Our story begins with Paul and George Karas, brothers who immigrated to the United States from Greece in the 1960s. With a deep appreciation for hospitality and a strong work ethic, they founded The Village Squire in West Dundee in 1974.
With a natural passion for the restaurant industry, they continued to grow, opening The Village Squire in Crystal Lake in 1979 and The Village Squire in McHenry in 1981. In 1987, they introduced what would become the crown jewel and fourth location, Alexander’s Café, named in honor of Alexander the Great, a symbol of both their hometown village in Greece and their ambition.
Today, Alexander’s Café remains family-owned and is part of the Karas Restaurant Group. Paul and George’s legacy of tradition and hospitality continues to grow with their children, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws, all involved and carrying forward the same values the brothers built from the beginning.
The Karas Restaurant Group has grown to include a collection of beloved local concepts, including a second Alexander’s Café in St. Charles, The Village Squire South Elgin, Squire on the Square in Woodstock, and Squire Ale House in Campton Hills. The group also includes Rookies Sports Bar & Grill with locations in St. Charles, Elgin, Huntley, Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Geneva, and Crystal Lake, as well as Old Republic in Elgin.
As the family has expanded, each concept remains rooted in the same commitment to quality dining, strong community ties, and genuine hospitality, and the values that continue to define every Karas Restaurant Group experience.
Greek hospitality is only the beginning.
As a family-owned restaurant, our roots are grounded in Greek tradition and generations of home cooking. That influence is reflected in the care we put into every dish and the welcoming atmosphere we create for every guest. With locations in Elgin and St. Charles, Illinois, Alexander’s Café has become a go-to destination for gathering with family and friends. Our menu is built on quality and care, featuring fresh, home-cooked meals made fresh daily by our chef. Every dish is made with attention to detail and a commitment to flavor. We believe great food starts with great ingredients, which is why all of our soups, sauces, and dressings are made in-house, fresh every day.
We proudly serve breakfast and lunch, where mornings shine with creative egg dishes, fluffy omelets, outstanding pancakes, and unforgettable French toast. Pair it with our freshly squeezed orange juice, mimosas, brewed Intelligentsia coffee, or enjoy our fine selection of Tea Forte teas, served in a style even the British Royals would envy.
Explore our lunch menu featuring fresh, vibrant salads, stacked burgers, and signature hand-helds, all crafted with high-quality ingredients and bold, satisfying flavors.
Enjoy patio season with us, where you can relax outdoors with great food, refreshing drinks, and the same welcoming atmosphere you’ll find inside.
In 2014, our Elgin location underwent a significant remodel, transforming from a traditional diner into a modern, contemporary café. This evolution refreshed both our space and menu while staying true to the quality and hospitality that have defined us from the beginning. On weekends, the Elgin location also features live piano, creating an elevated and welcoming dining experience.
At Alexander’s Café, we’re more than just a restaurant, it’s a “Good place to be” where tradition meets community, and every guest is welcomed like family.
