Cellar Gate Wine Market & Bistro

Highwood, United States

4.3

Closed now

20 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards
Free Wi-Fi

Contacts

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Telephone:
+1 847-748-8086
Address:
524 Sheridan Rd, Highwood, IL, 60040
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
950 ftHighwood
0.9 miFort Sheridan
1.7 miHighland Park
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Bussiness info

Takes Reservations
Yes
Delivery
No
Take-out
Yes
Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Parking
Street
Bike Parking
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
Good for Kids
No
Good for Groups
Yes
Attire
Casual
Ambience
Intimate
Noise Level
Average
Music
Live
Good For Dancing
No
Alcohol
Beer & Wine Only
Happy Hour
Yes
Best Nights
Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check
No
Smoking
No
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Wi-Fi
Free
Has TV
Yes
Waiter Service
Yes

Today

Today 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Closed now
Local time (Highwood) 02:17 Tuesday, 3 June 2025

Business hours

Monday –
Tuesday 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Wednesday 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Thursday 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Saturday 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Sunday –

Description

Specialties

Cellar Gate offers a unique collection of wines from small production vineyards around the world. Our chalkboard appetizer menu is full of tasty goodies that pair with any wine selection in our market. Come into the market and browse through our wine selection. If you would like to stay for a glass of wine, we can open and serve your selection (There is an $ 8 corkage except on Wed.!) or choose from our featured wines by the glass menu. Our front market room and back parlor/​dining room are cozy destinations for you and your friends. In the summer, the courtyard is open with plenty of bistro tables and umbrellas to sit and sip in the warm sunshine or in the evening under the stars. Friday & Saturday nights offer live music performed by local musicians. The charm and eclectic venue paired with delicious wines and foods will bring you back again and again.

History

Established in 2008.

In the 1950’s, 524 Sheridan Road was the home to a local «beauty parlor» and beautician, followed by three, raucousy bars in the 60’s, 70′ & 80’s and Stonescape, the most recent business. Cellar Gate Wine Market began when a retired, elementary teacher with a passion for collecting «stuff» and a lot of «what if» visions had an «a-​ha moment». The site was the only building considered because of the location, the private courtyard and the curious possibilities of the small, private rooms. With the help of a dedicated team of amazingly, creative friends and carpenters along with a familial –type collection of staff, Cellar Gate came to life in the fall of 2008 and has been raising glasses since.

Meet the Business Owner

Kayla S.

Business Owner

Kayla is a small town, Iowa girl who loves meeting people and learning their «story». We all know two things… Iowans love to «sit & visit» and everyone has a story to tell. She is a former elementary teacher, «closet» decorator, artist, antique collector, stay-​home mom, wine lover, eager traveler and adventure seeker. Kayla loves to entertain in her own home so why not entertain the public? She always dreamed of retiring as a wise, «old» teacher and opening a cozy bed & breakfast somewhere in the midwest or northeast. She said, «I guess Cellar Gate is maybe even better than a B&B…AND… I don’t have to change bed linens!»

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20 reviews of Cellar Gate Wine Market & Bistro

