From Quiet Street to Gathering Place: The Story Behind Bites on Bank
- Kristin Elliott
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
By Kristin Elliott
For generations, Bank Lane has served as a discreet connector (essentially a service alley) in Lake Forest's Central Business District, helping residents access local shops, restaurants, and services and accommodating deliveries. This year, it is taking on a new role: a place to gather.
Completed in the fall of 2025 concurrent with the Deerpath Streetscape Project, the first phase of the Bank Lane Pedestrian Corridor Enhancement Project transformed the block between Deerpath and Southgate from a narrow vehicle-focused street into a welcoming pedestrian corridor.
The updated space allows the street to be closed for community events, creating an outdoor venue unlike any other in Lake Forest. The project introduced upgraded infrastructure, expanded pedestrian space, new hardscape, and (of course!) the distinctive herringbone brick paving pattern that reflects the character and uniqueness of the surrounding business district. Designed with flexibility in mind, the space can accommodate everything from outdoor dining and live music to community celebrations and events.
That decades-long vision comes to life on Thursday, July 2, from 5-8 p.m., when the new Bites on Bank Food Festival transforms the space into an open-air dining destination.
More than a dozen local restaurants and food shops will bring the flavors of Lake Forest to the newly transformed Bank Lane, offering food and drinks available for purchase. Stop by and grab a bite while enjoying live music by Liam Sheridan (5:15 p.m.-6:15 p.m.), followed by high-energy rock from Industrial Drive during the Concert in the Square (6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.). WasteNot Compost will be providing compostable dishes and flatware for the event.
It’s a delicious new tradition in the making – good food, great music, and a perfect summer evening in the heart of Lake Forest.
Visit Bites on Bank to view the menus, plan your evening, and learn more about how Lake Forest is celebrating America’s 250.
