CAITLIN WILSON 
REBOOT STAFF
APR 1, 2015
Chicago is home to hundreds of world-class restaurants that get international attention on television shows, from food critics and from residents of and visitors to the city alike. But the rest of Illinois isn’t a delicious-food desert. Thrillist compiled a list of the best diners and restaurants in the state outside of Chicago, including a few classic eateries.
See what Thrillst and a Yelp reviewer said about the 12 best Illinois diners outside of Chicago:
Ariston Cafe
Litchfield
From Thrillist: From baklava and gyros to toasted ravioli and halibut steak, you’re not about to run out of options at The Ariston Cafe. Originally opened in 1924 and often hailed as the best place to stop and eat when driving from Chicago to St. Louis, it’s even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a great place to enjoy chimichangas and booze in a cool, small-town atmosphere.
From Yelp: One of our family favorites for decades. I came here as a kid and now it is a must stop for my family when traveling from Houston. Everything is delicious and don’t skip dessert; be sure to get some pie!! Service is always great and the decor takes you back to the Route 66 days. Love this place.
The 50’s Diner
Peoria
From Thrillist: Some things never change, like overflowing coffee and hand-breaded fried chicken breast served with a chocolate shake. But at this classic ‘50s diner, there’s a twist — as the sarcastic staff adds something extra to the meal. You can expect “sarcasm served all day”, alongside crazy-good funnel cake fries (wut) and deep-fried cauliflower (for those health nuts out there).
From Yelp: Formerly going under the business name “MaidRite,” most of the menu is the same as it was before the name change. What was previously known as a MaidRite sandwich is now called the “Loosey” loose meat sandwich. Great diner atmosphere, oldies playing all the time, great diner food, and delightfully sassy and playful attitude from the waitresses. Breakfast served all the time, of course. I recommend any milkshake, but my favorites are the Dr. Pepper and the Green River.
Charlie Parker’s Diner
Springfield
From Thrillist: Already home to one of Illinois’ best burgers, Charlie Parker’s is a Springfield institution known for oversized pancakes and the legendary local specialty, the Horseshoe. This open-faced hamburger patty, topped with fries or tater tots and a special cheese sauce, can also be enjoyed with bacon, ham, pork tenderloin… hell, even walleye. Oh, and don’t sleep on the country-fried steak.
From Yelp: Fun diner for the whole family. We came here after hearing about it from friends. The food is good old fashioned diner food. It’s all filling and inexpensive. One cool feature is that the will text you when your table is ready (instead of those vibrating things most places use). If you’re in Springfield, check it out. Also, they have a giant pancake served on a pizza tray. Fun (but I think the normal pancakes taste better)
The Chili Parlor
Springfield
From Thrillist: Formerly Joe Rogers’ The Chili Den Parlor, this local favorite has been a landmark in the Springfield community since 1945. You can customize the chili to your liking, adding your desired amount of beans, meat, oil, and more — served either straight up or atop chili cheeseburgers and chili cheese dogs. Bonus: you can buy the stuff by the quart.
From Yelp: This is the best chili in central illinois. You can order chili to fit your taste. I highly suggest you ask about the option. You can get it with or without beans, As well as, from mild to very hot and everything in between. This is currently owned by the daughter (Marianne Rogers) of the founder of Joe Rogers (The Den).
Cozy Dog Drive In
Springfield
From Thrillist: Similar to a corn dog on a stick, the one and only Cozy Dog (which they call “the famous hot dog on a stick” around these parts) is made from a local family recipe. This fabled Route 66 landmark — born in 1949 — even has its own gift shop, so you know it’s good. Indulge in some addictive hand-cut fries with your Cozy Dog and walk out with enough Route 66 swag to redecorate the man cave.