No registration required
Place rating: 4
Roscoe Village, Chicago, IL
Great atmosphere, delicious wines and a perfect place for a girls night out! The outside patio is a welcome retreat in comparison to a quiet table I the corner. If you can get a seat near the fire I would recommend as it creates a nice ambiance. The wines were reasonably price, it was easy to make a reservation and the somewhat limited menu was more that good!
Place rating: 5
Highwood, IL
I write this while at home, as my wife is currently guzzling through a girl’s night drinkstravaganza. Cellar Gate is an absolute gem. It’s not smack dab in the middle of dear ol’ Highwood, so it can be overlooked. Seek out this character-​oozing sanctuary. In the summer, it features a gorgeous patio that curls around the building, with a fountain and garden that sets a wonderful mood. In the winter, the fireplace in the backroom is a cozy romantic setting for wine murdering. The decoration is eclectic and unique. There’s a cool dining room that is the perfect setting for parties of 8 – 12, or 4 people who really love to stretch out.
The wines have great price points for the quality. If you want to stay pretty basic, you can do $ 25 – 30 a bottle and feel that your getting a solid deal, considering the mark-​ups in restaurants. If you want to go all Châteauneuf-​du-​Pape, you can indulge and live high off the hog as well. The food features small plates that hit the spot. The menu was recently made-​over by chef Tony from Longitud 315, so it has a Latin angle now, with delectable empanadas. Do have a base before you come in. I’ve been to Cellar Gate a few times, thinking I’d eat enough to piece together dinner, only to find myself buzzy from eyes on the wine prize.
I’ve read a couple of reviews that bagged on the service. The service is not chain-​restaurant oiled. It can take some time if it gets slammed, as Cellar Gate has a laid back and homey feel. If you are a north shore finger-​snapping type towards service, you could be irritated. If you are rational and look at being at a wine bar as an experience that includes a commitment to spending time over a bottle of wine that needs a minute to breathe, you’ll bask in the atmosphere.
Cellar Gate also has live entertainment at times. It’s pretty standard acoustic stuff. But if you ever get the chance to watch the performance poetry shows they bring in sometimes, you will have your mind blown. Man alive, those shows are fun and life-​altering.
Place rating: 2
Highwood, IL
Rating this 2 star for concept despite the fact that the service we received last night was less than one star. The concept seems basically to be that it’s a place to go with 2 – 4 people, all of whom like wine, and there’s some very light snacks available too if you’re in the mood. They do not have a liquor licence. Go in for a glass of wine and maybe (or maybe not) a small snack. That’s the concept (as far as I can tell). The problem last night was we came in intending to have 10 people show up for a birthday (we did have a reservation). Fair enough, as it turns out, it’s not somewhere that’s set up to offer that, but the service was confused and nobody from the establishment seemed up to explaining how we should be approaching the place. Typical dialogue: me «so… can we get a drinks order in please?» Server: «yes, I can bring you a glass of wine?» me: «well, there’s a few of us, so we’d probably like to get a couple of bottles to share… do you have a list we can look at?» server: «no, we change our wines so we don’t bother to print a list, but you can go inside and have a look and see if there’s anything you like» [turns and walks away distractedly without taking an order for anything].
In the end they just seemed incapable of handling us, unable or unwilling to explain the concept and just left us out on the patio, so we told them we would go elsewhere, which they seemed fine with. It wasn’t bad tempered on either side. The attitude was kind of «we do wine by the glass… do you want that or do you want to go somewhere else». We ended up going into Highland Park and spending $ 500 of which $ 100 was a tip for our friendly waitress. I would have understood this more if they had been busy but there were only 4 tables and about 10 people people there at the time. All they had to do was explain the concept (which, to be fair is kind of confusing) and been vaguely professional and welcoming and we would have stayed. So not bad necessarily… just really «odd». We live in Highwood, so my wife and I will probably go back if we’re looking for a glass of wine in an outdoor space. Just don’t think it’s somewhere you can eat a meal or drink anything other than wine by the glass.
Place rating: 1
Schaumburg, IL
Food was incredible. However. It took about three hours to get our meals and nothing came out at the same time. My friends who ordered salads were finished by the time others’ food came. Ambiance was delightful, just don’t expect good service.
Place rating: 4
Deerfield, IL
Stopped in on a weeknight for the first time. We weren’t sure what to expect (especially because their website appears to be down), but based on the reviews, I anticipated some wine tasting, which the server said they do not do. In reading past reviews, it sounds like they used to, or maybe that’s just a weekend thing?
The server explained that we could choose a bottle from their wall, or the menu of wines by the glass. Bottles were sorted by varietal, but didn’t feature any notes or descriptions, so you are really just choosing as you would at a store. Our bottle was $ 26, which was one on the lower end of the price range.
