Village Squire
About us
The Karas family legacy inspires every detail of our hospitality. When brothers Paul and George Karas opened The Village Squire in West Dundee in 1974, their passion was to create more than a dining spot—they envisioned an inviting environment where every guest felt truly welcome. Over time, several generations of the Karas family, alongside a devoted staff with long-standing dedication, have continued this tradition, crafting memorable experiences and authentic care into each moment.
Today, that commitment lives on through The Karas Restaurant Group, a diverse family of 16 establishments. Among them, six Village Squire locations serve the communities of Dundee, Crystal Lake, McHenry, South Elgin, Woodstock, and Campton Hills. From the beloved breakfast and lunch favorites at Alexander's Cafe and the excitement of cheering on a game at Rookies All-American Pub & Grills to the lively gatherings at Old Republic Kitchen & Bar and memorable events at Rookies Rochaus, every location is united by the principle of "Good Places To Be." Whether you join us for exceptional meals, friendly service, energizing atmosphere, or simply to connect with your community, every visit allows you to be part of a tradition rooted in quality, celebration, and genuine local pride.
Since opening The Village Squire West Dundee in 1974, the brand has grown to include three additional locations in Crystal Lake (est. 1979), McHenry (est. 1983), and South Elgin (est. 2005). The Squire's success developed into a thriving culinary dynasty - and Bob Karas has taken the leadership role spearheading the expansion from 4 restaurants in the 80s to 16 places this year! The last few years Bob opened Geneva & Crystal Lake Rookies and couldn't pass up a new venture with Rochaus.
The Karas Restaurant Group - a collection of 16 establishments offering diverse dining and entertainment experiences, all united under one principle, "Good Places To Be." Was formed by Bob Karas to house all the growth through the years with new partners and establishments. Fall of 2024 another new and exciting concept, the Squire Alehouse will come to life in Campton Hills!
From breakfast, brunch and lunch creations at Alexander's Cafe in Elgin (est. 1986) and St. Charles (est. 2016) to serving up sports and sizzle at seven Rookies All-American Pub & Grills, the Karas mission is one of passion and integrity. Forging partnerships with loyal and dedicated employees and family members, The Karas Group continued to expand in 2017 opening Elgin's Old Republic Kitchen & Bar a new concept spearheaded by Nick Smith, with modern new food and entertainment on a Disney-like patio and acquiring former Rochaus, now Rookies Rochaus, in 2023 - a charming entertainment venue located in the old Main Street movie theater in West Dundee.
Paul Karas, founder, passed away in October 2019, but his legacy lives on in his son, Bob Karas, as well as Paul's daughters Despina Karas and Eleni Karavasis who are all a part of The Karas Restaurant Group.
As Paul's brother George eyes a well-earned retirement after 50 remarkable years, the future has been positioned well by Bob Karas and continues with Aleko, Nick and soon to be some Karas grandkids!!! All positioned to continue the family's tradition of serving up heartfelt hospitality and good food as part owners of The Karas Restaurant Group.
As the flagship of The Karas Restaurant Group, The Village Squire sets the standard for family dining and entertainment in the Fox Valley community - attentive service, matched with consistently high-quality, well-prepared, and equitably priced food. Dedicated and knowledgeable staff, from servers to food preparers to managers, create an inviting atmosphere diners will want to revisit and tell their friends about.
The Karas Family will be celebrating The Village Squire West Dundee's 50th Anniversary in the only way they know how - with a series of fun events and promotions rooted in nostalgia and dedicated to their staff and customers.
The Karas brothers immigrated to the United States in search of the American dream, and the land of opportunity did not disappoint. Their success is a testament to the entire family's unwavering dedication to creating joyful experiences.