From Yelp: This is a classic Route 66 invented the cozy dog (corn dog) nostalgic kind of place. Fun local paraphernalia. Fast food, order at the counter and wait for your name to be called. I had the cozy dog and it was tasty and fresh. Great for the kids, kid type food. Quick and easy
Maid Rite
Moline
From Thrillist: This 1926 diner is well known around the Quad Cities for its famous Sloppy Joe-style loose meat sandwiches, or Maid Rites. Now a franchise with locations across the Midwest, the original is still a good place to enjoy thick malts, hand-cut fries, and classic ‘50s rock. If you’re into that sort of thing. Which, if you’ve made it this far into the article, you might be.
From Yelp: Oh, who can’t fall in love with this place, full of memorabilia of the 50s, rock music, and its classic ground beef hamburgers and malts? Get a maid rite with everything on it. Then walk over to Whitey’s for a chocolate malt. Yum.
Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket
Willowbrook
From Thrillist: World famous for its fried chicken since 1946, Dell Rhea’s lets you get your bird dressed up in all sorts of weirdly delicious ways, from Jamaican jerk wings to deep-fried chicken gizzards. Live bands and trivia keep the vibe lively and the chicken flowing, plus, hello, Dale’s Pale Ale and Abita Purple Haze on draft.
From Yelp: Tasty place off the beaten path. Im not a fan of chicken on the bone so I opted for the tenders appetizer to try the batter and chicken and the mac and cheese. Both were good. My guests had the buffet and the jerk chicken sandwiches, both groups were happy.
Gene’s and Jude’s
River Grove
From Thrillist: This suburban Chicago institution has long been known for serving some of the best (/THE BEST??) hot dogs in the country. Get the chaotically fries-covered creation that is the double dog. It’s the Chicago way. Bonus: the tamales are pretty good, too.
From Yelp: Classic joint. It’s hard to spend more than $5 here. That’ll get you a double dog with everything, fresh cut fries, and a small drink. The “depression dog”, as it’s known, is similar to a classic Chicago dog, but without the tomato, relish and pickle. I suggest getting the double (2 dogs, 1 bun). When you taste it, you’ll understand why this place has been around so long.
The Palms Grill Cafe
Atlanta
From Thrillist: If you’re in Atlanta (IL, not GA), it’s hard to miss The Palms Grill Café (or The Grill, as locals call it). Just look for the giant “Tall Paul” statute of a dude with a massive hot dog and you’ll know you’re close. Originally opened in 1934, the recently revamped cafe is serving up delicious and nostalgic dishes from Route 66’s golden age, including the well-recognized peach pies and old-school diner fare, like spam & eggs served with bottles of soda.
From Yelp: Did I step back into time. I swear I felt like I was seeing in black and white. The Blueberry pie was excellent not too sweet and the crust was so good I ate all of it. I will be back!
The Shanty
Wadsworth
From Thrillist: Looking for something a little different from your standard diner experience? Instead of the usual steak & eggs deal, upgrade to more inventive fare at this rustic locals hangout that does whiskey shrimp, goat cheese wontons, and alligator tail. Yes, alligator tail. Consider it the new steak & eggs.
From Yelp: Totally worth the trip…Great waitstaff, great food and fun atmosphere…Mussels, loaded pretzels, tempura artichoke, burger…. All great!
Polka-a-Dot Drive In
Braidwood
From Thrillist: A giant Elvis greets you at this popular Route 66 stop, where a fiberglass Marilyn Monroe and the Blues Brothers also hold court. Founded more than 50 years ago and “home of the famous chili cheese fries,” it’s just like one of those old-school drive-ins you see on TV. Only for real. Grab a burger and an M&M shake. Obviously.
From Yelp: My mum and I stopped in here for a milkshake and were quite delighted. I can’t speak for the food but the interior was just what you’d want in a classic Route 66 diner. The milkshake was perfect, the price was great, and the staff was friendly. Plus you can take a picture with Elvis, Marilyn, and Betty Boop! Get that selfie face on!
