photo: Colleen Catania

There are not many restaurants where, when greeted by the host, instead of saying "We'd like a table for three," guests say "Can we have a table by the tree?" At Benedict's, the summertime country atmosphere is one of the best parts of your meal; the restaurant features a porch dining area built around an old oak tree. The small-town feel prepares you for a menu filled with traditional and gourmet-style breakfast and lunch choices, ranging from classic bacon and eggs to stuffed French toast and open-faced frittatas.

If you're interested in a little movie trivia along with your eggs, Benedict's (housed in a late 19th century building) is located within walking distance of one of the set locations for the 2002 film "Road to Perdition," which was filmed on Main Street in West Dundee's downtown district. And should you live in the surrounding McHenry or Kane counties, and you feel like biking to brunch, you're also in luck; the McHenry County bike trail passes right by across the street.

If you're planning to grab Sunday brunch, be warned that the local churchgoers usually start pouring in around 10 a.m. and the front foyer fills up just as fast your belly does when you pile in a tenderloin steak omelet or homemade "fruit of the day" crepe off the Chef Creations menu of specials. All items are moderately priced considering the quality portions; entrees are between $7-$11 and when you kick back and toss the napkin on your plate, the friendly waitress drops off, along with the check, a complimentary Ovation mint stick—making sure the meal ends just as sweetly as it began.

Catering and box lunches are available, and there's also a sister location in Crystal Lake. But for a true Benedict's experience, head to the original location and grab a seat by the tree before they're all taken.

Centerstage Reviewer: Chris Catania