The fromage and charcuterie platter was very generous and very tasty and came with a variety of accompaniments.
The patio is adorable, with twinkly lights and a fountain.
Overall a really nice evening, but would love to add on a wine tasting experience! We’ll definitely try it again sometime, hopefully on a night when they offer live music.
Place rating: 5
Long Grove, IL
love this place! my wife don’t get here too often but we always want to come here
the ambience is great and the owner is very nice
lots of great wines at reasonable prices too
sometimes great music
Place rating: 5
Libertyville, IL
So for years after being told about this place and constantly ALMOST making it in… I finally did and it lived up to the hype. The space is so cute and homey, it’s front room and bar has a more open feel or you can meander back to some of the smaller nooks with antiques furniture and a fireplace. The staff here is all very welcoming and kind although some are not quite as knowable on wines as others, they will get the answer for you if unsure. They have numerous wines by the glass which are a little pricey but not outrageous. The best way to do things in my opinion is to go up to the bar and peruse your way through the bottles displayed behind the bar and take what you want back to your seat and enjoy. They do have a small selection of interesting beers for non-​wine lovers too. The food menu is limited and obviously more intended for noshing and pairing with wine rather than being a meal. Did I mention live music on specific nights… added bonus. I can’t wait for the warm weather to experience the patio. I’ll be back for sure.
Place rating: 5
Evanston, IL
Cellar Gate is a restaurant, wine bar, and wine shop rolled into one. Our party of four came in to Cellar Gate to do their wine tasting, which was $ 5 per person to try 4 wines from their selection (~20 wines, ½ reds and ½ whites, with a rose or two). The host was nice and patient with her explanations of the wines as well as her answers to our questions. The selection of wines available to taste is smaller than what is available to buy, and the price of a bottle of wine ranges from $ 25 – 40.
Once we were done with the wine tasting, we explored the rest of the space, which was gorgeous. The interior was very interesting, especially the back half with its Victorian-​style decorations. The patio, which spans the length of the building and curves around back, looked like a great place to hang out in warmer weather.
Place rating: 5
Lincolnshire, IL
Recently went for the first time and loved it. Solid selection of wines, tasty food, and great chill vibe. The patio and fountains took us back to Italy. Service friendly and helpful, but can be a tad slow on busy nights. Will definitely be back!
Place rating: 5
Chicago, IL
What an extremely charming place. The atmosphere is quite romantic, a nice balance between Victorian and old-​world Italy (without seeming, er, *gunky*, as so many places with upholstered furniture and swagging and mood lighting do). The wine by the bottle: surprisingly affordable; the selection: fantastic. Didn’t get a chance to try the food, which just means we’ll have to go back. It was remarkably undercrowded on a Saturday at 6:30PM — which made no sense, since in the city, a place like this would be hopping the moment the doors opened. I get the sense that it’s under-​advertised — which is quite nice if you’re looking for a gorgeously atmospheric wine bar in which to relax on a Saturday!
Place rating: 5
Glenview, IL
Here’s how good Cellar Gate is: I had diarrhea in the worst way on Saturday, and I ate and drank through it because the food and drink were so damn good. The service and ambiance are second to none. It felt like we were somewhere in Oregon or California wine country.
Just a gem of a place.
Place rating: 5
Northbrook, IL
True gem. We had no idea this place existed. It felt like a vacation, just minutes from home. The atmosphere was charming, twinkle lights, live music, a fountain. And the food was delicious. Plus, the service was stellar. They made great recommendations and didn’t rush us out. We cannot wait to bring others back with us.
Place rating: 5
Highland Park, IL
Amazing, special place! Great food, service and atmosphere! We have lived in the area for several years and have missed this diamond in the rough.
Place rating: 4
Highwood, IL
We started the «Taste the Rainbow» pub crawl here. It’s a great place with a great staff. They have a beautiful outdoor area and have live music quite often. We will definitely be back.
Place rating: 1
Glenview, IL
Cellar Gate is a beautiful shop/​restaurant. The décor is unique and each room is different. The atmosphere in general is very romantic. It’s a great place to have a girls night out or intimate gathering inside or in the courtyard.
Having said all the good things about the place, I had a very unfortunate experience there recently. I was there for story theatre which was held outside in the courtyard .
