My wife and I were (staying at the Victorian in Watseka, IL) for our first anniversary. When we mentioned it to Valentino and John in the days leading up to our stay, they said that Valentino was a chef and they would be happy to do a private dinner for us. We of course jumped at the chance, and they went ABOVE AND BEYOND for us that evening. Not only did they cook an incredible FIVE COURSE MEAL (two deserts!), they also decorated the backyard beautifully and made the setting super elegant and romantic. They waited on us, and were very respectful of our COVID boundaries (they wore masks the whole time). They chatted with us the perfect amount, and were also respectful of our alone time during the dinner. After dinner, they cleaned everything and left us to enjoy their home. (They had driven all the way down from Chicago to cook us dinner and drove all the way back the same day!) I cannot say enough good things about our time here. If I could give it ten stars, I would! Many, many thanks to Valentino and John for making our first anniversary such a beautiful memory!

— Alexandra, Watseka, August 2020

By far the highlight (of our stay in Saugatuck) was the private dinner with Chef Valentino. So glad we did this! Such a unique experience! Our hosts were fabulous and the meal was simply amazing!! This house was just minutes from downtown Saugatuck and Douglas. We had a lovely day in town and came back to a beautiful dinner party just for us (that we didn’t have to lift a finger for our plan). Can’t recommend this more!!!

— Anne, Saugatuck, January 2023

Our meal by Chef Valentino was absolutely one of the best meals I have ever had. John and Chef Valentino made our dining so enjoyable as well as delicious.

— Karen, Saugatuck, January 2023

We had John and Valentino create an incredibly special Italian meal for us. Not only was each course stunning but it was DELICIOUS. Five stars for the dinner along with the stay!

— Leslie, Saugatuck, November 2023

We spent our first evening having an Italian dinner prepared for us by Valentino and John. The meal and presentation were even better than we imagined! They were wonderful hosts and would highly recommend if you are interested in a private dining experience. You will not be disappointed!

— Erica, Saugatuck, June 2022

Outstanding hosts and fabulous meal they made for me and my wife.

— Daniel, Watseka, October 2023

If they are offering the dinners for your stay (at the short-term rentals), do it. You will not be disappointed.

— Jordan, Watseka, April 2021

Valentino is a chef from Milan and we added on a four-course meal for one of our evenings and were blown away by the food, the service, and the stories about the old house's history.

— Leah, Watseka, March 2021

Valentino also prepared a delicious four-course meal to help us celebrate Valentine's Day, which was really appreciated. Definitely recommend staying here!

— Matt, Watseka, February 2021