A Supper Club Worth the Stop: Forest Inn, Morrison, Illinois

If you’ve ever driven toward Chicago from Clinton, IA, chances are you’ve passed Forest Inn—and noticed something right away…

The parking lot is always packed.

We’ve driven by it countless times and kept saying, “We need to try that place.” So one night, we finally did—and now we get the hype.

First Impressions: Small-Town Warmth Done Right

From the moment we walked in, the vibe was exactly what you hope for in a true supper club:

• Warm lighting

• Gorgeous wood interior

• Friendly faces everywhere

We were greeted as soon as we walked in the door by the owner, Ajdin Bajrami. He greeted us like we were regulars—even though it was our first time there. There was no awkward “have you been here before?” energy. Just a genuine, easy warmth that made it feel like we belonged. He welcomed us the way someone would welcome you into their home for dinner—comfortable, relaxed, and happy you showed up. It’s rare to feel that kind of hospitality right away, but it set the tone for the entire experience.

We grabbed drinks at the bar and ended up chatting with the owner’s son, Atem, who was incredibly welcoming.

Atem and I

The Food: Worth Every Mile

Let’s talk about the real reason people line that parking lot…

I ordered the Delmonico steak, and it was cooked perfectly.

• Tender

• Flavorful

• Exactly what you want from a classic steakhouse

The sweet potato? Also, a standout.

And the salad bar—not an afterthought at all. It was:

• Fully stocked

• Super fresh

• The kind you actually get excited about

We loved it so much that when we passed through again a week later… I ordered the same steak again. No regrets.

The Service That Sticks With You

Here’s the part that really blew me away.

I told my dad about it, so he stopped in the next day with a friend. When he mentioned we had been there the night before…

Atem knew exactly who we were.

Then when we came back the following week, Atem mentioned meeting my dad. How does he remember everyone?! That level of attention and pride in his work is something you don't come across often, and it adds a genuinely personal touch to the entire experience.

This place is busy—constantly packed—and somehow they still remember people. That kind of service is rare.

What We Tried Next Time

On our second visit, Todd switched it up and tried the jumbo shrimp—and it did not disappoint. Very large shrimp with a light batter that was cooked to perfection.

Why This Place Matters

This is a true supper club experience:

• Generous portions

• Classic cocktails

• Timeless atmosphere

• Genuinely kind people

Places like this aren’t as common anymore—and they’re worth supporting.

Don't forget the Grasshoppers! Yum!

Final Thoughts

If you’re driving through Illinois—especially on your way to Chicago—do yourself a favor:

Stop at Forest Inn. To wrap it all up, this is the kind of place you go when you want more than just a meal—you go for the experience. It’s the perfect spot to socialize, grab a drink, and genuinely enjoy the people you’re with (and even the ones around you). The salad bar alone is worth the visit—fully stocked, incredibly fresh, and filled with homemade options you just don’t see much anymore. It’s clear everything is cared for, from the cleanliness to the quality of the food.

And if you have room, don’t skip dessert—the grasshoppers are a must. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a great night. What really makes it special, though, is the feeling you leave with. From the warm welcome when you walk in, to the genuine goodbye from the owner at the door, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back again and again.

Now we don’t just drive by anymore…We plan our trips around it.