On Wednesday, April 16, Highland Woods residents and Stroll partners gathered for the very first Neighbors Night Out at Mockingbird Bar + Garden in East Dundee—a charming, thoughtfully designed restaurant located in the historic Dundee Downtown Depot. The evening captured everything we appreciate about sharing life along our scenic Illinois river towns.

Thanks to Owner Kathleen Bucci Bergeron and General Manager Tom Dowd, guests were welcomed with warmth, genuine hospitality, and a sense of ease that made everyone feel at home. The space—the realization of Kathleen’s vision, with its cozy lighting, exposed brick, and natural wood tones—offered just the right balance of rustic comfort and polished charm.

Conversations flowed easily, neighbors introduced themselves, and friends reconnected over shared stories about kids, homes, and favorite local spots. There was no shortage of smiles and laughter—echoing across community-style tables as guests enjoyed the rare treat of slowing down and enjoying an impeccable menu.

Each small plate was prepared with care by Mockingbird’s Chef Patrick with seasonal, local ingredients. The smoked whitefish pâté, served in petite jars with crisp crostini, was creamy and rich. The deviled eggs—made with locally sourced eggs from Up Country Farm in West Dundee—were topped with rainbow trout roe and quickly became a favorite. The bruschetta offered a bright, herbaceous crunch, while the roasted artichoke hearts paired with lemon caper aioli brought a touch of brightness to the table.

The handcrafted pizza deserves its own spotlight. Each morning, dough is made fresh and baked to perfection with toppings like house-made sausage and imported cheeses, personally sourced in Italy. Add in the vibrant flavor of locally sourced vegetables, and it’s clear why this pizza has become a local favorite.

At the bar, the Mockingbird bar team crafted a cocktail exclusively for the evening—the Highland Spring. Light, refreshing, and subtly botanical, it captured the spirit of our gathering with fresh flavor and a nod to the season. The rest of the drink menu showcased Mockingbird’s expertise in handcrafted cocktails, made with small-batch spirits and unique house infusions.

Dessert carried on the theme. The lemon curd, served in glass jars, was silky, tart, and topped with strawberry preserves. The pistachio dessert was velvety and nutty, layered beautifully and every bit as satisfying as it looked.

We were also thrilled to introduce the very first issue of Stroll Highland Woods. Several of our trusted Stroll Preferred Partners joined us to mark the occasion. These local business owners—whose heart is for the community—deserve the credit for making this launch possible. Their support ensures we can continue building genuine connections between neighbors and small businesses alike.

It was a night to remember—not just for the food and drinks, but for the spirit of connection that makes the Fox Valley such a wonderful place to call home. We’re already looking forward to the next Neighbors Night Out.

If you would like to join us, you can find details in our private Facebook Group: @allaboutstrollhighlandwoods

You will find Mockingbird Bar + Garden nestled along the Fox River at 217 Barrington Ave., East Dundee. Check mockingbirdbarandgarden.com for hours of service.