetizers, a salad or soup, entree and dessert - because although portions were plentiful they weren't too large - which left room to enjoy their great dessert offerings. In addition to the great food, service and atmosphere, they also have incredibly comfortable chairs and acoustics conducive to conversation.
Can't wait to go back and try the Spring menu that is due to be available in the next week or so."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
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Review 35 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A great find in the western

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A great find in the western suburbs! The service was outstanding, and the food was excellent. The beet salad is a must!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 36 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We really enjoyed everything

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We really enjoyed everything about Waterleaf. The food was delicious and the service was wonderful, It was a nice and relaxing time. I want to go back again!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
0points
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Review 37 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fine dining experience in

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Fine dining experience in the suburbs! The food is excellent, as is the presentation. The wine list is extensive and varied. Best of all is the service, which is attentive without being at all intrusive. A relaxing and truly satisfying dining experience!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
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Review 38 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

why dont you give dining point???

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"why dont you give dining point???
been there twice and no points?
"
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 39 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Have been to Waterleaf on

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Have been to Waterleaf on several occassions. Service is impecable. Food is always very good-excellent. We had pork chop(just a little tough), beef tips ( very tender) and lamb shank ( a little fatty). Overall, we would always go back. Menu changes periodically so it is always interesting to go thre every few months to see what's new. They have a $30 menu which makes it a great value and agreat meal."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2005
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
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Review 40 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Went for a quiet dinner on

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went for a quiet dinner on a Saturday night and enjoyed it very much. Wait staff was attentive and the food was excellent. Ambiance was great - subtly elegant and serene."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2007
0points
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Review 41 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good french prix fixe

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Very good french prix fixe dinner with wine prepared and served by students."
Dined on 03/12/2013
 2008
Special Features: special occasion
0points
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Review 42 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We were pleasantly surprised

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We were pleasantly surprised at our first time visit to Waterleaf. It is the best meal we have had in the suburbs and felt like we were at a fine dining restaurant in Chicago. We enjoy gourmet meals and so do our guests who joined us. Everyone raved about the menu, meal and service."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2001
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
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Review 43 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great brunch Quiet great

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great brunch Quiet great service"
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2002
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch
0points
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Review 44 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food and Service were excellent.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food and Service were excellent. Ambiance is a bit sedate, but that was not a problem, as it easily allows for conversation."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
0points
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Review 45 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First time visit in the new

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"First time visit in the new culinary building.
Restaurant is beautiful.
Staff wonderful.
Food absolutely supurb.
Question the reason for a total ala carte menu.
View will improve once construction on COD campus is finished.
Will definitely return.
"
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
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Review 46 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Everything was top-notch.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Everything was top-notch. I did ask if they had gluten-free bread. They said they did not but would look into it."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
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Review 47 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My wife and I have visited

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My wife and I have visited this restaurant several times and it has always been excellent. The food selection is very good, the service is very good and the setting is excellent. My only concern is that the restaurant is still not well known. I do not want to see this establishment close due to a small customer base."
Dined on 03/03/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
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Review 48 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Outstanding Food Presentation!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Outstanding Food Presentation!!"
Dined on 02/28/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
0points
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Review 49 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Went to brunch. Expected a

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went to brunch. Expected a big crowd. Was very surprised that the restaurant wasn't busy. Location or lack of marketing? Service was very good though waitperson was a college student and while aiming to please did not have quite the depth of knowledge of food terms I would have expected. Food was very good. Served in a timely but un-rushed manner. Cheese selection was good - wide appeal and a bit novel. Beet salad was good but not inspirational. Eggs Benedict was over-salty - only negative note in the experience, Cubano sandwich made the recipient swoon. Omelet was very good as was the quiche. Split the coconut cake - which was really more of a cookie. Everything was very nicely presented. Overall a very nice experience and a good choice."
Dined on 03/03/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
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Review 50 for Waterleaf Restaurant - Glen Ellyn
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

it is a hidden gem ... needs

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"it is a hidden gem ... needs more business to make the place viberant!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2008
0points
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