Women-Owned Businesses in Lake County

By: Sam Ornig 03/07/2025

Women business owners are important pillars and leaders in Lake County. This March, as we celebrate Women's History — or HERstory — Month, we highlight those bold innovators, makers and creative minds that have inspired others to lead in their communities, from Lake County and beyond.

With one of the best mom-and-pop shopping scenes in the Midwest and so many amazing spots to grab a bite or a drink, Lake County wouldn't boast its charming personality and colorful character without the quintessential, women-owned businesses and their daring entrepreneurs.

Peruse our women-owned businesses, from downtown shops to mini-malls, from niche boutiques to shopping centers. Celebrate women's history and influence year-round and support your local women-owned businesses in the land of lakes.

THE BACKYARD STEAKPIT IN GURNEE

Owner nANCY cARBIS

A true Lake County local, Nancy Carbis built The Backyard Steak Pit from the ground up alongside her former husband, Al, in 1985. With no prior restaurant experience, she poured her heart and hustle into the business—greeting guests, prepping salads, managing finances and running a tight ship. From the days when guests could grill their own steaks to the present, this establishment has remained a family-operated gem. Cheers to a legacy built on hard work, great food and a little bit of sass!

Bill's Pizza & Pub in Mundelein

Owner MaryAnn Rouse

Bill's Pizza & Pub has been a beloved family-friendly destination since 1957, proudly owned by MaryAnn Rouse. Indulge in their renowned double-decker and famous thin-crust pizzas, alongside a delectable selection of sandwiches and desserts. With a relaxed atmosphere, frosty mugs of cold beer and exceptional food, Bill's invites you to savor and sip on their delicious offerings. Don't miss the chance to dine al fresco on their charming outdoor patio during the warm months.

Broken Earth Winery in Long Grove

Owner Marsha Forsythe

The Long Grove winery produces unique vino grown, harvested and bottled in Paso Robles, California, on Rancho Tierra Rejada. The ranch's translation, "land of worked earth," is a 2,500-acre vineyard for Broken Earth Winery. Proprietor Marsha Forsythe and staff run this Lake County tasting room, highlighted by live entertainment, special events, a gift shop and gaming. This gem nestled in the land of lakes tallied a Daily Herald Readers' Choice "Best of the Best" award nominee.

Dangela's Dumplings in Libertyville

Co-Owner Angela Xu

Liberyville's Angela Xu and her husband Dan opened Dangela’s Dumplings in 2019, serving up her savory handmade dumplings. Xu uses traditional northern Chinese methods and a recipe passed down from her mother to create the delicious dumplings. Tea-boiled eggs, mochi ice cream, edamame, seaweed salad and more also highlight Dangela’s Dumpling menu.

Feather Glass Wine Bar & Eatery in Vernon Hills

Owner Purvi Damani-Patel

Feather Glass Wine Bar & Eatery serves international and continental wine and offers a delectable menu featuring brunch, dinner and plates like charcuteries, salads, seafood, steaks and tastes of international cuisines. The Vernon Hills restaurant and pub lives by the credo "fine wine is our native language." Purvi Damani-Patel dreamed of owning an establishment like this after traveling the Land of Lincoln and other areas tasting wine. Her passion and desire pushed her to open a unique venue of her own.

Glunz Family Winery and Cellars in Grayslake

Owner Suzzie Glunz

Four generations of Glunz’s have operated a business in libations. The Glunz family landed in the states in 1879 and opened a wine, beer and spirit store on Wells and Division Streets in Chicago's Old Town in 1888. In 1992, the third-generation descendants began creating small-batch fortified wines, and the rest is history. The family has a women-owned winery and tasting room in Grayslake and wine country on 20 acres of land in Paso Robles, California, where they grow much of the drinkables. Suzzie Glunz is the proprietor at this Lake County Libation Trail establishment. Descendants from the Glunz family also have run that same shop in Chicago for the last 130 years. The Grayslake/Paso Robles family winery has earned many awards for its offerings.

