Fast Food RestaurantHot Dog RestaurantPortillo's Hot Dogs
Welcome to Portillo’s at 221 E Townline Road! Dive into the authentic taste of Chicago Street food at our 30s-40s Prohibition themed restaurant, just 0.5 miles from Hawthorn Mall & Townline Commons. Savor our char-broiled burgers, Italian Beef Sandwiches, iconic Chicago-style hot dogs, and fresh chopped salad. Don’t miss out on our famous chocolate cake shake to top off your meal. Open late and designed for family-friendly dining, Portillo’s is the ultimate spot for delicious fast food in a fun atmosphere. Plus, we offer convenient delivery and catering options to bring our Chicago favorites right to your door. We look forward to seeing you!
There are mixed reviews about the food quality, with some customers praising specific items like the Italian beef and hot dogs, while others express disappointment in the taste and portion sizes.
Service
Many customers appreciate the friendly and efficient service, although there are some complaints about order accuracy and staff attitudes.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's nostalgic decor and casual atmosphere are frequently mentioned positively, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
Consistency
Several reviews indicate a decline in food consistency and quality over time, with some long-time customers expressing disappointment compared to past experiences.
HH
HonestExplorer
6 days ago
5.0
I was so excited to hear you are in Florida but truly bummed when it wasn't both restaurants. This location is amazing. Great food. Very busy. Love the decor.
CC
Conor Cook
Jan 6, 2026
5.0
I love the decorations at the older Portillo’s most of all! It is always such a fun place to visit. I didn’t get any pictures this visit, Tuesday, December 30th, 2025, but as a long time resident of Illinois, I have dined in Portillo’s several times. The food, as always, is delicious and I can’t wait for my next visit back. You can never go wrong with a hot dog and a shake! (Written 1-6-26)
SS
Shawndra
Dec 31, 2025
5.0
We chose drive thru as it was pouring down rain - even in my car while ordering! LOL But the young man who took our order was pleasant, informative, & patient despite the rainy weather! We had well-done cheeseburgers, hotdogs with the works, of course the fries, and large drinks. Food wasnt sloppy in the container and was hot when received despite a bit of a wait.
BR
Best Reviews
Dec 21, 2025
3.0
Wow, there were long lines when we arrived at 7pm. Didn't know that this is so popular. This is the second time at this chain, and I found that the food quality is the same, only okay. It's a fast food restaurant with more noodles and stuff. I ordered a plant based hot dog, chili, and spaghetti with meat sauce. The chili is just too salty without any spicy flavors. I would skip this. The hot dog, surprisingly, is pretty good being that there's no meat in it. I would definitely get this in the future. On the other hand, the spaghetti is once again, so so nothing special. The place is loud but the decor is interesting. Not sure if I would come here a lot but it's interesting.
TF
Tony Flores
Dec 17, 2025
3.0
This place was highly recommended by a coworker that grew up out in the area. I did like the setting and the atmosphere. Service wasn't great but nothing bad. I had a beef sandwich combo but food was nothing to brag about. If anything I was kinda disappointed as I was hoping lots of flavor. My friend had the Chicago style jumbo hot dog and he compared to a Costco hot dog. Didn't look like a jumbo hot dog. I would highly recommend the chocolate cake. I'm giving 3 stars because of the cake. I should of tried the chocolate shake as it was also recommended. Might go back one day to try the shake and a different dish to give this place a second chance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portillo's & Barnelli's Vernon Hills
What are the regular operating hours for Portillo's & Barnelli's Vernon Hills?
Portillo's & Barnelli's Vernon Hills is open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Does Portillo's Vernon Hills have drive-through service?
Yes, Portillo's Vernon Hills offers drive-through service with hours matching the main restaurant hours, open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
Is Portillo's Vernon Hills family-friendly?
Yes, the restaurant welcomes families and children, offering a fun atmosphere with seating options including high chairs for young guests.
What types of payment does Portillo's Vernon Hills accept?
Portillo's Vernon Hills accepts American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa credit cards. Debit card payments are also accepted; cash is not required.
Does Portillo's Vernon Hills provide catering and delivery services?
Yes, they offer convenient delivery and catering options to bring their Chicago-style favorites right to your door.
Are there outdoor seating and wheelchair accessible facilities at Portillo's Vernon Hills?
Yes, Portillo's Vernon Hills has outdoor seating along with wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restroom facilities to accommodate all guests.
What nearby places can I visit before or after dining at Portillo's Vernon Hills?
Nearby you can visit Hawthorn Mall and Townline Commons, which are about 0.5 miles away, for shopping and entertainment before or after your meal.
Is there a convenient transit landmark near Portillo's Vernon Hills to help me find the location?
You can use landmarks such as the nearby Western Union money transfer service or Target Store Vernon-Hills to help guide you to Portillo's at 221 Townline Rd.
Are there other dining options near Portillo's Vernon Hills?
Yes, nearby dining options include Barnelli's Pasta Bowl for Italian cuisine, Wendy's and Panda Express for fast food, and Jameson's Charhouse for American steakhouse fare.
Does Portillo's Vernon Hills serve late-night food?
Yes, the restaurant serves late-night food with its drive-through and dine-in services available until 11:30 PM on most days and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.