Business Details
Your Ultimate Destination for Great Food, Drinks & Outdoor Fun in West Chicago
Hawthorne's Backyard has established itself as a premier destination for exceptional dining and entertainment in West Chicago. Since our inception, we have combined culinary excellence with recreational activities to create a unique experience for guests of all ages. Our team of seasoned chefs specializes in crafting hand-packed burgers, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and award-winning chili using time-honored recipes and high-quality ingredients. Beyond our menu, our 4-acre property features multiple sports courts, a playground, and outdoor fire pits that reflect our commitment to community engagement.We offer comprehensive event planning services for weddings and corporate functions, supported by dedicated staff with extensive hospitality experience. Our adherence to food safety standards and customer satisfaction guarantees ensures every visit meets our exacting quality benchmarks while maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere.
Services
BBQ Catering
Private Events
Outdoor Dining
Sports Leagues
Wedding Receptions
Highlights and features
- Award-winning chili recipe perfected over decades
- 4-acre property with multiple recreational activities
- Custom catering services for events up to 180 guests
- Specialized event coordinators with 10+ years experience
- Year-round seasonal menu with gluten-free options
What people say
Best pork ever
Perfect event hosting
Award-winning chili
Great sports viewing
Delicious desserts
Services
BBQ Catering
Our BBQ catering service delivers award-winning flavors to your event with options including pig roasts, brisket, and ribs. Available for minimum orders of 10 people with delivery up to 25 miles. Professional staff handles setup and service for weddings, corporate events, and private parties.
Private Events
Host unforgettable events in our 4-acre backyard featuring two tented areas and multiple recreational facilities. Accommodates up to 180 guests with customizable packages including catering, decorations, and equipment rentals. Ideal for weddings, graduations, and corporate team-building activities.
Outdoor Dining
Enjoy meals in our expansive outdoor space featuring sand volleyball courts, pickleball courts, and a playground. Open seasonally with fire pits and string lighting creating an inviting atmosphere. Reservations recommended for peak hours and special events.
Sports Leagues
Participate in organized sports leagues including volleyball, pickleball, and bags tournaments. Facilities feature dedicated courts and fields maintained to professional standards. Leagues operate seasonally with registration available through our website and social media platforms.
Wedding Packages
Comprehensive wedding packages include venue rental, catering, and staff support for ceremonies and receptions. Options range from casual gatherings to formal events with customizable menus and decorations. Packages require minimum spending and advance booking.
People
Kate & Dan
Event Clients
Recent wedding clients who praised the exceptional food quality and service coordination during their event at Hawthorne's Backyard.
Aaron Cavalier
Wedding Client
2025 wedding client commending the flawless execution of his wedding event and guest satisfaction with food and facilities.
Questions
What makes Hawthorne's Backyard BBQ unique?
Our BBQ uses proprietary dry rubs and slow-roasting techniques perfected over decades, featuring award-winning recipes for ribs, brisket, and our famous pig roasts.
Can I host a large event at Hawthorne's Backyard?
Yes, our venue accommodates events up to 180 guests with two tented areas, customizable catering menus, and dedicated event coordinators for weddings and corporate functions.
Are there recreational activities available?
Our 4-acre property features sand volleyball courts, pickleball courts, wiffle ball fields, giant lawn pong, and a children's playground for guest enjoyment.
What are the catering minimums and notice requirements?
Catering orders require minimum 10 people and one week's notice, except pig roasts which need two weeks' advance scheduling with delivery available up to 25 miles.
Do you offer gluten-free menu options?
Yes, we provide gluten-free alternatives for most menu items including buns, tortillas, and specialty dishes clearly marked on our menus.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept cash, credit cards (with 2% surcharge), and checks for parties of 6 or fewer. Deposits for events require cash payment only.