The Gallery Lake Forest

Co-Owner Cecilia Lanyon

Experience what happens when you combine gourmet fare with artistic creations by dining at The Gallery Lake Forest. The Lake Forest space was established by co-owners, partners and siblings Cecilia Lanyon and Dominic Zumpano in 2015. When you visit The Gallery, you will find that the menu rotates in line with the creative exhibits, which change quarterly, and crafts new menus to add a connoisseur's twist to food pairings. Where else can you dine on fine food and take in fine art? This combination of sensory elements makes this Lake Forest venue an easy choice when searching for a special night out. Another bonus is that you can book private events at the restaurant, both large and small. In addition, The Gallery offers cooking classes for kids, adults and groups.

The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville

Co-Owner Kim Schlicksup

Do you fancy yourself a pretty good cook... or at least good enough that everyone peppers on the praise after a meal? Are you open to learning new techniques and recipes that keep family and guests hungry for another serving? Head to The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville for a cooking class or retail therapy where you can find supreme brands of cooking essentials for sale. The MainStreet Libertyville establishment, owned by Kim and Dan Schlicksup, is a staple in the downtown area. With a robust selection of cooking classes, fun culinary events, team and family bonding exercises, a wine bar and the occasional meet-and-greet with local chefs, enjoy an array of exciting ways to learn new cooking skills without having any dishes to clean afterward. It's like The Joyful Gourmet says, "Discover new items for your kitchen, have a fun night out with friends and grow as a community through cooking."

Lindy's Landing Restaurant & Marina in Wauconda

Co-Owners Brittany and Laurie Barth

Lindy’s Landing has been a staple in Lake County for half a century, with avrestaurant and sports bar right on Bang’s Lake in Wauconda, equipped with two outdoor door decks and a beach. The story begins with Bob "Lindy" Lindstrom, a Chicagoan passionate about boating. After frequently taking his family to and from Wauconda, Lindy sought to fulfill his dream turning a farmer’s old boathouse into Lindy’s Landing in 1965. The building was initially built in 1908 with a small bar, candy counter and two pinball machines. In 2003, Lindy’s daughters Laurie, Cheryl and Bonnie (also the kitchen's co-heads) decided to give the old barn a facelift with a remodel. A Lindstrom has been in charge of this operation for nearly 60 years.

Ma and Pa's Candy in Long Grove

Co-Owner Terri Taylor

Take a trip back to Long Grove's beloved vintage-inspired yesteryear candy store. The mom-and-pop business features nostalgic candies and hand-spun cotton candy. Ma & Pa's also showcases decade-themed candy crates and scoopable bulk confectioneries. While they provide sentimental sweets, Taylor and her team create their own confections like candy-topped pretzels, sea salt caramels, oreos, pecan patties, dark chocolate, peanut butter cups, marshmallows and more. The Historic Downtown Long Grove shop has served sweet tooth enthusiasts for over a decade.

North Shore Distillery in Green Oaks

Co-Owner Sonja Kassebaum

North Shore Distillery is the first craft distillery in the Land of Lincoln (the first to open in the state since the Prohibition Era). Since 2004, Sonja and Derek Kassebaum and their larger-than-life friend Ethel have provided vodkas, rums, gins, absinthes and unique seasonal beverages to their valued patrons. The self-proclaimed nerds and Illinois-Made inventors love to experiment with new flavors with a plethora of different ingredients, and that’s why the award-winning Green Oaks distillery designs innovative art with its liquid creations. Sonja was featured in the article "Chemists, Bartenders and British Royalty: Eight Women Who Changed GIn History" by the Wine Enthusiast (learn more). North Shore Distillery was also honored with the Illinois Office of Tourism honor of "Illinois Made" recognizing the state's makers, creators, artisans, artists, family-owned businesses and more. During the height of the pandemic in April 2020, the husband-wife team got their hands wet in the hand sanitizer-making business, providing requests to first responders, health care workers and others providing critical care. Also during the pandemic, in collaboration with Visit Lake County, Sonja created Lake County Sunset Sips. This beverage concoction is as refreshing and beautiful as a Lake County sunset: sweet, fruity, and closes with a crisp finish.

