A custom pewter bar crafted by Mitchell & Mitchell anchors the room as a gathering point for drinks and conversation.
Photo courtesy of the Deer Path Inn
Lake Forest’s historic Deer Path Inn has officially unveiled The Brasserie—a luxe reimagining of one of its most iconic dining spaces. After nearly a century of housing The English Room, the space has been refreshed with lavish artwork, elevated cuisine and elements that reflect the hotel’s storied legacy on the North Shore.
The menu has been revamped to incorporate seasonal ingredients and refined culinary techniques, while spotlighting classic, recognizable dishes such as chilled oysters, large-format herb-crusted lamb and premium grass-fed steaks. From grand seafood towers to a refined Flounder Meunière, offerings balance presentation and approachable flavors.
Whether guests are visiting for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, the destination offers a blend of small and large plates. Breakfast begins with yogurt parfaits and classic buttermilk pancakes. Lighter bites like dry-aged beef tartare lead into lunch and carry through to dinner highlights such as Faroe Island salmon and brick chicken with espelette, Swiss chard, preserved lemon and creamy chicken jus.
The dining room is accented by plush banquette seating, marble-topped tables and weathered wood.
Photo courtesy of the Deer Path Inn
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a curated gallery featuring over 70 works by both British and Chicago-based artists, spanning photography, illustration and painting. Included in the collection are David Hockney’s cerulean-hued etching, The Blue Guitar, and works by contemporary British artist David Shrigley.
The salon-style installation sets the tone for layered, warm interior design elements, brought to life by Chicago-area partners and artisans, including construction company Bulley & Andrews and architecture and interior design firm Knauer Inc. Blending old-world charm with contemporary flair, the design incorporates custom Archistoric lighting, weathered wood, brass accents and marble-topped tables. A custom pewter bar, crafted by local designer Mitchell & Mitchell, anchors the space, while gallery walls, lush banquettes and vintage mirrors evoke warmth and polish.
“The Brasserie represents an important evolution for Deer Path Inn,” says James Barnett, the property's general manager. “For 97 years, our dining spaces have been central to the inn’s identity and a gathering place for the community. The Brasserie honors that legacy while introducing a more vibrant and contemporary spirit. It feels familiar, yet unmistakably new.”
Over 70 works from both local and British artists fill the walls, including artwork by David Hockney David Shrigley.
Photo courtesy of the Deer Path Inn
From the revamped space to the updated culinary program, the guest experience emphasizes connection through carefully considered details. Visitors receive conversation cards at the table designed to spark dialogue, accompanied by small surprises, attentive service and intentionally arranged table settings.
The Brasserie marks the latest chapter for the inn, which has been a fixture since its 1929 debut. Modeled after a fifteenth-century Kent manor house, the Tudor-Revival-style hotel is known for its iconic ivy-draped walls, English rose garden courtyard and carved oak interiors. Featuring 57 rooms, the boutique hotel has continued to evolve with each century, including a comprehensive 2016 renovation. Its latest endeavor joins the hotel’s additional dining experiences, including Afternoon Tea service, fish and chips at The White Hart Pub and both creative cocktails and crave-worthy sushi at The Bar.
