After experiencing failed attempts at places like The Grill Room at Prairie Landing, Tap House Grill and several other disappointments, I was convinced that no one south of the Wisconsin state line knew anything about frying fish.  On a whim and still looking for a decent venue, we decided to once again take a chance on a fish fry at a golf course.  Of course it didn't hurt that we were able to secure a Restaurant.com gift certificate, ensuring that the cost of the dinner would be palatable, even if the dinner itself was not.

The surprise was a pleasant one!  The meal was simple and consisted of a huge portion of "Fried Fresh Breaded Cod" that was served with French fries or homemade chips and cole slaw. The all-you-can-eat dinner is served from 5-9 p.m. and costs $9.95 person.  The fish has a crisp, light breading (a real plus), is well seasoned and not at all greasy.  The home made chips are crispy and excellent; the slaw is the vinegar-and-oil variety and it, too, was fresh and very good.  Add to that a decently-priced glass of house wine and a pint of beer and you have a pretty darn good Friday night fish fry.

Table tops were "no-frills" (no table cloths or placemats; no candles, etc.) and napkin-wrapped silver, along with condiments, were in a bucket at the center of the table.  There are just a few things that I would like to see improved upon, things that would, in all likelihood, rocket Mill Creek Grill to an easy Four-Zin rating:  The tables and chairs could all use a regular wipe-down after use, as there were some sticky spots that distracted a bit from the experience.  Also, on both occasions, the bartender doubled as the server.  This was not a really big deal though (and likely to change when the place gets busier, as I know it will), as both bartenders were extremely pleasant and personable and provided great service.

There's not much else to describe; Creekside Tavern offered well-prepared and tasty food at a very reasonable price with fine service and few distractions.  Conclusion?  Lauren and I actually believe that we have finally located what may possibly be... the best fish fry in Illinois so far.  What's truly amazing to me is that the grill is not even mentioned on Mill Creek's website... which explains at least in part why the place has been so empty on both of our visits.  Once the word spreads, I expect that will change and I realize that my "Best Kept Secret" will not be secret much longer.

I give Creekside Tavern Three-and-a-half Zins and highly recommend you give it a try next Friday night!

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