O'Toole's Pub in Gurnee, Libertyville & Lake VIlla

Co-Owner Sara McKinnon-Martinez

Discover the ultimate gastropub experience at O'Toole's, led by the visionary Sara McKinnon-Martinez. With an impressive lineup of 48 beers on tap, an extensive wine selection and craft cocktails, every drink perfectly complements the chef-driven menu. Indulge in a tantalizing array of dishes including burgers, wraps, salads, ribs and seafood. Renowned for award-winning wings, burgers and fish and chips, O'Toole's also offers 40 HD TVs, 41 draft beers and a late-night kitchen. Join in the fun with Karaoke Night and Trivia Night, making O'Toole's the ultimate destination to gather with friends and create unforgettable memories.

The Parched Pug in Libertyville

Co-Owner Heather Carlson

Welcome to The Parched Pug, where owner Heather Carlson invites you to indulge in a unique gastropub experience in Libertyville. This vibrant establishment offers a delightful fusion of great drinks, delicious food, and entertaining games for humans to enjoy. Beyond serving up fun and flavor, The Parched Pug proudly supports local animal rescues, embodying a commitment to both community and furry friends. Step inside to discover Lake County's premier self-pour craft beer and wine wall, complemented by upscale pub fare and an extensive library of over 200 board games. Don't miss out on the excitement of Nanoputt, adding a twist to traditional mini-golf. Join us at The Parched Pug for an unforgettable blend of fun, flavor and philanthropy.

Phase Three Brewing Co. in Lake Zurich

Co-Owner Brittany Berns

Phase Three Brewing Company owner Brittany Berns leads a team dedicated to crafting exceptional hand-crafted suds in Lake Zurich. With a commitment to quality ingredients and honest brewing practices, Phase Three produces a diverse array of beer styles, each one a testament to their passion for the craft. Beyond the delicious brews, Phase Three is renowned for its striking can artwork, adding an extra layer of artistry to every sip. As one of Lake County's largest and most respected breweries, Phase Three is celebrated for its collaborations and innovative approach to brewing. Join us in raising a glass to creativity and community at Phase Three Brewing Company.

Primo Italian Americian Cuisine, Lola's Tacos & Tequila, Fatman's and Birch Beverages

Owner Nicole Khayat

Primo Italian American Cuisine is Lake County’s dining hot spot with five-star ratings across the board, owned by former Mrs. Illinois Nicole Khayat. The Gurnee establishment’s menu includes salads and sandwiches, pasta, seafood, steaks and much more. The Gurnee establishment boasts an array of Daily Herald Reader’s Choice Awards. A wine list of 100+ flavors complements the jam-packed menu. Khayat also owns Lakehouse Lake Villa, Fatmans, Chicago Woodfire Pizza and Birch Beverages.

Roaring Table Brewing in Lake Zurich

Co-Owner Beth May

Experience the magic of fermentation at Roaring Table Brewing Co., proudly owned by Beth May. Located in Lake Zurich, their brewery offers an eclectic variety of beers that showcase the amazing range of flavors derived from simple ingredients. In addition to our craft brews, we provide a selection of wines, ciders, sodas and snacks, with the option to order in from local restaurants. Relax and unwind in our inviting space, whether at the live-edge bar, communal tables or cozy lounge complete with couches and a fireplace. Be sure to visit often, as we regularly tap new beers and host live music, trivia nights, food trucks and even yoga sessions. Join us at Roaring Table Brewing Co. for a truly memorable brewpub experience.

Reclaimed Artisans in Libertyville

Co-Owner Lisa Struif

Reclaimed Artisans is a place to stop off at if home decor is on that special someone's wishlist or your own. Lisa and Eric Struif have provided beautiful treasures in the Libertyville, Gurnee, Vernon Hills and surrounding areas since 2017. The MainStreet Libertyville business specializes in unique repurposed furnishings, antiques, vintage items, reclaimed and/or painted furniture and more supplied by over 130 local artisans makers.

Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove

Co-Owner Wendy & Carol Richardson

Richardson Adventure Farm is a land of lakes staple, with family-friendly seasonal attractions that delight guests year after year. The farm was originally opened by Robert Richardson who emigrated from England in 1840. Richardson Farm was formerly a pig farm, stretching 80 acres and housing 3,000 swine. Shortly after establishing himself as a pig farmer, Robert Richardson added cows to their thriving livestock farm. Today, the brothers George and Robert Richardson and their wives Wendy and Carol are the four owners of this renowned farm. With tulip, sunflower and craft beer festivals, the Christmas tree farm, the famous corn maze (the world's largest, as a matter of fact) and so many more exciting offerings, this tourist attraction is a must any time of the year.

Sock Monkey Museum in Long Grove

Owner Arlene Okun

Arlene Okun established the Sock Monkey Museum in 2019 to share her collection of the beloved stuffed toys with the public. Okun accumulated her Sock Monkey collection for over 16 years, acquiring a 2,000+ little stuffed monkey army. Okun chose the historic downtown area of Long Grove to complement the vintage spirit of these classic children's dolls. Arlene Okun and her husband use the proceeds from the Sock Monkey Museum to support a primate rescue in the American Pacific Northwest.

Susanna Farms in Lake Villa

Co-Owners Elizabeth and Laura Heffernan

Susanna Farms is owned and operated by Laura and Elizabeth Heffernan, granddaughters of original owners Steven Jennings and Mae O'Bryan. In the 1930s, Steven Jennings and Mae O'Bryan bought several parcels of land and named them after each of their mothers. Now, the Heffernan sisters continue to keep the farm and business in the family. Susanna Farms closed temporarily in 2014 and reopened in 2019, focusing on equine-assisted activities, small events, camps, and more for year-round fun.

Sweet Home Gelato in Libertyville

Co-Owner Janice Bruksch

From their sweet home in Libertyville, Illinois, to yours, Sweet Home Gelato is a women-owned and operated dessert franchise based in the Chicagoland area. Janice Bruksch specializes in authentic artisan gelato and sorbet ranging in a slew of flavors, also dabbling in shakes, floats, baked treats, pastries and coffee. Besides their Libertyville location, Janice and her husband also own a site in Highland Park and downtown Naperville, their first location they opened a over a decade ago. Treat yourself and head to Sweet Home Gelato to satisfy your sweet tooth.

TreeTime Christmas Creations in Lake Barrington

Owner Laurie Kane

Treetime Christmas Creations is your quintessential stop for your artificial trees, holiday decorations and more. The Lake Barrington store was founded in 2011 by proprietor Laurie Kane. Experience the magic and the "WOW" of the Winter Wonderland Showroom. Peruse and shop for the largest selection of pre-lit holiday trees online with unique tree styles.

The Village Tavern in Long Grove

Co-Owner Nicole Jarvis Wallace

As the oldest restaurant and drinking hole in Illinois (and probably in the top 10 in the U.S.), The Village Tavern has been in continuous operation since 1849. In classic roadhouse fashion, this woman-owned restaurant has been a favorite spot in Lake County for generations. A spacious dining room and antique bar area preserve the establishment’s rustic authenticity. Especially popular is the massive 35-foot mahogany bar, which survived Chicago’s Great McCormick Place Fire in the 1960s. This classic restaurant's warm and friendly pub atmosphere attracts locals and tourists alike. Enjoy live entertainment six nights a week. The 19th-century eatery is known for its excellent steaks, half-pound Angus beef hamburgers, hearty sandwiches, broasted chicken and fish fry. You have to try their prime rib as well on Saturday nights. There are so many historical nuggets in this Long Grove mainstay.

Wandering Tree Estate in North Barrington

Owner Elaine Silets

Wandering Tree Estate was purchased in 1972 by Elaine Silets and her husband, who then decided to open their property to host events and gatherings in 1973 and have grown steadily ever since. Elaine has a natural green thumb and she changes the plantings around the estate by herself every year. Wandering Tree Estate don the name as such because of a mishap where arborists relocated a neighbor’s timber to a different spot on the Barrington area property. Schedule an appointment to see the gorgeous property yourself at 830 W. State Rd.