Weezy’s Route 66 Bar & Grill
Hamel
From Thrillist: Another Route 66 mainstay, Weezy’s is known for charbroiled burgers, homemade pies, and hearty breakfasts, particularly biscuits and gravy made with fresh sausage from locally produced hogs. A black-and-white checkered floor, red vinyl seat cushions, and walls lined with vintage signs round out your classic Midwestern diner experience.
From Yelp: We LOVE Weezy’s! Great bar food with a twist. The dynamite sticks are a must and the pretzel bun burger is great! Our service has always been great too!
Thrillist also found 12 other great non-diner eateries they have called the best Illinois restaurants outside of Chicago.
Zenwich
Elmhurst
From Thrillist: Made-to-order Asian sandwiches packed with Korean BBQ beef, chicken satay, and Panko-crusted crab cakes all make a trip to the Western suburbs worthwhile. But the Famous Remus sandwich (Thai-marinated grilled pork tenderloin, pickled daikon & carrot relish, and sweet & sour mayo all on a freshly toasted ciabatta roll) makes it dining destination-worthy.
From Yelp: I was going to give this a 4 but just the sheer passion for the food and service from the owner makes this a five. You can really tell that he takes pride in his food, and is very hands on in all aspects of the restaurant. Very friendly. We got the spicy shrimp sandwich and the korean beef sandwich. Both were $9. The korean beef was a little lackluster. Not bad at all, don’t get me wrong, but imagine some beef stir fry between some bread, and you’ve got your korean beef sandwich.
17th St Bar & Grill
Murphysboro
From Thrillist: This isn’t just one of the top BBQ joints in the state, it’s one of the top 33 in the nation. Run by three-time Memphis BBQ champion Mike Mills (who’s spawned restaurants in Vegas and a stake in NYC’s lauded Blue Smoke), this five-hours-South-of-the-city BBQ mothership lives by Mills’ favorite quote: “Life is too short for half a rack”. You should probably listen to him.
From Yelp: If you looking for great food when out in this neck of the woods this is the place…. World Famous AWESOME BBQ baby back ribs – out of this world and Pulled pORK Nachos were FANTASTIC (make sure to bring someone to share with, portions are huge) … Located at the Sparta shooting range is a must visit… We ate here twice it was so good! Also pulled pork sandwiches are the bomb plus great desserts…… Thanks Kim for turning me on to this place!I will be coming back when I can visit again in the future..
Abreo
Rockford
From Thrillist: This inventive wine bar and small-plate patio helmed by Chef Paul Sletten sits right in historic Downtown Rockford (hometown of the actor who plays Mr. Turner in Boy Meets World). The menu is seasonally driven, while the duck nachos, Asian noodles, and white chocolate-blueberry bread pudding are… delicious-driven.
From Yelp: This is the place to be in Rockford, Illinois if you’re looking for the full five star experience. The dishes are ALWAYS perfect. Perfectly cooked, perfectly conceptualized. And the variety is outstanding. There is something for everyone here, from the conservative traditionalist who wants meat and potatoes, to the adventurous foodie of the group who wants to the more daring entrees.
Bien Trucha
Geneva
From Thrillist: This tiny, Mexican dining room puts out some of the best tacos West of the city. Stop by when you’re near Fox River Valley for guacamole del dia with fresh watermelon or blueberries, and adobo-marinated pork tacos.
From Yelp: Amazing food, service, and ambiance – it truly doesn’t get any better than this. My husband and I love to go here for a date night, but really any night is a good night to enjoy the delicious food and drinks here. All-time favorites: Bien Truca tacos…the corn…the rice…Seasonal Guacamole.
Montarra Grill
Algonquin
From Thrillist: Adorned with an authentic Chihuly chandelier, this modern-American restaurant truly looks and feels the part of a swanky Chicago hotspot, even though it’s not in Chicago. Best bets: wet-aged steaks, seared lamb lollipops, bacon-wrapped dates, and/or/but-mostly-and triple-cream brie and black truffle fondue.
