Mendocino Farms Opens Vernon Hills Location as Questions Around Workplace Inclusion Surface Online

West Coast fast-casual chain Mendocino Farms is continuing its Illinois expansion with a new location opening in Vernon Hills on April 21, marking the company’s first move into the Chicago suburbs.

The new restaurant at 913 N. Milwaukee Ave. follows the brand’s earlier Illinois openings in River North and Willis Tower, bringing its California-style sandwiches, salads and fresh-made menu to Lake County customers.

While excitement around the opening is growing, some community members have also raised questions online about diversity and representation within the company’s workforce.

One anonymous employee review posted online alleged concerns about favoritism and workplace treatment, including the statement: “Don’t work here if you are black.” The same review also claimed Black women were unfairly labeled “aggressive.” Because the post is anonymous and unverified, the claims have not been independently confirmed.

No public lawsuit or formal finding specifically alleging racial hiring discrimination against Mendocino Farms in Illinois was immediately identified. However, the online comments have sparked broader discussion about equitable hiring practices as national brands expand into diverse suburban markets.

Mendocino Farms publicly promotes diversity, equity and inclusion in its hiring materials and company messaging.

As the Vernon Hills location prepares to welcome customers, some local residents say they hope expansion into Lake County also includes visible commitment to fair opportunity and inclusive staffing.

The new restaurant is scheduled to open at 10:30 a.m. Monday.