I was not very hungry and ordered only a piece of cake for $ 6. When the bill came it was for $ 14. The waiter informed me that my bill was $ 14 but I was expected to pay $ 18 because that was the minimum as stated at the bottom of the menu. Because it was dark where I was sitting I could barely see the menu and did not see the last line that mentions minimum order. I explained this to the waitress and refused to pay $ 18. I had several interactions with the waitress before the bill came and she never mentioned the minimum purchase. The waitress left and came back with the owner who was astonishingly rude and told me that they lost money on me but she would make one time exception. The owner left and the waitress presented me with $ 14 bill. When I asked her why the bill was for $ 14 and not $ 6, she said that $ 8 charge was for a glass of wine. But I did not have wine! She proceeded to argue with me, then left and came back once again with the owner. The owner was furious, very rude and told me never to come back. At the end I ended up paying $ 6 for my cake, but needless to say, my evening was ruined. For the next several days I still had a bitter taste in my mouth.
If you want to be treated with respect every customer deserves and expect good service, STAY AWAY!
Place rating: 5
Highland Park, IL
I’m still amazed when I meet people who are just finding out about this place!
I’ve been coming to this wine market/​lounge for years. I’ve hosted events here. I’ve enjoyed nights on the outdoor patio. My musician hubby plays guitar here on occasion, and I can honestly say this is still one of my favorite stops on the North Shore.
This place has a serious home away from home vibe. It’s so cozy you don’t want to leave. The hospitality of the owner is unsurpassed, and she welcomes our entire family (kids too) into her ‘home’ like her personal house guests. My kids never want to leave and always look forward to coming back.
***Note: It’s not really a kid hang, but my boys are super well-​behaved they are always invited back to play one of the many games she has on the shelf, from Dominoes, to puzzles to Shoot The Moon.
Aside from the well-​thought-​out classy cozy décor, the appetizers and bites are really fantastic. Enjoy a lovely glass of wine (and wow do they have a bunch to choose from) and order up one of their yummy flatbreads like bbq chicken or mozzarella and tomato. They have delicious mini kobe beef burgers, and the fromage and charcuterie plates are a nice pairing with wine.
Outdoors when the weather warms up or anywhere indoors is delightful. Most of all, you have to check out the back room. Nope, I won’t tell you anything about it, because you must come see for yourself. And, I hope to see you there!
Place rating: 5
Chicago, IL
The best interior design I ever saw in United States. Great comfortable rooms with quite music make you feel so romantic and comfortable, you even can fall asleep. Great patio. All the time they have live music there, assortment of wine are interesting and always updating. Owner is really nice women. Highly recommended from Moldavian guy. Moldova — the biggest wine cellars in the world. More than 252 km under the ground.
Place rating: 5
Highland Park, IL
Not really even sure how to categorize this little gem. A truly unique concept, part wine store, part wine bar, and a bit of tapas thrown in for good measure. The building is cute and comfortable with multiple cozy little rooms. They even have a nice little coat closet to hang your woollies and they never forget to offer the convenience to you. The husband and I love to come here for a brief respite from the daily grind in both summer and winter.
Summer is lovely with the nice patio and tasting bar. Note of caution, it can get very busy and service can get overwhelmed easily. We sometime come for a quick glass of wine, some fresh air and then a kind of late dinner out in the town.
Winter is our favorite though! We love the room in the far back and sitting near the fire. My fondest memory of coming here though was on a winter’s night with snow falling fast and hard, we called to see if they were open. They were. We live close enough to walk over, so we did (there was about a foot and half of snow in the streets, driving wasn’t and option). Outside was like a winter wonderland and inside, next to fire we were pampered with delightful wine and heartwarming small plates. You almost wish (but not quite) for another night like that.
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
Quirky little wineshop/​lounge which can serve as the perfect place for a long overdue catch up with a special friend as you share a bottle in the back vintage parlor. The time will just slip away. Whatever you don’t finish of your bottle, you can take home!
The front area features wine tastings. The outdoor patio appears to more than double the space during good weather, with live performances.
Place rating: 5
Chicago, IL
What a quaint, cute, rustic little place! Cellar Gate is a great laid back location tucked away in Highwood. You can go into to browse wines, or even have a glass or one of the few beers they offer.
There are a few different rooms, the front showroom, a rustic style «kitchen» room complete with old-​fashioned ice chest, and a very antique parlor with plush couches and chairs. The outdoor patio area is also really neat, but it was raining, so I only really caught a glimpse.
The staff is friendly, personable and knowledgeable. The selection seems to have something for everyone, from the very expensive tastes to the not so expensive ones. I was there for a fundraiser, and for $ 25, we were served three «tastes» (from 6 options, you pick) as well as a full glass of the wine of your choice, with additional glasses $ 5 a piece. There were also appetizers, which were light and flavorful, perfect pairings for both reds and whites.
It was great to see two local businesses team up for a great fundraising event — Cellar Gate and Orphans of the Storm. The evening was fun and both businesses were able to benefit from each other. I hope this will be a long lasting partnership!