From Yelp: My wife and I loved the drinks and menu! Thank you Chef Dave for the amazing diverse taste you give to your guests. Most all of our visits have included fantastic service and just an exceptional dinner! Starters: Shrimp! Soup! Dinner: Ribeye!!! Add Risotto underneath steak!
D’Arcy’s Pint
Springfield
From Thrillist: This Irish tavern does something called “Horseshoes”, a unique, regional specialty made of your choice of meat (ham, corned beef, turkey, bacon, Buffalo chicken) served over Texas toast, piled with fries, and topped with homemade cheese sauce. Yes, this is real.
From Yelp: I’ve been here several times and have never been disappointed. Go for the horse (or pony if you aren’t ravenous) shoe – I’ve had a regular and a buffalo chicken shoe. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a Springfield staple: texas toast, meat choice, crinkle fries, cheese sauce. The bread and fries weren’t soggy, hooray. And the cheese sauce is creamy without being too heavy.
One World Cafe
Peoria
From Thrillist: Should you indulge a little too much in the “whiskey capital of the world”, hit this popular breakfast/lunch spot across the street from Bradley University, for sustenance in the form of coffee and decadent desserts. Then maybe tie one on again at the Green Dragon Bar and Lounge inside the restaurant.
From Yelp: I am a vegetarian and this place is a gem for all the vegetarian peeps !! Its looks like a college canteen but the food served from Falafel to stuffed pepper is just amazing … The wine selection is top notch and the service has always been amazing…Their chocolate lava cake is too die for and i always look forward to eat here !!
Basil’s Greek Dining
Aurora
From Thrillist: While Aurora doesn’t have a Stan Mikita’s Donuts (that Wayne’s World documentary was BS), they do have one of Chicagoland’s top Greek eateries with Basil’s. What you’re getting: the grilled octopus and gyros, both of which are “party time, excellent”.
From Yelp: I wish I could give this restaurant a seven star rating for its exceptional service, mouthwatering dishes, and pristine management. Everything from the ambiance to the small details is accounted for and presented in a phenomenal manner.
Black Dog Smoke & Ale House
Urbana
From Thrillist: You’ll want the burnt ends with red Carolina BBQ sauce at Black Dog, and you’ll want them immediately, ’cause they sell out quick. Put them down with a rotating craft beer selection (because this is an ale house) and whiskey from Prichard’s Distillery (… because it’s whiskey from Prichard’s Distillery).
From Yelp: Their rib is simply the best in this area and the best I ever had. Georgia peach sauce is even better than any similar sauce I tried in Georgia!
White Fence Farm
Romeoville
From Thrillist: Their killer fried chicken and corn fritters are worth the trek to the family-run farmland. Just trust us on this one.
From Yelp: This is a classic, Midwestern, fried chicken supper club experience. Do you want to go back in time? Do you want to eat ridiculously tasty cornbread fritters, relishes from the past, and fried chicken? Do you want to have access to both an oddities museum AND a petting zoo before or after your meal? Then this is the place!
Burt’s Place
Morton Grove
From Thrillist: You haven’t polished off that deep dish bucket list until you’ve hit Burt’s for their renown caramelized crusts. Pizza maker Burt Katz has left quite a pizza legacy around Chicagoland, ranging from The Inferno in Evanston, to Gulliver’s in Rogers Park, to Pequod’s in Lincoln Park.
From Yelp: Old School ambience, small, comfortable, really welcoming in all seasons. Call ahead for a pizza/spot as space is limited. Good times had by all.
Note: Gene’s and Jude’s appeared on both lists.
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Caitlin Wilson is a staff writer for Reboot Illinois. She graduated from Loyola University Chicago, where she studied journalism and political science. Caitlin has become both endeared to and frustrated with her adopted home state and wants to bring Illinoisans the information they need to actively participate in the politics that directly affect them. You can find Reboot on Facebook here and on Twitter at @rebootillinois.