Babcock’s Grove House is a cozy, casual dining spot in the heart of historic downtown Lombard. We serve fresh, thoughtfully prepared Midwestern comfort food in an intimate setting designed for real conversation, not distraction. With vintage, conversation-level music and a purposeful absence of televisions, our dining room welcomes about fifty guests inside and, on beautiful days, another thirty on the patio.

​

As lifelong Lombardians, my husband Steve and I (Dana) felt a deep responsibility to create something that honors this town’s character. Subtle nods to Lombard’s history and community can be found throughout our décor, menu, and logo. And yes, we are crazy about lilacs. Lombard’s legacy as the Lilac Village inspires us daily, and we proudly celebrate that heritage in everything we do.

​

Wholesome Ingredients, Thoughtful Preparation

At Babcock’s, we believe in quality over quantity. Our menu is intentionally focused offering just the right number of options and portions that leave you satisfied, not stuffed.

​

Whenever possible, we source ingredients locally, including select herbs and vegetables grown in our own gardens. We prioritize fresh, wholesome and house-made over pre-prepared and frozen. Our beverage menu features a rotating selection of local beers, sodas and thoughtfully chosen wines to complement your meal. You can also grab cocktail at the Lilac League next store and bring it over.

​

Counter Service by Day, Full Service by Night

We shift with the rhythm of the day:

Counter Service: 11:00am – 4:30pm
(Think relaxed daytime favorites — easy, welcoming, and efficient.)

Full Table Service: After 4:00pm
In the evening, we transition to a more traditional dining experience with full service at your table.

​

A Charming Historic Landmark

The name Babcock’s Grove House is a restoration of the building’s original identity. Constructed in 1858, before the Civil War, the structure first operated as a hotel when Lombard and Glen Ellyn were both known as Babcock’s Grove. Local lore suggests it was built to accommodate guests attending the 1860 Republican National Convention. It was later renamed The Lombard Hotel.

​

Built from hand-hewn limestone more than a foot thick, the building still showcases its original decorative tin ceiling. The basement once housed a dram shop, and although the original entrance is now hidden beneath the monument stairs added later, its history remains part of the structure’s story.

​

Over more than 150 years, much has changed — yet many original details endure. Additional artifacts and history can be found at the Lombard Historical Society, just a short walk from our doors.