Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell gift certificates / gift cards?
Yes indeed! You can stop by the restaurant to get one in person or give us a call at 847-827-1817.
Do you accept reservations?
Since we are a counter-service restaurant, we do not take table reservations. However, table turn over tends to be pretty quick, so most people do not have to wait very long for a table during busy hours. We have indoor seating as well as picnic tables outside when the weather’s nice.
What types of payments do you accept?
We accept cash, credit/debit cards, and tap-to-pay (such as ApplePay or GooglePay).
We accept the following credit cards:
- Visa
- Master Card
- Discover
- American Express
Where are you located?
Our address is 1220 E Northwest Hwy, Des Plaines, IL 60016. We are just west of downtown Des Plaines. Click here for more detailed directions and a map.
Do you cater?
Yes! You can take a look at our regular menu offerings here. Or, go to our catering page for more info about special catering (with on-site cooking, delivery, and pick-up options).
Do you deliver?
You can find us on third-party delivery services like Grub Hub, Door Dash, and Uber Eats. Keep in mind that each company has their own policies and fees as well as their own delivery-zones.
How do I reheat fried food?
Spread food out on a cookie sheet. Leave uncovered & put in oven at 275˚. Heat refrigerated food 10-12 minutes. Heat unrefrigerated food 6-8 minutes. If breading is getting too dark for your liking, tent with foil.
INTERNAL TEMP REQUIRED: 165˚F
Why are you closed on Sundays and Mondays?
Don's Dock is a family-owned and family-run business. Being closed on Sunday and Monday means that we can have time set aside for us to spend time together outside of work.
Does the same family still own Don's Dock?
Yes! Don & Daryl Johnson opened in 1951. Almost 75 years later and the original family (the Johnson family) still owns it. Daryl just turned 95 in 2024. Don passed away in 2015.
Do you have smelt?
Smelt season is in the spring. A good smelt run will last from March through May, however there are many factors that may contribute to a late or shortened season. You can give us a call at 847-827-1817 to check on the availability.
What kind of shrimp do you serve?
We serve wild-caught Gulf of Mexico white shrimp. Our shrimp is caught by shrimpers in Louisiana and Alabama.
Gulf white shrimp is known for being consitantly tender and sweet.
Do you have outdoor seating?
Yes, we have picnic tables outside when the weather is nice.
What is your connection to Door County?
Our family has it's roots in Door County. Daryl Johnson (one of our founders) was born and raised on Washington Island. She returned there for the birth of each of her children, including owner Andy.
Have more questions?
Give us a call at 847-827-1817. We're happy to answer your questions.